Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program continues to attract global investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs who wish to live and work in the Kingdom with greater freedom and long-term stability. Introduced to align with Vision 2030, the program reflects the government’s commitment to creating a welcoming and competitive environment for international talent.

Overview of the Program

The Premium Residency allows qualified foreigners to reside in Saudi Arabia without the need for a local sponsor. Managed by the Saudi Premium Residency Center (SPRC), the initiative aims to empower individuals who contribute to the Kingdom’s economy and development. It offers both limited-term and permanent residency options, providing flexibility for professionals, investors, and families seeking a sustainable base in Saudi Arabia.

Types of Premium Residency

As of 2025, the program offers several product categories designed to meet different professional and investment goals:

1. Investor Residency – for individuals who invest in Saudi companies or real estate projects.
2. Entrepreneur Residency – for founders establishing new ventures within the Kingdom.
3. Highly Skilled Residency – for professionals with advanced qualifications or expertise in priority sectors.
4. Specialized Talent Residency – for experts in fields such as health, science, culture, and sports.
5. Real Estate Owner Residency – for property owners meeting approved value requirements.

Each category is tailored to specific applicant profiles, ensuring that Saudi Arabia attracts a diverse range of talent and investment.

Main Advantages

Holders of the Premium Residency enjoy a wide range of privileges that go beyond the standard expatriate visa. These include:

1. Exemption from the financial fees usually imposed on expatriates and their dependents.
2. Freedom to move between employers or facilities without restrictions.
3. Residency in Saudi Arabia with family members, including parents, spouses, and children under 25.
4. Use of designated lanes for citizens and GCC nationals at airports and border ports.
5. Ability to issue visit visas for relatives.
6. Freedom to leave and return to the Kingdom without requiring an exit/re-entry visa.
7. Ownership and use of real estate within Saudi Arabia.
8. The right to conduct business and engage in investment activities in accordance with local regulations.
9. Flexibility for the holder’s spouse and children to work in the private sector and move between establishments.

These privileges highlight the Kingdom’s broader goal of offering a more attractive and stable environment for foreign professionals and investors.

Difference Between Premium Residency and Investor Visa

While both Premium Residency and investor visas support economic participation, they differ in purpose and flexibility. The investor visa is directly tied to a specific investment license under the name of the applicant and links the holder to an employer (their business). In contrast, Premium Residency is independent of any employer or license, allowing the holder to live and work freely.

Moreover, holders of investor visas do not receive a separate work permit, while Premium Residency holders can operate under broader professional and investment privileges.

Conditions and Termination

The Premium Residency may be cancelled under specific conditions such as:

1. Conviction of a serious crime or fine exceeding SAR 100,000.
2. A judicial decision ordering deportation.
3. Submission of false information in the application.
4. Violation of obligations or local regulations.
5. Voluntary waiver by the holder.
6. Death or loss of eligibility.
7. Termination by the SPRC for reasons of public interest.

If the permit is cancelled or terminated, the holder is allowed to remain in Saudi Arabia for up to 60 days (extendable to 180 days) to settle any obligations before departure.

Flexibility and Upgrading

Premium Residency holders may apply to switch to another product category if their circumstances change—for instance, from professional to investor status. However, each person can hold only one Premium Residency at a time.

A Gateway to Long-Term Opportunities

Through this program, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub for investment, innovation, and global expertise. The Premium Residency not only enhances quality of life for foreign residents but also supports the Kingdom’s broader mission to diversify its economy and attract world-class talent.