Saudi Arabia has established the Premium Residency Program as a cornerstone initiative of Vision 2030, designed to attract global investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and talented individuals who seek to establish a long-term presence in the Kingdom. Often referred to as the Saudi “Green Card,” this program provides unprecedented opportunities for foreign nationals to live, work, and invest independently without traditional sponsorship requirements.
Administered by the Premium Residency Center (PRC), the program encompasses multiple specialized categories tailored to meet the diverse needs of business leaders, innovators, and high-achieving professionals seeking to participate in Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation.
Program Framework and Scope
The Premium Residency Program represents a revolutionary shift in how foreigners can engage with Saudi Arabia. Unlike traditional work arrangements, this program grants foreign nationals the right to reside, work, and invest in Saudi Arabia without a sponsor (kafeel system).
Here’s what this means for you:
Long-term security for expatriates— No more uncertainty about your residency status or dependence on employ er sponsorship.
Freedom to own property and businesses — Build your wealth and establish your entrepreneurial dreams on your own terms.
Greater stability for families— Provide your loved ones with a secure foundation in one of the region’s most dynamic economies.
A pathway for entrepreneurs and investors to expand in KSA — Access unprecedented opportunities in a rapidly diversifying market.
Categories of Premium Residency
The beauty of the Premium Residency Program lies in its flexibility. Whether you’re a serial entrepreneur, a property investor, or a world-class talent, there’s a category designed for your unique circumstances:
The Lifetime Investment: Unlimited Premium Residency (Permanent)
Perfect for those who see Saudi Arabia as their permanent home. With a one-time fee for lifetime residency, this option is ideal for investors and professionals seeking permanent relocation. Think of it as your ultimate commitment to the Kingdom’s future.
The Flexible Choice: Limited Premium Residency (Renewable)
Not ready for a lifetime commitment? This renewable option offers annual renewals with an affordable fixed fee, making it a flexible choice for expatriates, professionals, and business executives who want to test the waters first.
The Business Builder: Investor Residency
Directly linked to investment activities under a MISA license, this category encourages foreign investment and business ownership in KSA. It’s designed for serious investors ready to put their money where their mouth is.
The Innovation Driver: Entrepreneur Residency
Startup founders, this one’s for you. Designed specifically for entrepreneurs, this residency requires partnership with approved investors or accelerators in Saudi Arabia—connecting you with the Kingdom’s thriving startup ecosystem.
The Exceptional Path: Gifted Residency (Exceptional Talent)
Are you a recognized talent in arts, sports, or culture? This exclusive category celebrates exceptional individuals who can contribute to Saudi Arabia’s cultural renaissance. Endorsement from relevant Saudi authorities is required.
The Knowledge Catalyst: Specialized Residency
Healthcare professionals, scientists, researchers, and technology experts—Saudi Arabia wants your expertise. This category specifically targets experts who can enhance Saudi Arabia’s knowledge economy and drive innovation.
The Property Investor: Real Estate Owner Residency
Own a piece of the Kingdom (outside restricted zones such as Makkah and Madinah) and earn your residency through real estate investment. It’s a straightforward path that encourages property investment while securing your future.
Meeting the Standards: What You Need to Qualify
While each category has its specific requirements, certain fundamental criteria apply across the board. The Kingdom maintains high standards to ensure the program attracts quality candidates:
Proof of financial solvency demonstrates your ability to support yourself and contribute to the economy.
A clean criminal record and security clearance ensure you meet the Kingdom’s security requirements.
A valid health record confirms you’re in good health and won’t burden the healthcare system.
Category-specific requirements may include endorsement from government bodies or proof of business/investment activity, depending on your chosen path.
Important note: Exact thresholds vary by residency type and are determined during application. Professional guidance ensures smooth approval and maximizes your chances of success.
The Premium Advantage: What You Gain
The Premium Residency Program isn’t just about living in Saudi Arabia—it’s about thriving there. Here’s what sets premium residents apart:
True Independence—Say goodbye to the kafeel system. No sponsor required means you control your own destiny.
Property Ownership Rights—Build wealth through real estate (with certain restrictions that protect national interests).
Business Ownership Freedom—Establish and own businesses without local partnership requirements in many sectors.
Career Flexibility—Change employment freely without lengthy bureaucratic processes.
Family Security—Extend residency rights to your family members, ensuring everyone’s future is secure.
Travel Freedom—Enjoy ease of entry and exit travel, making international business and personal trips seamless.
Long-term Stability—Choose between permanent or renewable options based on your life plans.
Your Journey to Premium Status
The path to premium residency is designed to be straightforward and transparent:
Step 1: Strategic Selection—Choose your category based on your goals, whether they’re investment-focused, career-driven, or family-oriented.
Step 2: Official Application—Submit your application through the official PRC platform, ensuring you’re working within the proper channels.
Step 3: Documentation Preparation—Provide comprehensive documentation, including identification, financial proof, and supporting credentials.
Step 4: Professional Assessment—Undergo a security and compliance review to ensure you meet all requirements.
Step 5: Residency Issuance—Receive your premium residency permit and begin your new chapter in Saudi Arabia.
The Bigger Picture: Vision 2030 in Action
The Premium Residency Program isn’t just an immigration policy—it’s a strategic cornerstone of Vision 2030. The Kingdom has ambitious goals:
Attracting global investors and innovators to fuel economic diversification and growth.
Supporting knowledge transfer and skill development to build local expertise and capabilities.
Diversifying the Saudi economy beyond oil to create sustainable, long-term prosperity.
Providing expatriates with long-term security to encourage deeper investment in the Kingdom’s future.
Expert Partnership: Maximizing Your Success with Reve Consult
Navigating the Premium Residency Program successfully requires expertise and experience. At Reve Consult, we help clients transform their Saudi Arabia dreams into reality:
Strategic Category Selection—We advise on the most suitable category based on your unique profile and long-term objectives.
Investment Structuring Excellence—Our team assists with investment structuring and MISA licensing to ensure compliance and optimization.
Entrepreneur Support—We support entrepreneurs and startups in meeting criteria and connecting with the right partners.
High-Net-Worth Guidance—We guide high-net-worth individuals through property- or business-linked residency options.
Our expertise ensures that you not only qualify but also maximize the benefits of premium residency for your business and your family’s future success.
Your Saudi Success Story Starts Here
The Premium Residency Program opens doors for global investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to thrive in Saudi Arabia. With multiple categories and clear benefits, it provides a secure pathway for long-term residency and business growth in one of the world’s most exciting emerging economies.
