Visa Policy of Saudi Arabia

The visa policy of Saudi Arabia is a set of rules and regulations that govern the entry and stay of foreign nationals in the country. The policy outlines the various types of visas available to visitors, the requirements for obtaining them, and the terms and conditions of their use. Saudi Arabia’s visa policy aims to balance the country’s security concerns with its desire to attract foreign investment and promote tourism. The policy is subject to change based on the prevailing security situation and the country’s economic and social objectives.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made significant changes to its visa policy, introducing new visa categories, streamlining the visa application process, and relaxing visa requirements for certain countries. This has helped to make the country more accessible to foreign visitors and fostered closer ties with other countries. However, understanding Saudi Arabia’s visa policy is crucial for anyone planning to visit or work there. Failure to comply with the procedure can result in denial of entry or deportation.

Visa Free Entry

Depending on the visitor’s nationality and purpose of stay, only some countries enjoy visa-free entry into Saudi Arabia. Below is the list of countries whose citizens are exempt from obtaining a visa to enter Saudi Arabia:

• Kuwait
• Bahrain
• U.A.E
• Qatar
• Oman

Citizens of the countries mentioned above can enter and stay in Saudi Arabia for up to ninety days without a visa. However, they may still be subject to entry and exit requirements, such as providing evidence of sufficient funds and having a valid passport or national id card to enter the nation. French diplomatic and official passport holders are likewise exempt from the visa requirement. It is essential to note that visa policies are subject to change, and it is always advisable to check with the relevant authorities before making travel arrangements.

Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Arabia Visa

The eligibility criteria for a Saudi Arabia visa vary depending on the visa type. Applicants must possess a valid passport, submit necessary documents, and meet specific requirements related to their travel purpose. For instance, a Saudi tourist visa applicant may need proof of accommodation, while a work visa applicant requires a job offer and a sponsor in the country. Meeting the eligibility criteria ensures a smoother application process and a higher chance of visa approval. 

Saudi Arabia Visa Waiver Program

Saudi Arabia does not have a visa waiver program in place for any foreign country. All international visitors, except for citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia. It is important to keep up to date with the latest visa regulations and requirements, as policies may change over time. 

Visa on Arrival

The citizens of the following countries are eligible for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia:

• Kazakhstan
• Russia
• Ukraine
• Ireland
• U.S.A.
• New Zealand
• Canada
• Andorra
• Malaysia
• South Korea
• Hong Kong
• Singapore
• The U.K.
• Brunei
• Japan
• Australia
• China
• San Marino
• Monaco

It is always advisable to check with the Embassy of Saudi Arabia before making travel arrangements.

eVisa to Saudi Arabia

The list of countries whose citizens are eligible for a Saudi Arabia eVisa are as follows:

• Andorra
• Serbia
• Lithuania
• Switzerland
• Czech Republic
• Belgium
• Latvia
• Australia
• Italy
• Austria
• Japan
• Bulgaria
• Canada
• South Korea
• Brunei
• China (including Hong Kong and Macau)
• Germany
• Malta
• U.S.A.
• Sweden
• Estonia
• United Kingdom
• Cyprus
• Malaysia
• Denmark
• Croatia
• Norway
• Spain
• Ireland
• Slovenia
• Finland
• Slovakia
• Greece
• France
• Ukraine
• Singapore
• Monaco
• Russia
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Kazakhstan
• Netherlands
• Portugal
• Liechtenstein
• Poland
• Luxembourg
• Romania
• Montenegro
• San Marino

Additional Information

The requirements to obtain a Saudi Arabia eVisa are as follows:

1. A valid passport with at least six months validity from entry into Saudi Arabia.
2. A recent color photograph of the applicant.
3. A confirmed return ticket or onward ticket.
4. A valid credit card to pay for the Saudi visa fee.
5. An email address where the eVisa can be sent.
6. For business and commercial eVisas, an invitation letter from a Saudi Arabian company is required.
7. For family visits eVisas, a copy of a marriage certificate or birth certificate may be required.

Refusal of Admission

The Saudi Council for Tourism and National Heritage asserts on its official website that possessing an Israeli passport stamp allows eligible travelers to travel to Saudi Arabia as of the launch of the e-visa scheme. For some significant Israeli business projects, Saudi Arabia does offer special visas.

Types of Visas Issued by Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers several visa types to foreign nationals wishing to enter and stay in the country for various purposes. The following are the types of visas issued by Saudi Arabia, along with their specific details:

Government Visa for Saudi Arabia

This type of Saudi visa is issued to government officials and employees traveling to Saudi Arabia for official business.

Requirements:

1. Original passport with at least two consecutive blank visa pages and a minimum validity of six months.
2. Applicants should ask the Embassy about the guidelines for Enjaz to complete the online application.
3. A visa reference note from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its departments in Jeddah or Dammam that includes the number and date of the visa.
4. A copy of a green card or other paperwork proving permanent residency in the United States for non-citizens.

Applicants can also submit a visa application in the following ways:

1. Submit a Saudi visa application in person to the Saudi Arabian Embassy.
2. Through mail to the following address- Six hundred and One New Hampshire Avenue, North-West, Washington, District of Colombia, which is the address of the Embassy.
3. Via approved Embassy-authorized travel agencies for visas for Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Diplomatic & Official Visas

Diplomatic and official visas are issued to members of diplomatic missions, international organizations, and other official representatives traveling to Saudi Arabia for official purposes.

Requirements:

To obtain a diplomatic and official visa for Saudi Arabia, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

1. A valid passport with at least two consecutively vacant visa pages and a minimum validity of six months.
2. Letter from the Department of State or the appropriate Embassy containing the applicant’s details such as name, position, the reason for the journey, title, travel dates, and the number of entries they are requesting.
3. Complete copies of the Saudi flight’s inbound and outbound details.

Tourist Visa to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

A Saudi Arabia tourist visa is issued to individuals who wish to visit the country for tourism or leisure purposes. The visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Saudi Arabia offers two types of tourist visas: the e-visa and the visa on arrival. The visa requirements differ for citizens of Group 1 and Group 2 countries.

Group 1 countries include the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, most European countries, and several others. Citizens of Group 1 countries are eligible to apply for an e-visa, an electronic visa that can be applied for and obtained online before traveling to Saudi Arabia. The requirements for obtaining a Saudi eVisa for tourism include the following:

1. A passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
2. A recent photograph of the applicant with a white background.
3. Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia.
4. Proof of return or onward travel.
5. A credit or debit card for use to pay the visa fee.
6. The applicant must be at least 18 years old.

Group 2 countries include China, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, and others. Citizens of Group 2 countries can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport in Saudi Arabia. The requirements for obtaining a visa on arrival for tourism include:

1. A passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
2. A confirmed return ticket.
3. Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia.
4. A credit or debit card is used to pay the visa fee.
5. The applicant must be at least 18 years old.

It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change. Checking with the Saudi Arabian Embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country for the most up-to-date information is recommended. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has specific rules and regulations regarding visas and entry requirements, and it is the responsibility of the applicant to comply with these requirements.

Business Visit Visa

This visa is issued to individuals traveling to Saudi Arabia for short-term business-related purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiating business deals.

Requirements:

To obtain a business visa for Saudi Arabia, individuals must meet the following requirements:

1. Health insurance must be purchased from the Government of Saudi Arabia by non-citizens of the United States.
2. Applicants should note that as soon as the Enjaz form will be processed, options for nearby health insurance companies will be displayed on the official website.
3. Applicants must provide the following accompanying documentation:
4. Invitation sent electronically by a Saudi firm
5. Employment verification letter from the applicant’s American employer, addressed to the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Washington, confirming the applicant’s position and stating that the applicant is traveling on company business.
6. A replica of the company’s U.S. and Saudi Arabian corporate registration documents.
7. A copy of a document proving lawful residency in the United States, such as a green card, for non-citizens. If necessary, more papers might be asked for.

Saudi Arabia Employment Visa

An employment visa is issued to individuals who have secured employment in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Arabia visa is issued by the employer and allows the employee to work and reside in the country for the duration of their employment contract.

Requirements:

Applicants must comply with the following conditions:

1. Digital power of attorney authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of the Saudi supervisor.
2. A visa referral letter from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its branches in Dammam or Jeddah that includes the visa’s number and expiration date.
3. The original letter, attested by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, from the Saudi firm supporting the applicant. The letter must include the applicant’s name, date, job, and block visa number.
4. The letter should include wording allowing the agency to finalize all visa requirements if it is being submitted through an embassy-approved visa service agency.
5. A replica of the job contract, authenticated by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by the sponsor and the applicant.
6. A duplicate of the applicant’s university degree or diploma that has been duly certified and notarized, and authenticated by the Cultural Mission of Saudi Arabia.
7. Apart from this, a valid passport and medical reports are also required.

Saudi Arabia Employment Visa

The Premium Residency visa for Saudi Arabia is designed for wealthy foreign nationals who wish to live there without being employed in the country. It is issued for five years and can be renewed.

Requirements: 

The requirements for Saudi Arabia Premium Residency Visa are as follows:

1. A visa reference note from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its departments in Jeddah or Dammam that includes the number and date of the visa.
2. When a family member is present, proof of kinship must be presented. For couples, this means a copy of the marriage certificate; for children, it means a copy of the birth certificate.
3. There is a maximum age limit of eighteen for accompanying children; accompanying girls must not be married.
4. A copy of the green card or another official paper proving residency in the United States is required for non-citizens.
5. A medical report in three copies, all lab findings, and three (3) white-background, passport-size-colored photos.

Newborn Visa

This visa is issued to the newborn children of foreign nationals residing in Saudi Arabia. It is valid for the same period as the parent’s residence visa.

Requirements:

Applicants trying to obtain a Newborn visa for Saudi Arabia must submit the following documents:

1. Copies of both parents’ passports, identification cards, and visas for entrance and exit.
2. A duplicate of the infant’s birth document.

Extension of Exit/Re-Entry Visa

This visa for Saudi Arabia allows foreign nationals to extend their stay in the country beyond the original exit/re-entry visa. It is usually issued for a maximum of thirty days.

Requirements:

1. A copy of the most recent extension, if any, and a current resident permit. (Copies of family register printouts are available from the Saudi city’s Directorate General of Passports. This should contain all of the applicant’s details. ) 
2. Letter confirming continued employment and seeking an extension of the re-entry visa from the Saudi sponsor or consulate.
3. If the sponsor is a business or government organization, the letter must be notarized by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce; otherwise, it must be notarized by the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs.
4. To extend their exit/re-entry visas, spouses and children of anyone employed in the Kingdom must present a letter from that individual to the Saudi Consulate.

Family Visit Visa

Saudi Arabia’s Family Visit visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to visit their family members residing in the country.

Requirements:

1. Proof of the connection between the applicant and the person who invited them and, if any, proof of the applicants’ relationships.
2. A notarized statement in Arabic or English, signed by a parent or legal guardian, must be submitted by minors (under 18) traveling alone or with just one parent.
3. A copy of a green card or other paperwork proving permanent residency in the United States for non-citizens.

Companion Visa

This visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to accompany a Saudi Arabian national for a specific period.

Requirements:

1. Proof of the marriage certificate is required as proof of kinship for spouses, and a copy of the birth certificate is required for children.
2. A duplicate of the green card or other official documentation of their right to live legally in the U.S. for non-citizens.
3. Requesting the addition of close family members to their visa in a letter from the main traveler.
4. A copy of the main traveler’s current Saudi passport.
5. Only Saudi nationals’ spouses and children are eligible for this visa.
6. A notarized statement of authorization, in either Arabic or English, signed by both parents or legal guardians, is required for minors (under 18) traveling alone or with just one parent.

Personal Visit Visa

A personal Visit visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to visit Saudi Arabia for personal reasons, such as attending a wedding or funeral.

Requirements:

1. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its branches in Jeddah or Dammam will give a visa referral note with the number and date of the visa.
2. A notarized statement in Arabic or English, signed by a parent or legal guardian, must be submitted by minors under 18 traveling alone or with just one parent.
3. A copy of a green card or other paperwork proving permanent residency in the United States for non-citizens.

Hajj and Umrah Visa

This visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to visit Saudi Arabia for religious purposes, such as performing Hajj or Umrah. It is valid for the duration of the religious event and cannot be extended.

Requirements:

According to the official website, please use one of the tour companies that the Embassy has approved when applying for a Hajj and Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia.

Student Visa

Study visa for Saudi Arabia is issued to foreign nationals who wish to study in the country. It is usually issued for the duration of the academic program and can be renewed.

Requirements:

Prospective students applying for study visas for Saudi Arabia will need to submit the following:

1. Original birth document and one copy for the applicant.
2. High school diploma in original form and one duplicate for the applicant. Copy requires Saudi Cultural Agency authentication.
3. A medical report in three copies, all lab findings, and three white-background, passport-size-colored photos.
4. A qualified doctor must issue a medical report attesting to the applicant’s immunity to contagious diseases. Each copy of the medical report must bear the physician’s signature, along with their location and license number. 
5. At most, three months have passed since the date of issuance of medical records.
6. Police report, with details about the applicant’s criminal history, if any, that was released within six months of the application date.

It is important to note that the requirements and application process for each type of visa may vary, and it is advisable to check with the relevant authorities before making any travel arrangements. Additionally, visa policies in Saudi Arabia are subject to change, and it is recommended to stay updated with the latest regulations.

Can the Saudi Arabia Visa be Extended?

In Saudi Arabia, a visa’s validity depends on the visa type and the purpose of the visit. Some visas can be extended, while others cannot be extended. The following are the conditions under which a Saudi Arabia visa can or cannot be extended:

1. Exit/Re-entry Visas: These visas are issued to foreign nationals who are already in Saudi Arabia on a residence visa and wish to leave and return to the country. These visas can be extended up to thirty days beyond the original expiry date.
2. Family Visit Visas: Family visit visas can be extended for 90 days beyond the original validity period.
3. Business Visas: Business visit visas can be extended for up to 180 days beyond the original validity period if the sponsor requests an extension.
4. Student Visas: Student visas can be extended for the duration of the academic program, provided that the student is still enrolled.
5. Hajj and Umrah Visas: These visas cannot be extended and are valid only for the duration of the religious event.

It is important to note that visa extensions are subject to approval by the Saudi Arabian authorities, and the decision to grant an extension is based on the applicant’s individual circumstances. For instance, if a foreign national is found to have violated the terms of their visa, their application for an extension may be rejected. Similarly, if the Saudi Arabian authorities deem that the extension would pose a security risk, they may reject the application.

Overall, the decision to extend a Saudi Arabia visa depends on various factors, including the type of visa, the purpose of the visit, and the individual circumstances of the applicant.

Additional Information 

Saudi Arabia’s visa policy encompasses various visa types and requirements, catering to diverse travel purposes. The eVisa system allows eligible applicants to obtain a visa online, while a visa on arrival is available for certain nationalities. Saudi transit visas facilitate short-term stays during layovers, while family visit visas and work visas cater to longer stays. Diplomatic and official visas serve government officials and diplomatic personnel.

Biometric data collection is a mandatory part of the application process. Visa denial reasons may include inadequate documentation or security concerns. Overstaying visas can result in penalties or deportation. Sponsorship requirements apply to certain visa types, such as work visas. Generally, visa processing times vary depending on the Saudi visa type and individual circumstances. 

Conclusion

Overall, the Saudi Arabia visa policy is crucial for foreign nationals planning to visit or reside in the country. The policy outlines the various types of visas available, their requirements, and the terms and conditions of their use.

However, many travelers believe the Saudi Arabia visa policy can be restrictive and complicated. Some have reported difficulties obtaining visas, including long processing times and unclear requirements. Others have also expressed concerns about the restrictions on entry for specific nationalities and the limitations on visa extensions.

Despite these challenges, Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in recent years to streamline the visa application process and expand visa categories to make the country more accessible to foreign visitors. For example, the introduction of the Saudi Arabia eVisa system has made it easier for eligible travelers to apply for visas online and receive them quickly.

While the Saudi Arabia visa policy can be complex and challenging, travelers must understand the requirements and regulations before making travel arrangements. By staying updated with the latest visa policies and seeking guidance from the Embassy, travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when visiting Saudi Arabia.