Saudi Arabia’s visa policy governs the requirements for foreign nationals to enter the Kingdom. Depending on their nationality, visitors to Saudi Arabia may be eligible for visa-free entry, e-Visa, visa on arrival, or need to obtain a visa through Saudi diplomatic missions. The visa policy also includes specific provisions for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, business travelers, and tourists.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Saudi Arabia?
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have freedom of movement within Saudi Arabia and can enter with just a national ID.
- Visa on Arrival (VoA) or e-Visa: Nationals of over 50 countries can apply for a tourist e-Visa online or obtain a visa on arrival.
- Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW): Some nationals, such as those from the United Kingdom, can obtain an EVW.
- Visa in Advance: Citizens of countries not eligible for a visa on arrival or e-Visa must apply for a visa in advance at a Saudi embassy or consulate.
Visa-Free Entry for GCC Nationals
Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates enjoy freedom of movement in Saudi Arabia and do not require a visa to enter the Kingdom. They can enter using their national ID cards and stay for up to 90 days.
Visa on Arrival (VoA) or e-Visa
Saudi Arabia began issuing tourist visas on September 28, 2019. Citizens of eligible countries can apply for an e-Visa online or obtain a visa on arrival at entry points into Saudi Arabia.
Countries eligible for an e-Visa or visa on arrival include:
- European Union (all member states)
- United States, United Kingdom, Canada
- Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea
- China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore
- Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan
- South Africa, Seychelles
The tourist visa is valid for 90 days and allows single or multiple entries. The visa costs approximately 117 USD (440 Saudi Riyals), which includes a health insurance fee.
Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)
The United Kingdom is currently eligible for the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW). Citizens of the UK can apply for an EVW online, which allows a single-entry visit to Saudi Arabia for up to 6 months. The EVW can be used for tourism, business, education, or medical reasons.
Substitute Visa
Holders of valid US, UK, or Schengen visas can obtain a Saudi e-Visa upon arrival, provided the visa has been used at least once to enter the issuing country. This option is available only through Saudi-based airlines like Saudia, Flynas, and Flyadeal.
Visa Required in Advance
Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry, visa on arrival, or e-Visa need to apply for a visa in advance at a Saudi embassy or consulate. This includes countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, and others.
Hajj and Umrah Visas
Special visas are available for pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah:
- Hajj Visa: Available between 14th Shawwal and 25th Dhu al-Qadah, this visa is issued through licensed travel agents.
- Umrah Visa: Available year-round, but Muslim women under the age of 45 must travel with a male relative or a group of women accompanied by a group leader. Umrah visas are separate from tourist visas and cannot be used for general tourism purposes.
Since 2020, non-Umrah visa holders have been allowed to perform Umrah, and restrictions on Umrah visas have been relaxed.
Development of Tourist Visas
Saudi Arabia began issuing tourist visas as part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and promote tourism:
- In September 2019, the government launched an e-Visa program allowing citizens from 49 countries to apply for a visa ahead of their trip or obtain one on arrival.
- Foreign men and women are now allowed to share hotel rooms without needing to prove marital status, and women, including Saudi nationals, can book hotel rooms alone.
- The visa allows visitors to explore cultural, historical, and natural attractions in Saudi Arabia but restricts access to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, which are only accessible to Muslims.
Special Visa Programs
- Sharek International Events Visa (SIEV): This electronic visa is issued with the purchase of tickets to special events such as sporting events, concerts, or cultural festivals. It allows single-entry stays for up to 30 days.
- Business and Event Visas: In March 2019, Saudi Arabia announced new visa categories for business travelers and those attending events. The e-Visa for such purposes costs 640 riyals (approximately 170 USD).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible for Saudi e-Visa or visa on arrival? Citizens of over 50 countries, including EU member states, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan, can apply for a tourist e-Visa or get a visa on arrival for up to 90 days.
- How much does a Saudi tourist visa cost? The tourist visa costs 117 USD (440 Saudi Riyals), including the mandatory health insurance fee.
- Can US visa holders get a visa on arrival? Yes, travelers with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa can obtain a visa on arrival, provided the visa has been used at least once to enter the issuing country.
- What is the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)? The EVW allows UK citizens to enter Saudi Arabia for up to 6 months without a visa. It is available for tourism, business, or medical purposes.
- Can non-Muslims visit Mecca and Medina? No, non-Muslims are prohibited from entering the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
- Are Israeli stamps allowed on passports? Since 2019, having Israeli stamps or visas in passports does not disqualify travelers from visiting Saudi Arabia.