Saudi Arabia has introduced the Permanent Residency in Saudi Arabia known as Premium Residency 2026 program, allowing foreign professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs to live, work, and invest in the Kingdom without a Kafeel (sponsor). This initiative is part of Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at attracting global talent, encouraging investment, and building a diversified economy.
Overview of Residency Options:
The program offers two main types of residency:
| Residency Type | Fee | Duration | Main Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent Residency | SAR 800,000 (≈ USD 213,000) | Lifetime | Long-term residence in Saudi Arabia |
| Renewable Residency | SAR 100,000/year (≈ USD 26,700) | Annual (renewable) | Option to extend residency each year |
Both options allow residents to own property, operate businesses, sponsor family members, and enjoy unrestricted travel within the Kingdom. Certain areas such as Makkah, Madinah, and border zones remain restricted for property ownership.
Benefits of Premium Residency 2026:
- No Kafeel Requirement
Residents can live, work, and invest independently, without relying on a local sponsor. - Property Ownership
Foreigners can purchase residential, commercial, and industrial property across most Saudi cities, except in restricted zones. - Business Freedom
Residents can start, operate, and own businesses in their name, enabling entrepreneurship and investment opportunities. - Family Sponsorship
Residents can sponsor spouses, children, and domestic workers, creating a stable family life in the Kingdom. - Flexible Travel
Premium residents enjoy unrestricted entry and exit, without requiring exit-reentry permits. - Access to Services
Residents receive access to healthcare, banking, and education services similar to Saudi citizens. - Long-Term Security
Unlike standard work visas, premium residency offers stability and the ability to plan for the future.
Eligibility Criteria for Permanent Residency in Saudi Arabia:
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Possess a valid passport with sufficient remaining validity
- Have legally entered Saudi Arabia
- Have no criminal record or pending legal cases
- Pass a medical fitness test
- Provide proof of stable income, business ownership, or investment
Financial strength and business or investment proof are particularly important for permanent residency applicants.
How to Apply for Permanent Residency in Saudi Arabia?
The application process is fully online and managed by the Saudi Premium Residency Center (PRC). Steps include:
- Create an account on the official PRC portal.
- Fill out personal information, including passport and contact details.
- Upload required documents: passport copy, medical report, financial proof, and police clearance certificate.
- Pay the residency fee for the selected type.
- Wait for application review (typically 30–60 days).
- Once approved, the residency permit is issued digitally.
Impact on Saudi Arabia’s Economy:
The removal of the Kafeel requirement is expected to:
- Increase foreign investment in the Kingdom
- Encourage entrepreneurship and the establishment of foreign-owned businesses
- Attract highly skilled professionals, including engineers, doctors, and IT specialists
- Promote economic diversification beyond oil and create local employment opportunities
Old Kafeel System vs Premium Residency:
| Feature | Old System | Premium Residency 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsorship | Required | Not required |
| Work Rights | Employer-dependent | Independent |
| Residency Duration | Linked to job contract | Permanent or renewable |
| Property Ownership | Not allowed | Allowed (except restricted areas) |
| Family Sponsorship | Limited | Full sponsorship |
| Travel | Restricted | Free travel rights |
Cost Summary:
- Permanent Residency: SAR 800,000 (~USD 213,000), one-time payment
- Renewable Residency: SAR 100,000 (~USD 26,700) per year
Expected processing time is generally 30–60 days, depending on document verification.
Who Should Consider Applying?
- Business owners planning to invest or expand in Saudi Arabia
- Highly skilled professionals seeking long-term residence
- Investors looking for stable business opportunities
- Expatriates currently living in Saudi Arabia who want independence from sponsors
- Families planning to settle in the Kingdom long-term
Conclusion:
The Saudi Premium Residency 2026 program offers a transformative opportunity for foreigners seeking independence, stability, and investment prospects in Saudi Arabia. By removing the Kafeel requirement, the Kingdom opens its doors to professionals, investors, and families aiming to establish long-term residence and contribute to the growing economy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What documents are needed to apply?
Applicants must provide a valid passport, medical fitness report, financial proof, and police clearance certificate.
Can family members be sponsored under this residency?
Yes. Residents can sponsor spouses, children, and domestic workers, ensuring stable family life in the Kingdom.
Does Premium Residency grant Saudi citizenship?
No. The program does not provide citizenship or voting rights, but it grants almost all benefits of long-term residency.
