Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has announced an October 2025 update to its Premium Residency Program, outlining new fees, benefits, and an updated application process.
The program grants foreign nationals the right to live, work, and do business in Saudi Arabia without a sponsor (Kafeel). According to reports, the Saudi government is currently offering two types of Premium Residency:
- Permanent Residency: A one-time fee of SAR 800,000 (approx. USD 213,000) grants lifetime residency.
- Renewable Residency: An annual fee of SAR 100,000 (approx. USD 26,700) is required.
Benefits
Premium Residency holders will enjoy multiple privileges, including:
- No need for a sponsor (Kafeel).
- Property ownership rights (except in Makkah, Madinah, and border areas).
- Freedom to work or run a business.
- Ability to sponsor spouse and children.
- Visa-free entry and exit from the Kingdom.
- Access to banking, education, and healthcare services.
- Permission to transfer funds abroad.
However, the program does not grant Saudi citizenship or voting rights.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Hold a valid passport.
- Have no criminal record.
- Be medically fit.
- Enter Saudi Arabia legally.
- Provide proof of stable income or financial resources.
Application Process
Interested applicants can apply by:
- Creating an account on the official website pr.gov.sa.
- Filling out the online application form.
- Uploading required documents (passport, bank statements, medical report, etc.).
- Paying the relevant fees and awaiting verification.
Decisions are typically issued within 1 to 3 months.
The Saudi government says the program aims to diversify the economy, attract global investors, and provide opportunities for skilled individuals to live and work in the Kingdom.
