Saudi Tourist Visa: Who Can Apply & How to Get It

Saudi Arabia has opened its doors wider than ever to international visitors, and the tourist eVisa makes it easier to explore historic sites, coastal escapes, and vibrant seasons across the Kingdom. In this Saudi Living guide, we walk you through exactly who can apply for a Saudi tourist visa, how the process works step by step, what it costs, and the rules on stay length and religious travel so you arrive fully prepared.

Who can apply for a Saudi tourist visa

The tourist eVisa is designed to be accessible to a broad range of travelers. You may be eligible if you fall into one of these categories:

• Citizens of the 66 eligible countries who can apply online directly.
• Holders of a valid visa issued by the United States, United Kingdom, or a Schengen Area country.
• Permanent residents of the United States, European Union, or United Kingdom.
• Residents of GCC countries, subject to the current conditions in place.

Because eligibility rules can be updated, always confirm your specific situation on the official Saudi visa portal before booking any travel.

Passport and document requirements

Before you start your application, make sure your travel documents are in order:

• Your passport should generally be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry.
• A clear passport-style photograph, which you may be asked to upload during the application.
• Personal, travel, and accommodation details ready to enter accurately.

How and where to apply

There are three main channels for obtaining a Saudi tourist visa, depending on your nationality and residency:

• Online eVisa: The most common route, completed entirely through the official Saudi eVisa platform.
• Embassy or authorized visa center: If online eligibility is not available for your nationality, you can apply through a Saudi embassy or an authorized visa service center.
• Visa on arrival: Eligible travelers may obtain a visa on arrival at participating Saudi international airports.

Step-by-step application process

The online tourist-visa process is straightforward and typically follows these steps:

• Check your nationality or qualifying-residency eligibility.
• Complete the online tourist-visa application form.
• Enter your passport, personal, travel, and accommodation details.
• Upload a passport photograph where requested.
• Pay the fees electronically.
• Receive your visa by email, then keep a digital or printed copy to show on arrival.

Fees and payment

The tourism visa schedule lists the following charges:

• Visa fee: USD 80
• Digital-services fee: USD 10.50
• Insurance-services fee: USD 10.50

The equivalent amount in ريال سعودي can vary depending on the exchange rate and payment processing at the time of purchase. The portal will always display the final charge before you confirm payment, so review it carefully.

Validity, length of stay, and religious travel

Saudi Arabia offers two main tourist-visa formats:

• Multiple-entry visa: Valid for 1 year, allowing stays of up to 90 days
• Single-entry visa: Valid for 90 days, with a stay of up to 90 days.

Regarding religious travel, keep these points in mind:

• The tourist visa does not authorize Hajj.
• It may permit performing Umrah, subject to seasonal restrictions and current regulations.

Important restrictions to know

Tourist visas may be restricted during the Hajj season, and entry for Umrah or general tourism can be subject to specific dates and operational rules announced by Saudi authorities. To avoid any surprises, check the latest requirements on the official Saudi visa portal shortly before you travel, and confirm any Umrah-related conditions if that is part of your plans. With your visa in hand and your documents ready, you'll be set to enjoy everything the Kingdom has to offer.

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