Saudi Arabia Removes Kafeel Requirement for Visas — Check Fees and Benefits

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant update to its Premium Residency program, officially eliminating the need for a Kafeel (sponsor) for expatriates. The revised scheme outlines updated fees, eligibility criteria, and benefits, providing foreign nationals with more autonomy to live and work in the Kingdom.

The Premium Residency initiative offers expatriates broad rights, including the ability to own property, operate businesses, and reside independently in Saudi Arabia.

Two Residency Options Available

The program now includes two distinct options:

• Permanent Residency: Requires a one-time payment of SAR 800,000 (approximately $213,000 USD) and provides long-term residency bene
• fits.Renewable Residency: Costs SAR 100,000 annually (around $26,700 USD) and offers renewable rights.

Key Benefits

Holders of Premium Residency will enjoy several advantages, such as:

• No need for a Kafeel or sponsor
• Property ownership rights (excluding Makkah, Madinah, and border zones)
• Freedom to work or start a business without restrictions
• Ability to sponsor dependents
• Unrestricted movement within the Kingdom
• Access to healthcare, education, and banking services
• Freedom to transfer funds abroad

However, it’s important to note that this program does not offer Saudi citizenship or voting rights.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the Premium Residency program, applicants must:

• Be 21 years or older
• Hold a valid passport
• Have a clean criminal record
• Be medically fit
• Have entered Saudi Arabia legally
• Provide proof of financial stability or assets

How to Apply

Interested individuals can apply online by visiting pr.gov.sa and completing the following steps:

• Create an account
• Fill out the application form
• Upload necessary documents (passport, medical report, financial records)
• Pay the application fee
• Wait for official confirmation (typically within 1–3 months)

National Strategy and Economic Vision

The Premium Residency program aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals under Vision 2030 to diversify the economy, attract international talent, and encourage foreign investment by offering a more flexible and appealing residency framework