Middle East
Saudi Arabia immigration and visa guide
Saudi Arabia offers the Premium Residency program (Special Talent, Gifted, Investor, Entrepreneur) and standard employer Iqama work permits under Vision 2030.
Premium Residency Center & Ministry of Human Resources (Qiwa)
- Processing time
- 3 – 8 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- No
Visa options in Saudi Arabia
Key requirements
- For Special Talent Premium Residency: verified executive salary (≥ SAR 35,000/mo) or specialized healthcare/tech credentials
- Clean police certificate with apostille/consular legalization and medical report free of contagious diseases
- Valid passport and financial solvency proof
How to apply for a Saudi Arabia visa: step by step
- 1
Premium Residency Portal Submission
Submit digital application on the official pr.gov.sa portal with verified credentials.
2 - 4 weeks
- 2
Medical Screening & Fee Clearance
Complete medical report and pay statutory fee (one-off SAR 4,000 for Special Talent Track).
1 - 2 weeks
- 3
Premium Residency Iqama Issuance
Receive electronic and physical Premium Residency card with family sponsorship rights and property ownership privileges.
Immediate post-approval
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
Can Premium Residency holders in Saudi Arabia own real estate?
Yes. Saudi Premium Residency holders have the right to own residential, commercial, and industrial real estate throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (excluding Mecca and Medina, where 99-year usufruct rights apply).
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Saudi Arabia. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Premium Residency Center & Ministry of Human Resources (Qiwa)General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Premium Residency Center & Ministry of Human Resources (Qiwa) on the official website before applying.