How to Renew NICOP in Saudi Arabia: The Ultimate Guide

We understand that for overseas Pakistanis living in the Kingdom, keeping identity documents valid is not optional. NICOP in Saudi Arabia plays a central role in legal identity, passport renewal, embassy services, and travel planning. When this card expires, timely renewal becomes essential to avoid inconvenience and delays.

This in-depth guide focuses specifically on how to renew NICOP in Saudi Arabia, while consistently addressing all concerns related to NICOP in Saudi Arabia. We explain eligibility, required documents, fees, NADRA office procedures, step-by-step renewal stages, timelines, common mistakes, and practical strategies to ensure a smooth experience.

What Is NICOP and Why Renewal Matters in Saudi Arabia?

NICOP stands for National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis. It is issued by NADRA to Pakistani citizens residing outside Pakistan.

Importance of Renewing NICOP in Saudi Arabia

Renewal is critical because an expired NICOP:

Cannot be used for passport renewal or issuance
May cause issues at Pakistani embassies
Creates delays in travel planning
Limits access to official verification

By renewing NICOP in Saudi Arabia on time, overseas Pakistanis maintain uninterrupted legal identity.

Who Needs to Renew NICOP in Saudi Arabia?

Not every applicant needs a new card. Many only require renewal.

You Need NICOP Renewal If

Your NICOP validity has expired
Your personal details remain unchanged
You live in Saudi Arabia on a valid iqama
You are renewing NICOP for a dependent child

If your name, marital status, or nationality has changed, a modification process applies instead.

NICOP in Saudi Arabia: Renewal vs Modification

Understanding this difference avoids rejection.

Renewal Applies When

NICOP is expired
No personal data changes are required

Modification Applies When

Name spelling has changed
Marital status is updated
Parentage details need correction

This guide focuses strictly on renewal of NICOP in Saudi Arabia.

Required Documents to Renew NICOP in Saudi Arabia

Document preparation determines how smooth the process will be.

Documents Checklist

Applicants must bring:

Old NICOP (original and photocopy)
Pakistani passport (original and photocopy)
Saudi iqama (photocopy)
Parents’ NICOP and passport copies (for dependents)

All documents must be valid and readable.

Practical Tip

We recommend keeping extra photocopies and digital scans. This saves time if rechecking is required.

NICOP in Saudi Arabia: Renewal Fee Structure

NADRA offers two processing categories based on urgency.

NICOP Renewal Fees in Saudi Arabia

Service Type	Fee (SAR)	Processing Time
Urgent	96	Up to 30 days
Executive	182	Up to 15 days

Fees may change, so applicants should confirm before visiting NADRA.

How to Renew NICOP in Saudi Arabia Through NADRA Offices

Most applicants in Saudi Arabia prefer the manual renewal process.

NADRA Appointment for NICOP in Saudi Arabia

Although offices are not overcrowded, booking an appointment is strongly advised.

Why an Appointment Helps

Reduces waiting time
Ensures smoother document handling
Improves overall experience

Planning ahead makes the renewal process efficient.

Visiting NADRA Office in Saudi Arabia

Applicants must visit the NADRA Registration Centre on the scheduled date.

NADRA Office Details (Jeddah)

City: Jeddah
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/zJgWHzkC8FbLXPxM7
Office Hours: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Important Rule: One parent must accompany children

Arriving early helps avoid queues.

Step-by-Step Process to Renew NICOP in Saudi Arabia

The renewal process inside NADRA follows a structured flow.

Step-by-Step Renewal Procedure

First pay the NICOP renewal fee (above-mentioned).
Next window will take the photo of the applicant.
After that, visit the biometrics window if you are over 15 years old.
Now visit the Data Entry Window. After completing the details, they will print a form for your review and signature.
Submit copies of the required documents (above mentioned) and the signed form to them.
They will prepare a complete application file and ask you to visit a designated officer. The officer might ask you some questions and then sign the form.

Once approved, the renewal application is completed.

Biometrics and Verification Explained

Biometric verification strengthens identity security.

Biometric Rules

Mandatory for applicants aged 15 years and above
Not required for children under 15
Parents verify details for minors

Correct biometrics prevent future identity issues.

Collection of Renewed NICOP in Saudi Arabia

After approval, applicants receive a token showing the collection date.

NICOP Collection Details

Collection Time: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Collection Location: Same NADRA office
Requirement: Original token receipt

Personal collection is mandatory.

NICOP in Saudi Arabia: Renewal for Dependents

Renewing NICOP for children requires additional care.

Key Points for Dependents

One parent must be present
Parent’s NICOP and passport copies required
No biometric requirement for children under 15

Parents should carefully review spellings and dates.

Common Mistakes During NICOP Renewal

Many renewals are delayed due to avoidable errors.

Mistakes to Avoid

Carrying expired passport copies
Missing iqama photocopy
Incorrect name spellings
Not reviewing the printed form
Losing the collection token

Attention to detail saves time and frustration.

Online vs Manual Renewal of NICOP in Saudi Arabia

Applicants often ask which option is better.

Comparison Table

Feature	Manual Renewal	Online Renewal
Office Visit	Required	Not required
Biometrics	Required	Not required
Document Review	In-person	Online upload
Suitability	Most applicants	Tech-savvy users

For many residents, manual renewal remains more reliable.

Processing Time for NICOP Renewal in Saudi Arabia

Processing time depends on the selected service.

Expected Timelines

Executive service: around 15 days
Urgent service: around 30 days

Public holidays and verification checks may affect delivery.

Practical Tips for Smooth NICOP Renewal in Saudi Arabia

We recommend the following:

Renew NICOP before expiry
Carry extra photocopies
Arrive early at NADRA office
Review details before signing
Choose executive service if travel is urgent

Preparation reduces stress and delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is iqama mandatory for NICOP renewal?

Yes, a valid iqama copy is generally required.

Can someone else collect my NICOP?

No, personal collection is required.

Is biometric verification compulsory?

Yes, for applicants aged 15 years and above.

Why Renewing NICOP in Saudi Arabia on Time Is Important

NICOP in Saudi Arabia is essential for passports, embassy services, and legal verification. Timely renewal prevents travel disruption and administrative issues.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Renewing NICOP in Saudi Arabia

NICOP in Saudi Arabia must remain valid to ensure uninterrupted legal identity for overseas Pakistanis. Understanding how to renew NICOP, preparing documents carefully, and following the correct NADRA procedure makes the process straightforward.

By renewing NICOP on time and avoiding common mistakes, overseas Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia can maintain peace of mind and smooth access to all essential services.

Also read: How to Apply NICOP for Newborns in Saudi Arabia?