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Saudi Premium Residency

The Saudi Premium Residency program, also referred to as the Saudi Green Card, enables skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to live, work, and own businesses or property in Saudi Arabia.

It is designed to appeal to skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, talents, and investors who want to reside in Saudi Arabia and aims to promote economic growth and cultural exchange and is targeted at exceptional professionals who can contribute to the development of local capabilities and the exchange of knowledge.

The Premium Residency program was launched in 2019 as a way of growing and diversifying the Saudi economy beyond oil and promoting economic growth and cultural exchange.

The green card Saudi Arabia, or KSA green card, was introduced as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform plan to open the country up to global talent and investment. It aims to enhance the country’s competitiveness in attracting premium foreign talent and investment. The Saudi Premium Residency scheme aims to increase the economic, social, and cultural diversity of Saudi Arabia.

Table of contents

Saudi Premium Residency benefits

There are multiple benefits associated with the Saudi Premium Residency. Because the program is designed to appeal to exceptional individuals from around the world, it offers some great benefits to encourage them to live, work, and invest in Saudi Arabia, including:

Business opportunities

Premium residents can establish and manage businesses in Saudi Arabia, contributing to economic growth and job creation. Premium Residency holders can invest in the Saudi Capital market, own a foreign-owned onshore entity (with the appropriate license), and work in private organizations. Saudi Premium Residency gives you access to a thriving market and allows you to participate in various sectors without the need for a local sponsor.

Eligibility for permanent residency

Premium Residency holders who maintain their product eligibility criteria for a minimum time may be able to apply for permanent residency in Saudi Arabia. To be eligible for permanent residency, you usually need to be a resident of Saudi Arabia for at least 30 months within five consecutive or non-consecutive years.

Visa-free entry and exit

Premium Residency holders have unrestricted entry and exit privileges, allowing them to travel in and out of Saudi Arabia without needing to apply for a visa. This is an important advantage for many residents, as it allows unlimited international travel for business, leisure, or personal reasons. When re-entering Saudi Arabia, Premium Residency holders can use the fast lanes designated for residents.

Family residency

Immediate family members of premium residency holders can apply for a residence permit in Saudi Arabia and have the right to live, work, and invest in Saudi Arabia. Family members will also be able to exit and return to Saudi Arabia without needing a visa. Additionally, premium residents are entitled to apply for visitor visas for any relatives planning to visit them in Saudi.

Real estate ownership

Premium Residency holders are allowed to own residential, commercial, and industrial property in Saudi Arabia, providing them with opportunities for investment and long-term stability and the opportunity to benefit from potential appreciation.

How to qualify for a Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Premium Residency requires you to meet specific eligibility criteria set by the government. The eligibility criteria ensure that individuals granted Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia contribute positively to society, comply with laws, and can financially support themselves while residing in the country. To qualify for Premium Residency, you must meet the following conditions:

Minimum age

You must be at least 21 years old at the time of the application.

Good health

You must undergo a medical examination to ensure you are in good health and do not have any contagious diseases.

Clean criminal record

You must not have any criminal conviction or a history of serious offenses that could pose a risk to public safety or security.

Financial solvency

You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Saudi Arabia. You may be asked to provide evidence of your finances.

Eligible dependents for Saudi Premium Residency

Premium Residency holders have the opportunity to sponsor certain family members to join them in Saudi Arabia. Eligible family members include:

Married spouse

Premium Residency holders can sponsor their legally married spouses to accompany them in Saudi Arabia.

Dependent children

Premium Residency holders can sponsor their unmarried children who are under the age of 25.

Dependent parents

Premium Residency holders may also be eligible to sponsor their dependent parents under certain conditions, for example, if they provide proof of dependency and financial support.

It is important to note that specific eligibility requirements for sponsoring family members may vary based on the type of Premium Residency.

Saudi Premium Residency products

The Premium Residency Saudi Arabia program has seven different options, known as the Premium Residency Products. These products are designed to accommodate different needs.

Special Talent Residency​

This type of residency is designed for professionals in executive leadership, healthcare, science, and research. The professional should be exceptional in their field and be able to contribute to the development of local capabilities and the exchange of knowledge.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for a Special Talent Residency differs depending on your role:
Researchers
  • An employment contract from an approved entity with priority specialization.
  • A monthly wage of at least SAR 14,000.
  • A minimum of a bachelor’s degree.
  • A minimum of three years’ work experience in a relevant field.
  • A recommendation letter from your employer.
  • At least three pieces of research in the relevant field.
  • The minimum score in the points system.
Healthcare and Scientific Professionals
  • An employment contract from an approved entity with priority specialization.
  • A monthly wage of at least SAR 35,000.
  • A minimum of a bachelor’s degree.
  • The minimum score in the points system.
  • A recommendation letter from your employer.
  • A minimum of three years’ work experience in a relevant field.
Executives
  • An employment contract for executives at Level 1 or 2.
  • A monthly wage of at least SAR 80,000.
  • A recommendation letter from your employer (Level 2).

Duration

The Special Talent residency is a 5-year fixed-term residency.

Renewal and permanent residency

If you meet the product eligibility criteria, the residency is renewable for up to one term. If you meet the conditions, you may also be able to apply for a permanent visa to Saudi Arabia.

Gifted Residency

This type of residency is designed for skilled professionals and talented individuals in the cultural and sports sectors.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for a Gifted Residency differs depending on the type of category you belong to:

A – First Category
  • Nominated for or a recipient of a specified exceptional award.
  • A recommendation from the Ministry of Culture, or the Ministry of Sport based on your field.
  • You meet the minimum financial capability.
B – Second Category
  • You fulfill the minimum eligibility criteria approved by the Ministry of Culture or Ministry of Sport.
  • A recommendation from the Ministry of Culture, or the Ministry of Sport based on your field.
  • You meet the minimum financial capability.

Duration

The Gifted Residency is a 5-year fixed-term residency.

Renewal and permanent residency

If you meet the product eligibility criteria, the residency is renewable once, as long as you have been resident in the Kingdom for at least 30 months during the 5-year term. If you meet the conditions and have an endorsement from the Ministry of Culture or the Ministry of Sport, you may also be able to apply for permanent residency.

Investor Residency

Investor Residency is aimed at investors who want to conduct business and make investments in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and offers good investment opportunities that make it an attractive destination for investors from around the world.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Investor Residency, you must:

  • Hold a valid investment license issued by the Ministry of Investment, for an investment of at least SAR 7,000,000 (as the applicant’s share) in economic activities in Saudi Arabia.
  • Hold a valid Commercial Registration.
  • Have a Memorandum of Association showing your investor shares.

Duration

Unlike other Premium Residencies, the Investor Residency is available as a 5-year term, a renewable term, or as a permanent residency (conditional in the first two years). The duration you are eligible for depends on the value of your investment.

Renewal and permanent residency

The Investor Residency has an advantage over other Premium Residencies as there is a path to directly obtain Saudi permanent residency. To achieve permanent residency, you will need to inject a minimum of SAR 7,000,000 and create at least 10 jobs during the first two years of your residency.

Entrepreneur Residency

The Entrepreneur Residency is aimed at entrepreneurs, startup owners, and innovators who want to launch and/or develop their start-up companies in Saudi Arabia and develop sectors in Saudi Arabia. Entrepreneur residents can nominate two members of staff for the Special Talent Residency. These staff members are exempt from the residency eligibility criteria. The Entrepreneur Residency is designed to encourage the Kingdom’s economic transformation journey.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for the Entrepreneur Residency differs depending on the type of category you belong to:

First Category
  • An entrepreneur license from the Ministry of Investment.
  • A minimum of SAR 400,000 as an investment from an entity that is accredited with the Ministry of Investment.
  • A recommendation letter from your investment entity.
  • A minimum of a 20% share in the company.
Second Category
  • An entrepreneur license from the Ministry of Investment.
  • A minimum of SAR 15,000,000 as an investment from an entity that is accredited with the Ministry of Investment.
  • A recommendation letter from your investment entity.
  • A minimum of a 10% share in the start-up company.
  • You must create a minimum of 10 jobs during the first year and a minimum of 10 additional jobs in the second year.

Duration

First-category residents
They will receive fixed-term residency for five years.
Second-category residents
Pathway to permanent residency.

Renewal and permanent residency

First-category residents
The residency is renewable for one term, as long as you have continually adhered to the eligibility standards and hold residency for a minimum of 30 months in the 5-year period.
Second-category residents
They will achieve permanent residency, as long as they create a minimum of 10 jobs in the first year and 10 jobs the following year.

Real Estate Owner Residency

This residency is intended for foreign real estate owners in Saudi Arabia, who also want to take up residency in the country. It allows them to benefit from the growing real estate market while also enjoying Saudi’s high quality of life.

Eligibility

The Investor Residency has specific eligibility requirements, including:

  • You own or usufruct real estate of at least SAR 4,000,000 in Saudi Arabia.
  • The property you own, or usufruct is free from current and future mortgages.
  • The real estate property or properties must be residential.
  • The property is not associated with real estate financing.
  • The real estate property must be developed. It should not be from undeveloped or unimproved land.
  • The real estate must be appraised by an accredited valuer from the Saudi Authority for Accredited Valuers.

Duration

The duration of Real Estate Owner Residency is linked to the real estate ownership.

Renewal and permanent residency

As long as you maintain ownership of the property and continue to meet the eligibility criteria for the Real Estate Owner Premium Residency, you can renew your residency indefinitely.

Limited Duration Premium Residency

The Limited Duration Premium Residency provides temporary residency for individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria. This option is designed for those residing in Saudi Arabia for short-term assignments, projects, or endeavors. This option is recommended to investors or entrepreneurs looking to undertake short-term investment ventures in Saudi Arabia. It is also ideal for individuals who want to experience the country's daily life, business landscape, and investment potential before committing to permanent residency. The duration of this residency is determined by the applicant's circumstances, with the possibility of extension or renewal.

Eligibility

The Limited Duration Premium Residency has several eligibility requirements, including:

  • You must have a valid reason for seeking temporary residency, such as employment, business ventures, education, or medical treatment.
  • You must comply with the general eligibility requirements for Saudi Premium Residency.

Duration

A fixed residency of between one year and five years is available.

Renewal

Some individuals with the Limited Duration Premium Residency have the option to renew their residency for an additional period, depending on factors such as the purpose of their stay and their compliance with residency requirements.

Unlimited Duration Premium Residency

The Unlimited Duration Premium Residency offers permanent residency status to eligible individuals. This option is aimed at those looking to establish permanent roots in Saudi Arabia and enjoy all the benefits of residency indefinitely. The Unlimited Duration Premium Residency allows foreign citizens to fully integrate into Saudi society and contribute to the country’s growth and development.

Eligibility

The Unlimited Duration Premium Residency has several eligibility requirements, including:

  • You may be required to invest a certain amount of capital or demonstrate your contribution to the Saudi economy through business ventures, investments, or other means.
  • You must comply with the general eligibility requirements for Premium Residency.

Duration

Saudi permanent residency.

Renewal

Because the Unlimited Duration Premium Residency offers permanent residency, you are eligible to stay in Saudi Arabia indefinitely. This type of residency permit typically does not have an expiration date.

Required documents for Saudi Premium Residency application

There are specific pieces of documentation you will need when applying for Saudi Premium Residency, including:

Passport copies

You will need clear copies of your passport, specifically the passport pages containing personal information and validity dates.

Personal photos

You will need two passport-sized photographs taken recently (within the last six months) that are clearly identifiable as you. The photos should be in color and taken against a white background and should be clear, in focus, and with even lighting and exposure.

Proof of financial capacity

You will need to provide proof of your finances that are certified by the authorized Saudi diplomatic mission, such as:
• Certified proof of income (for employees).
• A certified copy of your company’s commercial registration document (for investors).
• An audited and sealed financial statement from a certified public accountant from the last two years (for investors).
• Investment portfolios.
• A bank statement from the last 12 months.

Medical report

You will need to provide a certificated medical report from an authorized healthcare provider confirming you are in good health and do not have any contagious diseases.

Your Saudi Iqama Number

You will need to provide this if you are currently in the country or if you have previously had an Iqama.

Proof of address

You will need to provide proof of your current address, for example, a utility bill.

Previous visas

You will need to provide copies of any Saudi Arabian visas from the previous 15 years.

If you include any family members in your application, you will also need to provide copies of their passports, passport-sized photographs, and certified medical reports. You may also need to include a personal photograph of you and your family together.

How to apply for a Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia

There are specific steps you will need to follow when applying for a premium residency in Saudi Arabia.

Create an account on the official portal

Visit the official website designated for Premium Residency applications and create a user account. Provide accurate personal information and create login credentials.

Complete the application form

Fill out the online application form with detailed, accurate information about your personal background, employment, education, and any other required details.

Upload documents

Scan and upload all required documents, including passport copies, personal photos, proof of financial capacity, and medical reports, as specified in the application guidelines.

Pay the application fee

Pay the designated application fee through the online portal using the accepted payment methods.

Review and submit

Carefully review all entered information and uploaded documents to ensure they are accurate. Once satisfied, submit your application through the online portal. Keep a record of your application reference number for future reference.

Wait for processing

After submitting your application, await confirmation of receipt and processing from the relevant authorities. The processing time may vary depending on the type of Premium Residency applied for and the volume of applications received.

Attend biometric appointment (if required)

If requested, schedule and attend a biometric appointment at a designated center to provide fingerprint scans and other biometric data as part of the verification process.

Await approval notification

Once your application is processed, you will receive notification of the outcome via email or through the online portal. If approved, follow any further instructions provided to finalize your Premium Residency status.

Saudi Premium Residency Fees

The fees associated with the Saudi Premium Residency can vary based on the specific product you are applying for. The application fee is charged at the beginning of the application process and is non-refundable. You may be charged a category-specific residency visa and application processing fee.

The Saudi Premium Residency fees by category:

  • Special Talent Residency: SAR 4,000.
  • Gifted Residency: SAR 4,000.
  • Investor Residency: SAR 4,000.
  • Entrepreneur Residency: SAR 4,000.
  • Real Estate Owner Residency: SAR 4,000.
  • Limited Duration Premium Residency: SAR 100,000 per year (with a 2% reduction per year on an accumulative basis).
  • Unlimited Duration Premium Residency: SAR 800,000.

Pros of residency in Saudi Arabia

Not only does Saudi Arabia have one of the biggest economies in the world, but it is also an attractive destination for both individuals and families. Saudi Arabia boasts a rich cultural heritage combined with modern amenities, from bustling cities to desert landscapes, the country provides a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

With its rapidly growing economy and ambitious development plans, Saudi Arabia offers an abundance of job opportunities in various industries, such as oil and gas, construction, healthcare, finance, and technology. The Saudi government welcomes foreign investment and entrepreneurship, with opportunities for individuals to start businesses and contribute to the growing economy. Saudi Arabia does not impose personal income tax on residents, offering significant financial advantages to individuals and families. Additionally, the cost of living in the country is relatively low compared to many Western countries.

Saudi Arabia is also known for its hospitality and welcoming nature towards residents and visitors alike. The local population is renowned for its friendliness and generosity and Saudi Arabia has a multicultural environment and is home to a diverse expatriate community. For those moving with their families, the quality of education is an important factor. The country also offers a high standard of healthcare services, with modern hospitals and medical facilities equipped to handle a wide range of medical needs. Residents can access quality healthcare services at affordable rates.

FAQ

The Saudi green card is another name for Premium Residency. When the program was first launched, it was more commonly known as the Saudi Green Card.

The processing time for Saudi Premium Residency applications may vary depending on factors such as the category applied for, the volume of applications, and the documentation you provide. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities for current processing times.

Renewal procedures for Premium Residency may vary depending on the category and specific requirements. If you still meet the eligibility criteria, you can submit a renewal application through the online portal, at a government office, or through an authorized service center, and pay the renewal fees. Your renewal application will then be reviewed and you will receive a notification when your renewed residency is ready to collect.