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Premium Residency In Saudi Arabia
Take the first step to your premium residency in Saudi Arabia with Expandway. Simplify your Saudi premium residency journey and enjoy exclusive benefits with us!
What is Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency Program?
Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency program, commonly known as the Saudi Green Card, offers expatriates and investors the opportunity to live, work, and invest in the Kingdom without the need for a local sponsor. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to attract global talent, investors, and entrepreneurs and boost economic growth.
The Premium Residency program is a residency permit designed to offer long-term stability and security to reside in Saudi Arabia. It eliminates the need for a local sponsor (kafeel), allowing holders to enjoy unrestricted movement, investment opportunities, and ownership rights in Saudi Arabia.
Benefits of Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia
The Premium Residency Program in Saudi Arabia offers a range of exclusive benefits, designed to enhance the quality of life for expatriates and provide unparalleled opportunities for professionals, investors, and their families. By removing the limitations of traditional sponsorship systems and granting new freedoms, the program is a transformative initiative that supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and global integration. Below, we detail the significant advantages of obtaining Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia.
1. Freedom from Sponsorship (Kafala System)
One of the most significant benefits of the Premium Residency is the elimination of the need for a local sponsor (kafeel). Holders of the Premium Residency can:
- Live and work in Saudi Arabia without requiring a sponsor.
- Change jobs or employers freely.
- Pursue independent business ventures without restrictions.
This independence empowers expatriates to take control of their careers and investments without the traditional bureaucratic barriers.
2. Property Ownership Rights
Premium Residency holders can own property in Saudi Arabia, a privilege not typically available to expatriates under other visa categories.
- Full ownership rights for residential, commercial, and industrial properties in designated zones.
- Ability to invest in real estate for personal or commercial purposes.
- Long-term property management opportunities, enabling holders to benefit from Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing real estate market.
3. Business and Investment Opportunities
Premium Residency enables expatriates to invest and establish businesses in Saudi Arabia without the need for a local partner.
- Full ownership of businesses in approved sectors.
- Access to Saudi Arabia’s dynamic economy, which is expanding in industries such as technology, healthcare, and tourism.
- Opportunities to participate in large-scale projects and initiatives aligned with Vision 2030.
This benefit is particularly advantageous for investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking to capitalize on the Kingdom’s booming economy.
4. Unrestricted Travel
With Premium Residency, holders enjoy seamless travel to and from Saudi Arabia.
- No need for exit or re-entry permits, offering flexibility for frequent travelers.
- Easy access to neighboring GCC countries, enhancing regional business and travel opportunities.
- Freedom to travel without bureaucratic delays or restrictions associated with traditional visas.
This unrestricted movement is ideal for global professionals, investors, and families who require flexibility.
5. Family Residency Rights
The program extends its benefits to the families of Premium Residency holders, allowing them to live and enjoy the Kingdom’s high-quality lifestyle.
- Residency permits for immediate family members, including spouses and children.
- Access to world-class healthcare, education, and recreational facilities for family members.
- Opportunities for dependents to pursue education and careers in Saudi Arabia.
This aspect of the residency ensures that families can integrate and thrive within Saudi society.
6. Access to Public and Private Services
With Premium Residency, holders enjoy seamless travel to and from Saudi Arabia.
- Eligibility to enroll in government and private health insurance programs.
- Opportunities to utilize banking and financial services similar to Saudi citizens.
- Inclusion in social, cultural, and recreational programs designed for residents.
These privileges make living in Saudi Arabia comfortable and convenient for expatriates.
7. Legal Stability and Long-Term Security
Premium Residency provides long-term security and legal stability for expatriates.
- Lifetime or annually renewable options ensure continued residency without constant renewal concerns.
- Holders are protected under Saudi Arabia’s legal framework, ensuring their rights are respected.
- Confidence to plan for the future, whether for retirement, business expansion, or family settlement.
This stability enables expatriates to focus on their personal and professional goals while living in Saudi Arabia.
8. Enhanced Lifestyle and Quality of Life
Saudi Arabia offers a blend of modern urban living and rich cultural heritage. Premium Residency holders can enjoy:
- Access to luxury housing, international schools, and healthcare facilities.
- Participation in a vibrant cultural and social scene, with events, festivals, and world-class entertainment venues.
- A safe and secure environment with advanced infrastructure and amenities.
With Premium Residency, expatriates experience the best of what Saudi Arabia has to offer.
Explore Saudi Premium Residency Options
Saudi Premium Residency program offers seven distinct residency types to cater to various profiles. The seven premium residencies are as follows:
1. Limited Duration Premium Residency
The Limited Duration Premium Residency is an annually renewable residency permit designed for individuals seeking temporary but extended stays in Saudi Arabia. It provides flexibility for professionals, businesspeople, and families who may not yet be ready for a lifetime commitment to the Kingdom.
Key Features:
- Renewable every year, subject to meeting requirements
- Grants holders freedom to live, work, and own property in Saudi Arabia.
- Enables sponsorship of family members.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Pay an annual fee of SAR100,000.
- Validity of one year with the option to renew.
- Provide evidence of financial stability.
- Open to all without specific eligibility criteria.
- Must have a clean criminal record.
- Possess a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Undergo and pass health clearance.
2. Unlimited Duration Premium Residency
The Unlimited Duration Premium Residency, often called a lifetime residency, offers expatriates the highest level of stability in Saudi Arabia. This one-time payment residency option eliminates the need for renewal.
Key Features:
- Lifetime residency rights without the need for annual renewal.
- Freedom to live, work, invest, and own property in Saudi Arabia.
- Access to public and private sector services.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Pay a one-time fee of SAR800,000.
- Provides lifetime validity.
- Provide evidence of long-term financial stability.
- Open to all without specific eligibility criteria.
- Must have a clean criminal record.
- Possess a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Undergo and pass health clearance.
3. Investor Residency
The Investor Residency is tailored for individuals actively contributing to the Saudi economy through investments. This residency type supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative by attracting foreign investors to various sectors.
Key Features:
- Full ownership of businesses in approved sectors.
- Rights to manage investments without local sponsorship.
- Long-term residency rights aligned with the duration of the investment.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Invest at least SAR7 million in the Saudi economy.
- Create at least ten jobs within the first two years of the application.
- Obtain an official investment license to conduct business in Saudi Arabia.
- Submit essential business documents, including a commercial register and articles of incorporation.
- Maintain active engagement in the investment sector.
4. Real Estate Owner Residency
The Real Estate Owner Residency is designed for expatriates who own property within the Kingdom. It provides residency rights tied to the ownership of approved real estate assets.
Key Features:
- Residency rights linked to property ownership in designated zones.
- Ability to live and manage real estate in Saudi Arabia.
- Renewable based on continued property ownership.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Own residential property in Saudi Arabia valued at SAR4 million or more.
- Property must be free from any current or future mortgages.
- The property must be developed, habitable, and appraised by accredited valuers from Saudi Arabia’s Taqeem authority.
- Residency is tied to the continued ownership or usufruct of the property.
- Real estate must be developed and designated for residential purposes.
5. Entrepreneur Residency
The Entrepreneur Residency supports innovation and entrepreneurship by granting residency to individuals who own startups or small businesses in Saudi Arabia. This type aligns with the Kingdom’s goal to promote a vibrant private sector.
Key Features:
- Residency rights for entrepreneurs and their families.
- Access to resources for business growth and innovation.
- Freedom to operate businesses without sponsorship.
Eligibility Criteria:
First Category:
- Applicants must meet eligibility requirements approved by the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Sport.
- Invest at least SAR400,000 in a startup or business venture.
- Own a minimum of 20% stake in the business.
- Spend at least 30 months in Saudi Arabia within five years.
Second Category:
- Applicants must secure an entrepreneur license from the Ministry of Investment.
- Create at least ten jobs within the first year and maintain or exceed this number in the second year.
- Invest at least SAR15 million in the business venture.
- Hold at least a 10% stake in the company.
6. Special Talent Residency
The Special Talent Residency is reserved for individuals with exceptional skills or achievements in specific fields, such as science, technology, sports, arts, or academia. It encourages global talent to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s development.
Key Features:
- Residency rights for the individual and their family.
- Access to opportunities for utilizing talents in key sectors.
- Recognition and endorsement from relevant Saudi institutions.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Targeted at healthcare, science, and research professionals.
- Minimum monthly salary requirements:
- SAR35,000 for healthcare and science professionals.
- SAR14,000 for researchers.
- SAR80,000 for executives with an executive-level employment contract
- Must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Secure an approved employment contract in the relevant field.
7. Gifted Residency
The Gifted Residency is a prestigious category awarded by royal decree to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to Saudi Arabia. This residency type is a recognition of merit and societal impact.
Key Features:
- Granted without application requirements.
- Lifetime residency rights for the individual and their family.
- Exclusive access to opportunities and resources within the Kingdom.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Aimed at individuals contributing significantly to Saudi Arabia’s cultural or sporting sectors.
- Applicants must secure endorsements from either the Ministry of Culture or the Ministry of Sports.
Category 1:
- Must be a nominee or recipient of awards sanctioned by the Saudi Ministry of Culture or Ministry of Sports.
Category 2:
- Applicant must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the Saudi Ministry of Culture or Ministry of Sports.
Application Process for Premium Residency
Applying for Premium Residency is a straightforward process, especially with the right guidance:
1. Document Preparation
Gather all necessary documents, including passport copies, financial statements, health reports, and legal clearances.
2. Submission
Submit your application through the official Premium Residency portal.
3. Review and Assessment
Authorities will review the application, verifying all documents and conducting security checks.
4. Approval and Payment
Upon approval, pay the required fee to activate your residency permit.
5. Residency Issuance
Receive your Premium Residency card, allowing you to start enjoying its benefits.
5 Easy Steps of Application Process for Premium Residency
Key Requirements for Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia
To apply for Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia, applicants must meet certain documentation and eligibility requirements. Below is a comprehensive list of the key requirements for a successful application:
1. Scanned Passport Copies
- Include scanned copies of the applicant’s passport and the passports of all family members included in the application.
2. Recent Personal Photos
- Provide recent passport-sized photographs of all individuals included in the application.
3. Proof of Residence
- For applicants residing outside Saudi Arabia: Proof of residence address.
- For applicants residing within Saudi Arabia: A valid residence card (Iqama).
4. Bank Statements
- Submit bank statements for the previous 12 months to demonstrate financial stability.
5. Academic Qualifications
- Certified copies of the applicant’s academic qualifications, such as degrees or diplomas.
6. Medical Report
- An approved medical report verifying the health status of the applicant and all family members.
6. Proof of Financial Solvency
Documents proving financial stability, such as:
- Payroll slips.
- Commercial register (for business owners).
- Audited financial statements (for investors).
8. Language of Documents
- All documents must be in Arabic or English. Documents in other languages must be accompanied by official translations into Arabic or English.
Obtain Your Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia with Expandway
Navigating Saudi Arabia’s residency application process can be complex, but Expandway simplifies it for you. Our team of experts ensures that every step is handled professionally, from document preparation to final approval, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Contact us today to get started!
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- FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
If you don’t find your question answered here, don’t hesitate to contact us. We appreciate your inquiry.
How do I apply for Premium Residency?
Applications can be submitted online through the official Premium Residency portal. Alternatively, you can engage a trusted consultancy service, such as Expandway, to assist you with the process, ensuring accuracy and compliance with all requirements.
Is Premium Residency tied to property ownership or investments?
Not necessarily. While some types, like Real Estate Owner Residency or Investor Residency, are tied to specific investments, other options, such as Limited Duration or Unlimited Duration Premium Residency, are open to individuals who meet the general criteria.
Can Premium Residency be revoked?
Yes, Premium Residency can be revoked if the holder violates Saudi Arabia’s laws, provides false information during the application process, or no longer meets the financial or legal criteria.
What happens if my premium residency application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will be informed of the reasons for rejection. In most cases, you can address the issues and reapply. Ensure all documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays or rejections.
How long does the application process take?
The duration of the application process varies, depending on the residency type and the completeness of the documentation. Generally, processing can take several weeks after submission.
Can family members be included in the application?
Yes, Premium Residency allows you to include your immediate family members, such as your spouse and children, in the application. They will also be eligible for residency permits under the program.
What documents are required for Premium Residency?
Passport copies, recent photos, proof of residence, bank statements, academic qualifications, medical reports, and financial proof.
Who is eligible for Premium Residency?
Applicants meeting criteria like financial solvency, clean criminal record, valid passport, and health clearance.