Expat to Citizen: The Journey to Obtaining Saudi Citizenship for Professionals
Living and working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can be a fulfilling experience for expats, but the ultimate goal for many is to become citizens. Obtaining Saudi citizenship can offer a multitude of benefits, including access to better job opportunities, improved quality of life, and a sense of belonging in a new community. However, the process can seem overwhelming and confusing. In this ultimate guide, we will break down the eligibility criteria, the scoring system, and all the necessary steps to help expats and professionals navigate their way to obtaining Saudi citizenship.
Unlocking the Secrets of Saudi Citizenship for Expat Professionals
To become eligible for Saudi Arabian citizenship, expats professionals living and working in the Kingdom must meet the following requirements:
- Legal entry and valid passport: The applicant must have entered the country legally and hold a valid passport allowing them to return to their home country without restrictions.
- Residency: The applicant must have lived in the Kingdom for at least 10 consecutive years under a regular residency permit, following the country’s regulations.
- Professional background: The applicant must be working in a profession that the country requires.
In addition to the above conditions, the applicant must score a minimum of 23 points from a total of 33 points that are allocated as follows:
- Residency: The applicant’s residency for at least 10 years earns them 10 points.
- Professional background: Points are awarded based on the applicant’s qualifications, with a maximum of 13 points. Only one qualification is accepted, as follows:
- Doctorate in medicine or engineering: 13 points
- Doctorate in other sciences: 10 points
- Master’s degree: 8 points
- Bachelor’s degree: 5 points
- Family ties: Points are awarded based on the applicant’s Saudi relatives, with a maximum of 10 points. The allocation of points is as follows:
- Father is Saudi: 3 points.
- Mother and grandfather are Saudi: 3 points, but only 2 points if only the mother is Saudi.
- Wife and grandfather are Saudi: 3 points, but only 1 point if only the wife is Saudi.
- More than two Saudi children and brothers: 2 points, 1 point for fewer than two.
In addition to other eligibility requirements, an expat must not have a criminal record and must not have been sentenced to imprisonment for more than six months. Fluency in reading, writing, and speaking Arabic is also a necessary requirement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining Saudi citizenship as an expat professional requires meeting several eligibility criteria, including having a valid passport, residing in the Kingdom for at least 10 consecutive years, working in a profession needed by the country, and scoring at least 23 points in the citizenship evaluation process. Familiarizing oneself with these requirements and following the proper steps can help make the process smoother. By understanding the rules and regulations, expat professionals can take advantage of the benefits that come with becoming a Saudi citizen, such as having access to more job opportunities, receiving better social services, and being able to live and work in the country with more stability and security.
More from KSAexpats.com:
