Breakdown
How it works
Original categories: limited (SAR 100,000 a year, renewable) and unlimited (SAR 800,000 once). 2024 added special talent, gifted, investor (SAR 7m over two years), entrepreneur and real-estate owner (SAR 4m property) categories at a SAR 4,000 application fee. Holders can own property, run businesses, sponsor family and exit/re-enter freely.
Formula
Worked example
Family with 3 dependents over 5 years: iqama route ≈ SAR 131,000; limited Premium Residency SAR 500,000; property category SAR 4,000 if you own SAR 4m of property.
Frequently asked questions
Does Premium Residency replace the work permit?
Yes — holders work for any employer or themselves without a sponsor or Nitaqat quota.
Is the SAR 800,000 refundable?
No. The unlimited residency is a one-off payment; the limited version is paid annually.
Can my dependants work?
Spouse and children over 21 need their own permit or residency; under-21s are covered as dependants.