Saudi Arabia is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world. With a growing economy, major infrastructure projects, and business reforms under Vision 2030, the Kingdom offers long-term opportunities for foreign residents. If you’re planning to live, work, or start your business in Saudi Arabia, securing legal residency is your first essential step.
This guide explains the key residency types available to expats, the application process, and how you can legally stay and thrive in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia .
1. Understanding Residency Options for Expats in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers several residency types depending on the applicant’s purpose and profile:
A. Work Residency (Iqama)
The most common form of legal residency, the Iqama is issued to expats sponsored by an employer. It allows foreign workers to live and work legally in the country.
B. Investor Residency
Foreign business owners who establish companies in the Kingdom can apply for residency based on their investment. This is tied to the business license and allows active management of operations.
C. Dependent Residency
Spouses, children, and in some cases parents of expats with valid Iqama can apply for dependent residency, allowing the family to live together in the Kingdom.
D. Premium Residency (Green Card Equivalent)
Introduced in 2019, the Premium Residency program offers expats long-term or permanent residency without the need for a Saudi sponsor. It’s ideal for investors, senior executives, and highly skilled professionals.
2. Basic Requirements for Legal Residency
To apply for residency in Saudi Arabia, you typically need:
- A valid passport
- A job offer or investment license (depending on residency type)
- Medical clearance
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of financial means (especially for Premium Residency)
- A visa issued by the Saudi Embassy or Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Once these documents are submitted and approved, the applicant enters the country and begins the process of Iqama or residency issuance.
3. Step-by-Step Process for Work Residency (Iqama)
- Visa Block Approval – The employer applies for a work visa quota from the Ministry of Human Resources.
- Job Offer and Visa Processing – The expat receives the job offer, and the visa is issued through a Saudi consulate.
- Medical Tests and Entry – The applicant completes a medical test and enters the Kingdom.
- Iqama Issuance – The employer processes the residency permit (Iqama) within 90 days of entry.
- GOSI and Muqeem Registration – The expat is registered with Saudi systems for labor and residency monitoring.
4. Premium Residency: A New Option for Long-Term Living
If you’re seeking independence from sponsorship and long-term stability, Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program offers:
- Residency without a sponsor
- Ownership of property and businesses
- The ability to sponsor family members
- Access to healthcare and education
There are two main options:
- Unlimited Residency: SAR 800,000 (one-time fee)
- Renewable Residency: SAR 100,000 per year
Applicants must demonstrate financial stability, clean background, and a valid passport.
5. How Residency Supports Business Setup in Saudi Arabia
For entrepreneurs and investors aiming to start a business in Saudi Arabia, securing legal residency (either through Iqama or Premium Residency) enables:
- Full business ownership in many sectors
- Access to banking and government services
- Legal hiring of staff and workforce planning
- Long-term residence to oversee operations
Legal residency also allows business owners to sponsor key personnel and family members, making Saudi Arabia a viable base for long-term investment and expansion.
6. How ZAET Can Help You Secure Residency
At ZAET, we specialize in business setup and immigration support. We assist professionals, investors, and executives with:
- Visa and Iqama applications
- Investor and Premium Residency programs
- Dependent and family visa processing
- Business registration and licensing
- Saudization-compliant HR setup
Whether you’re expanding your company or relocating your career, ZAET ensures a smooth, compliant, and efficient residency process in Saudi Arabia.
Final Thoughts
Securing legal residency in Saudi Arabia is a vital first step for expats planning to live, work, or invest in the Kingdom. From short-term assignments to permanent relocation, the country offers a range of options to suit different goals.
Contact ZAET today to begin your residency application and start your journey in Saudi Arabia with expert support.