RIYADH — A total of 1,028 government and semi-government institutions have been approved to classify eligible non-Saudi employees into the Exceptional Talent Premium Residency product, provided they meet specified criteria.
This comes in addition to the approval of 3,484 private companies whose employees are also eligible to apply for the same residency category.
Exceptional Talent products target highly qualified professionals in science, management and research fields whose expertise can strengthen local capacity and facilitate knowledge transfer.
Premium Residency for Exceptional Talent aims to attract researchers, managers, scientific and medical professionals, while ensuring their professional and family stability in Saudi Arabia.
This initiative supports knowledge transfer, innovation and institutional development across the public sector.
Exceptional Talent residency holders and their families (including parents and children up to the age of 25) are entitled to several benefits, including exemption from expatriate and dependent fees, visa-free self-exit and re-entry, access to exclusive lanes for Saudi and GCC nationals at ports of entry, freedom to change employers, permission to work in the private sector for family members, and permission to carry out business activities under real estate ownership and investment laws. If you meet the necessary conditions, you will be eligible to apply for permanent residence.
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3,484 private companies approved special talent premium residency
Premium Residency Center outlines eligibility requirements for government and semi-government employees based on three tracks.
1. Researchers and scientific/medical professionals
Researchers must have a work contract in their preferred specialty, a minimum monthly salary of SR 14,000, at least three years’ experience, and the submission of three professional research papers.
Scientific and medical professionals must have a work contract in a priority field, earn a monthly salary of at least 35,000 riyals, have at least three years of experience, and pass an approved points-based evaluation system.
2. Executive Leadership Track
This includes first- and second-tier leadership positions in government or semi-government organizations. Applicants must earn at least 80,000 Saudi Riyals per month and provide formal references from their employers.
Period and fees
Residency is granted for five years and is renewable. Holders may transition to permanent residence after residing in the Kingdom for at least 30 months within five consecutive or non-consecutive years, provided they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
This residency product costs SR4,000.
