Electronic Visa In Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is one of the most attractive travel destinations for US citizens, as it is a rich country that has many places to visit and discover. However, if you are from the US, you will need a visa in order to enter Saudi Arabia. In fact, the Saudi Electronic Visa system is electronically operated by Passport Visa Services (PVS) authorized by Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which enable you to get a Saudi visa from the comfort of your home through the internet. The Saudi electronic visa (eVisa) allows you to enter Saudi Arabia via Jeddah or Dammam airports for a short stay of less than 30 days. This program became fully implemented in July 2016. Currently, you can apply for an eVisa online.
Saudi Arabia is preparing to issue the electronic visas in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are likely to issue electronic visas in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in order to boost income.
Electronic Visa In Saudi Arabia
As part of its plan to modernize the visa application process in Saudi Arabia, The Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) has developed a new electronic system to replace the paper visa application that was in use before. Since July 29, 2012, all applications for a new visit or transit visa, or renewal of a business/residence visa, are now done online through the website of The Saudi Electronic Visa (SaudicVisa).
Saudi Arabia Online Visa
What is a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
The Saudi Arabia eVisa is an electronic multiple-entry permit for foreign visitors. With an approved e-Visa, travelers can visit Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days.
The eVisa has made it easier to visit Saudi Arabia. The application process is 100% online and travelers receive the approved visa by email.
What can I use the Saudi eVisa for?
Holders of the Saudi Arabia online visa can enter the country for any of the following reasons:
- Tourism
- Transit
- Short business trips
Business travelers can enter with an eVisa for any professional activity that does not require a contract, such as meetings, conferences, and workshops.
Documents required for Saudi Online Visa
Applying for a visa for Saudi Arabia online is simple. Travelers need just 3 items to complete the Saudi Arabia e-Visa application form:
- Passport from an eligible country, valid for 6 months beyond the arrival date
- Passport-style photograph
- Debit or credit card
Foreigners must have medical insurance to visit Saudi Arabia. This is included in the eVisa application, travelers take out the policy when processing their online visa.
A debit or credit card is required to pay the Saudi Arabia eVisa fees securely online.
Saudi Online Visa during COVID-19
Tourist visa holders who have been fully vaccinated with a Saudi-approved vaccine can enter. The Saudi Arabia e-Visa is valid for 1 year. Travelers who are not currently able to travel to the country will be able to use the visa as soon as restrictions are lifted.
Current entry rules:
- Visitors with a tourist visa can enter
- Travel requests from vaccinated Umrah pilgrims are now being accepted
- Entry from some high-risk countries is banned
Requirements to travel to Saudi Arabia during COVID-19
- Passengers need to download the Saudi health app and complete a health disclaimer form
Entry requirements and restrictions are subject to change at short notice during the coronavirus pandemic. Anyone wishing to travel to Saudi Arabia at this time must have the latest information before making arrangements.
Check the latest news about entry restrictions here
Countries Eligible for the Saudi Arabia Electronic Visa
Passport holders from the following countries, who meet the Saudi Arabia visa requirements, can now apply online:
- Australia
- Austria
- Andorra
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Brunei
- Canada
- China
- Cyprus
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Ireland
- 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
Advantages of the Saudi Online Visa
There are many benefits to applying for a Saudi Arabia visa online instead of at the Embassy. It’s fast, convenient, and hassle-free.
| SERVICES | Embassy Visa | Online Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Applications open 24/7 | ╳ | ✔ |
| Review of application by eVisa experts | ╳ | ✔ |
| Round-the-clock customer service | ╳ | ✔ |
| Simplified application form | ╳ | ✔ |
| Visa recovery email | ╳ | ✔ |
| Refund granted if the visa is denied | ╳ | ✔ |
Other Tourist Visas for Saudi Arabia
Visa on Arrival
Passengers who are eligible for an e-Visa can also apply for a visa on arrival at certain ports of entry. Travelers are advised to request the visa online before departure to avoid delays at the airport.
Tourists of other nationalities who hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may also obtain a visa subject to specific conditions.
Embassy Visa
Travelers who are not eligible for an eVisa should apply in person at a Saudi embassy or consulate. All the required documents must be presented in person during consulate opening hours.
Applicants need to return to the embassy or consulate to collect the visa and their passport.
Pilgrim visas
There are 2 types of pilgrimage visas in Saudi Arabia. Tourists can perform Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, with a Saudi Arabia eVisa.
Pilgrims who wish to travel to Mecca during the Hajj season need to apply for a special Hajj pilgrim visa.
Travelers can get a Saudi Arabia visa online provided they:
- Hold a passport from one of the eligible countries
- Are visiting for tourism, transit, or short business trips
- Will stay for no more than 90 days
Other types of Saudi Arabia visas are available to people who are not able to apply online.
FAQ’s
How long can I stay in Saudi Arabia with an eVisa?
Tourists can stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days with an e-Visa. It is a multiple-entry visa: the 90 days can be used on one individual trip or divided between different visits.