Saudi Arabia offers 6 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Employment Visa (Iqama) | €3,200/mo | N/A | 21-42d | 5.0/10 | Yes |
| Premium Residency — Limited Duration (Annual) | €32,000/mo | N/A | 28-56d | 8.7/10 | Yes |
| Premium Residency — Permanent (Property) | N/A | €1,066,667 | 28-56d | 8.5/10 | Yes |
| Premium Residency — Investor | N/A | €1,866,667 | 28-56d | 8.0/10 | Yes |
| Premium Residency — Special Talent | €3,733/mo | N/A | 28-56d | 5.0/10 | Yes |
| Digital Nomad / Self-Sponsored Visa | €41,600/mo | €18,667 | 21-42d | 7.5/10 | No |
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Get Deep Dive — €19Frequently Asked Questions
How many visa pathways does Saudi Arabia offer?
Saudi Arabia offers 6 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for Saudi Arabia?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Saudi Arabia?
The path to permanent residency in Saudi Arabia typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to Saudi Arabia?
Most long-term visa categories in Saudi Arabia allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to Saudi Arabia?
Not all pathways require a job offer. Saudi Arabia may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
Related: Saudi Arabia Guide · Cost of Living · All Countries