Immigrating to Saudi Arabia from the USA

For American citizens interested in moving to Saudi Arabia, several types of residence permits are available, offering pathways for employment, business, family reunion, and more. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has introduced five additional visa options under the Premium Residency Scheme, which has been designed to attract talented and skilled individuals to the Kingdom. Below, we explore the various options and processes for relocating to Saudi Arabia from the USA.

Options for Relocating to Saudi Arabia from the USA

There are several ways to immigrate to Saudi Arabia from the USA, with some of the most common being:

• Employment: Finding a job with a Saudi employer who will sponsor your work permit.
• Business Setup: Launching a business or investing in the local economy.
• Family Reunion: Joining family members who are already residents in Saudi Arabia.
• Marriage: Moving to Saudi Arabia after marrying a Saudi national or resident.
• Studentship: Pursuing higher education in Saudi institutions.

Each of these immigration pathways requires applicants to meet specific requirements and provide documentation to support their application. For example, employment visas typically require a formal job offer, while family reunion visas require proof of relationships. The choice of the immigration route will dictate the necessary documentation and procedures.

Premium Residency in Saudi Arabia

The Premium Residency Scheme is one of the most prominent immigration programs introduced by Saudi Arabia to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. Designed to facilitate long-term residence, this self-sponsored type of residency allows individuals to relocate to the Kingdom without the need for a traditional Saudi sponsor. This program is particularly attractive for American citizens due to its flexibility and opportunities.

Key highlights of the premium residency program include:

• It functions as a self-sponsored residence permit, also known as Saudi Iqama.
• Initially created for entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and athletes, it has expanded to include more categories of applicants.
• With premium residency, applicants do not require a Saudi sponsor for employment or family-based relocations. Instead, they can sponsor themselves through their financial contributions, investments, or by demonstrating their valuable skills.

This visa category is ideal for those seeking greater autonomy, as it allows individuals to manage their relocation process independently, provided they meet the financial and professional requirements.

Eligibility for Premium Residency under the New Program

Saudi Arabia's new Premium Residence Permit Scheme is designed for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. If you fall into one of the following categories, you may be eligible to apply:

• Skilled professionals in research or the healthcare sector.
• Executives or senior professionals.
• Talented artists or professional athletes.
• American investors looking to establish a business or invest in Saudi Arabia.
• Entrepreneurs who wish to launch a start-up in the Kingdom.

Those eligible for the Premium Residency program are granted a 5-year residence permit, provided they meet the necessary criteria. This offers an excellent opportunity for professionals and business owners from the USA looking to live and work in Saudi Arabia long-term.

Foreign Population in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is home to a significant foreign population. According to the 2022 census, out of the 32.2 million people living in Saudi Arabia, 13.38 million, or 41.6%, were foreign nationals. Among the various expatriate groups, some notable populations include:

• Bangladeshi nationals, who represent the largest group, numbering around 211,620 residents.
• Indian nationals, the second-largest group, with approximately 188,448 residents.
• Approximately 20,490 US citizens currently reside in Saudi Arabia.

These figures highlight Saudi Arabia’s growing appeal as a destination for foreigners, including Americans, looking for employment, business opportunities, or a higher quality of life.

For US citizens considering a move to Saudi Arabia, there are numerous visa options available, ranging from employment to family reunification. The Premium Residency Scheme, in particular, offers an attractive pathway for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors looking for long-term residency without the need for a Saudi sponsor. As the Kingdom continues to expand its economy and attract international talent, Saudi Arabia presents an increasingly appealing destination for Americans looking to live and work in the Middle East. With clear eligibility requirements and diverse immigration options, moving to Saudi Arabia from the USA has never been more accessible.