Saudi Premium Residency lets a non-Saudi live in the Kingdom with their family without a sponsor, through products offered by the Premium Residency Center. Since 2024 it is no longer just two types: there are seven products, each with its own conditions. Here are the types, the main published conditions, how to apply, and what an investor or business owner needs legally once they have it.
Reviewed by: Rakan Jameel Al-DubaisiFounder & CEO of USUS Law FirmLast updated:
Seven Premium Residency products
According to an official of the Premium Residency Center, there are now seven products: limited-duration residency, unlimited-duration residency (often called "permanent residency"), and five products launched in 2024:
| Product | For | Main published conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Exceptional Competence | Researchers and health, scientific and executive talent | An employment contract, a minimum salary and experience, by category |
| Gifted (Talent) | Sports, cultural and artistic specialists | A recommendation from the competent body |
| Business Investor | Foreign investors | Investments in the Kingdom worth at least SAR 7 million in total, and at least 10 employees |
| Entrepreneur | Start-up founders | A funding round at the threshold set for each track, and the entrepreneurial licence from the Ministry of Investment |
| Real Estate Owner | Owners or users of residential property in the Kingdom | According to the property value and conditions set by the Center |
When the five products were launched, the fee was announced as SAR 4,000, paid once. The limited and unlimited products have different fees set by the Center. Conditions and fees can change, so check the Center's official website before applying.
How to apply
- Choose the product that fits your situation.
- Apply through the Premium Residency Center's official platform.
- Upload the documents for that product: passport, employment contract, proof of investment or funding, or the property deed.
- Pay the fee after initial approval and follow the application to issuance.
After residency: the legal side
- Setting up a company: the legal form, licensing and articles of association. See setting up a company as a foreigner.
- Buying property: check the title deed and the Real Estate Register before you buy. See property ownership by non-Saudis.
- Contracts with partners and staff: clear drafting reduces disputes.
Frequently asked questions
Does Premium Residency mean citizenship?
No. It is a lawful residency with special benefits; it does not grant Saudi citizenship.
How much does Premium Residency cost?
The five products launched in 2024 were announced at SAR 4,000, paid once. The limited and unlimited products have different fees; check the Center's official website.
Usus Law Firm advises foreign investors and entrepreneurs on company formation, contracts and property, and explains every step in English. See our commercial lawyer in Riyadh.
Legal review: the Usus Law Firm team
A select team of lawyers and legal advisers licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Justice, working from Riyadh and Tabuk, with experience before the general, commercial, labor, criminal, personal status and administrative courts. Every article is reviewed before publication and updated when laws or regulations change.
Last reviewed: 25 October 2026
This article is general legal information and is not a substitute for advice on your specific case. Court proceedings in Saudi Arabia are in Arabic; the official Arabic text of each law prevails.
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