Saudi Arabia is a perfect destination for travelers seeking diverse cultural heritage, fascinating history, and captivating scenery. Understanding the intricacies of securing a Saudi Arabian visa is essential for anyone planning to explore this remarkable place.
Familiarizing yourself with the Saudi Arabia visa and all requirements will ensure a smooth journey to this amazing nation. Don’t worry, though! Our guide outlines all the details to guarantee a trouble-free trip. Continue to read to gain valuable insights!
How to Get a Saudi Arabia Visa?
Understanding the prerequisites and procedures for occupancy authorization is crucial before embarking on your journey here. By grasping these intricacies, you can ensure a trouble-free entry.
Certain countries require authorization before entry, while others are exempt. Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, or the United Arab Emirates can enter with just their ID card.
However, other foreign nationals need a permit. Even citizens from well-known nations like the US, the UK, and Australia are subject to this requirement.
Residents from over 40 nations can apply for a Saudi Arabia visa online. Various types of authorization cater to different objectives and lengths of stay, ranging from business to tourist visits, family visits, and transit.
We encourage you to visit the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more accurate and up-to-date information.
What to Consider Before Getting a Saudi Arabia Visa?
Before beginning the solicitation procedures, let’s provide an overview and discuss a few considerations. Below are summarized points to keep in mind:
1. Make Sure Your Country is on the List
Depending on your citizenship, you may or may not need occupancy authorization. Citizens from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE can enter using only their ID cards. If you are from any other country, you are required to obtain occupancy authorization.
However, you may use the online application if you qualify. Some territories eligible for e-visas include Andorra, the US, the UK, Brunei, Malaysia, etc. Individuals eligible for an e-visa can often apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA). If you do not qualify for the Saudi Arabia e-visa or VoA, you must request embassy authorization.
2. Decide Your Purpose of Visit
This step involves selecting the purpose of your visit. Your decision will determine the type of visa required. Some available categories include:
- Tourist Visa: For individuals visiting for tourism purposes.
- Business Visit Visa: For individuals engaging in professional activities.
- Employment Visa: For individuals investing in the KSA business sector and seeking long-term residence.
- Residence Visa: For individuals seeking permanent residence status.
- Premium Residency Visa: For individuals seeking high-status residency.
- Family Visit Visa: For individuals visiting family members.
- Companion Visa: For individuals accompanying someone in the country.
- Personal Visit Visa: For individuals without family or business ties to the nation.
- Hajj and Umrah Visa: For Muslims visiting for pilgrimage.
- Student Visa: For students enrolled in educational institutions in the country.
- Government Visa: For individuals invited by Saudi Arabian government agencies or ministries.
- Diplomatic & Official Visas: For individuals holding diplomatic passports.
- Newborn Visa: For newborns to be added to the national residency card.
- Extension of Exit/Re-Entry Visa: For extending the permit duration.
3. Visa Application Fees
The Saudi Arabia visa fee varies by category. The tourist e-visa costs SAR 535 or USD 143, which includes health insurance. On the other hand, the tourist Saudi Arabia visa on arrival charges the candidate SAR 480 or USD 128.
For the most comprehensive information, please refer to the official website.
Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa
Two methods for obtaining the permit are online and via the embassy. Summaries for each method are outlined below:
Online Application
If you qualify for an e-visa, follow these procedures:
- Visit the website for the e-visa application.
- Click on the “Apply Now” button.
- Fill out the application form.
- Pay the required fees.
- Wait for processing, which should take no more than half an hour.
- Check your email for the e-visa confirmation.
Via the Embassy
If you are ineligible for an e-visa, you can apply for a permit through the consulate. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Prepare the necessary paperwork:
- Passport-sized photos.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
- Passport.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Return ticket.
- Travel itinerary.
- Schedule an appointment with the consulate officer.
- Complete the application and provide the required documents.
- Submit the application and attend an interview if required.
- Wait for 1-2 days for processing.
- Collect your visa upon approval.
You now have all the necessary information to secure a Saudi Arabia visa. Waste no time; arrange your trip by reserving your flight ASAP! We recommend using Airpaz for convenient reservations and great offers. Safe travels!
