For decades, Saudi Arabia was a market you could access—but never fully own. That changes with the Premium Residency Program, giving investors not just entry, but ownership, freedom, and a permanent stake in the Kingdom’s future.
What Is Premium Residency?
Launched under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reforms, Premium Residency offers expatriates the chance to live, work, and own property in Saudi Arabia—without needing a sponsor. This marks a clear departure from the traditional iqama system and provides long-term security for foreign residents.
There are two core tracks:
| Residency Type | Duration / Renewal | Fee (SAR) | Fee (USD approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-Term Residency | Renewable annually | 100,000 | 26,600 |
| Permanent Residency | One-time fee | 800,000 | 213,000 |
Who Can Apply for Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency?
Saudi Arabia’s evolving investment and talent strategy has opened the door for a diverse group of global achievers. Eligible applicants include:
- Investors – Those willing to invest at least SAR 7 million and create 10 jobs in the Kingdom.
- Entrepreneurs – Startup founders and business owners investing from SAR 400,000 upward, with higher tiers for larger ventures.
- Real Estate Owners – Individuals holding debt-free property valued at SAR 4 million or more.
- Exceptional Competence Professionals – Experts in strategic sectors aligned with Vision 2030.
- Special Talent Holders – High-demand professionals such as doctors, researchers, and technical specialists.
- Gifted Individuals – Creatives, innovators, and award-winning talents with recognized global achievements.
- Long-Term Residents – Those seeking either renewable fixed-term residency or lifetime permanent residency status.
Key Benefits of Premium Residency
The program offers a powerful mix of freedom, ownership, and lifestyle advantages:
- No Sponsorship Needed – Complete independence to work and invest.
- Property & Business Ownership – Full rights to own property (outside sacred zones) and establish businesses.
- Family Inclusion – Coverage extends to spouse, children (under 25), and even parents.
- Unlimited Travel – Enter and exit Saudi Arabia without visas or exit-reentry restrictions.
- Employment Flexibility – Work across sectors without being tied to a single employer.
- Tax & Licensing Advantages – Streamlined licensing, potential tax perks, and customs exemptions in designated zones.
- Access to Public Services – Banking, healthcare, education, and airport fast-track benefits.
- Domestic Worker Privileges – PR holders can hire up to four domestic workers without extra fees; additional workers for SAR 9,600 each.
Recent Updates Making It More Attractive
Saudi authorities have refined the program in 2024–2025 to make it even more investor-friendly:
- Family Definition Expanded – Parents now included in residency coverage.
- Clear Residency Types – Legally defined as Fixed-Term or Permanent for clarity.
- Digital Applications – Streamlined online platform with upfront SAR 4,000 assessment fees.
- Removal of Restrictions – Previous clauses on mandatory tax residency and ineligibility for citizenship have been dropped.
- Visa Reform Integration – Program aligned with new long-term business visas and professional mobility frameworks.
Rising Popularity
Investor confidence is reflected in demand:
- 40,000+ applications submitted between Jan 2024 and Jul 2025.
- 8,074 permits issued in 2024, with the largest share to “Exceptional Competence” applicants.
This surge underscores global trust in Saudi Arabia’s reforms and its growing appeal as a hub for investment, innovation, and long-term living.
How to Apply for Premium Residency
Applying for Premium Residency is now fully digital and straightforward:
- Check Eligibility – Review the official criteria for your chosen category.
- Create an Account – Register on the official Premium Residency Center portal.
- Submit Documents – Upload identification, proof of investment or qualifications, and supporting legal documents.
- Pay the Assessment Fee – SAR 4,000, non-refundable.
- Application Review – Authorities assess eligibility; you may be asked for additional documents.
- Final Payment – Pay the full residency fee (Fixed-Term or Permanent).
- Receive Residency Card – Granting you full benefits immediately.
If you need personalized assistance, contact our advisory team to handle the entire process for you.
Why Investors Should Pay Attention
- Direct Access to Vision 2030 Projects – From NEOM to Red Sea Global, PR holders can plug directly into megaproject ecosystems.
- Security & Stability – Long-term or permanent residency offers certainty for families and businesses.
- Competitive Edge – With no sponsor requirements, the PR program is more flexible than many regional alternatives.
- Lifestyle Benefits – Modern infrastructure, global-standard healthcare, and access to world-class education.
Takeaways
Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program is more than a visa—it’s a strategic invitation. For investors and professionals ready to be part of the Kingdom’s transformation, it opens doors to security, growth, and unparalleled opportunities.
At Arab Investors Choice, we believe this is the moment for ambitious global investors to act. The Kingdom is not just building the future—it’s inviting you to own a stake in it.
