Saudi Premium Residency: A New Route to Business Expansion and Global Investment

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At the crossroads of ambition and opportunity, Saudi Arabia is redefining what it means to invest in the future. With Vision 2030 guiding the way, the Kingdom is building a future powered by talent worldwide.

The Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia offers a sponsor-free route to living and working there. Its benefits are tailored to today’s mobile professionals, from business ownership and real estate investment to visa-free travel and family inclusion.

What makes this programme different is its flexibility. You’re not locked into complex sponsorship models or limited timelines. Instead, it’s a structure designed to enable genuine business expansion and long-term commitment to life in KSA.

This blog will explain what this visa offers, who it’s for, and why it’s quickly becoming a go-to option for internationally minded individuals.

A Closer Look at the Premium Residency Visa

This self-sponsored visa is a modern gateway to the Gulf, offering long-term security, freedom of movement, and direct access to Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing economy.

What Sets It Apart from Traditional Visas?

With the Premium Residency Visa, there’s no need for local sponsorship or employment dependency. You control your business decisions, real estate, and financial assets completely.

  • Independent residency with full commercial rights
  • Visa-free re-entry and exit at any time
  • Business ownership across a range of industries

It’s tailored to meet the needs of internationally mobile individuals who value autonomy and global reach.

Lifestyle + Business + Family Benefits

Together with a legal status, this visa is a lifestyle enabler. From building a business to providing a stable future for your family, the benefits are wide-ranging:

  • Covers residency for your spouse, dependent children, and parents.
  • Property rights for owning residential and commercial real estate
  • Healthcare and education access
  • Entry and exit flexibility for global business needs
  • Work authorisation without needing a local sponsor

It’s the ideal solution for those seeking a balanced life, business freedom, and mobility in the Middle East.

Compare Residency Categories to Find Your Fit

For Entrepreneurs & Startup Founders

The Entrepreneur Residency welcomes early-stage founders and scale-up leaders. With the right investment and stake in your company, you can access a five-year renewable visa and extend opportunities to key team members.

  • SAR 400,000+ investment from an approved source
  • 20% equity minimum for eligibility
  • Strategic advantage for tech, fintech, and creative industries

For Investors Seeking Permanent Roots

Inject SAR 7 million into a qualifying business and create 10 jobs within two years to obtain permanent residency.

  • Property rights, business autonomy, and visa-free travel
  • Ministry of Investment licence required
  • Built for long-term wealth and influence

For Talented Professionals & Executives

If you're a high-skilled executive, medical expert, or academic researcher, the Special Talent Residency could be your next move. You'll need a job contract, a degree, and a proven salary threshold.

  • SAR 14,000+ (research) or SAR 35,000+ (healthcare)
  • Permanent residency pathway after 30 months
  • Designed for knowledge-transfer sectors

For Artists, Athletes & Cultural Icons

Nominees or award recipients in the arts or sports can apply through the Gifted Residency. To qualify, backing from the Ministry of Culture or Sports and financial solvency are essential.

  • 5-year visa, renewable once.
  • Ministry endorsement is a key requirement
  • A unique route for creatives with influence

For Real Estate Investors

To be eligible, you must own fully developed residential property valued at SAR 4 million or above in Saudi Arabia. This route is ideal for those seeking a long-term lifestyle and asset growth.

  • No mortgage permitted on owned assets.
  • Residency duration linked to property ownership
  • Appraisal must come from an accredited valuer.

For Global Families Seeking Stability

Premium Residency allows you to bring your family: spouses, children under 25, and dependent parents, under one visa plan, with access to world-class healthcare and education.

  • Choose between limited and permanent options.
  • Free travel, no exit permits required
  • Supports a secure and stable family life abroad

Gatestone Group helps align your goals with the ideal residency route, backed by our proven support in investment migration and global mobility strategy.

Who Qualifies for Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia?

The KSA has set clear eligibility standards for those seeking Premium Residency. Below are the key requirements.

Financial Readiness

Applicants should be able to show they have the money they need to live and care for their family in Saudi Arabia. It includes:

  • Income verification or business profits
  • Investment assets or bank statements
  • Commercial registration (if relevant)
  • Certified financial statements
  • Financial statements certified by an accountant

Clean Criminal Record

Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate showing no serious offences.

Age & Health Status

Minimum age: 21. Medical certificate required showing fitness and no communicable diseases.

Employment and Academic History

Your credentials matter whether you're applying through the Special Talent, Gifted, or Investor Residency routes.

Prepare:

  • A passport valid for at least six months
  • Academic transcripts or degrees
  • Employment contracts or business ownership proof
  • Letters of endorsement from employers or relevant ministries

Applying for Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia is a significant opportunity but requires precision, planning, and a deep understanding of the system. We offer deep expertise in Gulf residency advisory with a proven track record. From document compliance to investment documentation, we handle your journey seamlessly, ensuring your application meets every Ministry of Investment requirement. With our experience in the Gulf investment migration space and direct access to business setup and legal partners, we manage your residency application. Let us be the strategy behind your success in Saudi Arabia. For further information and assistance, get in touch with our expert team.