685 ‘exceptional talents’ obtain Premium Residency at LEAP ’25

Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program which is intended to increase the number of highly skilled individuals, entrepreneurs, and investors residing long-term in Saudi Arabia got a big boost at Leap ’25. 

First launched in 2029 and overseen by the Premium Residency Center, Saudi Premium Residency or a ‘Saudi Green Card’ provides residency rights to investors, entrepreneurs and high-value workers without the need for a local sponsor. It allows unrestricted freedom of movement, the right to reside in the Kingdom with family members, including parents, spouse and children under 25. leave the Kingdom and return without requiring a visa, issue visit visas for relatives and the right to set up and manage businesses.

Initially it was only available to those who made a non-refundable financial contribution of at least SAR 100,000 per year for a one-year (renewable) residency permit or at least SAR 800,000 as a single payment for permanent residency.

It has now been expanded to five other categories including:

Special Talent Residency targets executives and professionals who specialize in healthcare, science, and research sectors.

Gifted Residency applies to gifted individuals in culture, the arts, or sport who have an outstanding record of local, regional, or international achievements.

Investor Residency applies to individuals seeking to invest at least SAR 7 million into Saudi Arabia’s economy while creating at least 10 new jobs.

Entrepreneur Residency is granted to entrepreneurs and owners of pioneering projects with innovative and creative ideas who wish to launch their businesses or develop their emerging companies in the Kingdom.

Real Estate Owner Residency is for those who own or have a right to profit from, a residential real estate property in Saudi Arabia worth at least SAR 4 million.