The Saudi green card, also known as the Premium Residency, is one of the key initiatives launched by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030 to attract foreign investments and talented professionals. This residency allows distinguished expatriates to live, work, manage businesses, and own property within the Kingdom without the need for a Saudi sponsor, granting them long-term stability and freedom in a thriving economic environment.
The Premium Residency offers various pathways tailored to businessmen, investors, and exceptional talents and experts, meeting diverse needs and opportunities in the Saudi market.
المحتويات
What is a Saudi Green Card?
The term “Saudi Green Card” refers to what is officially known as the Premium Residency. It is a special type of residence permit granted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to selected categories of foreign residents. Applicants can obtain it after meeting specific requirements and submitting an official application through the designated platform. This residency is particularly offered to expatriates who own property within the Kingdom or run their own businesses independently, without the need for a Saudi sponsor (kafeel), granting them long-term stability and exclusive benefits.
Saudi Green Card Application
To apply for green card Saudi Arabia (Premium Residency), applicants must complete a series of online steps, starting from account creation to submitting the application for review. Here’s the process in detail:
- Create an Account: Visit the official Premium Residency portal and create your personal account. Once done, log in to access the application system.
- Fill in Personal Information: Enter your basic details accurately, including full name, phone number, email address, and passport information.
- Submit the Application: Navigate to the “Apply for Residency” section and complete the required fields in the online application form.
- Upload Required Documents: Upload all necessary documents, such as your passport copy, national ID, birth certificate, employment contract, and any other documents based on the residency type.
- Pay the Fees: After uploading documents, proceed to pay the designated application processing fee.
- Final Review and Submission: Double-check all information and attached documents, then click “Submit” or “Complete Application” to officially send your request for review.
Read also: Conditions to Buy Property in Saudi Arabia for Foreigners
Types of Saudi Green Card
Saudi Arabia offers various types of Saudi green card (Premium Residency) tailored to different categories of residents and investors. The main types include:
- Limited-Term Residency: Granted for one year and renewable up to five years. It offers several privileges without the need for a sponsor.
- Unlimited (Permanent) Residency: A one-time residency with no expiration date, offering long-term stability.
- Real Estate Owner Residency: Available for foreigners who own or benefit from residential properties in Saudi Arabia, provided the property’s value exceeds SAR 4 million.
- Investor Residency: Designed for businesspeople and foreign investors. Requires an investment license, a minimum investment of SAR 7 million, and the creation of at least 10 jobs in the Kingdom.
- Entrepreneur Residency: Targeted at startup founders and entrepreneurs. Residency can be temporary (5 years) or permanent depending on the size and source of the investment.
- Exceptional Talent Residency: Granted to highly qualified professionals with proven expertise. Requires a letter of recommendation from an employer and a monthly salary of at least SAR 14,000 (or SAR 35,000 for healthcare or scientific sectors).
- Gifted Residency: Offered to qualified individuals in creative, artistic, and athletic fields. It is valid for 5 years, renewable, and may convert to permanent status after 30 months of continuous residency in the Kingdom.
Check out: Best 8 Steps of Trademark Registration in Saudi Arabia
Validity and Renewal of Saudi Green Card (Premium Residency)
The duration and renewal process for Premium Residency depend on the type:
- Limited Residency: Valid for one year, renewable annually.
- Permanent Residency: No expiration.
- Real Estate Residency: Linked to the duration of property ownership or usufruct rights.
- Investor Residency: Conditions must be met within the first two years.
- Entrepreneur Residency: Valid for 5 years, renewable or convertible to permanent based on investment.
- Exceptional Talent & Gifted Residency: Valid for 5 years and convertible to permanent if the resident stays at least 30 months.
Saudi Arabia Green Card Fees
Fees vary based on the residency category:
- Limited-Term Residency: SAR 100,000 per year.
- Permanent Residency: SAR 800,000 one-time payment.
- Real Estate Owner Residency: Requires property worth over SAR 4 million.
- Investor Residency: Requires an investment license, a SAR 7 million investment, and 10 job creations.
- Entrepreneur Residency: Requires a SAR 400,000 investment from an approved venture capital fund.
- Exceptional Talent Residency: Requires a letter of recommendation and a salary of SAR 14,000 or SAR 35,000 depending on the field.
Learn about: Discover The Types of Business Licenses in Saudi Arabia
Conclusion
In summary, the Saudi Green Card (Premium Residency) presents a unique path for foreign nationals to secure long-term residency and unlock significant privileges in the Kingdom whether through property ownership, strategic investments, or exceptional talent. Etqan Law Firm stands ready to guide you every step of the way ensuring your investment in Saudi Arabia is backed by compliance, confidence, and trusted legal counsel
The Etqan Al Mutamayza Law Firm is ready to provide the essential support you need. You can reach their team at the following mobile numbers: +96656113776, +966541110440, +966504315333.
Additionally, feel free to visit our branches located at:
- Jeddah: Al-Aziziyah District, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia)
- Riyadh: King Abdulaziz Street, across from the Kingdom Tower
- Dammam: Al-Ashri’a Street, Al-Badeea, Dammam 32415.
FAQ
1- How to get Saudi Arabia Green Card?
Apply online via Premium Residency portal, submit personal info, upload documents, pay fees, and wait for approval. No sponsor needed.
2- How much is the Green Card fee in Saudi Arabia?
1-year renewable: SAR 100,000/year
Permanent: SAR 800,000 (one-time)
Other types (Investor, Real Estate, etc.) have specific financial requirements.
3- How am I eligible for a Green Card?
You’re eligible if you:
Have a valid passport and clean record
Own property (≥ SAR 4M), invest (≥ SAR 7M), or are a skilled professional with high income
Meet criteria of investor, entrepreneur, or special talent categories
4- Is Saudi Arabia introduces 5 year permanent residency without sponsor?
Yes. Saudi Arabia offers 5-year sponsor-free residencies (renewable) for investors, property owners, entrepreneurs, talents, and gifted individuals. Permanent residency is possible after 30 months of residency.