Eligibility Criteria for Green Card in Saudi Arabia
Those looking to obtain a green card in Saudi Arabia must meet certain regulations and criteria set by the country. Citizens from outside the Middle East must demonstrate a valid employment permit, as green cards are issued only if the individual is an employee or a dependent of the main applicant.
The Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia is the authority that issues green cards after verifying the due diligence of the applicant and assessing the fulfilment of the criteria. The primary requirements for obtaining a green card are:
- Proof of age
- Affiliation to a sponsor in Saudi Arabia
- Valid passport from country of origin
- Education and health insurance documents
- Financial means to support Living in the country
- Criminal and security background checks
Foreign applicants who undergo the criteria and requirements of the green card will receive a two-year permanent visa. The card can be renewed every two years as long as the requirements are fulfilled.
During the application process, the individual must provide evidence that the residence permit is necessary in order to maintain their current work or sponsor in the country. The applicant must also attend a personal interview where they may be required to answer questions pertaining to their background.
Green card applications submitted in Saudi Arabia are time-consuming and require a lot of paperwork. It is wise to research and understand the process beforehand in order to see if you meet the criteria and apply for a green card. Experts recommend working with a consultant to interpret the application process and handle the paperwork.
The Benefits of Green Card in Saudi Arabia
Having a green card in Saudi Arabia is considered a great advantage for foreign expatriates, as it offers unlimited access to the country. Most importantly, having a green card does not require one to apply for a new visa every time they travel to and from Saudi Arabia. It also enables them to transfer jobs or sponsors without having to submit a new application.
Holders of the green card are also afforded free medical check-ups through the public sector as well as the right to apply for a driving licence. In addition, a valid green card holder is allowed to leave the country and return with a renewable residence permit without any further applications.
Though the main benefits of a Saudi green card are right to residence, freedom of movement, right to apply for a driving license, tax relief, and free medical check-ups, the card also gives its holders the right to own a car, property, and stocks, as well as access to state-funded educational benefits for their children.
Finally, it eliminates the stress of having to extend visas or being denied visas every two years. As long as the green card is kept valid, it eliminates the need for additional administration procedures.
How to Apply for a Green Card in Saudi Arabia
The applicant can apply for a green card in Saudi Arabia by submitting a valid passport and valid residence permit from the Ministry of Interior. The applicant needs to fill out a form with their required documents and submit it either online or in person.
The form must include the applicant’s full name, address, contact information, passport details, and a copy of the residence permit. In addition, the application must also be accompanied by the original name change documents, if any, and documents relating to the applicant’s residency in Saudi Arabia.
After submitting the required forms and documents, the individual will be invited to a finger-printing session where fingerprints and signature are verified before the issue of the card. After the completion of these formalities, the green card will be issued.
Additionally, it is essential to carry out health and criminal background checks, which are needed to qualify for a green card. Depending on the country of origin, the applicant may have to carry out other tests that confirm their health status.
Points System for Green Card in Saudi Arabia
The green card point system was launched in 2018 and is intended as a fast-track process for those who want to become permanent residents without the need for a Saudi sponsor. The point system is based on an individual’s age, qualifications, and experience in their professional field.
This system requires applicants to accumulate points in order to qualify for a green card. Applicants aged 18 to 45 will receive points throughout the application process, depending on their various qualifications and backgrounds. And, for those who are 45 years and over, points are allocated differently. Once the individual has gathered the required points, they are required to submit their documents online to be approved by the Ministry of Immigration.
The points system offers expatriates the chance to apply for an indefinite period visa or a permanent resident visa, known as the “golden card”, for five years at a time. The points system is available to all foreign nationals within or outside Saudi Arabia. They can apply online and once approved, will receive the golden card or an indefinite residence visa.
Green Card Fees and Renewal in Saudi Arabia
The fees associated with obtaining a green card in Saudi Arabia depend on the applicant’s visa status, whether they are a resident or a non-resident. Resident applicants will pay QR 1200 (approximately $330) for a two-year green card renewal and approximately $700 (approximately $190) for a five-year green card.
Non-resident applicants will pay QR 3500 (approximately $951) for a two-year green card and QR 7500 (approximately $2035) for the five-year golden card. Additionally, non-residents must pay an annual fee of QR 1200 (approximately $330).
To renew a green card, applicants must apply and submit all necessary documents within 60 days before the expiration date of their current card. After submitting an application for renewal, the individual must attend another interview, submit all required documents, and obtain another residence permit. The green card is then renewed for a further two years, or five years depending on the renewal type.
Pros and Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia on a Green Card
Living on a green card or visa in Saudi Arabia has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons.
Pros
- Unlimited access to the country, as having a green card does not require one to apply for a new visa every time they re-enters Saudi Arabia.
- The right to transfer jobs or sponsors without having to submit a new application.
- Tax relief and several other advantages.
- Eliminates need for additional administration procedures
Cons
- Getting a green card in Saudi Arabia is a time-consuming process.
- The cost of obtaining and renewing the green card can be high.
- The individual has to submit health and criminal background checks.
- They must attend a personal interview.
Conclusion
Obtaining a green card in Saudi Arabia can be a tedious and expensive process, but once obtained, it can provide foreign nationals with a range of benefits. However, it is important to be aware of the eligibility criteria and carry out all relevant checks before applying. As long as the green card is kept valid, it eliminates the need for additional administration procedures, and allows its holders unlimited access to the country.
