
Saudi Arabia is opening its doors wider than ever before. With the launch of the Saudi Premium Residency program, the Kingdom now offers a unique opportunity for foreign investors, professionals, and skilled workers to live, work, and own property in the country without the need for a sponsor. This is a major shift from traditional residency systems and part of the Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything about the Saudi Permanent Residency program, including types, benefits, eligibility, the application process, and much more.
What is Saudi Premium Residency?
Saudi Premium Residency is a long-term residency permit launched in 2019 by the Saudi government. It allows highly qualified foreigners to live, work, and do business in the Kingdom independently—without a Saudi sponsor (kafeel). It’s often compared to “green card” systems in other countries.
There are two main types:
- Permanent Residency (One-time fee, lifelong)
- Renewable Residency (Annual fee, renewable every year)
This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to attract international talent, increase foreign direct investment, and promote a more open and competitive economy.
Types of Saudi Premium Residency
Saudi Premium Residency comes in two main types: permanent and renewable. The permanent option grants lifetime residency with a one-time fee, while the renewable option is valid for one year and can be extended annually. Both provide freedom to live, work, and invest without needing a local sponsor.
Saudi Permanent Residency
This type offers a lifetime residency in Saudi Arabia. It comes with a one-time payment and grants the holder complete independence to work, own property, and sponsor family members.
Renewable Premium Residency
This is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. It offers similar benefits to the permanent option but at a recurring cost.
Benefits of Saudi Premium Residency
The program offers multiple advantages, including no sponsor requirement, business ownership, property rights, and family sponsorship. It also allows easier travel, access to healthcare, and education for dependents. These benefits make it an attractive option for investors, professionals, and skilled workers seeking long-term opportunities in Saudi Arabia.
No Sponsor Requirement
Unlike traditional expat visas in Saudi Arabia, premium residency holders do not need a local sponsor to live or work in the Kingdom.
Business Ownership Rights
You can fully own and operate a business in Saudi Arabia without needing a local partner.
Property Ownership
Premium residents are allowed to own real estate for residential, commercial, and industrial use, except in Mecca and Medina.
Family Sponsorship
You can sponsor family members, including spouse, children, and even parents in some cases.
Access to Jobs in Private Sector
Premium residents can take up jobs in the private sector and are treated as Saudi citizens for employment purposes.
Ease of Travel
They enjoy easier exit and re-entry into the country without needing permits each time.
Residency for Dependents
Dependents can get residency under the main applicant’s profile, and spouses can work without requiring a separate work permit.
Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Permanent Residency
To apply for the Saudi Premium Residency, the applicant must meet certain conditions. These may include:
- Valid passport
- Legal residency in Saudi Arabia (for renewable category)
- Proof of income or financial solvency
- Clean criminal record
- Medical report showing the applicant is free from contagious diseases
- Investment plan or proof of assets for business professionals
Saudi Permanent Residency Cost and Fees
The permanent residency requires a one-time fee of SAR 800,000, offering lifelong rights and privileges. The renewable residency costs SAR 100,000 annually. While premium, these fees reflect the extensive benefits provided, including independence, property ownership, and full access to business operations within the Kingdom.
Permanent Option
- One-time fee: SAR 800,000 (approx. USD 213,000)
Renewable Option
- Annual fee: SAR 100,000 (approx. USD 26,660)
Both plans require additional charges for dependents and government services (e.g., health insurance, traffic fees, etc.)
How to Apply for Saudi Premium Residency
The application process is straightforward and fully digital. Here’s how it works:
Step 1 – Visit the Premium Residency Portal
Start the application at: https://saprc.gov.sa
Step 2 – Submit Required Documents
Upload your passport, financial statements, legal residency proof (if needed), health report, and other required documents.
Step 3 – Pay the Application Fee
You’ll need to pay a processing fee. Once approved, you pay the full residency fee.
Step 4 – Approval and Issuance
After background checks and document verification, you receive your Saudi Premium Residency ID.
Who Should Apply for Saudi Permanent Residency?
This program is ideal for:
- Foreign investors looking to set up business in Saudi Arabia
- Professionals and skilled workers with long-term career plans
- High-net-worth individuals interested in real estate or commercial opportunities
- Expats who have lived in Saudi Arabia for years and want permanent status
Top Sectors Benefiting from Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia
Sectors like real estate, healthcare, technology, finance, and retail benefit most. Premium residency attracts skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs who drive innovation and growth. These sectors align with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil-based revenues.
Real Estate
With the freedom to own property, expats can now invest in housing, commercial buildings, or industrial projects.
Healthcare
Premium residency encourages qualified doctors and healthcare professionals to contribute to Saudi’s growing medical sector.
IT and Technology
Tech entrepreneurs and skilled developers are welcomed under this program, supporting Vision 2030’s digital goals.
Finance and Banking
International finance professionals and investors can now play a direct role in local banking, fintech, and investment firms.
Premium Residency vs Traditional Iqama
Feature | Premium Residency | Traditional Iqama |
Sponsor Required | No | Yes |
Business Ownership | Full ownership | Requires Saudi partner |
Property Ownership | Allowed | Restricted |
Duration | Lifetime or annual | Linked to job contract |
Travel Freedom | No exit/re-entry needed | Requires permit |
How Premium Residency Supports Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is a national plan to reduce dependency on oil and diversify the economy. Premium residency plays a key role in this transformation by:
- Attracting foreign capital
- Encouraging skilled immigration
- Enhancing innovation and entrepreneurship
- Promoting knowledge transfer
Key Requirements for Saudi Premium Residency Application
Here’s a summary of the documents and requirements:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Proof of income or financial resources
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical report
- Residency permit (if applying from within Saudi Arabia)
- Business or investment documents (if applicable)
Can Expats Own Businesses in Saudi Arabia with Premium Residency?
Yes. One of the biggest draws of Saudi Premium Residency is full business ownership without needing a local sponsor. This includes setting up:
- Retail stores
- Service-based businesses
- Industrial projects
- Online ventures
You also get access to the Saudi business registry, licensing system, and government e-services.
Saudi Permanent Residency for Families
Premium residency holders can sponsor family members, giving them access to:
- Local schools
- Healthcare services
- Residency permits
- Work opportunities (for adult children or spouses)
Saudi Premium Residency for Investors
If you’re a foreign investor, this program gives you unmatched access to the Saudi market. You can:
- Buy commercial land
- Register businesses
- Participate in local tenders
- Import and export goods
- Employ staff
The permanent option adds credibility for long-term contracts and partnerships.
Can You Become a Citizen Through Saudi Premium Residency?
No, premium residency does not lead to citizenship. However, it gives almost all the rights of a citizen, except voting and government jobs. It’s a long-term solution for those who want to live and invest in Saudi Arabia permanently.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is stepping into the future, and the Premium Residency program is a clear sign of progress. It’s a golden opportunity for investors, professionals, and high-net-worth individuals who want to be part of the country’s transformation. With benefits like property ownership, business freedom, and family sponsorship, the Saudi Permanent Residency opens a new chapter for expats who seek long-term growth in the Kingdom.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, skilled worker, or investor—this is your chance to be part of something big.
FAQs
What is the difference between premium residency and traditional iqama?
Premium residency doesn’t require a sponsor and gives full ownership rights and independence. Traditional iqama is tied to employment and needs a sponsor.
How much does Saudi premium residency cost?
The permanent option costs SAR 800,000 (one-time), while the renewable option costs SAR 100,000 per year.
Can I own property with premium residency?
Yes, except in Mecca and Medina.
Can I work anywhere with this residency?
Yes, premium residents can work in the private sector or run their own businesses.
Is this a path to Saudi citizenship?
No, it does not lead to citizenship, but it offers most benefits similar to those of citizens.
Can I bring my family to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and in some cases, your parents.
Can I apply from outside Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can apply online from anywhere in the world.
Do I need to renew the permanent residency?
No, the permanent version is for life and doesn’t need renewal.
What jobs can I take with premium residency?
You can take up any job in the private sector, own a business, or become self-employed.
Is health insurance included?
You’ll need to purchase private health insurance separately.