A Complete Guide to Apply Saudi Arabia Visa and eVisa Application

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event 20 August 2024
category Tips n Tricks, Accomodation, Adventure Travel
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Saudi Arabia has made significant strides to welcome global visitors by introducing a new tourist visa. The initiative marks a major shift in the country's approach to tourism, by offering an efficient and simple way for travelers to experience the various wonders of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Through an easy-to-use online portal, international visitors from 66 eligible countries can easily apply for an eVisa, which simplifies the entry process into Saudi Arabia. This new visa initiative not only aims to boost tourism but also highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to becoming a more accessible and welcoming destination for travelers from around the world.

Visa Application Center

In general, the Saudi Arabia visa is also divided into two, the conventional visa and the online visa or eVisa. This visa application is also submitted in different places, namely: 

  • Conventional Visa: This visa can be submitted at the Saudi Embassy or local consulate of course with the same data and files as the eVisa, only the place of submission is different.

  • eVisa: While eVisa for international travelers can apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa online, of course in an easier and more flexible way.

Available Visa Categories

The available visa categories, which we can apply for according to our needs and requirements are as follows: 

  • Work Visa - تأشيرة عمل (Tasyira Amal): For expats working in Saudi Arabia, this visa is legally required.

  • Family Visit Visa - تأشيرة زيارة عائلية (Tasyira Ziyarah 'Aailiyah): For first-degree relatives of eligible expatriates. Holders of this visa are not allowed to work during the visit.

  • Resident Visa - تأشيرات الإقامة (Tasyira Iqamah): For permanent residence in Saudi Arabia. Holders of this visa are not allowed to work during the stay.

  • Hajj Visa - تأشيرات حج (Tasyira Haj): Issued for the purpose of Hajj.

  • Umrah Visa - تأشيرة عمرة (Tasyira Umrah): Issued for the purpose of Umrah.

  • Business Visa - تأشيرة تجارية (Tasyira Tijariah): For investors or businessmen visiting Saudi Arabia.

  • Business Visit Visa - تأشيرات الزيارات التجارية (Tasyira Ziyarah Tijariyah): For business visits by individuals or groups with certain professional qualifications.

  • Working Visit Visa - تأشيرات زيارات العمل (Tasyira Ziarah al-'Amal): For special missions in Saudi Arabia.

  • Cargo Shipping Visa - تأشيرات توصيل البضائع (Tasyira Tawshiil al-Badhai): For cargo shipping purposes.

  • Student Visa - التأشيرات الدراسية (Tasyira Dirasiyah): For students in Saudi Arabian universities.

  • Personal Visit Visa - تأشيرات الزيارة الشخصية (Tasyirah Ziyarah al-Syakhsiyah): For individuals with no business or family relationship with the visa holder.

  • Visit Visa for Diplomatic Missions: For diplomatic missions and accredited organizations in Saudi Arabia for diplomatic passport holders.

  • Transit Visa - تأشيرات المرور (Tasyirah Murur): For temporary transit in Saudi Arabia.

  • Medical Visa - تأشيرات العلاج (Tasyira al-'Ilaj): For medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

  • Tourist Visa - تأشيرات سياحية (Tasyira Siyaha): For travelers from 49 countries approved by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Requirements for Obtaining a Saudi Arabia Visa

To legally enter Saudi Arabia, visitors from abroad must have a visa. The requirements and documents needed to obtain a Saudi Arabia eVisa are as follows:

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Saudi Arabia, with at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.

  • Copy of Passport Biography Page: A scanned copy of the passport biography page.

  • Photo: A photograph that meets the eVisa specifications.

  • Functional Email Account: For communication and visa application.

  • Payment: Use a credit/debit card or PayPal account to make payment.

Steps to Apply for eVisa

Here are the steps that need to be followed:

  1. Visit the official website of Saudi Arabia eVisa :  

  2. Select the desired visa type: There are several types of eVisa, such as tourist visa, business visa, Umrah visa, and transit and other visas.

  3. Create an account: Click on “Register” and follow the instructions provided.

  4. Fill out the application form: Fill out the form correctly and completely, including personal details, passport details, and purpose of visit.

  5. Upload required documents: Upload documents such as passport photos, recent photos, and proof of finances.

  6. Pay the visa fee: Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and length of stay using credit card or bank payments available online.

  7. Submit the application: Once all the steps are completed, click “Submit” and wait for the confirmation email.

If the eVisa has been emailed, then print and carry the eVisa when traveling to Saudi Arabia. Passports will be stamped upon arrival, and must show a valid eVisa. It is recommended to apply for the visa at least seven days before the flight. Ensure that all information provided is accurate so as to avoid delays in processing and receiving the visa with a longer time.

Saudi Arabia eVisa processing time usually takes 72 working hours. During this period, the Saudi Arabian Immigration Service will review and approve the eVisa application.

Travelers can find out the status of their visa application within 30 minutes of submitting the required data, including full name, passport number, and email. For those interested in having fun, visiting relatives, or attending events in Saudi Arabia, the e-Tourist visa allows a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for 365 days from the date of issue. This visa allows for multiple entries. Additionally, visitors can check their visa status on the Saudi Arabian Immigration Services website.  

Through a user-friendly online portal, eVisa applications can be completed quickly and hassle-free, leaving more time to plan your trip and enjoy the beauty that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has to offer. With careful preparation, the beauty and rich culture of Saudi Arabia can now be explored with the ease of visa access provided.

Conclusion

Understanding visa regulations in Saudi Arabia is essential for anyone planning to visit, work, and perform Hajj activities in the Kingdom. Visa policies are subject to change, and different types of visas have specific requirements and restrictions. It's advisable to check the latest information before you go.

Disclaimer

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the absolute accuracy of the data presented on this site. Information may change over time, and errors can occur despite our best efforts. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you verify any critical details by consulting the official sources or websites. This additional step will ensure that you have the most reliable and current information available.

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