How to Get a Visa for Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has modernised its visa system in recent years, making it easier for tourists, business travellers, and pilgrims to enter. Many visitors can now use the Saudi eVisa platform, while others still need to apply through embassies or sponsors for work and long-term stays.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and how to apply step by step.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry:
Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE) can enter Saudi Arabia without a visa. - Visa on arrival & eVisa:
Citizens of Australia, USA, UK, EU/Schengen countries, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Kazakhstan, and a growing list of countries can get a tourist eVisa or visa on arrival. - Advance visa required:
Nationals from countries not on the eVisa list — including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nigeria, and many African or Asian nations — must apply in advance through a Saudi embassy or visa service.
✅ Check eligibility and apply online: https://visa.visitsaudi.com
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa | Tourism, leisure, family visits | 90 days per visit, multiple entry, valid 1 year |
| Visa on Arrival | Tourism/leisure (eligible countries) | 90 days |
| Business Visa | Meetings, conferences, trade | Up to 90 days |
| Hajj & Umrah Visa | Pilgrimage to Mecca/Medina | Dates tied to pilgrimage season |
| Work Visa + Iqama (Residence Permit) | Employment in Saudi Arabia | 1–2 years renewable |
| Student Visa | Full-time study | Duration of program |
| Family Visit Visa | Visiting relatives in Saudi Arabia | 90 days (single/multiple entry) |
| Residence Visa | Joining family or long-term stay | 1–2 years renewable |
3. Applying for a Tourist eVisa (Most Common)
Step 1 — Apply Online
- Go to the official portal: https://visa.visitsaudi.com
- Create an account and select “Tourist eVisa.”
- Fill in personal details, passport info, travel plans.
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
Typically:
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond entry
- Passport photo (digital, white background)
- Return flight ticket (sometimes requested)
- Travel insurance (automatically included with the eVisa)
Step 3 — Pay the Visa Fee
- Tourist eVisa: ~SAR 480 (USD $127) including medical insurance.
Step 4 — Processing Time
- Usually minutes to 24 hours for most applicants.
- Approval is sent by email — print or save it on your phone.
Step 5 — Enter Saudi Arabia
- Show your eVisa (printed or digital) at immigration.
4. Visa on Arrival
If eligible (check the official site):
- Available at major airports (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina).
- Same cost as the eVisa (~SAR 480).
- Valid for 90 days per visit, multiple entries for 1 year.
✅ It’s usually faster and cheaper to apply for an eVisa online before flying.
5. Applying for Business, Work, or Long-Term Visas
Business Visa
- Usually requires an invitation letter from a Saudi-registered company.
- Apply through the Saudi embassy or authorised visa agents (e.g., VFS Tasheel).
- Valid up to 90 days (sometimes multiple entries).
Work Visa (Employment)
- Employer Sponsorship: Your Saudi employer applies for a work permit.
- Medical Tests: Complete a medical check and police clearance.
- Apply at Embassy: Submit work authorisation, passport, photos, and fees.
- Iqama Residence Permit: Issued after arrival; needed for living and working legally.
Student Visa
- Requires an admission letter from a Saudi university.
- Submit proof of funds, medical exams, and police clearance.
Family Visit / Residence Visa
- Requires sponsorship by a family member living in Saudi Arabia.
- Submit proof of relationship, income, and residence permit of the sponsor.
6. Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa / VOA | SAR 480 (~USD $127) |
| Business Visa | ~SAR 800–1,000 (USD $213–266) |
| Hajj & Umrah Visa | Usually free (service fees may apply) |
| Work Visa | Employer-sponsored (~SAR 2,000–5,000) |
| Student Visa | SAR 100–500 (USD $27–133) |
| Family Visit Visa | SAR 300–500 (USD $80–133) |
Fees vary by nationality, duration, and service provider.
7. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Use the official portal: https://visa.visitsaudi.com — avoid unofficial resellers.
- Apply early for non-tourist visas: Work, study, and family visas can take weeks or months.
- Medical insurance is included with the eVisa, so you don’t need to buy separately for short stays.
- Passport validity: Ensure at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- Respect local laws & customs: Saudi Arabia has strict regulations on dress, conduct, and prohibited items.
- Overstaying fines: Can be heavy — make sure you leave or extend before your visa expires.
- Multiple entry: The tourist eVisa allows multiple entries within a year — ideal if you plan to return.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Approved eVisa or confirmed visa (if not visa-free)
- Return/onward ticket
- Travel insurance (included in tourist eVisa)
- Invitation letter (if business or family visa)
- Medical and police certificates (for work/study)