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Everything you need to know about premium residency benefits, eligibility, and fees
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From entrepreneurs to investors, Saudi’s 7-tiered Premium Residency program offers global citizens a path to live, work, and own property without a sponsor
Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program—often called the Saudi “Green Card”—has gained global attention for its unique offering: a sponsor-free route for foreigners to live, work, invest, and own property in the Kingdom. Introduced in 2019 under Vision 2030 to diversify the economy, the scheme has now expanded into seven tailor-made residency tracks catering to global professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
No local sponsor needed, tax-free income, real estate ownership, and visa-free mobility—Saudi Arabia opens its doors to global talent.
Administered by the Saudi Premium Residency Center, the program includes options like Special Talent, Investor, Entrepreneur, and Real Estate Owner residencies.
Each track has its own criteria but shares major benefits—no kafeel (local sponsor) requirement, family inclusion (spouse, children under 25, parents), exemption from expat levies, unrestricted entry/exit, fast-track airport lanes, business rights, and tax-free salaries.
Seven Residency Tracks at a Glance
- Special Talent Residency – For executives, researchers, and healthcare professionals; offers 5-year renewable residency and a route to permanent status.
- Gifted Residency – Designed for artists, athletes, and cultural talents with ministry endorsements.
- Investor Residency – Grants permanent residency for those investing SAR 7 million (~$1.87M) and creating 10 jobs in 2 years.
- Entrepreneur Residency – For startup founders; includes two categories with options for permanent residency.
- Real Estate Owner Residency – Available to those owning residential property worth ≥ SAR 4 million (~$1.07M).
- Limited Duration Residency – 1–5 years; ideal for temporary business or trial living, renewable at SAR 100,000/year (~$26,660).
- Unlimited Duration Residency – Lifetime residency for SAR 800,000 (~$213,300).
Living the Premium Residency Lifestyle
Premium Residency holders can enjoy world-class living in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, access top-tier international schools, benefit from Saudi’s advanced healthcare systems, and participate in vibrant cultural festivals such as Riyadh Season and Jeddah Season. The program also includes legal property rights, affordable cost of living, and full financial independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a job offer or sponsor? No.
- Can I bring my family? Yes—spouse, kids under 25, and parents.
- Is income taxed? No, Saudi Arabia has no personal income tax.
- How much does it cost? From SAR 4,000 ($213,300), depending on the track.
- Can I apply for permanent residency? Yes, certain pathways offer direct or eventual access to lifetime residency.
