Visa Application Guidelines
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has implemented comprehensive visa regulations to facilitate tourism, business, religious pilgrimage, and family visits while maintaining national security. These policies are regularly updated to align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives, which aim to diversify the economy and promote cultural exchange.
Important Note: Saudi visa policies are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official Saudi diplomatic missions or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before planning your travel.
The Saudi visa system is administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in coordination with various government entities. The introduction of the tourist visa in 2019 marked a significant shift in Saudi Arabia’s approach to international visitors, opening the country to leisure travelers for the first time.
1. Types of Saudi Visas
Saudi Arabia offers various types of visas depending on the purpose of travel:
a. Tourist Visa (eVisa)
- Available to citizens from 66 eligible countries.
- Valid for one year, allowing multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.
- Can be obtained online in three steps:
- Fill out the application form.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Receive the eVisa electronically.
- Allows travel for leisure, family visits, events, and Umrah (excluding Hajj)
b. Business Visa
- Issued to individuals visiting for business meetings, trade activities, or investments.
- Requires an invitation from a Saudi company and approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
c. Student Visa
- Issued to foreign students accepted into Saudi educational institutions.
- Requires an authorisation letter from MOFA and documents like a health report, police clearance, and academic certificates.
- Processing time is approximately 4-5 days.
d. Umrah Visa
- Available via the Nusuk platform, allowing pilgrims to visit Mecca and Medina outside the Hajj season.
- Can be applied for online through clicking on following button.
e. Stopover Transit Visa
- Allows travellers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours.
- Available for travellers with connecting flights through Saudi airports.
Visa Application Process
For eVisa and Tourist Visa:
- Visit the official eVisa website.
- Complete the online application form with passport details.
- Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Receive the eVisa electronically and print a copy for travel.
For Business, Student, and Other Visas:
- Obtain an invitation or acceptance letter from a recognised Saudi entity.
- Apply through the MOFA or a Saudi embassy.
- Submit required documents, including a valid passport, photos, health certificate, and police clearance.
- Pay the visa fees and wait for approval .
Entry and Travel Guidelines
- COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but travellers should check for updated health regulations before departure.
- Health Insurance: Some visa types require mandatory health insurance.
- Dress Code: Visitors must respect Saudi Arabia’s cultural dress norms.
- Prohibited Items: Alcohol, drugs, and explicit content are strictly forbidden.
Visa Fee Structure
The following table outlines the current visa fees for Saudi Arabia. All fees are in US Dollars (USD) and subject to change without notice.
| Visa Type | Validity | Standard Fee (USD) | Express Fee (USD) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (Single Entry) | 90 days | $120 | $170 | Includes medical insurance |
| Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry) | 1 year | $200 | $270 | 90 days per entry, includes insurance |
| Business Visa (Single Entry) | 30-90 days | $150 | $220 | Invitation letter required |
| Business Visa (Multiple Entry) | 6 months – 1 year | $300 | $400 | Invitation letter required |
| Work Visa | 1-2 years | $200 | N/A | Additional fees for medical, residency permit |
| Umrah Visa | 30 days | $110 | $160 | Seasonal restrictions apply |
| Hajj Visa | Hajj season only | $180 | N/A | Available through authorized agents only |
| Family Visit Visa | 30-90 days | $100 | $150 | Proof of relationship required |
| Transit Visa (96-hour) | 4 days | Free / $40 | N/A | Free with certain airlines; otherwise $40 |
Additional Fees & Charges
- VFS Service Fee: $20-40 (depending on location)
- Courier Service: $15-25 (optional)
- SMS Updates: $3-5 (optional)
- Photocopy Services: $0.50-1 per page (if needed at application center)
Payment Methods
Visa fees can be paid through:
- Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard)
- Bank transfer (for certain applications)
- Cash (at authorized application centers only)
- Online payment gateway for e-Visa applications
Note: All fees are non-refundable, regardless of application outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Tourist Visa: Leisure, events, and sightseeing.
- Business Visa: Meetings, conferences, and commercial visits.
- Work Visa: Employment with a Saudi sponsor.
- Umrah Visa: Religious pilgrimage (outside Hajj season).
- Family Visit Visa: Visiting relatives in Saudi Arabia.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Travel itinerary
- Hotel booking or accommodation details
- Travel medical insurance
- Proof of funds
- Tourist eVisa: Approx. SAR 535 (including insurance)
- Visa on Arrival: Similar cost to eVisa
- Other visas: Fees vary by type and nationality
- eVisa: Usually within 24–72 hours
- Embassy visas: 5–15 working days
It depends on the visa type:
- eVisa applications do not require an appointment
- Embassy or visa center applications may require prior appointment
The Saudi tourist visa generally allows stays of up to 90 days within a one-year validity period.
No. Employment is strictly prohibited on a tourist or visit visa. A valid work visa and residency permit are required.
- Incomplete or incorrect application
- Invalid or insufficient documents
- Security or immigration concerns
- Previous visa violations
- Mismatch in travel purpose
Note: Saudi Arabia visa regulations may change at any time. Always check official Saudi government sources before applying.