Saudi Arabia Now Allows Opening Bank Accounts with a “Visitor ID”

2025-ж., 10-октябрь

Update: 28 September 2025 — Saudi Central Bank (SAMA)

The Saudi Central Bank announced that a “Visitor ID” (هوية زائر — Hawiyat Zaer) is now accepted to open bank accounts at banks and financial institutions operating in the Kingdom. This change is part of the updated rules for opening bank accounts.

What is a “Visitor ID”?

The Visitor ID is an official identification document issued by the Ministry of Interior via Absher or Tawakkalna. It applies to people residing in the Kingdom on various visas who do not hold an Iqama (residency permit).

Students on study visas
Holders of business and family visas
Certain categories of tourists and Umrah visitors whose Tawakkalna shows “هوية زائر”

What has changed?

Previously, opening a bank account required a valid Iqama. Now, the Visitor ID is officially recognized for account opening.

Banks verify the ID through approved government digital systems
KYC is completed via platforms connected to the Ministry of Interior
Eligible customers may open current or savings accounts depending on bank policy

Why this matters

The update addresses the growing number of residents living in Saudi Arabia without an Iqama, especially students and families on medium-term visas.

Ability to obtain bank cards
Pay for housing, transportation, and tuition
Access digital and financial services inside the Kingdom
Support financial inclusion initiatives led by SAMA

How it will work

Each bank will set detailed requirements and limits. Policies may differ by institution.

Minimum age (for example, 18+)
Eligible visa types and documentation
Transfer and withdrawal limits
Account validity possibly linked to visa expiry
Identity verification via Nafath, Absher, or biometric ATMs

What remains unclear

Some points are still being clarified and may vary among banks.

Eligibility for short-term visas such as tourist or Umrah visas
Availability of international transfers and full mobile banking features
Whether Visitor ID accounts will match Iqama-linked accounts in privileges

Conclusion

Recognizing the Visitor ID for bank account opening is a significant step toward digital and financial openness in Saudi Arabia. It enables visitors to access banking services officially and securely without an Iqama, subject to each bank’s policy and compliance requirements.