How To Apply for Saudi Tourist Visa
Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to visitors from all over the world with its evisa program since September, 2019. Visitors can acquire a multiple-entry visa valid for a year that will allow them to stay in the country for up to 90 days. The visa is relevant to tourism-related activities and Umrah (excluding Hajj season) and excludes other activities such as studying.
The visa system is a historic milestone in opening Saudi Arabia to tourism. International visitors can discover the warm hospitality of Saudi people: our rich heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse and breath-taking landscapes, from the mountains of Abha to the beaches of the Red Sea and the shifting sands of the Empty Quarter.
Visa eligibility
Tourists from 49 eligible countries can apply for a tourist visa online through our fast and easy-to-use eVisa portal ahead of their trip, or upon arrival in Saudi Arabia through visa kiosks at immigration.
Tourists from other countries should apply for a consulate visa through Saudi embassies and consulates. Holders of US, UK, or Schengen visas can apply for the visa upon arrival.
Fees and Validity
All Visit Visas, including e-Visa, Visa-on-Arrival and Consulate Visa:
- The visa fees are SAR 300, and the cost of the new comprehensive medical insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment is SAR 180 including tax, bringing the total to SAR 480.
- The validity of the visa depends on its type. A single entry visa allows you to stay for a total length of one month, while the multiple entry visa allows you to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to three months.
- A multiple entry visa is valid for a maximum of three months, regardless of whether you leave and re-enter the country during that period of time.
Application information (Group A)
E-visa and visa on arrival
- Minimum age of applicants is 18 years old.
- Underaged applicants require an individual above 18 years old to act as their guardian.
- When applying, the passport validity must suffice for at least 6 months at the time of entering Saudi Arabia.*
- Refund in case of rejection is not possible. Visa fees are non-refundable
- Overstay fees: SAR100 for each day of overstay when the visa expires without leaving Saudi Arabia.
- Religion of applicant is not relevant.
- Countries with bilateral agreements can apply for the visit visa through e-Visa or visa-on-arrival, or through the consulate visa (USA, UK, South Korea and Japan).
- Documents not required to obtain a visa:
– Return ticket;
– Booking accommodation (only address is required);
– A hard copy of the visa, although a soft copy is advised. - Time taken to issue an e-Visa is 5-30 minutes in most cases.
- Visa eligibility pre-checks are conducted by all airlines before boarding flights to Saudi Arabia.
* For citizens of the USA, an extended validity of 6 months after the passport expiry date is permissible for application.
Consulate Visa
- Minimum age of applicants is 18 years old.
- Underaged applicants require an individual above 18 years old to be the guardian.
- When applying, the passport validity must suffice for at least 6 months at the time of entering Saudi Arabia.
- Refund in case of rejection is not possible, visa fees are non-refundable.
- Overstay fees: SAR 100 for each day of overstay.
- Religion of applicant is not relevant.
- Sponsor is not required for the visa application.
- Documents required include:
– Proof of accommodation;
– Return ticket;
– Proof of employment;
– Financial solvency/Bank statement;
– Flight itinerary;
– Complete personal information; home address. - Time taken to issue an Visa is 1-2 business days in most cases.
- Visa pre-checks are conducted by all airlines before boarding flights to Saudi Arabia.
* Holders of US, UK, or Schengen visas can apply for the visa upon arrival.