1,028 government entities approved for Exceptional Talent Premium Residency

RIYADH — A total of 1,028 government and semi-government entities have been approved to classify eligible non-Saudi employees under the Exceptional Talent Premium Residency product, provided they meet the specified criteria.This comes in addition to the approval of 3,484 private-sector establishments whose employees are also eligible to apply for the same residency category.The Exceptional Talent product targets highly qualified professionals in scientific, administrative and research fields whose expertise can enhance local capabilities and facilitate knowledge transfer.The Premium Residency for Exceptional Talent aims to attract researchers, executives, and scientific and healthcare professionals, while ensuring their professional and family stability in Saudi Arabia.The initiative supports knowledge transfer, innovation, and institutional development across public-sector entities.Holders of the Exceptional Talent residency and their family members — including parents and children up to the age of 25 — are entitled to several benefits, including exemption from expatriate and dependent fees, self-sponsored exit and re-entry without a visa, and access to dedicated lanes for Saudi and GCC citizens at ports of entry, freedom to change employers, and permission for family members to work in the private sector, property ownership and the ability to conduct business activities in accordance with the Investment Law, and eligibility to apply for permanent residency upon meeting the required conditions.The Premium Residency Center outlined eligibility requirements for government and semi-government employees under three tracks:1. Researchers and scientific/healthcare professionalsResearchers must have a work contract in a priority specialization, a minimum monthly salary of SR14,000, at least three years of experience, and submit three specialized research papers.Scientific and healthcare professionals must hold a work contract in a priority field, earn at least SR35,000 per month, have a minimum of three years of experience, and pass the approved points-based evaluation system.2. Executive leadership trackThis includes first- and second-tier leadership positions in government or semi-government entities. Applicants must earn at least SR80,000 per month and provide an official recommendation letter from their employer.Duration and feesThe residency is granted for five years and is renewable. Holders may transition to permanent residency after residing in the Kingdom for at least 30 months within five consecutive or non-consecutive years, provided eligibility criteria continue to be met.The fee for this residency product is SR4,000.