RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has made a special announcement for foreigners wishing to obtain permanent residency in the Kingdom.
According to Arab media, the government has released an October update for the Premium Residency Program, outlining fees, benefits, and other details.
Under this program, foreigners can now live in Saudi Arabia without a sponsor (kafeel) and enjoy several privileges.
TYPES OF RESIDENCIES
Permanent Residency: requires a one-time payment of SAR 800,000 (around USD 213,000) and grants lifelong residency.
Renewable Residency: costs SAR 100,000 (around USD 26,700) per year.
Holders of premium residency enjoy various benefits, including the right to:
- Buy property (except in Makkah, Madinah, and border areas)
- Start or work in businesses
- Enter and exit the Kingdom without a visa
- Sponsor their spouse and children
- Access banking, education, and healthcare services
- Transfer money abroad freely
However, premium residents will not have Saudi citizenship or voting rights.
SAUDI ARABIA ENDS CHARGES ON DOMESTIC WORKERS
Taking an important step to protect the rights of domestic workers Saudi Arabia has banned the collection of any kind of fee from them.
According to Saudi media reports, a government statement said that workers cannot be charged for recruitment, work permits, or profession changes.
Anyone violating this rule will face a fine of 20,000 riyals and a ban from hiring workers for three years.
