Saudi Arabia’s new Premium Residency law lets foreigners live, work and invest without a local sponsor as part of the Saudi Premium Residency reform under Vision 2030.
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has launched a significant reform to its residency rules: the Saudi Premium Residency reform replaces the old sponsorship model and allows eligible foreigners to live, work and invest freely in the Kingdom without a local sponsor. The initiative is a key pillar of the country’s Vision 2030 agenda, which aims to attract global talent and make Saudi Arabia a more open, competitive destination for foreign professionals and investors.
Under the reform, expatriates can apply for one of several Premium Residency categories — including skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, investors or property‑owners — with the freedom to change jobs, own and manage businesses, purchase real estate and exit and re‑enter the country without needing employer approval. The new policy removes the traditional requirement for a “kafeel” or local sponsor, which previously tied foreign nationals’ employment and residency status to local employers or sponsors.
By unlocking this path to long‑term residency, Saudi Arabia hopes to boost its global attractiveness, retain international talent and diversify its economy beyond oil. The Saudi Premium Residency reform places work and investment freedoms at the heart of the Kingdom’s transformation strategy — making the country a viable base for ambitious professionals seeking stability, growth and access to the wider Middle East market.
