Saudi Arabia

About this tour

Saudi Arabia offers several types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit:

Tourist Visa:

For leisure, sightseeing, or cultural visits.
Valid for multiple entries over one year, with each stay lasting up to 90 days.
Business Visa:

For attending business meetings, conferences, or trade events.
Requires an invitation letter from a Saudi company.
Work Visa:

For employment purposes, sponsored by a Saudi employer.
Requires a signed employment contract and medical tests.
Family Visit Visa:

For visiting immediate family members residing in Saudi Arabia.
Sponsored by a resident family member.
Hajj and Umrah Visa:

For religious pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina.
Hajj visas are available only during the Hajj season, while Umrah visas are available year-round (except during Hajj).
Student Visa:

For those enrolled in educational institutions in Saudi Arabia.
Requires an acceptance letter from the institution.
Transit Visa:

For short stops in Saudi Arabia while en route to another destination.
2. Who Needs a Visa?
Many countries now have access to Saudi Arabia’s eVisa for tourism purposes, including the USA, EU countries, Canada, Australia, and more.
Nationals of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries do not require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Travelers for Hajj and Umrah need specific pilgrimage visas, except for Muslim nationals of visa-exempt countries.
3. How to Apply for a Visa
Tourist eVisa:
Visit the official Saudi eVisa portal (Visit Saudi).
Complete the online application form.
Pay the visa fee (approx. $117 USD, including health insurance).
Receive your eVisa via email (processing typically takes 24-72 hours).
Embassy Visa (for other types):
Collect the required documents (see below).
Submit the application at the Saudi embassy or consulate in your country.
Pay the visa fee (varies by type).
Wait for processing (typically 5-15 business days).
4. Required Documents
While the requirements vary by visa type, here are the common documents:

Completed application form.
Passport valid for at least 6 months with blank pages.
Recent passport-sized photos.
Proof of travel itinerary (flight tickets).
Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter).
Travel insurance (mandatory for tourist visas).
Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements).
Specific documents related to visa type:
For business: Invitation letter from a Saudi company.
For work: Employment contract and medical test reports.
For family visit: Proof of relationship with the resident family member.
5. Key Notes
Processing Time: Tourist eVisas are quick (usually 24-72 hours), while embassy visas can take up to 15 business days.
Visa Validity: Tourist visas are valid for one year, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.
Dress Code & Laws: Saudi Arabia has specific cultural norms and laws; ensure you familiarize yourself with them before traveling.
6. Hajj and Umrah Specifics
Hajj Visa: Only available through authorized Hajj agencies in your country.
Umrah Visa: Can be applied through licensed Umrah operators or via Saudi eVisa for eligible nationalities.