Saudi Arabia Launches New Residency Program – Kafeel Condition Completely Removed for Expats in 2025
Saudi Arabia Launches New Residency Program, a rule that tied their legal status to a Saudi employer or individual sponsor. Changing jobs, starting a business, or even exiting the country required approval from the sponsor. While Saudi Arabia has always been a land of opportunity for foreign workers, professionals, and investors, the limitations of the Kafeel system often made life unpredictable and unstable.
But in a historic policy shift, the Kingdom has now completely removed the sponsor requirement and launched a brand-new residency program in 2025, allowing expats to live, work, invest, and travel without the need for a Kafeel.
This move marks one of the most significant reforms in Saudi history, aligning with the nation’s Vision 2030 strategy to transform the Kingdom into a global economic hub powered by talent, innovation, and investment. The new residency framework offers greater freedom, long-term stability, and permanent settlement options — making Saudi Arabia no longer just a workplace, but a potential home for millions of foreign residents.
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What Was the Kafeel System and Why Was It Removed?
The Kafeel system required every foreign worker to be sponsored by a Saudi citizen or company. This sponsor controlled the expat’s:
- Iqama (residency permit)
- Ability to switch jobs
- Permission to exit or re-enter the country
- Contract renewals and legal rights
While it helped regulate labor immigration, it also caused dependency, exploitation risks, and job insecurity. International labor bodies and expat communities long demanded reform.
Now, Saudi Arabia has responded — ending the Kafala dependency and replacing it with a transparent, government-controlled residency system where expats can deal directly with the state rather than private sponsors.
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New Residency Program 2025 – Key Highlights:
| Feature | Old Kafeel System | New Residency Program 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsor Required | Yes | No |
| Job Mobility | Restricted | Free to change employers |
| Business Ownership | Limited | 100% ownership allowed |
| Property Ownership | Restricted | Permitted in approved zones |
| Family Sponsorship | Limited | Spouse, children & parents allowed |
| Exit/Re-entry Visa | Mandatory | Not required |
| Residency Duration | Dependent on job | 5-year or lifetime options available |
Eligibility Criteria Saudi Arabia Launches New Residency Program 2025:
Applicants must hold a valid passport, have no criminal record, and pass a medical fitness test. Eligible categories include skilled professionals (engineers, doctors, IT experts, pilots, teachers), qualified investors willing to establish or fund businesses, as well as long-term residents who have legally stayed in Saudi Arabia for over 10 years with stable income. Final income and investment requirements are expected to vary depending on the residency tier.
Benefits of the New Residency Program 2025:
This program grants expats complete independence, allowing them to work freely, change employers, open businesses, and own real estate without any sponsor involvement. Permanent residents can bring their families, enroll children in top schools, access government healthcare, and travel in and out of the country without exit permits. The most significant benefit is stability and security, enabling expats to build a future in Saudi Arabia without fear of losing status due to job changes.
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Types of Residency Options Available 2025:
Saudi Arabia is expected to offer two main residency categories:
1. 5-Year Renewable Residency
- Designed for skilled professionals and mid-level investors
- Lower application costs
- Renewable every five years
2. Lifetime Residency (Saudi Green Card Equivalent)
- One-time payment for permanent settlement
- Suitable for established professionals, retirees, or business owners
Step-by-Step Application Process 2025:
Once the official residency portal is launched, applicants can follow these steps:
- Register Online on the official Saudi Residency Platform
- Submit Passport & Iqama Details (if already residing in Saudi Arabia)
- Choose Residency Category – 5-Year or Lifetime
- Upload Proof of Income / Employment / Investment Plan
- Provide Police Clearance Certificate
- Undergo Medical Examination
- Pay Application Fees
- Receive Residency Card (Digital + Physical Format)
Processing is expected to take 30–60 days, depending on document verification.
How This Program Impacts Different Expat Groups 2025:
🧑🏭 For Workers & Drivers
- No more job lock-in — switch employers freely
- No forced exit upon termination
👔 For Professionals (Doctors, Engineers, IT Experts)
- Ability to start consultancy firms or private projects
- Long-term residency security
💼 For Investors & Entrepreneurs
- Can launch companies with 100% foreign ownership
- Own commercial or residential property
👨👩👧 For Families
- Sponsor spouse, children, and parents with ease
- Access education, healthcare, and financial services
Important FAQs – New Saudi Residency Program 2025:
1. Is the Kafeel system removed?
Yes, expats no longer need a sponsor in 2025.
2. Can I apply for residency without an employer?
Yes, applications are now direct to the government.
3. Will I lose residency if I leave my job?
No, residency is no longer job-dependent.
4. Can I bring my family?
Yes, spouse, children, and parents are allowed.
5. Can I own a business or property?
Yes, full ownership rights are granted to residency holders.
Final Conclusion – A New Era of Freedom for Expats
The Saudi Arabia Launches New Residency Program and the launch of this sponsor-free residency program is a turning point for millions of expatriates who have long contributed to the nation’s growth. No longer dependent on employers for legal stability, expats can now build businesses, secure property, settle their families, and live without fear of sudden deportation.
With Vision 2030 driving inclusivity and economic reform, Saudi Arabia is transforming from a temporary work destination into a long-term home for skilled individuals, loyal workers, and global investors.
