For the first time in its history, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that will be opening its doors for tourism by issuing an electronic visa for visitors coming from 49 countries — including the United States. Let's check how to go through the visa application process yourself, without the help of agencies!
Tourist visa to Saudi Arabia
As of September 2019, Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to travellers from around the world through an eVisa program. Visitors to the country can obtain a one-year multi-entry visa that allows them to spend up to 90 days in the country. This type of visa is issued for the purpose of tourism or pilgrimage (outside the hajj season) and excludes other activities such as studies.
The new visa system is a historic turning point for Saudi Arabia's tourism industry. Tourists from around the world can now experience the hospitality of the locals, experience the rich cultural heritage and see breathtaking landscapes, from the mountains of Abha to the beaches of the Red Sea to the quicksand of the Rub al-Khali Desert.
Who can get the visa ?
Travelers from 49 countries on the list can apply for a tourist visa online through the eVisa portal before their trip. The application process is fast and convenient. In addition, citizens of these countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at the counters in the passport control area.
Tourists from other countries need to apply for a visa through Saudi Arabian embassies and consulates. Holders of a valid U.S., British, or Schengen visa may apply for a visa on arrival.
Applying to a visa to Saudi Arabia
Applying for a tourist visa to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is easy. If you have citizenship of one of the 49 countries on the list, you can apply through the eVisa portal. Citizens of other countries can apply at the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.
Holders of a valid U.S., British, or Schengen visa may apply for a visa on arrival.
Price and duration
For all visas to visit the country, including electronic visa, visa on arrival and consular visa:
The cost of the visa is 300 rials (about $300). The cost of comprehensive health insurance against coronavirus is 180 rials, including taxes. That makes the total amount of 480 rials (about $127).
The duration of the visa depends on its type. A single entry visa will allow you to stay in the country for 30 days and a multiple entry visa is valid for up to 90 days.
The longest stay in Saudi Arabia is 90 days for single or multiple entry.
E-visa and visa on arrival
- The minimum age of the applicant is 18 years old.
- Minor applicants must have a guardian at least 18 years old.
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia at the time of application.
- a color photo matching Saudi Arabia visa application photo requirements (you can get it from here).
- No refunds will be given for cancellations. Visa fees are non-refundable.
- Overstaying fee: 100 Saudi riyals per day overstayed, in case the visa expires before the traveler leaves Saudi Arabia.
- The applicant's religion is irrelevant.
- Citizens of countries participating in the bilateral agreement can apply for a visa through the e-visa portal or upon arrival and through the Saudi consulate (U.S., U.K., South Korea and Japan).
- Documents that are not required to obtain a visa:
- A round-trip ticket;
- Proof of accommodation reservation (only address required);
- A hard copy of the visa (electronic copy is recommended).
- Electronic visa processing time in most cases is 5-30 minutes.
- Visa checks are done on all flights to Saudi Arabia prior to boarding.
