In a landmark decision inline with vision 2030, Shoura in Saudi Arabia has approved plans for a special privilege Iqama for qualified expatriates. This Special Iqama doesn’t look same as green card but provides some additional benefits and privileges for expatriates.
What is this new special Iqama and how it will help expats in Saudi Arabia? In this post, we will share some details about this green card-style special Iqama based on the information obtained from various local and international news sources.
New Special Privilege Iqama in Saudi Arabia is Green Card?
Please note that this new Iqama plan will be facilitating a lot to business and professional class of expatriates but it is not same as green card. Those who will be eligible for this type of Iqama will not be getting any citizenship or passport and their nationality status will not change.
How Long will be the duration of this special type of Iqama?
For expatriates who qualify for special privilege iqama, there will be two iqama types for them to opt for. One of the type will allow expatriates to get unlimited duration Iqama while second category will be 1 year iqama which will be renewable for additional years.
What is Eligibility criteria for this Special Iqama?
Although, all details are not yet officially available, according to news sources following are some of the eligibility standards or criteria to be eligible to get special privilege green card-style iqama in Saudi Arabia:
* Highly skilled professionals with higher level of academic background and experience in their specialized fields.
* Strong financial background with enough capital resources.
* Valid Passport and medical fitness without any epidemic or major illness.
* A clean track record with no criminal history or charges.
What are the Benefits of this Special Iqama in Saudi Arabia?
According to news sources, expatriates who will be getting this special privilege iqama will be entitled to have following benefits:
1. Invest capital in Saudi Arabia and own properties.
2. Recruit domestic workers.
3. Get Employment in Private Sector and eligible to switch jobs in private sector.
4. Own transport
5. Get family status and eligible to apply for visit visa for relatives.
6. Eligible to exit and re-enter comfortably at own convenience.