The Ultimate Guide to Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program

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Funding Souq Editorial Team
Tech Writer
Jun 29, 2025
Funding Souq’s editorial team comprises experienced finance and investment professionals that are on a mission to fuel SME growth, create jobs, and drive the economy forward. They aim to share their extensive experience and industry know-how to empower entrepreneurs and investors alike.
Jun 29, 2025
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The Premium Residency program was introduced in 2019 and its goal is to attract top tier talent to Saudi Arabia.  The program grants expatriates that qualify for it a number of benefits which will be explored through the course of this article.

 

What is the Saudi Premium Residency Program (PRP)?

The Premium Residency Program is a legal setup that provides expatriates the right to stay in Saudi Arabia free of charge without having a local sponsor.

It forms part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 with the objective of attracting the best people who could transform the nation economically and socially. SPRC, or Saudi Premium Residency Centre, administers the program, which monitors applications and ensures that they follow the stipulated criteria.

 

What are the general benefits from obtaining the Saudi Premium Residency?

Beneficiaries of Premium Residency are blessed with numerous benefits.

1- Family Inclusion: Anyone in your family or relationship, such as your partner, children under 25 years old, and your parents, can also live as residents without a charge as a dependent.

2- Property Ownership: Ownership of different types of real estate is granted throughout the Kingdom, unless in Mecca and Medina, where things are more restricted.

3- Business Opportunities: The ability to start a business, handle it, invest there, and conduct business on your own, without a Saudi sponsor.

4- Freedom of Travel: You can enter and leave Saudi Arabia as many times as necessary, but you will need additional visas and use the priority lanes at the airport.

5- Employment Flexibility: Being able to advance by finding a new job in the private sector, as sponsorship restrictions are not part of the process.

6- Freedom to Reside: You can relocate to Saudi Arabia without having a local sponsor Kafeel.

7- Vehicle Ownership: You are allowed to register vehicles in your name when you are a resident.

8- Visit Visas for Relatives: Government Managers are authorized to issue visit visas for relatives that are not close according to regulations.

9- Recruitment of Domestic Workers: A permit holder is allowed to hire a domestic worker who meets their needs.

10- Usufruct Rights in Mecca and Medina: A usufruct deed allows you to benefit from real estate in Mecca and Medina for up to 99 years. Citizens may give away this right only under certain terms.

11- Private movable items allowed: Apart from vehicles, you can own private transportation and any other legal mobile assets.

What are the different types of Saudi Premium Residency?

a) Permanent Premium Residency

As a holder of Permanent Premium Residency, an expatriate can enjoy living in Saudi Arabia permanently and is not required to have a local sponsor. You will pay a total of SAR 800,000 to rent this type of housing.

People who hold green cards can own property, manage their businesses, and invite family members to live in America.

Apart from that, permanent residents are granted unrestricted entry and exit to the Kingdom, as well as the freedom to work in the private sector without a sponsor.

This residency is in alignment with Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia. It is targeted towards attracting long-term investors and qualified professionals to have a great impact on the diversification of the country's economy.

 

b) Renewable Premium Residency

Renewable Premium Residency is meant for those who want to settle temporarily in Saudi Arabia. This residency type comes at an annual fee of SAR 100,000 and is renewable as many times as one wants, as long as the holder meets the eligibility criteria.

Although it provides most of the same advantages as permanent residency, such as owning property and running a business,

it lacks the same amount of permanence. Renewable residents must comply with all regulations to continue enjoying their residency status.

 

What is The Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Arabia's Premium Visa?

Applicants for Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency are required to meet specific requirements set by the Saudi Premium Residency Centre.

Such requirements ensure that only those persons who can add positively to the fabric of this Kingdom's economy and social tissue are accorded this status.

General Eligibility Requirements

i- Age: Applicants must be of legal adult age of twenty-one years.

ii- Valid Passport: A valid passport is necessary when applying.

iii- Criminal Record: Applicants must have a good criminal record both internally and generally in Saudi Arabia.

v- Financial Stability: Evidence of appropriate funds is needed to show the applicant's ability to maintain themselves and their dependents while in Saudi Arabia.

vi- Health Requirements: Applicants and their dependents are required to produce a medical report within the current six months, which confirms their disease-free status from communicable diseases.

vii- Application Fee: An application fee is non-refundable for processing the residency application.

 

What are the rules, principles & latest updates of the Saudi Premium Residency?

An opportunity always means taking responsibility. The Premium Residency Program, like any significant effort, relies on firm principles, adheres to specified rules, and adapts as needed through regular policy revisions.

Regardless of whether you're an investor, a technology startup founder, an artist, or just want stability, being aware of these regulations can give you a bright future in Saudi Arabia.

 
1- Major Rules and Responsibilities

Being a Premium Resident in Saudi Arabia means assuming a significant and responsible role in the community. This is what every resident needs to remember:

- Compliance with Saudi Laws: Every Premium Residency holder is required to obey Saudi Arabia's laws. All foreign staff must follow both the legal rules and cultural traditions of the country.

- Residency Cannot Be Transferred: The Seed Program cannot be transferred. The benefit is only available to the main applicant and those listed on their application—others are not eligible to receive it.

- Annual Renewal for Limited Duration Residency: If you have a Premium Residency for a fixed term of 1 to 5 years, it must be renewed annually by paying the current fee.

- No Sponsorship Required: Participants in the program do not need Saudi sponsors. Consequently, residents are able to live, work, and invest freely in the Kingdom.

-Taxation Laws: Premium Residency holders are not exempt from the country's tax laws on income, real estate, and capital gains.

2- Guiding Principles behind the Saudi PRP Law

Premium Residency Law's main foundation is based on Saudi Arabia's vision of a strong, dynamic, and open-minded society. Such organizing principles are:

- Attracting Global Talent and Investment: The program aims to invite experts from around the world, individuals who can have a significant impact by fostering innovation, leadership, and creativity in Saudi Arabia.

- Protecting Rights and Freedoms: When you have a Premium Residency, you are ensured fair and sensible treatment, just like how citizens must be treated.

- Enhancing Economic Development: The program fosters economic development by enabling talented individuals and investors to invest in the local economy, which helps create jobs, drive innovation, and utilize skills.

-Transparency and Fairness: The law is designed to ensure that the process is clear and equal for all applicants.

3- Saudi Premium Residency 2025 New Amendments

Saudi Arabia is working diligently to maintain a premier and attractive Premium Residency program. Recent developments indicate that firms are taking proactive steps.

 

- Reducing the prosecutor’s fees: To help residents manage the program financially, residency fees for programs that run for a definite time are now less than before.

The change stems from Saudi Arabia's desire to welcome everyone without compromising standards.

- Expanded Eligibility: The list of qualifying professionals now includes scientists, researchers, cultural icons, and executives. Now, business owners in Canada can enjoy simpler routes to becoming permanent residents.

- Application process has been simplified: Due to changes in administration, the application process is now quicker, simpler, and more efficient. Within this process, you can now use online submission, follow reduced documentation rules, and benefit from fast approval times.

More Supported Rights: The special benefits for Premium Residents have been greatly increased. Below are some of them: 

i- More ability to use public services.

ii- Legal right to manage resources and run enterprises all around the nation.

The chance for adult children and spouses to hold more than one type of job or role in the private sector.

iii- Higher numbers of people taking part in programs of government and business.


Who are the Best Candidates for the Saudi Premium Residency?

1- Property Owners Residency

When stability, growth, and a rich community are important, buying a home is not just about money; it is a promise to the community.

Therefore, such a commitment presents a unique opportunity: the chance to live, thrive, and establish oneself in a nation that is safe and has a promising future.

1.1 Advantages of the Program

The residency is ideal for families and real estate investors because they believe in development, settling down, and becoming a part of something lasting.

 

1.2 What You Need to Qualify

In order to make use of this chance, your investment must match certain clear and acceptable requirements.

·      
1.2.1 Property Value:
Have a property or use residential land worth at least 4 million Saudi Riyals.

 

·    1.2.2  Property Status

- Only residential property is qualified because commercial or industrial uses do not qualify.

- It should not be constructed or set up at the time of your purchase.

- The property should not have a mortgage and cannot be borrowed against in the future.

 

- They are established to protect your interests from declining or disappearing.

 

Note: All policies and terms are subject to change in response to updates to the program.

 

1.3 Duration of Residency

For you to keep ownership or use the property, you need to be a resident there. When you have the property, you still hold legal permission to live in Saudi Arabia.

As a result, people who wish to remain highly involved with the country can do so easily, without facing any renewal or reapplication challenges, as long as they continue to hold the property.

 

1.4 Financial Cost

Studying in the US comes at a relatively low cost: 4,000 Saudi Riyals. Meanwhile, you benefit from a home and also enjoy a feeling of belonging and reassurance, and enjoy your ties to one of the most amazing regions on the planet.

 

2- Entrepreneurs Residency

Startups and small businesses now have many opportunities in Saudi Arabia. As it invests more in protecting investors, improves its place in the global economy, and seeks to diversify and go digital, the country is becoming an excellent starting point for new business leaders.

 

2.1 Advantages of the Program

An ecosystem is what Entrepreneur Residence truly is, not just a place to live. It's meant to support your venture, stabilize your lifestyle, and help your team. It helps your business goals meet with the country that's ready to support you.

 

2.2 Exclusive Entrepreneurial Benefits

-This program recognizes what it takes to launch a startup. It's designed to remove obstacles and accelerate your business's growth.

-It is possible to nominate 2 team members, often senior staff, who may bypass the standard eligibility rules for web status.

-For the first three years, your business doesn't need to follow nationalization quotas.

- If you satisfy the second criterion, you get permanent premium residency immediately, meaning you are secure from the start.

 

2.3 What You Need to Qualify

The country has established two pathways, both of which are focused on assessing the maturity of your company and its impact on the job market and innovation.

 

Category 1: Entrepreneur at Growth Stage

  • The entrepreneur has obtained a business license from the Ministry of Investment and Industry.

  •  Applicants must secure at least 400,000 SAR from an investment entity that has been approved by the Center.

  •  Ensure that your investor provides a recommendation letter on your behalf.

  • You should hold at least 20% of the shares in your company.

  •  You must live in the US for five years and, after one renewal, if you still meet the rules, with at least 30 of those months occurring within the first five years.

 

Category 2: Exceptional Startup Founder

  •  Must have obtained a business license from the Ministry of Investment and Industry.

  • Receive investment worth 15 million SAR or more from an official investment company.

  • You should provide a letter of statement from the investor.

  • You should have at least 10% of the company's shares.

  • Develop 10 new jobs in your first year and another 10 in your second year.

  • Residing for a Permanent Residency requires obeying the rules, and you can be eligible as soon as you meet the obligations. 

Note: Policies may update over time and change the terms we use.

 

2.4 Duration of Residency

A person can get a five-year residency permit or permanent residence when their job creation efforts have been positive.

 

2.5 Financial Cost

It costs just 4,000 Saudi Riyals to be part of these tracks, which gives you the greatest chance to succeed and experience one of the world's most dynamic startup hubs.

 

3- Business Investors

Saudi Arabia is facing important changes in its location, economy, and culture. It joins three continents together, is a center of world commerce, and supports the region with the largest economy and an energetic young population.

Because of its approach to future-oriented investment and strategic planning, under Vision 2030, entrepreneurs and investors can find in the Kingdom a place to do something more meaningful than just business.

3.1 Advantages of the Program

This product was designed not only to support a person's business financial success but also to enhance their personal and family life.

The program enables investors to work with greater stability and flexibility while also creating lasting opportunities.

3.2 What It Takes to Qualify

Some standards have to be achieved before we can enter this next phase:

  •  Before you invest, you must get an investment license issued by the Saudi Ministry of Investment.

  •  You are required to own at least 7 million Saudi riyals of the business within two years.

  • To prove your investment, you'll have to display your commercial register and articles of association.

  • You have to provide 10 jobs during your first two years as a determined indicator of your value to the economy.

Note: Residency rules can change, but you are always welcome if you join in, feel inspired, and provide positive contributions to the Kingdom's vision.

 

3.3 Duration of Residency

Being allowed to stay permanently as soon as investment and job creation conditions are met.

3.4 Financial Cost

This residence costs 4,000 Saudi Riyals, which is modest because it allows us to have a life, a job, a family, and freedom in the growing community of the Middle East.

 
4- Talented Individuals

This is not only a visa, it says that creativity, passion, and expertise are respected and needed here to help build the future of Saudi Arabia.

As the country moves toward Vision 2030, it realizes that its soul lies in its inspiring stories, shows, and human achievements, as well as in its cutting-edge development.

 

4.1 Advantages of the Program

The Mawhiba Residency Program was established to remove boundaries that stop top talent from working together. If you are an artist, musician, or athlete, always striving to improve, you need a place that values you and helps you grow.

This product is specifically designed to support workers who guide and lead others. They do more than perform. They also inspire their audiences. Saudi Arabia invites you to explore its landscapes, cities, and experiences on your next journey.

 

4.2 What It Takes to Qualify

Two clear routes exist for eligibility, and their corresponding government ministries support each.

4.2.1 Track One: For Awarded Talent

  • Have you been nominated for, or actually won, a prestigious award for your accomplishments?

  • Reach at least a certain financially solid status within the Saudi Arabia.

  • You need a letter of recommendation from the relevant Ministry for your sport.

 

4.2.2 Track Two: For Recognized Professionals

  • Make sure you fulfill the basic conditions delivered by the Culture or Sports System.

  • Meet the organization's financial solvency requirement.

  • Let the Distinguished Residency Center obtain a recommendation for you from the Ministry of Health.

Please note that all qualifying rules are subject to change as the program evolves.

 

4.3 Duration of Residency

  • A Five-year Residency is initially available, renewable for an additional year if you continue to meet the requirements.

  • At this stage, be sure to have lived inside the U.S. nearly continuously for 30 months within the previous 5 years.

  • If you earn it and still qualify, you will be eligible for Permanent Premium Residency, which allows residents to live in Saudi Arabia without restrictions.

4.4 Financial Cost

The total cost of this prospect is 4,000 Saudi Riyals, but many would say that is a reasonable price for all the freedom, attention, and new opportunities it brings.

 

5-  Limited & Unlimited Duration Premium Residency

You can use Premium Residency to live in a stable nation with many opportunities for a short time or permanently. Besides the paperwork, it's about enjoying freedoms, opportunities, and lasting happiness.

5.1 Two Residency Tracks

5.1.1 Specific Premium Residency (Limited Duration)

  • It is Ideal for those who want medium-term stability and want to have full rights to live in the country.

  • This program costs 100,000 SAR each year.

  • t's well-suited for professionals, professionals, or retirees who would like to rent temporarily without worrying about long-term commitments.

5.1.2. Indefinite Premium Residency (Unlimited Duration)

Those looking to make Saudi Arabia their permanent home and contribute value to its community and workforce can apply.

  • The fee is 800,000 SAR, paid just once.

  • You are given a strong chance to be fully integrated so you can work, live, and develop in the Kingdom always.

 

5.2 What It Takes to Qualify

To be accepted for either track, applicants must prove to the government that they can support themselves and their families financially.

None of the regulations are complicated; there are no tough requirements—just having a dedication to security and health is important.

Note: All our programs, costs, and policies can adapt based on changes to the Kingdom's regulations.

 

5.3 Duration of Residency

  • A Specific Premium Residency Limited Duration permit has a 1 to 5 year validity and it can be renewed each year.

  • There is no limit to how long the Unlimited Duration length of Indefinite Premium Residency lasts.

5.4 Financial Cost

  • The Limited Duration SAR is set at 100,000 dollars annually, with a 2% fall every year after the first year.

  • The Unlimited Duration SAR 800,000 can only be used for a one-time payment.

 

6- Exceptional Efficiency Residence

This isn't simply a means to access jobs; it demonstrates our firm's commitment to its people.

That's how the Kingdom persuades the most skilled professionals to help it thrive and live there.

If you're involved in discovering new medicine, improving sustainability, or transforming your company, you are welcome to join us.

6.1 Advantages of the Program

This residency is structured in a way that fits with your and your family's real lives. It brings stability and greater freedom, showing the respect professionals require.

 

6.2 What It Takes to Qualify

The design of the Exceptional Efficiency Residence provides two paths to suit the needs of today's most valuable people:

6.2.1. Researchers & Scientific/Health Experts

6.2.1.1 For Researchers:

  • Needs to have earned a Bachelor's degree or above.
  • Working at a company chosen by the IC in a critical sector.
  • The monthly salary must be at least 14,000 SAR.
  • Experience for at least 3 years in a related field.
  • Ensure you present three research papers in the field you are studying.
  • Undergo a test that gives you a point rate.

6.2.1.2 For Health and Scientific Professionals

  • Needs to have earned a Bachelor's degree or above.
  • Working in an important specialty within a designated organization.
  • Your monthly salary should be no less than 35,000 SAR.
  • At the very least, you will need 3 years of experience.
  • Don't miss the minimum points required for employment.

6.2. Executive Track

  • Being employed as a leader in either the first or second level at that company.

  • A person must earn at least 80,000 SAR every month to qualify.

  • There should be a recommendation letter from your employer with the other parts of your application.

  • All terms and requirements are subject to change by the relevant authorities at any time.

6.3 Duration of Residency

You'll enjoy a five-year residency, which can be extended once, provided you still qualify for the program.

There are conditions you must meet to get Permanent Premium Residency, which include:

  • Ensure you keep qualifying for the residency program during this time.

  • Living in the Kingdom for 30 months over any five years, whether it is consecutive or not, is required

  • Continue sharing your knowledge in a way that resonates with Saudi society.

 

6.4 Financial Cost

With just 4,000 Saudi Riyals, you can access good opportunities, work freedom, and future security in a country that looks after both its people and its development.

 

How to Apply for Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency?

SPRC makes it possible to apply through their website.

1- Account Creation: First of all, you have to create an account on the www.pr.gov.sa website.

2- Application Form: Give necessary information about yourself, your financial situation, and your job.

3- Document Submission: Add copies of your passport, your financial papers, and documents showing your eligibility to the application form.

4- Fee Payment: The fee, such as for renewable residents, should be paid SAR 100,000, and the interested candidate requires SAR 800,000 for permanent residency.

5- Review Process: The SPRC checks over the application and, if necessary, checks the applicant's background record.

6- Approval: After approval, the residency permit is given to the applicant.

You may have to wait different amounts of time depending on whether your application is complete and the category for which you've applied.

What are the common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Saudi Arabia's PRP?

i- Insufficient Documents: Make sure that all documents needed are included and presented as asked.

ii- Inaccurate Information: Proofread what you've written to be sure you have not made any mistakes and to lower the chance of being rejected.

iii- Overlook Specific Criteria: Review and complete all the requirements for the particular residency category.

v- Forgetting Legal Obligations: Clear all your legal or financial issues in Saudi Arabia before you begin with the VISA application.

vi- Lack of Professional Guidance: You may want to ask for consultation from legal or immigration experts to go through the application efficiently.

 
What are common reasons for cancellation of the Saudi Premium Residency?

The Premium Residency Permit may be canceled or taken away by law and regulation in Saudi Arabia. You will see below why a Tier 4 permit may be canceled.

1- Criminal Conviction

If the permit holder is convicted of a criminal offense, the result may be:

 - A 60-day or longer jail term

A fine of 100,000 SAR or more (or its equivalent)

This permit may be canceled if your situation changes.

2- Deportation Order

If a judicial judgment or official order is issued to deport the permit holder from Saudi Arabia, the visa will be canceled.

3- False Information

If the information on the application proves to be fake or deceiving, the permit can be withdrawn by the government.

 

4- Refusing to Follow the Rules Set by Laws

Failure to follow Art. Seven rules can see your residency permit canceled. (Note: Article 7 describes the key responsibilities like following the Saudi rules and holding current documents.)

5- Voluntary Relinquishment

When the permit holder voluntarily gives up or surrenders their Premium Residency, it will be removed from the database.

6- Death or a legal disability

- If the permit holder dies or is declared incompetent by law, their permit will be automatically canceled.

- These conditions are designed to guarantee that Premium Residency holders are law-abiding and act responsibly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

 

 

 

Disclamer:
This post is for educational purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice or a solicitation to take any financial action. It should not be relied upon when making investment or financing decisions.

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