Saudi Arabia has been actively promoting tourism and business opportunities in recent years, leading to a more diverse range of visa options for visitors. This comprehensive guide breaks down the various visa types available for Saudi Arabia and their associated costs. Please note that prices are subject to change, and additional fees may apply depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and other factors.
| Visa Type | Duration | Single/Multiple Entry | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa | 1 year | Multiple | $117 | Allows stays up to 90 days |
| Business Visit Visa | 1-2 years | Multiple | $480 - $800 | Price varies based on duration |
| Work Visa | Based on contract | Single | $230 - $350 | Additional fees may apply |
| Student Visa | Duration of study | Single | $150 - $200 | Requires university acceptance |
| Transit Visa | 3 days | Single | $50 | For layovers exceeding 12 hours |
| Umrah Visa | 30 days | Single | Free | For religious pilgrimage |
| Hajj Visa | 30 days | Single | Free | For annual pilgrimage |
| Family Visit Visa | 3-12 months | Multiple | $300 - $500 | For visiting relatives |
| Diplomatic/Official Visa | Based on assignment | Multiple | Free | For official government business |
| Residence Permit (Iqama) | 1-2 years | N/A | $640 - $1,070 | For long-term residents |
Tourist eVisa
The tourist eVisa is the most common visa for visitors to Saudi Arabia. It's a multiple-entry visa valid for one year from the date of issue, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.
The tourist eVisa has made it significantly easier for citizens of 49 eligible countries to visit Saudi Arabia. It can be applied for online through the official Saudi visa website.
Business Visit Visa
For those looking to explore business opportunities or attend conferences in Saudi Arabia, the business visit visa is the appropriate choice.
Business visas allow for multiple entries and are typically valid for one to two years. The exact duration and number of allowed stays can vary based on the nature of the business relationship.
Work Visa
Individuals planning to work in Saudi Arabia need to obtain a work visa, which is usually sponsored by their employer.
The total cost of a work visa can be significant when including all associated fees. Many employers cover these costs, but it's essential to clarify this in the employment contract.
Student Visa
For international students accepted into Saudi educational institutions, a student visa is necessary.
Student visas are typically valid for the duration of the study program and may allow for multiple entries depending on the course length.
Transit Visa
Travelers with layovers in Saudi Arabia exceeding 12 hours may need to obtain a transit visa.
Transit visas are relatively straightforward to obtain and can be useful for those wishing to briefly explore Saudi Arabia during a long layover.
Umrah Visa
The Umrah visa is for Muslims wishing to perform the Umrah pilgrimage outside of the Hajj season.
While the visa itself is free, pilgrims often need to book through approved travel agencies, which may charge service fees.
Hajj Visa
The Hajj visa is specifically for Muslims participating in the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Like the Umrah visa, while the Hajj visa is free, pilgrims must book through approved agencies and pay for their Hajj packages, which can be costly.
Family Visit Visa
For those with close relatives residing in Saudi Arabia, the family visit visa allows for extended stays.
The family visit visa offers flexibility for families to reunite for longer periods, with options for multiple entries over an extended validity period.
Diplomatic/Official Visa
For government officials and diplomats on official business, Saudi Arabia offers diplomatic and official visas.
These visas are processed through diplomatic channels and offer various privileges during the stay in Saudi Arabia.
Residence Permit (Iqama)
While not a visa per se, the Iqama is crucial for long-term residents in Saudi Arabia, including workers and their dependents.
The Iqama serves as the primary identification for expatriates in Saudi Arabia and is necessary for many aspects of daily life, including renting accommodation and opening bank accounts.
Visa Extension Fees: Overstaying a visa can result in fines of approximately $2,660 USD for the first violation, with higher penalties for repeat offenses.
Group Visa: For organized tours, a group visa can be arranged at approximately $80 USD per person, with a minimum of four individuals.
Seasonal Variations: Visa fees and processing times may vary during peak seasons, especially around Hajj and Ramadan.
Nationality-based Variations: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries enjoy special privileges, including visa-free entry for some purposes.
COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic has led to temporary changes in visa policies and additional health-related requirements. Always check the most current information.
Service Fees: When applying through visa service centers or travel agencies, additional service charges may apply on top of the official visa fees.
Exchange Rate Fluctuations: As visa fees are often paid in Saudi Riyal (SAR), the USD equivalent may vary slightly based on current exchange rates.
In conclusion, while this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Saudi Arabia visa pricing, it's crucial to verify the most up-to-date information from official sources or the Saudi embassy in your country before planning your trip or move to Saudi Arabia. Visa policies and prices can change, and individual circumstances may affect the exact costs and requirements for obtaining a Saudi visa.
