KSA Visa
What is the KSA Visa?
A KSA visa is an official document provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) allowing visitors to enter the country. Saudi entry visas may be issued for either single or multiple entries, with varying validity and stay durations based on the applicant’s nationality and the type of visa.
For example, a Saudi Tourist visa usually permits a short stay, while a student visa offers a more extended period. Depending on nationality, some applicants can apply for a Saudi electronic visa online, while others must obtain one through a Saudi embassy or consulate. Saudi visas for GCC citizens are not required.
KSA Visa Types
There are many different types of Saudi visas catering to different purposes of travel. Whether you are traveling to Saudi Arabia for tourism, education, religious, medical, or various other reasons, the multiple Saudi Arabia visa options ensure that visitors have the right visa for their specific needs.
Visit Visa
The most common visa option is the Saudi Visit Visa. This option is for those who are traveling to Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes, to visit friends or family, for medical reasons, to perform Umrah, or for business purposes. This is the ideal visa for short-term stays.
Work Visa
The Saudi Work Visa is for those who have secured employment in Saudi Arabia. It is often issued to expats who have been offered a job by a Saudi company and allows them to reside and work in the country.
Transit Visa
A Saudi Transit Visa is required for travelers passing through Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination. This visa allows for a brief stay in the Kingdom.
Hajj Visa
The Saudi Hajj Visa is specifically for Muslims who intend to perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage. It is only issued during the Hajj season and has specific regulations.
Diplomatic Visa
Diplomatic visas are issued to government officials, diplomats, and their families for official visits to Saudi Arabia. This visa is typically reserved for high-ranking officials representing foreign governments.
Student Visa
An Education Visa is issued to individuals who wish to study in Saudi Arabia. This is typically valid for the duration of the program.
Missions and Organizations Visit Visa
This visa is for representatives of international organizations or missions who are traveling to Saudi Arabia to engage in official duties or activities.
Special Visa
A Special Visa is a category issued to individuals on official or government-related visits. It allows those with special passports to visit, reside, or work in diplomatic missions in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia eVisa
The Saudi Arabia eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization that allows visitors from eligible countries to enter the Kingdom for tourism-related purposes. It simplifies the process by enabling applicants to obtain their visa online, without the need to visit an embassy or consulate.
The Saudi eVisa can be acquired by those visiting the country for tourism purposes, such as attending events, visiting friends and family, and performing Umrah (outside of the Hajj season).
The eVisa is available as both single-entry and multiple-entry, depending on the applicant’s choice. For the Saudi Multiple Entry Visa, the eVisa is valid for up to one year from the date of issue.
Visitors can stay for a maximum of 90 days per visit, with a total stay of up to 180 days per year for the Saudi 1-year Multiple Entry Visa. Single-entry visas typically allow a 30-day stay.
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eVisa Processing Time
Most applications are processed within 24 to 72 hours. However, delays can occur if additional information or documentation is required for verification. To ensure a smooth process, applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well in advance of their intended travel dates, allowing enough time for any unforeseen delays. You can always check your eVisa status online.
Saudi eVisa Validity and Duration of Stay
Once your visa has been approved, it will typically be valid for 1 year. For each visit, the Saudi eVisa allows travelers to stay for a maximum of 90 days in Saudi Arabia. These 90 days can be used either consecutively or spread out over multiple visits, as long as the total does not exceed 90 days in a year. The Saudi eVisa allows for multiple entries over the course of 1 year.
Required Documents for the KSA eVisa
To apply for a Saudi eVisa, applicants need to gather and submit specific documents to ensure their application is processed smoothly. Below is a list of the key documents required:
Who Can Apply for a Saudi eVisa
The Saudi eVisa is available to travelers from a wide range of countries. This makes it easier for individuals to visit the Kingdom for tourism and other leisure purposes. Below is a list of countries whose citizens are eligible to apply for a Saudi eVisa. GCC residents are also eligible for the eVisa, regardless of their nationality.
United States, Canada, Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, Finland, Norway, Greece, Ireland, Poland, Portugal, Hungary, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Monaco, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Malta, Maldives, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Thailand, Uzbekistan, China, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, South Africa, Seychelles, Mauritius, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Albania, Andorra, Liechtenstein, San Marino, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Romania, Vatican City, Serbia, Slovenia, Moldova, Panama, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Saudi eVisa Application Process
The Saudi Visa online application process is designed to be simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to successfully complete your application.
Fill Out the Application Form
Fill out the Saudi Visa application online. The form can be found here. Ensure all personal information and travel details are accurate.
Pay Visa Fee
After completing the application, you will need to pay the Saudi visa price. The cost varies depending on the type of visa.
Receive Your Visa
Once the payment is processed, your visa application will be reviewed. If approved, the eVisa will be sent to the provided email address.
Extension and Renewal of Saudi Arabia eVisa
Currently, extensions are not officially available. The eVisa is designed for short-term visits, such as tourism or business trips, and typically allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a single year. The most straightforward approach to extending your stay in Saudi Arabia is simply exiting the country and reapplying for a new visa. Depending on the purpose of your extended stay, you may consider applying for a different type of visa that suits your needs, such as a Saudi Business Visa or an Employment Visa.
Overstaying your eVisa in Saudi Arabia can lead to several negative consequences. You may be subject to daily fines for each day you overstay. These fines can accumulate quickly and can be substantial. Authorities may deport you back to your home country if you overstay your visa. This could also lead to a ban on re-entering Saudi Arabia for a specified period.
Visit Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a unique travel destination, offering interesting history, an amazing culture, and delicious food. From the coastline along the Red Sea to the historic cities of Mecca and Medina, and the Arabian Desert, the country provides diverse experiences for both adventurers and cultural explorers.
As the Kingdom continues to grow as a travel hotspot, it’s important to remember these key Saudi Arabia travel tips:
Ensure Visa Validity
Always check the validity of your Saudi eVisa before your trip. Make sure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your entry date into the Kingdom.
Prepare for Local Weather
Saudi Arabia experiences extreme temperatures, especially in the summer months. Pack accordingly and stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting desert regions or planning outdoor activities.
Respect Local Customs
The country has strict cultural norms and religious practices. Be mindful of dress codes and respect the customs during religious times like prayer and Ramadan.
Saudi Visa Frequently Asked Questions
No, Saudi Arabia does not offer visas on arrival. You must obtain your visa before travel.
The price for a Saudi Arabia Visit Visa can vary depending on several factors, including your nationality. It is typically between $120 and $150.
The Saudi Umrah Visa is available for Muslims coming to perform the Umrah pilgrimage. It is typically valid for a short period and allows entry to Saudi Arabia for the purpose of performing Umrah.
A Saudi visa waiver refers to a situation where certain nationals or residents may be exempt from visa requirements for short stays in Saudi Arabia. This waiver is often part of specific agreements between Saudi Arabia and other countries.
The Saudi 10-year visa is a long-term visa introduced to attract foreign investors and skilled professionals. It allows the holder to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 10 years and is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to boost the economy and attract talent. Eligibility typically includes meeting specific criteria related to employment, investment, or professional skills.