Saudi Arabia Ends Kafeel Requirement for Premium Residency Program 2025. In a landmark move, the Saudi Arabian government has officially abolished the Kafeel (sponsor) requirement under the Premium Residency Program 2025, giving expatriates complete freedom to live, work, and invest in the Kingdom without needing a sponsor.
This reform is a major step towards achieving Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to attract global investors, professionals, and skilled workers by making the Kingdom a competitive global hub for innovation and business.
Types of Saudi Arabia Residency
Under the new law, the Saudi government offers two main types of Premium Residency—both designed to give foreigners more stability and independence.
| Residency Type | Fee & Duration | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent Residency | One-time fee: 800,000 SAR (≈ $213,000 USD) | Lifetime residency with no renewal required |
| Renewable Residency | Annual fee: 100,000 SAR (≈ $26,700 USD) | Renewable every year upon payment |
Both types allow foreign residents to live, work, and conduct business in Saudi Arabia without a Kafeel, a requirement that existed for decades under the sponsorship system.
Major Benefits of the New Law
The end of the Kafeel system for Premium Residency holders brings a wide range of benefits that were once restricted to Saudi citizens. Here’s what residents can now enjoy:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| No Kafeel Needed | Live and work freely without a local sponsor |
| Property Ownership | Buy property anywhere (except Makkah, Madinah & border areas) |
| Business Freedom | Start a business or work in any profession |
| Family Sponsorship | Easily sponsor your spouse, children, and dependents |
| Unrestricted Travel | Move freely within Saudi Arabia without additional permits |
| Access to Services | Get full access to education, healthcare, and banking services |
| Free International Transfers | Send money abroad without restrictions |
Note: Premium Residency holders do not receive Saudi citizenship or the right to vote, but they gain nearly all other rights of residents.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program 2025, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Must be 21 years or older
- Hold a valid passport
- Have a clean criminal record
- Be medically fit
- Enter Saudi Arabia legally
- Show proof of stable financial income or assets
These requirements ensure that only qualified individuals who can contribute to the Saudi economy benefit from this new residency program.
How to Apply for Premium Residency
Applying for Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program is simple and fully digital. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official website: pr.gov.sa
- Create an account using your valid email ID.
- Fill out the application form carefully with accurate personal and financial details.
- Upload all required documents, including:
- Passport copy
- Bank statement or proof of assets
- Medical certificate
- Police clearance certificate
- Pay the applicable fee (800,000 SAR or 100,000 SAR, depending on type).
- Submit your application and wait for approval.
Processing Time: Typically takes 1 to 3 months after submission. Applicants are notified via email once the decision is made.
Why This Law Matters
The abolition of the Kafeel requirement marks a transformational change in Saudi Arabia’s labor and residency system. It empowers foreign residents by granting them autonomy, strengthens investor confidence, and aligns perfectly with the Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification.
This initiative aims to attract professionals in fields such as technology, healthcare, finance, and engineering, further enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a global economic powerhouse.
Premium Residency vs. Traditional Residency
| Feature | Premium Residency | Traditional Residency (Iqama) |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsor Required | No | Yes |
| Property Ownership | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Business Freedom | Full rights | Limited |
| Family Sponsorship | Available | Restricted |
| Duration | Lifetime / Renewable | Dependent on employment |
| Citizenship | Not included | Not included |
Final Thoughts
The New Saudi Arabia Premium Residency Program 2025 represents a new era of opportunity for expatriates, investors, and skilled workers. By removing the Kafeel requirement, Saudi Arabia has taken a decisive step towards openness, innovation, and global competitiveness.
For anyone dreaming of building a long-term life or business in the Kingdom, this reform makes it easier than ever to live and work independently, enjoy greater legal protection, and contribute to the country’s growing economy.
In short: o Kafeel. No Restrictions. Only Opportunities.
FAQs
1. Does the Premium Residency grant Saudi citizenship?
No, the Premium Residency does not include citizenship or voting rights, but it allows most of the same privileges as Saudi residents.
2. Can I buy property under the Premium Residency?
Yes, you can buy property anywhere in Saudi Arabia, except for Makkah, Madinah, and areas near the borders.
