Saudi Premium Residency is the Kingdom equivalent of the UAE Golden Visa. Launched in 2019 as part of Vision 2030, it grants permanent or one-year renewable residency to expats without needing an employer sponsor. You can own property, start businesses, and sponsor your family. Applications are selective, and the permanent option costs SAR 800,000 upfront. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Key takeaways
- -Two tiers: permanent (SAR 800,000 one-time fee) and one-year renewable (SAR 100,000/year).
- -No employer sponsor needed. Your residency is independent of your job.
- -You can own real estate, start businesses, and sponsor dependents.
- -Applications are assessed individually. Meeting criteria does not guarantee approval.
- -The program is managed by the Premium Residency Centre under the Saudi government.
Permanent vs renewable Premium Residency
Permanent Premium Residency costs SAR 800,000 (approximately $213,000) as a one-time fee. It grants indefinite residency in Saudi Arabia with full benefits.
Renewable (one-year) Premium Residency costs SAR 100,000 per year (approximately $26,700). It provides the same benefits but must be renewed annually.
Both tiers allow: owning residential and commercial property, starting and owning businesses, sponsoring family members, and travelling in and out of Saudi Arabia freely.
Eligibility requirements
The Premium Residency Centre has not published rigid eligibility criteria. Applications are assessed holistically. Key factors include:
Financial capacity: evidence of wealth, income, or investment capability. High earners and business owners are preferred.
Professional qualifications: advanced degrees, specialized skills, or exceptional talent in fields aligned with Vision 2030.
Clean criminal record and good health: standard requirements verified during the application process.
The program is selective. Not all applications are approved, and the government has not published approval rates.
Benefits of Premium Residency
Property ownership: buy residential and commercial real estate in Saudi Arabia. No restrictions on location (unlike standard iqama holders who face limitations).
Business ownership: own and register businesses without a Saudi partner or sponsor.
Family sponsorship: sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic staff under your Premium Residency.
Exit and re-entry: travel freely without exit/re-entry visa requirements.
Vehicle ownership: register vehicles in your own name.
Access to public services: use public education and healthcare facilities (subject to fees in some cases).
How to apply
Step 1: Visit the Premium Residency Centre website (saprc.gov.sa) and create an account.
Step 2: Complete the application form with personal details, employment history, financial information, and supporting documents.
Step 3: Upload required documents: passport copies, professional certificates, financial statements, and a medical report.
Step 4: Pay the application processing fee.
Step 5: If approved in principle, pay the full Premium Residency fee (SAR 800,000 or SAR 100,000).
Step 6: Complete biometrics and receive your Premium Residency card.
Processing times vary. Initial review can take several weeks to months.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does Saudi Premium Residency cost?
- Permanent residency costs SAR 800,000 (approximately $213,000) as a one-time fee. The renewable option costs SAR 100,000 per year.
- Can Premium Residency holders own property in Saudi Arabia?
- Yes. Premium Residency holders can buy residential and commercial property anywhere in Saudi Arabia without restrictions.
- Do I need an employer to get Premium Residency?
- No. Premium Residency is independent of employment. You can change jobs, start a business, or not work at all without affecting your residency status.