Updated: 27 December 2024, 11:29 am
|||Saudi Arabi Residency
In 2019, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia intro its own Golden Visa, more famously known as the Saudi Arabia Premium Residency Program. This popular immigration program to Saudi Arabia was further expanded in 2024, with the aim of attracting talents, investors, and highly-skilled individuals to make a life for themselves in the KSA, invest in its economy, and take part in its workforce.
Advantages of Residing in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers many benefits for residents, with the country making remarkable advancements that now place it among leading nations worldwide in terms of economic growth, quality of life, and opportunities. Here are some of the key benefits of residing in the Kingdom:
- Booming Economy and Ample Job Opportunities
Saudi Arabia’s thriving economy provides residents with a wealth of job opportunities across diverse sectors, including oil, petrochemicals, healthcare, and education. Competitive salaries, financial incentives, and extensive training programs add to the appeal of working in the Kingdom.
- High-Quality Education
Residents in Saudi Arabia have access to excellent educational institutions, with options ranging from public to private schools and universities that offer international curricula, such as British and American systems.
- Top-Quality Healthcare
Saudi Arabia boasts world-class healthcare facilities, both public and private, equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by highly skilled professionals. Residents also have access to comprehensive health insurance for themselves and their families.
- Freedom of Movement and Investment Opportunities
It allows residents to travel freely within the Kingdom while also providing the opportunity to invest in key sectors such as real estate, healthcare, and technology. This freedom extends to company formation in Saudi Arabia, enabling residents to establish and manage their own businesses. Additionally, Saudi residency by real estate investment offers another path for investors to gain residency while capitalizing on the booming real estate market, enhancing their lifestyle and business prospects.
- A Safe and Secure Environment
Saudi Arabia is known for its safety and stability, supported by laws and regulations that protect residents’ rights and ensure a secure living environment.
What Are the Types of Residencies in Saudi Arabia?
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers foreigners interested in living there 6 types of residencies, each having its set of benefits and regulations to qualify. These residencies are the following:
- Permanent Premium Residency
- Temporary Premium Residency
- Investor Residency
- Work Residency
- Tourist Residency
- Student Residency
Permanent Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia
The KSA may grant a Permanent Premium Residency to those who want to live and settle in the Kingdom permanently without needing a sponsor. Those interested can submit their applications through the Premium Residency e-platform, which is then reviewed by the authorities.
Who is Eligible for a Permanent Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia?
Many categories of professionals are eligible for the Permanent Premium Residency. To be eligible, you may be required to invest certain capital in the KSA or prove that you can contribute to the country’s economy. You must also comply with the eligibility criteria set generally for the Premium Residency program which are the following.
- A minimum age of 21 upon applying.
- Having good health and no communicable diseases, which is determined through medical examination.
- No history of criminal convictions or serious offenses posing a risk to public safety, demonstrated by a clean criminal record.
- Financial solvency, demonstrated through having enough financial resources to support yourself and any person staying with you in KSA. This can be ascertained through proof of finances.
Conditions for Obtaining a Permanent Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia
- A valid passport
- A clean criminal record
- A health report proving you are free of contagious diseases
- Proof of financial solvency
What are the Benefits of a Permanent Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia?
- Freedom of Movement
- Work and Investment Privileges
- Property and Vehicle Ownership
- Family Reunification
- Employment of Domestic Workers
- Unrestricted International Travel
What is the Cost of a Permanent Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The Permanent Premium Residency costs 800,000 SAR, which you pay only once.
Temporary Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia
The Temporary Premium Residency is given to those who wish to reside in Saudi Arabia for a limited period of time for the purpose of work or investment, without the need for a sponsor. This type of residency is ideal for those individuals who are establishing a business or investing in a project for a limited time. Those interested can submit their applications through the Premium Residency e-platform, which is then reviewed by the authorities.
Who is Eligible for a Temporary Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia?
To be eligible for this type of residency, you must prove that you have a valid reason, such as employment, business ventures, education, or medical treatment. Additionally, you must comply with the general eligibility requirements already mentioned in the permanent premium residency above, which are being over 21 years old, having good health, a clean criminal record, and being financially solvent.
Conditions for Obtaining a Temporary Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia
To obtain a Temporary Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia, you must provide:
- A valid passport
- A clean criminal record
- A health report proving you are free of contagious diseases
- Proof of financial solvency.
What are the Benefits of a Temporary Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia?
Holders of a Temporary Premium Residency enjoy various benefits, including:
- Freedom of movement across the Kingdom
- Ability to invest in properties and others.
What is the Cost of a Temporary Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The cost of acquiring this residency is 100,000 SAR paid annually, with the option to renew.
Investor Residency in Saudi Arabia
An Investor’s Residency in Saudi Arabia is granted to those who wish to invest in the Saudi market. It meets the needs of investors who are launching new projects, investing in existing companies, or engaging in real estate investment. Those interested can submit their applications through the Premium Residency e-platform, which is then reviewed by the authorities to ascertain they align with the Kingdom’s vision and investment goals.
Who is Eligible for an Investor Residency in Saudi Arabia?
To qualify for an Investor Residency, you must have:
- a valid investment license issued by the Ministry of Investment, to invest at least SAR 7,000,000 in KSA’s economy,
- a valid commercial registration,
- a Memorandum of Association detailing your investor shares.
Conditions for Obtaining an Investor Residency in Saudi Arabia
To acquire this residency, you must submit:
- A clear investment plan,
- Proof of financial solvency,
- Your investment project’s legal documents, along with an ID such as a passport.
What are the Benefits of an Investor Residency in Saudi Arabia?
An Investor Residency’s Benefits Include:
- Freedom to manage business and investments independently
- Ability to bring family members to live with them in the Kingdom
What is the Cost of an Investor Residency in Saudi Arabia?
Fees vary based on the investment project’s type and size and are determined by the Saudi Investment Authority.
Work Residency in Saudi Arabia
The Work Residency is generally issued to foreign employees who were recruited by Saudi companies. The residency is acquired through the “Absher” electronic platform after completion of all procedures and medical examinations.
Who is Eligible for a Work Residency in Saudi Arabia?
This residency targets individuals looking to work in various sectors within Saudi Arabia, namely in healthcare, education, industry, and services among others.
Conditions for Obtaining a Work Residency in Saudi Arabia
Here are the documents required to acquire a Work Residency in KSA:
- A documented employment contract from the Saudi employer
- A medical examination certificate
- A valid passport
- Personal photos
- Approval from relevant authorities.
What are the Benefits of a Work Residency in Saudi Arabia?
A Work Residency grants its holder:
- The right to reside in the Kingdom throughout the contract period,
- All rights provided by Saudi labor laws,
- The option to bring family members who meet set conditions.
What is the Cost of a Work Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The fees for a Work Residency depend on the duration of the contract and the category of your profession. Your employer will typically bear these costs.
Tourist Residency in Saudi Arabia
The Tourist Residency is dedicated to visitors who want to experience the Kingdom and visit its attractions. Tourists may apply through the “Visit Saudi” e-platform or the Saudi embassies in their country.
Who is Eligible for a Tourist Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The Tourist Residency is granted to tourists who wish to savor the historical, cultural, and natural sites in Saudi Arabia. Here are some conditions for applying:
- Foreigners from 68 countries can apply online for the e-Visa.
- Residents of the GCC, with a residency visa valid for at least 3 months, can apply online for the e-Visa.
- Foreigners eligible to obtain a visa-on-arrival are recommended to apply online for an e-visa, to avoid delays.
Conditions for Obtaining a Tourist Residency in Saudi Arabia
To get a Tourist Residency, you must provide:
- A valid passport,
- Health insurance covering the residency period,
- A hotel reservation or a residential address
What are the Benefits of a Tourist Residency in Saudi Arabia?
If you have a Tourist Residency you will be able to:
- Move freely between Saudi cities
- Savor all the great tourist services,
- Explore the Kingdom’s rich culture and heritage.
Read more:
What is the Cost of a Tourist Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The cost of a Tourist visa will vary based on the duration and type of your visit. It will probably cost between SAR 300 and SAR 500.
Student Residency in Saudi Arabia
Foreign students who wish to join Saudi universities and educational institutions, and have been accepted by said institutions, may be granted a Student Residency. Students can apply through the university, and the latter sends an acceptance letter to the authorities to issue the residency.
Who is Eligible for a Student Residency in Saudi Arabia?
This residency is meant for foreign students who wish to join a Saudi university to pursue their education in diverse specializations including engineering, medicine, business administration, and others. The eligibility criteria for a Saudi student residency are:
- Being accepted into a Saudi educational institution,
- The school or university must obtain an authorization letter from the Saudi MOFA,
- Providing the paperwork detailed below.
Conditions for Obtaining a Student Residency in Saudi Arabia
The documents needed for a Student Residency are:
- An acceptance letter from a Saudi university,
- A valid passport,
- Personal photos,
- A medical examination certificate.
What are the Benefits of a Student Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The benefits of a Saudi Student Residency include:
- Top-notch education at Saudi universities
- Health insurance and support services.
What is the Cost of a Student Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The university you intend to join will generally cover your residency fees, along with health insurance. Its price ranges between SAR 375 and SAR 1900.
Why Obtain a Residency in Saudi Arabia with Migrate World?
Obtain residency in Saudi Arabia with ease through Migrate World, where our expert team guides you step-by-step, handling documentation and applications to maximize your benefits. Whether for investment, work, or education, we tailor our services to your goals through residency by investment programs in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. Get a free consultation and start your journey with a trusted partner by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Premium Residency different from a green card in Saudi Arabia?
When first launched, the Premium Residency program was known as the Saudi Green Card; so technically they are the same.
2. How do I renew my Premium Residency?
If you still meet the eligibility criteria, you can renew your Premium Residency by submitting your application through the online portal, a government office, or an authorized service center, and pay the fees.
3. Who can apply for the Special Talent Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The Special Talent Residency in KSA targets people who have demonstrated skills that add value to the KSA labor force or economic landscape. These include researchers, healthcare professionals, scientists, and executives.
4. What is the Saudi Premium Residency Program?
The Saudi Premium Residency Program, also known as Saudi Arabia’s Golden Visa, allows qualified foreigners to live and work in the Kingdom without a sponsor.
5. What types of residencies are available in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia offers several residency types, including Permanent Premium Residency, Temporary Premium Residency, Investor Residency, Work Residency, Tourist Residency, and Student Residency
