Home GCC Saudi Arabia Saudi cabinet approves ‘green-card’-style residency scheme for foreign expats The new scheme was approved by the Shoura Council earlier this month by Reuters May 15, 2019 The Saudi cabinet on Tuesday approved a special residency scheme similar to green card systems applicable in other countries, aimed at attracting wealthy and high-skilled expats, the Saudi Press agency reported. SPA’s statement did not give further details on the new scheme, which was approved by the advisory Shoura Council earlier this month. Read: Saudi’s Shoura Council approves new ‘green-card’ residency scheme for expats Local media said the plan would allow wealthy and high- skilled foreign expats to choose between defined and renewable residency or permanent stay in return for a high, one-off fee. It would also allow them free movement, ability to own properties and to do business in the kingdom. Currently over 10 million expats work and live in Saudi Arabia under a sponsorship system that requires them to be sponsored by a Saudi employer and be issued an exit/re-entry visa whenever they want to leave the country. Tags expatriates expats Expats Saudi Arabia green cards iqama Lifestyle permanent residency permit Saudi Saudi sponsor Shoura Council 0 Comments You might also like Aldar launches Nikki Beach Residences in Al Marjan, sales to open on Dec 5 Abu Dhabi: Yas Waterworld expansion to add thrilling new experiences Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour to come to Dubai, Bahrain in Jan 2024 S.T. Dupont, 24 Hours of Le Mans unveil historic collaboration