‍What is the Saudi Premium Residency?

The Saudi Premium Residency is a residence permit that allows foreign nationals to reside in Saudi Arabia with a range of benefits, including:

• The ability to live, work, and own property without a Saudi sponsor (Kafeel).
• Access to business ownership opportunities.
• Streamlined processes for residency of family members.

There are multiple categories tailored to specific profiles, ensuring the program is inclusive and aligned with the Kingdom's strategic goals.

‍

Types of Saudi Premium Residency Options

1. Special Talent Residency

The Special Talent Residency is aimed at highly qualified professionals whose expertise contributes to the Kingdom’s key sectors, such as healthcare, science, education, and technology.

‍

Ideal for

• Doctors, engineers, researchers, and subject matter experts.
• Individuals with high-level academic or technical qualifications.
• Professionals with international recognition or significant contributions in their fields.

Key Benefits

• No need for a Saudi employer sponsorship.
• Ability to sponsor family members.
• Access to premium lifestyle benefits.

‍

2. Gifted Residency

This visa targets individuals who have demonstrated exceptional abilities in culture, sports, or the arts. It supports the Kingdom's efforts to diversify and promote cultural development.

‍

Ideal for

• Artists, musicians, athletes, authors, and cultural influencers.
• Those with national or international awards and recognitions.

Key Benefits

• Residency without a sponsor.
• Opportunity to participate in Saudi Arabia’s cultural and sports programs.

‍

3. Investor Residency

The Investor Residency is tailored for foreign investors looking to inject capital into the Saudi economy. This residency aligns with Saudi Arabia’s aim to become a global investment powerhouse.

‍

Ideal for:

• International investors and business owners.
• Entrepreneurs looking to expand into Saudi Arabia.

Key Benefits:

• Full ownership of commercial businesses.
• Long-term residency linked to investment performance.
• Access to a stable and fast-growing market.

‍

4. Entrepreneur Residency

Startups and innovative businesses are at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation. The Entrepreneur Residency is designed to attract founders and innovators who can contribute to the Kingdom's knowledge economy.

‍

Ideal for

• Startup founders.
• Innovators in tech, AI, renewable energy, and other high-impact sectors.
• Individuals with a scalable business model backed by a Saudi-approved accelerator or venture capital firm.

Key Benefits

• Visa linked to business success and funding.
• Opportunities to scale within the Saudi market.
• Access to government-backed innovation hubs.

‍

5. Real Estate Owner Residency

For those looking to settle or invest in real estate, the Real Estate Owner Residency allows foreign nationals to obtain residency by purchasing property in Saudi Arabia, subject to specific conditions.

‍

Ideal for:

• High-net-worth individuals.
• International real estate investors.

Key Benefits:

• Own and manage real estate assets.
• Live in Saudi Arabia without employer sponsorship.
• Build long-term presence through property ownership.

‍

Duration-Based Premium Residency Options

In addition to purpose-driven residencies, Saudi Arabia offers two flexible categories based on duration:

‍

6. Limited Duration Premium Residency

This is a renewable one-year residency that provides flexibility and lower initial investment.

‍

Ideal for:

• Individuals testing the waters before making a long-term move.
• Businesspeople or professionals on short-term projects.

Key Benefits:

• Renewable annually.
• Enjoy benefits similar to permanent residents.
• No local sponsor required.

‍

7. Unlimited Duration Premium Residency

Also known as the permanent residency, this option is for those committed to long-term settlement and integration in Saudi Arabia.

‍

Ideal for:

• Investors, professionals, and families seeking stability.
• Individuals looking for long-term business expansion in the region.

Key Benefits:

• One-time fee.
• Lifetime residency with extensive rights.
• Ability to sponsor family members and domestic workers.

‍

Why Hudson McKenzie?

At Hudson McKenzie, we have a strong track record in global immigration and business expansion strategies. With offices across key international markets, we are perfectly positioned to guide you through the Saudi Premium Residency process, from initial assessment to application submission and post-approval compliance.

Whether you're a seasoned investor, a talented professional, or an entrepreneur with a vision, Saudi Arabia offers a wealth of opportunities — and we’re here to help you seize them.

‍

Ready to make the move?

If you're considering applying for the Saudi Premium Residency, reach out to myself for a confidential consultation. Let us simplify your journey to living, working, and thriving in Saudi Arabia.

‍

Contact and Disclaimer

Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by email at gccinfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.

‍

For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

‍

The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.