Investor Visa for Saudi Arabia 2026: Entering to Start a Company
Do you need a visa to set up a company in Saudi Arabia? The visiting investor visa, what it allows, how to apply online, and the residency after formation.
"Do I have to travel to Saudi Arabia to set up my company, and what visa do I need?" It's one of the first questions investors ask us. The short answer: you can start the formation without being in the Kingdom, and when you want to visit, there is a visa made for investors. After formation, your company becomes the route to your residency. Here's how it works.
Do you need to be in Saudi Arabia to set up a company?
Not necessarily. Most of the formation steps, from preparing the parent company to the investment license and the commercial registration, can be handled while you are abroad, through a representative and the online platforms. Many investors only travel after the company is set up, or to meet partners and see premises.
The visiting investor visa
Saudi Arabia offers a "visiting investor" visa for foreign investors and staff of foreign companies who want to explore investment opportunities. You apply online through the Invest Saudi platform, and the visa is issued digitally through the unified visa platform, without visiting a Saudi embassy for biometrics.
It can be valid for up to a year with multiple entries.
It is for exploring opportunities, meetings and visits, not for working or residing.
You need a passport valid for at least six months.
Conditions and fees can change, so check the current requirements before you apply, or let us check them for you.
Other ways to enter
Citizens of countries eligible for the tourist e-visa can also visit with it, but it doesn't allow work. For actual work inside the Kingdom, you need a residency through a Saudi company.
After formation: investor residency
Once your company is set up, you can get a residency through it as an investor. That residency lets you live in the Kingdom, run your business, open bank accounts and bring your family, and its rights are wider than a work residency. We explain the formation steps in our guide to company formation in Saudi Arabia.
There is also Premium Residency, with its own categories and conditions, for investors who want more independence from a sponsor.
Why EL-LWAA
We set up companies for investors who live abroad every day, and we handle the steps while they are outside the Kingdom. In this video, Mr. Salah Ellwaa explains the investor visa:
Start your request through the ASSIS platform, or contact us to plan your visit and your residency.
FAQ
Can I set up my company in Saudi Arabia without traveling?
Yes, most of the steps can be done while you are abroad. We'll tell you if any step in your case needs you there in person.
Does the visiting investor visa allow me to work?
No. It is for exploring opportunities and visits. Working needs a residency through a Saudi company.
How long is the visiting investor visa valid?
It can be valid for up to a year with multiple entries, depending on what is granted.
Can I bring my family after setting up the company?
Yes, investor residency lets you bring your family, subject to the regulations.
What is the difference between investor residency and Premium Residency?
Investor residency comes through your company, while Premium Residency has separate categories and conditions. Contact us to see which fits you.