Saudi Arabia’s “Green Card”: A New Gateway for Nigerian and African Tech Talent.

While Nigerians have long looked to the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom as primary destinations for migration and opportunity, a new pathway has emerged that’s attracting global attention: Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency program, informally known as the “Saudi Green Card.”

Launched in 2019 as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s ambitious Vision 2030 reform agenda, and significantly expanded in 2024, this program offers something rare in the Gulf region: sponsor-free, long-term residency that allows foreign nationals to live, work, own businesses, and even own property without needing a Saudi employer or local partner.

For Nigerians and Africans watching opportunities shrink at home while visa restrictions tighten in traditional Western destinations, Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency represents a compelling alternative—one that’s both more accessible and potentially more lucrative than many realize.

Between January 2024 and July 2025, over 40,000 people applied for Saudi Premium Residency, with 8,074 permits granted in 2024 alone. The highest approvals came in categories directly relevant to African professionals: Exceptional Competence and Entrepreneur tracks.

This isn’t just another work visa program. It’s a strategic initiative to transform Saudi Arabia from an oil-dependent economy into a diversified hub for technology, innovation, and global talent—and Africans are positioned to benefit significantly.

Why Saudi Arabia Is Rolling Out the Welcome Mat

Saudi Arabia’s motivations for creating this program are straightforward: Vision 2030 aims to reduce the Kingdom’s dependence on oil revenues and transform it into a global investment powerhouse and cultural destination.

The numbers tell the story. In Q1 2025, the Kingdom recorded SAR 109 billion in real estate transactions. Rental yields reached 9% in Riyadh and 4% in Jeddah, while apartment prices rose by 6.6% year-on-year. This isn’t accidental—it’s the result of deliberate policies designed to attract foreign capital and expertise.

For Africans, this creates unique opportunities:

Economic Diversification: Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in sectors beyond oil—technology, tourism, entertainment, renewable energy, healthcare, and finance. These are areas where African entrepreneurs and professionals can contribute and benefit.

Geographic Proximity: Saudi Arabia is closer to Africa than Europe or North America, with direct flights from major African cities. The time zone differences are minimal, and the climate will feel familiar to Africans from warmer regions.

Tax Advantages: Premium Residency holders are exempt from expatriate fees and dependent levies that typically cost traditional expats thousands annually. There’s no personal income tax in Saudi Arabia, meaning professionals keep more of what they earn.

Business-Friendly Environment: The Kingdom has simplified business registration, removed requirements for local partners in many sectors, and created special economic zones with additional incentives for foreign investors.

Regional Hub Potential: Saudi Arabia serves as a gateway to the broader GCC market (UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman) representing over 57 million people, and the wider Middle East with hundreds of millions more.

The Seven Pathways: Which One Fits You?

The Premium Residency program now offers seven distinct tracks, each designed for different profiles. Here’s how Nigerians and Africans can qualify:

1. Limited Duration Premium Residency

Best for: Professionals wanting to test the waters before committing long-term

This option costs SAR 100,000 annually (approximately $26,670) and is renewable. You can pay for multiple years upfront and receive a 2% cumulative discount per year.

Who it suits:

• Nigerian professionals with job offers from Saudi companies
• Entrepreneurs wanting to explore the market before full commitment
• Investors testing business opportunities

Requirements:

• Minimum age of 21
• Valid passport
• Proof of financial resources
• Clean criminal record
• Medical fitness certificate

Nigerian Advantage: This is the most accessible entry point. If you have marketable skills and can demonstrate financial stability, this option lets you establish yourself in Saudi Arabia without the massive upfront investment required by permanent residency.

2. Unlimited Duration Premium Residency (Permanent)

Best for: High-net-worth individuals seeking permanent solutions

This option requires a one-time payment of SAR 800,000 (approximately $213,000) and grants lifetime residency with no renewal required.

Who it suits:

• Successful Nigerian business owners looking to diversify
• Professionals who’ve accumulated significant savings
• Diaspora Nigerians with capital to invest

Requirements:

• One-time fee of SAR 800,000
• Valid passport
• Financial solvency proof
• Clean record
• Medical clearance

Nigerian Advantage: For Nigerians who’ve built wealth in business, oil and gas, technology, or other sectors, this provides a permanent backup plan. Given Nigeria’s economic volatility, having permanent residency in a stable, wealthy nation offers security for families.

3. Investor Residency

Best for: Entrepreneurs and business owners ready to invest significantly

Requires an investment license, commercial register, and minimum investment of SAR 7 million (approximately $1.87 million) in economic activities, plus creating at least 10 jobs in the first two years.

Who it suits:

• Nigerian entrepreneurs with successful businesses looking to expand regionally
• Investors with capital seeking new markets
• Business owners in tech, manufacturing, services, or trade

Path to Permanent Residency: Meeting the investment and job creation requirements leads directly to permanent residency.

Nigerian Advantage: For established Nigerian businesses, Saudi Arabia offers access to a wealthy market, regional expansion opportunities, and a stable currency. The Kingdom’s push into sectors like technology, logistics, and services creates opportunities for African innovation.

Realistic Examples:

• A Nigerian fintech company could establish Saudi operations serving the underbanked GCC market
• An African logistics firm could build distribution networks for Saudi e-commerce
• A Nigerian manufacturing business could set up assembly operations for GCC markets
• An African tech consultancy could serve Saudi companies digitalizing operations

4. Entrepreneur Residency

Best for: Startup founders and innovation-driven ventures

Requires obtaining SAR 400,000 (approximately $107,000) in investment from venture capital funds or incubators recognized by the Premium Residency Center, plus an entrepreneur license from the Ministry of Investment.

Who it suits:

• Nigerian tech startup founders
• African innovators with scalable business models
• Social entrepreneurs solving regional problems

Benefits:

• 5-year residency (renewable)
• Can nominate two staff members for Special Talent residency
• Exempt from Nitaqat (Saudization requirements) for first 3 years
• Maintains minimum 20% ownership stake

Path to Permanent Residency: If your venture raises SAR 15 million, you retain at least 10% equity, and create 10 jobs in the first two years, you become eligible for permanent residency.

Nigerian Advantage: Nigeria’s vibrant startup ecosystem has produced founders who’ve built businesses addressing African challenges—fintech solutions, logistics innovations, agricultural technology, healthcare delivery. These same solutions can be adapted for Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC market.

Success Pathway:

1. Validate your Nigerian startup model
2. Raise seed funding from recognized Saudi VCs or incubators
3. Obtain entrepreneur license
4. Apply for Entrepreneur Residency
5. Establish Saudi entity and build operations
6. Scale to SAR 15 million valuation and permanent residency

Relevant Sectors:

• Fintech and payment solutions
• E-commerce and logistics
• Healthcare technology
• Agricultural innovation
• Educational technology
• Renewable energy solutions

5. Exceptional Competence / Special Talent Residency

Best for: Highly skilled professionals in medicine, engineering, science, research, and executive leadership

This was the most popular category in 2024, with the highest approval rates.

Two Pathways:

Path A: Healthcare, Science, and Research Professionals Requires:

• Bachelor’s degree minimum
• Minimum 3 years relevant experience
• Three published research papers
• Minimum monthly salary of SAR 14,000 ($3,730) for researchers or SAR 35,000 ($9,330) for science/healthcare professionals
• Recommendation letter from employer
• Points threshold from Premium Residency Center system

Path B: Executive Leadership Requires:

• Employment contract with whitelisted Saudi entities
• Minimum monthly salary of SAR 80,000 ($21,330)
• Recommendation from employer

Who it suits:

• Nigerian doctors, especially specialists (cardiology, oncology, neurology, radiology)
• African engineers (petroleum, civil, electrical, software)
• Scientists and researchers
• Senior executives in finance, technology, consulting

Benefits:

• 5-year residency (renewable)
• Path to permanent residency after meeting criteria for 30 months over 5 years
• Exemption from Nitaqat program
• Family inclusion

Nigerian Advantage: Nigeria produces thousands of highly qualified professionals annually—doctors, engineers, scientists—many of whom emigrate due to limited opportunities at home. Saudi Arabia’s healthcare expansion, infrastructure development, and research initiatives create demand exactly matching African professional expertise.

Real Opportunities:

• Nigerian doctors: Saudi Arabia is massively expanding healthcare infrastructure. Specialists earn tax-free salaries of $150,000-$400,000 annually
• Engineers: Infrastructure projects, oil and gas, renewable energy, smart city developments
• Tech professionals: Saudi Arabia is building tech hubs, needs software architects, cybersecurity experts, AI specialists
• Scientists: Research institutions, universities, and R&D centers seeking talent

6. Gifted Residency

Best for: Athletes, artists, musicians, writers, designers, and cultural professionals

Applicants must be nominated for or win specified exceptional awards, or meet minimum eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Sports or Ministry of Culture.

Who it suits:

• Nigerian athletes in football, athletics, combat sports, basketball
• African musicians and performing artists
• Writers, filmmakers, and content creators
• Designers and visual artists

Benefits:

• 5-year residency (renewable)
• Path to permanent residency
• Exemption from Saudization (Nitaqat)

Requirements:

• Recommendation from Ministry of Culture or Ministry of Sports
• Financial solvency
• Recognition in your field

Nigerian Advantage: Nigeria’s vibrant entertainment industry—Nollywood, Afrobeats, fashion—is gaining global recognition. Saudi Arabia’s push into entertainment (Riyadh Season, film production, music festivals) creates opportunities for African creative talent.

Opportunities:

• Musicians: Performances at Saudi festivals, collaborations with regional artists
• Filmmakers: Saudi Arabia is building a film industry, needs directors, producers, technical expertise
• Athletes: Saudi sports leagues recruiting international talent
• Fashion designers: Growing luxury market in Riyadh, Jeddah

7. Real Estate Owner Residency

Best for: Property investors seeking residency through real estate

Requires ownership or usufruct rights to residential properties worth at least SAR 4 million (approximately $1.07 million).

Requirements:

• Property must be residential, already developed
• Must be appraised by valuers accredited by Saudi Authority (TAQEEM)
• Cannot purchase through financing or mortgage the property
• Residency duration matches property ownership period

Who it suits:

• Nigerian property investors diversifying portfolios
• High-net-worth individuals seeking stable real estate markets
• Diaspora Nigerians with capital to invest

Nigerian Advantage: With SAR 4 million ($1.07 million), investors can purchase significant property in Saudi Arabia’s booming real estate market. In Riyadh, this buys a luxury apartment of 300-400 sqm in premium districts, or a villa of 400-700 sqm. In Jeddah, a premium apartment of 400-600 sqm, or a well-furnished villa of 600-800 sqm.

Investment Rationale:

• Rental yields of 9% in Riyadh, 4% in Jeddah—far exceeding typical returns in Nigeria
• Property appreciation as Saudi Vision 2030 drives development
• Stable currency (SAR is pegged to USD)
• No property taxes
• Residency as added benefit

The Application Process: Step by Step

The only official source for Premium Residency applications is https://pr.gov.sa. Beware of intermediaries charging excessive fees.

Step 1: Determine Your Category

Review the seven tracks and honestly assess which you qualify for. Consider:

• Your financial resources
• Professional qualifications
• Business plans or investment capital
• Long-term goals in Saudi Arabia

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Universal Requirements (all categories):

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of financial solvency (bank statements, investment portfolios, employment contracts)
• Criminal background check from Nigeria and any country you’ve resided in
• Medical fitness certificate from accredited facility
• Valid medical insurance

Category-Specific Documents:

• Investor: Investment license, commercial register, founding contract, business plan
• Entrepreneur: Entrepreneur license from Ministry of Investment, recommendation from VC/incubator, pitch deck, financial projections
• Special Talent: Employment contract, recommendation letters, academic certificates, research publications (if applicable), salary documentation
• Gifted: Portfolio of work, awards and recognitions, recommendation from Ministry of Culture/Sports
• Real Estate: Property ownership documents, TAQEEM appraisal report, proof of full payment

Pro Tip: Have all documents professionally translated to Arabic by certified translators. Saudi authorities prefer Arabic originals or certified translations.

Step 3: Create Online Account

Visit the official Premium Residency portal and create an account. Complete your profile with accurate information.

Step 4: Submit Application

• Select your residency category
• Upload all required documents (high-quality scans)
• Complete application forms thoroughly
• Double-check all information for accuracy

Step 5: Pay Application Fees

Fees vary by category:

• Special Talent, Gifted, Investor, Entrepreneur, Real Estate Owner: SAR 4,000 ($1,070) plus $170 assessment fee
• Limited Duration: SAR 100,000 ($26,670) annually
• Unlimited Duration: SAR 800,000 ($213,340) one-time

All fees are non-refundable, so ensure you meet eligibility criteria before applying.

Step 6: Biometrics Appointment

After submission, you may be asked to attend a biometrics appointment at a designated center. This involves fingerprinting and photographs.

Step 7: Application Review

The Saudi Premium Residency Center reviews applications. Processing times vary:

• Simple cases: 4-8 weeks
• Complex cases requiring additional verification: 3-6 months

What They’re Assessing:

• Authenticity of documents
• Financial capability
• Contribution potential to Saudi economy
• Security clearance
• Medical fitness

Step 8: Approval and Residency Card

If approved, you’ll receive electronic notification. Your residency card will be issued and can be collected or delivered.

What Premium Residency Actually Gets You

Understanding the benefits helps assess whether the investment is worthwhile:

Sponsor-Free Living

Unlike traditional Saudi work visas (iqama) where employers sponsor and control your residency, Premium Residency allows you to live in Saudi Arabia without a sponsor. You control your own destiny.

Freedom of Movement

• Exit and re-enter Saudi Arabia freely without exit permits
• Use tracks dedicated to citizens and GCC nationals at airports
• No restrictions on travel within the Kingdom

Business Ownership Rights

• Own businesses under Investment Law guidelines
• No requirement for Saudi partners in most sectors
• Can establish 100% foreign-owned companies
• Access to government incentives and streamlined licensing

Property Ownership

• Own residential, commercial, and industrial property
• Buy, sell, lease property without restrictions
• Exception: Restricted areas near holy sites in Mecca and Medina (99-year leases available)

Employment Flexibility

• Work in private sector and move between establishments without fees
• Start businesses while maintaining employment
• No need for employer sponsorship transfers

Family Inclusion

Bring family members including parents, spouses, and children under 25. Family members can also live, work, and invest in Saudi Arabia.

This is huge: your entire family gets the same rights. Spouses can work, children can study, elderly parents can join you.

Financial Benefits

• Exemption from expatriate fees and dependent levies
• No personal income tax (Saudi Arabia has no income tax)
• Employ foreign domestic workers and obtain housemaid visas
• Access to Saudi banking and financial services

Social Benefits

• Obtain visit visas for relatives
• Access to Saudi healthcare system
• Enrollment in international schools for children
• Participation in Saudi social and cultural life

Path to Permanence

Certain categories offer permanent residency when continuously meeting eligibility criteria and having residence for 30 months during five years (consecutive or non-consecutive).

Important Note: Premium Residency does not lead to Saudi citizenship. It’s a residence permit, not citizenship. Saudi citizenship is granted mainly by birth, marriage to Saudi men (with conditions), naturalization after 10+ years (highly selective), or royal decree for exceptional individuals.

Costs Beyond Application Fees: Realistic Budgeting

To assess whether Premium Residency makes financial sense, Nigerians and Africans should budget realistically:

Pre-Arrival Costs:

• Application fees (covered above)
• Document preparation: SAR 5,000-10,000 ($1,330-$2,670) for translations, certifications, legal reviews
• Biometrics appointment travel (if not in Saudi Arabia)
• Initial travel to Saudi Arabia
• Visa consultant fees if using advisors: SAR 10,000-30,000 ($2,670-$8,000)

Initial Settlement Costs:

• Accommodation deposit: SAR 10,000-40,000 ($2,670-$10,670) depending on city and property type
• Furniture and household items: SAR 15,000-50,000 ($4,000-$13,330)
• Vehicle purchase or lease: SAR 30,000-100,000 ($8,000-$26,670) or lease for SAR 1,500-4,000 ($400-$1,070) monthly
• Initial living expenses (first 2-3 months): SAR 15,000-30,000 ($4,000-$8,000)

Ongoing Costs:

Riyadh (Capital, Most Expensive):

• 2-bedroom apartment: SAR 2,500-5,000 ($670-$1,330) monthly
• 3-bedroom villa: SAR 5,000-10,000 ($1,330-$2,670) monthly
• Groceries (family of 4): SAR 2,000-3,500 ($530-$930) monthly
• Utilities: SAR 500-1,000 ($130-$270) monthly
• Transportation (fuel/taxi): SAR 500-1,000 ($130-$270) monthly
• Entertainment/dining: SAR 1,000-2,000 ($270-$530) monthly
• International school (per child): SAR 25,000-60,000 ($6,670-$16,000) annually

Jeddah (Coastal City, Slightly Cheaper):

• 2-bedroom apartment: SAR 2,000-4,000 ($530-$1,070) monthly
• 3-bedroom villa: SAR 4,000-8,000 ($1,070-$2,130) monthly
• Similar ongoing costs to Riyadh, slightly lower overall

Total Monthly Living Costs (family of 4):

• Budget option: SAR 8,000-12,000 ($2,130-$3,200)
• Comfortable option: SAR 15,000-25,000 ($4,000-$6,670)
• Luxury option: SAR 30,000+ ($8,000+)

Return on Investment Timeline:

Entrepreneur Track (SAR 4,000 application):

• If business succeeds and achieves SAR 15 million valuation, permanent residency value is substantial
• Access to GCC market worth billions
• Potential ROI: 10x-100x+ if venture scales

Special Talent Track (SAR 4,000 application):

• Doctor earning SAR 40,000 ($10,670) monthly tax-free = SAR 480,000 ($128,000) annually
• Investment recovered in weeks
• 5-year earnings: SAR 2.4 million ($640,000)

Investor Track (SAR 7 million investment + SAR 4,000 fee):

• Requires significant capital but provides permanent residency
• Access to Saudi market for business operations
• Rental income if investing in real estate within business
• Business profits potential

Real Estate Track (SAR 4 million property):

• Rental yields of 9% (Riyadh) or 4% (Jeddah) generate SAR 160,000-360,000 ($42,670-$96,000) annually
• Property appreciation potential
• Residency as bonus benefit
• Payback period: 11-25 years from rental income alone

Immigration pathways for African tech professionals in UAE.

Strategic Advantages for Nigerians and Africans

Beyond the obvious benefits, several strategic factors make Saudi Premium Residency particularly valuable for Nigerians and Africans:

1. Diversification from African Economic Volatility

Nigeria’s economic challenges—currency instability, inflation, security concerns, infrastructure deficits—make geographic diversification smart strategy. Premium Residency provides:

• Assets in stable, wealthy economy
• Income in strong currency (SAR pegged to USD)
• Alternative base if Nigerian situation deteriorates
• Options for children’s education and future

2. Access to Underserved Markets

Many African innovations address problems that also exist in Saudi Arabia and the GCC:

• Fintech: Despite wealth, many Saudis are underbanked; African fintech solutions can adapt
• Logistics: E-commerce is booming; African expertise in complex distribution can add value
• Healthcare: Telemedicine, health tech solutions developed for African constraints work in Gulf expansion
• AgTech: Desert agriculture, water efficiency—African innovation in resource scarcity applies directly

3. Bridge Between Africa and Middle East

Nigerian and African entrepreneurs can serve as bridges:

• Help Saudi companies expand into African markets (they’re actively seeking this)
• Bring African products to Gulf consumers (food, fashion, entertainment)
• Facilitate investment flows between regions
• Build cultural understanding through business

4. Professional Development and Experience

Working in Saudi Arabia provides:

• Exposure to world-class infrastructure and systems
• Experience with global standards and best practices
• Networking with international professionals
• Credentials that enhance career prospects globally

5. Family Security

For many Nigerians, providing security for families is paramount. Saudi residency offers:

• Safe environment (Saudi Arabia ranks among world’s safest countries)
• Quality education through international schools
• Excellent healthcare
• Stable, predictable environment
• English widely spoken, especially in business contexts

Challenges to Consider: The Realistic View

Premium Residency offers opportunities, but Nigerians and Africans should understand the challenges:

Cultural Adjustments

Saudi Arabia is a conservative Muslim society with different norms:

• Strict dress codes, especially for women
• No alcohol
• Gender segregation in some contexts
• Religious laws (Sharia) govern many aspects of life
• Friday-Saturday weekend (not Saturday-Sunday)

Mitigation: Major cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam) have large expat communities and are more cosmopolitan. Many Nigerians are Muslim and will find the environment comfortable. Christian Nigerians can practice privately but should research restrictions.

Climate

Saudi Arabia is extremely hot:

• Summer temperatures exceed 45°C (113°F)
• Low humidity in Riyadh (dry heat)
• High humidity in Jeddah (coastal)
• Winter is pleasant (20-25°C)

Mitigation: Everything is air-conditioned. Most activities happen indoors or in evenings.

Language Barrier

Arabic is the primary language, though English is common in business.

Mitigation: English works in professional contexts. Learning basic Arabic helps daily life. Large expat communities mean support networks exist.

Professional Licensing

Some professions require Saudi licensing:

• Doctors must pass Saudi medical licensing exams
• Engineers may need credentials verified
• Lawyers must understand Sharia law

Mitigation: Research licensing requirements for your profession before applying. Many professional bodies offer bridging programs.

Social Life

Entertainment options are expanding but different from Nigeria:

• No bars or nightclubs
• Limited dating culture
• Family-oriented activities
• Growing cultural events (Riyadh Season, concerts, sports)

Mitigation: Expat communities organize social events. Compound living provides more Western-style socializing. Regional travel is easy (Dubai is 2 hours away).

Investment Risks

For investor and entrepreneur tracks, risks include:

• Business failure in unfamiliar market
• Capital loss if venture doesn’t succeed
• Currency risks (though SAR is stable)
• Regulatory changes

Mitigation: Thorough market research, local partners/advisors, pilot projects before full commitment.

Success Stories: Africans Thriving in Saudi Arabia

While specific Nigerian Premium Residency success stories are emerging (the program only expanded significantly in 2024), patterns are clear:

Healthcare Professionals: African doctors, especially from Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa, are in high demand. Saudi Arabia’s healthcare expansion needs specialists. Many earn 3-5x what they made in home countries, tax-free.

Tech Entrepreneurs: African tech founders are exploring Saudi markets. Fintech companies are partnering with Saudi institutions. E-commerce logistics providers are building operations.

Engineers: African engineers in oil & gas, construction, and renewable energy find opportunities. Nigeria’s petroleum engineering expertise translates directly.

Academics: African researchers are joining Saudi universities and research institutions, attracted by funding levels impossible in African institutions.

Comparison with Other Opportunities

How does Saudi Premium Residency compare with alternatives Nigerians consider?

vs. US Green Card

Saudi Advantages:

• Faster (months vs. years/decades)
• More accessible (fewer applicants)
• No country quotas limiting Nigerian applicants
• Lower barriers for entrepreneurs

US Advantages:

• Path to citizenship
• Larger economy with more opportunities
• More cultural familiarity
• Established African diaspora

vs. Canada PR

Saudi Advantages:

• Faster processing
• No income tax
• Higher salaries in many professions
• No winter

Canada Advantages:

• Path to citizenship
• Better for families long-term
• More liberal society
• Easier for non-professionals

vs. UK Visa Options

Saudi Advantages:

• Less competitive
• No income tax
• Often higher salaries
• Faster approval

UK Advantages:

• Cultural familiarity (colonial history)
• English language
• Path to citizenship
• Established Nigerian community

vs. UAE Golden Visa

Saudi Advantages:

• Often lower investment thresholds
• Larger domestic market
• More sectors open to foreigners
• Less saturated with expats

UAE Advantages:

• More liberal socially
• Better established expat infrastructure
• More international companies
• English more widely spoken

Bottom Line: Saudi Premium Residency is most attractive for:

• Professionals in high-demand fields earning tax-free is valuable
• Entrepreneurs with scalable businesses who can adapt to Saudi market
• Investors with significant capital seeking stable returns and residency
• Those comfortable with conservative Islamic culture
• People prioritizing financial returns over path to citizenship

Action Plan: Your Next Steps

If Saudi Premium Residency interests you, here’s your strategic action plan:

Phase 1: Research & Assessment (1-2 months)

Week 1-2: Self-Assessment

• Honestly evaluate which category you qualify for
• Calculate your financial resources
• Assess family situation and their willingness to relocate
• Consider cultural fit and lifestyle preferences

Week 3-4: Deep Research

• Read official Premium Residency Center website (https://pr.gov.sa)
• Join online communities of Premium Residency holders
• Connect with Nigerians already in Saudi Arabia (LinkedIn, Facebook groups)
• Research your specific profession’s licensing requirements
• Investigate cost of living in target cities

Week 5-6: Professional Consultation

• If pursuing business tracks, consult with business advisors familiar with Saudi market
• For professional tracks, verify licensing requirements with relevant Saudi authorities
• Consider hiring immigration consultant specializing in Saudi Premium Residency (optional but can help)

Week 7-8: Financial Planning

• Create detailed budget including all costs (application, relocation, setup, 6 months living expenses)
• Identify funding sources if needed
• Plan for continued Nigerian obligations (family support, property maintenance, etc.)

Phase 2: Document Preparation (2-3 months)

Month 1: Gather Basic Documents

• Passport (renew if less than 12 months validity)
• Criminal background check (from Nigerian Police, state where you resided)
• Academic certificates and transcripts
• Employment records and references
• Bank statements (last 6-12 months)

Month 2: Category-Specific Documents

• Entrepreneurs: Pitch deck, business plan, financial projections, incorporation documents
• Investors: Business licenses, commercial registrations, investment proof
• Professionals: CVs, recommendation letters, research publications, employment contracts
• Real Estate: Property valuation reports, ownership documentation

Month 3: Finalization

• Translate all documents to Arabic (use certified translators)
• Get documents notarized and authenticated as required
• Medical examination at approved facility
• Obtain medical insurance covering Saudi Arabia
• Professional photographs meeting specifications

Phase 3: Application Submission (1 month)

Week 1-2: Online Application

• Create account on Premium Residency portal
• Complete application forms meticulously
• Upload all documents (high quality scans)
• Double-check everything

Week 3: Payment

• Pay application fees through portal
• Keep payment receipts and confirmation

Week 4: Follow-up

• Monitor application status online
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
• Schedule biometrics appointment if required