Final Exit from Saudi Arabia: How to Update Your CNIC Country
If you recently left abroad on a final exit, you might be wondering about updating your CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card). Your CNIC may have listed your previous country of residence, but now that it has expired, what should you do? This article explains the correct approach and answers frequently asked questions.
What is CNIC?
CNIC stands for Computerized National Identity Card, issued by the official national authority. It is mandatory for all citizens above a certain age and serves as official proof of identity.
Key points:
Required for banking, voting, property transactions, passports, and government services.
Usually valid for 10 years before renewal.
NICOP is the version for citizens living abroad.
Understanding “Country of Stay”
The “country of stay” on your CNIC or NICOP indicates where you currently reside:
Living abroad: Your country of stay should reflect your foreign residence.
Living locally: Please update your country of stay to reflect your current residence.
Why You Should Update CNIC
After a final exit from abroad:
Your foreign residency permit has been permanently canceled.
You are no longer a legal resident of your previous country.
Records should reflect your current residence.
Keeping your previous country as your CNIC country after leaving can lead to:
Inaccurate records.
Potential travel and legal issues.
Problems with banking or government services.
How to Update CNIC After Final Exit
Visit the local registration center or use the online CNIC renewal portal.
Fill in your personal details and select your current residence as the country of stay.
Submit required documents:
Old/expired CNIC
Proof of current residence
Passport or exit stamp (optional)
Pay the applicable fee and collect the receipt.
Receive your updated CNIC within the stipulated processing time.
Tip: If you plan to move abroad again, you can update your country of stay later when you shift.
FAQs
Q1: Can I keep my previous country as my CNIC country after final exit? A1: No. Since your foreign residency has ended, your CNIC must reflect your current country of stay.
Q2: Do I need to update CNIC immediately after final exit? A2: While not legally mandatory immediately, updating it ensures accurate records and avoids future complications.
Q3: Is a NICOP required if I want to live abroad again? A3: Yes. NICOP is for citizens living abroad. Once you move again, you can apply for a NICOP with the new country of stay.
Q4: What documents are needed to update the CNIC after the final exit? A4: Old/expired CNIC, proof of current residence, and optionally your passport or exit stamp from the previous country.
Conclusion
After leaving abroad on a final exit, the correct approach is to update your CNIC with your current residence as the country of stay. This ensures your records are accurate and prevents legal or administrative issues. Later, if you move abroad again, you can update it accordingly.
