In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been making bold moves to transform its economy, attract foreign talent, and position itself as a hub for business and innovation. At the heart of this transformation is the Saudi Premium Residency Programme—popularly known as the Saudi Green Card.

Launched in 2019 under Vision 2030, the initiative is designed to encourage skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to live, work, and invest in the kingdom without the traditional requirement of a local sponsor. For many, this is a game-changer that opens the door to new opportunities in the Gulf.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Saudi Premium Residency Programme, including its benefits, eligibility requirements, types of residencies, fees, and application process.

What Is the Saudi Premium Residency?

The Premium Residency programme is essentially Saudi Arabia’s version of a long-term residency permit. It provides foreign nationals with the right to live, work, and invest in the country with far greater freedom than standard visas.

Traditionally, expatriates in Saudi Arabia needed a local sponsor (kafeel) to work or start a business. The Premium Residency eliminates this requirement, giving holders more independence and security.

Some of the key benefits of the Premium Residency include:

• The ability to start and manage businesses independently
• Freedom to invest in the Saudi capital market
• The right to work in private organizations without a sponsor
• Visa-free re-entry and exit from Saudi Arabia
• Fast-track lanes at airports for re-entry
• The ability for family members to live, work, and invest in the kingdom
• Permission to own residential, commercial, and industrial property

For professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, these advantages make Saudi Arabia a far more attractive destination.

Eligibility Criteria

Not everyone can apply for the Premium Residency. Applicants must meet certain eligibility conditions to ensure they can contribute positively to Saudi Arabia’s economy and society.

To qualify, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Be in good health
• Have a clean criminal record
• Demonstrate financial stability and the ability to support yourself and dependents

In addition, family sponsorship is available under specific conditions. Premium Residency holders can sponsor their:

• Legally married spouse
• Unmarried children under the age of 25
• Dependent parents (in some categories)

Types of Saudi Premium Residency

Saudi Arabia offers seven categories of Premium Residency, each tailored to different profiles such as investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and property owners.

Here’s an overview:

1. Special Talent Residency

• Duration: 5 years, renewable
• Fee: SAR 4,000
• Eligibility: Healthcare, research, science professionals, and executives with monthly wages between SAR 14,000–80,000, a bachelor’s degree, and relevant work experience.

2. Gifted Residency

• Duration: 5 years, renewable once
• Fee: SAR 4,000
• Eligibility: Cultural and sports professionals recommended by the Ministry or those holding exceptional awards.

3. Investor Residency

• Duration: 5 years, renewable or permanent
• Fee: SAR 4,000
• Eligibility: Minimum SAR 7 million investment and creation of at least 10 jobs within two years.

4. Entrepreneur Residency

• Duration: 5 years (Category One) or pathway to permanent (Category Two)
• Fee: SAR 4,000
• Eligibility: Requires a start-up license and investment ranging from SAR 400,000 to SAR 15 million depending on the category. Job creation is also required.

5. Real Estate Owner Residency

• Duration: Linked to property ownership
• Fee: SAR 4,000
• Eligibility: Ownership of real estate worth at least SAR 4 million. The property must be mortgage-free and fully developed.

6. Limited Duration Residency

• Duration: 1–5 years
• Fee: SAR 100,000 per year (with a 2% annual discount)
• Eligibility: Ideal for individuals involved in short-term projects, temporary assignments, or investments.

7. Unlimited Duration Residency

• Duration: Permanent
• Fee: SAR 800,000 (one-time)
• Eligibility: Applicants must meet specific investment or contribution criteria set by Saudi authorities.

Application Process

Applying for the Saudi Premium Residency is straightforward but requires careful preparation.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need to provide:

• Valid passport copies
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Proof of financial resources
• Medical reports confirming good health
• Family documents (if applying for dependents)

Step 2: Submit Application Online

Applications are submitted through the official Saudi Premium Residency portal. The process is digital, making it accessible for international applicants.

Step 3: Biometric Appointment

Applicants may be required to attend an appointment to provide fingerprints and other biometric data.

Step 4: Pay Fees

Fees vary depending on the residency type. Payments are non-refundable and must be made during the application process.

Why Saudi Arabia Launched the Programme

The Premium Residency Programme is a core part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious reform plan aimed at diversifying its economy beyond oil. By attracting skilled professionals, global investors, and entrepreneurs, the kingdom hopes to:

• Boost economic growth
• Create job opportunities
• Encourage cultural exchange
• Enhance research and knowledge sharing
• Position itself as a global investment hub

This initiative signals a shift in Saudi Arabia’s approach to expatriates—from temporary workers to long-term contributors to the economy and society.

Why Consider the Saudi Premium Residency?

For many expatriates and investors, the programme offers a sense of stability and long-term security that traditional visas don’t provide. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to expand your start-up, a skilled professional seeking global opportunities, or an investor exploring the Middle East, the Saudi Green Card provides unique benefits:

• Independence from the sponsorship system
• The ability to secure property ownership
• Opportunities to contribute to a rapidly growing economy
• Long-term residency options for your family

Final Thoughts

The Saudi Premium Residency Programme—often dubbed the Saudi Green Card—is more than just a residence permit. It’s a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s shift toward a more open, diversified, and globally integrated future.

By offering opportunities for professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs, the programme provides a gateway to not only live and work in Saudi Arabia but also to be part of its transformation under Vision 2030.

For Indians, expats, and global investors alike, this is an exciting opportunity to tap into one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing markets while enjoying the security of long-term residency.