Saudi Arabia Visa
Saudi Arabia has traditionally maintained a closed-door policy towards the outside world. Historically, only Muslim pilgrims, business travelers, or foreign workers and their families could secure a Saudi Arabia visa.
However, in a recent development, Saudi Arabia has begun issuing Tourist eVisas to individuals from various countries, streamlining the process through an online platform.
Visa policy of Saudi Arabia
This initiative aims to stimulate tourism and diversify the nation’s economy beyond its reliance on oil.
Citizens of the following countries are exempt from visa requirements for Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia’s visa policy remains stringent, offering visa-free access primarily to neighboring countries. Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates can enter Saudi Arabia with just their ID card.
Who is eligible for a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
Nonetheless, with the introduction of the Saudi Arabian eVisa, passport holders from over 40 countries can now access the Kingdom through an online process.
Those ineligible for visa exemptions or the eVisa option must apply for a Saudi Arabian visa at an Embassy or Consulate.
Only nationals of the following countries are eligible to receive the Saudi Arabia eVisa:
Eligible nationals for the Saudi Arabia eVisa include citizens of Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, as well as holders of Schengen visas, US visas, or UK visas.
In addition to the nationality requirements, to be eligible for the Saudi Arabia eVisa, you have to:
To qualify for the Saudi Arabia eVisa, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old (minors must travel with an adult)
- Possess a valid email address
- Hold a passport valid for at least another six months
- Enter Saudi Arabia with the same passport used for the application
Saudi Arabia Visa Types
Saudi Arabia issues visas for various purposes including tourism, business, family visits, transit, Hajj/Umrah, work/employment, and studying.
Tourist Visa
The Tourist Visa is for individuals entering the country for tourism purposes and can be obtained online or on arrival for citizens of select countries.
Business Visa
For business-related visits, individuals can enter through an eVisa or apply for a regular Saudi Arabia Business Visa, supported by necessary documents including a letter from the employer and company registration documents.
Visit Visa
A Visit Visa is available for personal visits or to visit family members, with the option of using eVisas for family visits if eligible.
Transit Visa
Transit Visa requirements apply unless traveling via specific airports with confirmed onward flight tickets to a third country within 12 hours.
Umrah Visa
The Umrah Visa is for Muslim pilgrims performing Hajj or Umrah, with Hajj Visas issued free of charge at Saudi Arabian Embassies or Consulates abroad.
How to apply for a Saudi Arabia Visa?
Application procedures vary based on nationality, either online or at an Embassy or Consulate.
Apply online
Online application for a Saudi Arabia eVisa involves completing the application form, paying the visa fee, and awaiting processing, typically within 30 minutes.
Applying for a Saudi Arabian Visa at an Embassy/Consulate
For Embassy or Consulate applications, supporting documents are required, including a completed visa application form, passport-size photographs, proof of financial means, valid passport, proof of accommodation, return flight ticket, travel itinerary, proof of employment, and any additional documents as requested.
Work visa and Student visa:
Specialized visas like Work Visas and Student Visas have specific requirements, such as work permits and sponsorship letters for Work Visas, and authorization from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Student Visas.
Saudi Arabia visa fee:
The visa fee for a Saudi Arabia eVisa is SAR 440 (approximately US$117), with additional VAT rates applicable. Embassy or Consulate visa fees vary by country and payment method.