How to Obtain Residency in Saudi Arabia
Understand the Iqama, the Premium Residency programme and the newer talent and investor visa options.
In short
Most expats live in Saudi Arabia on an employer-sponsored iqama, issued through Qiwa and Absher. Premium Residency lets you live without a sponsor, own property and change jobs freely, in exchange for a fee or an investment.
- Standard route
- Work visa → iqama via employer
- Premium options
- Limited, unlimited, talent, investor, real estate
- ID card
- Iqama, digital in Absher
- Main authority
- Premium Residency Center / Jawazat
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
Your employer reserves a visa for your profession through Qiwa and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
1–3 weeks
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Check your contract is registered on Qiwa
- Activate Absher as soon as your iqama is issued
- Renew the iqama before it expires – the employer pays the fee
- Get an exit/re-entry visa before travelling abroad
Don’t
- Don’t travel without a valid exit/re-entry visa
- Don’t work for anyone other than your sponsor without a transfer
- Don’t ignore Absher notifications about fines
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- The dependent fee adds up quickly for families. Negotiate it into your package before signing.
- Leaving without a final exit visa can lead to an entry ban.
Common questions
Can I bring my family?
Yes, if your profession and salary qualify for a family visa. Each dependant pays the monthly dependent fee.
Can I change employers?
Yes. Labour reforms allow transfers through Qiwa, usually after completing one year or when the contract ends.
Official links
Background and more detail
The standard route: Iqama
Most expatriates live in Saudi Arabia on an Iqama, a residence permit tied to their employer. Your employer handles the application through the Absher and Qiwa platforms.
Premium Residency
The Premium Residency programme allows eligible foreigners to live, work and own property without a sponsor. Categories include:
- Exceptional talent
- Gifted individuals
- Investors and entrepreneurs
- Real-estate owners
- Unlimited-duration residency
Requirements
Each category has financial and professional criteria. Applicants need a valid passport, clean criminal record, health insurance and proof of financial solvency.
Always confirm current criteria on the official Premium Residency Center portal before applying, as programme requirements are updated regularly.
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What expats pay and what businesses must file.