personal visit visa saudi arabia fees

The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia

Personal Visit Visa

Requirements:

• Original passport valid for no less than six (6) months, with at least two (2) successive empty visa pages. 
• To fill your online application and make a visa payment, please log on to  https://visa.mofa.gov.sa .  ( Guideline for Enjaz )  Health insurance must be purchased from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Options for local health insurance providers will appear upon processing your Enjaz form.
• A visa referral note: indicating number and date of visa, issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or either of its branches in Jeddah or Dammam.
• Minors (under 18 years) travelling alone, or with one parent, must submit a notarized letter in Arabic or English signed by a parent or a legal guardian.
• For non-U.S. citizens, copy of green card or document confirming legal residence in the U.S.  

You May Also Apply For the Visa by: 

• Applying in person at the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Via Mail to the Embassy's address: 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20037.
• Through the Embassy's authorized travel agencies .

• Sun. Mar 31st, 2024

All Information About expats

Navigating the Process Saudi Arabia Personal Visit Visa Explained

By Iqamaksa

Personal visit visa for Saudi Arabia may have changed. The specific requirements for

It’s important to check the most recent and updated information directly from official sources or the MOFA or KSA Visa. As a general guideline  the process for obtaining a personal visit visa for Saudi Arabia typically involves the following steps.

Table of Contents

Visit Visa Sponsorship

Personal visit visa explained.

A Saudi citizen or resident usually needs to act as a sponsor for the visitor. The sponsor can be an individual or a company for business visit. What is the difference between iqama and visa

Invitation Letter

The sponsor must provide an invitation letter stating the purpose of the visit  the duration of the stay  and other relevant details which is attested by Ministry Of Foreign Affairs of Kingdom Saudi Arabia.

Application Form  

The visitor needs to complete the visa application form. This form is usually available on the official website of the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate Or Ministry Of Foreign Affairs of Kingdom Saudi Arabia. login to KSA Visa for online visa application.

Saudi Arabian Visa Application Form

Personal Information

Full Name  as per passport   Provide your full name exactly as it appears in your passport.

Date of Birth  Enter your date of birth in the format DD/MM/YYYY.

Place of Birth  Specify the city and country where you were born.

Gender  Select your gender   Male/Female .

Marital Status  Indicate whether you are single  married  divorced  or widowed.

Passport Information

Passport Number  Enter your passport number accurately.

Date of Issue  Provide the date your passport was issued.

Expiry Date  Specify the expiration date of your passport.

Issuing Authority  Write the entity that issued your passport  e.g.  country’s government .

Contact Information  

Permanent Address  Enter your permanent address  including city  country  and postal code.

Current Address  If different from permanent address  provide your current address details.

Email Address  Include a valid email address for communication purposes.

Phone Number  Provide an active phone number  including the country code.

Occupational Information  

Occupation  State your current occupation or profession.

Employer Name  If employed  mention the name of your current employer.

Employer Address  Provide the address of your employer.

Work Phone  Include your work phone number  if applicable.

 How to Change Profession on Iqama 2024

Travel Information  

Purpose of Visit  Specify the reason for your visit  e.g.  tourism  business  family visit .

Passport  

A valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended period of stay is typically required.

Passport-size Photos

Recent passport-sized photographs may be required.

Flight Reservation

A copy of the round-trip flight reservation may be needed.

Hotel Reservation

Proof of accommodation  such as a hotel reservation  may be required.

Health Insurance  

Some visas may require proof of health insurance coverage during the stay.

Fingerprint  

Biometric may be necessary which countries are not exempt of biometric for visa of Kingdom Saudi Arabia.

If biometric is necessary so make a appointment TASHEER website after the visa approval came select the county and make the time of appointment time and date which is possible for visit.

Visit Visa Fee

There is usually a visa fee associated with the application process. When you go to TASHEER office for fingerprint you will also pay for visa processing fee and biometric fee and health insurance to avail visa. 

Additional Requirements  Depending on the purpose of the visit  additional documentation may be required. For example  if the visit is for business purposes  a business letter and/or an invitation from a Saudi company may be necessary.

It’s crucial to note that visa requirements and procedures can change  so it’s advisable to contact the nearest Saudi Arabian consulate or embassy or visit their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Always verify the requirements directly from official sources to avoid any inconvenience or misunderstanding.

Visit Visa Validity

Visit visa will be issue by the authorities as per required period for the person who has been submitting the application. Mostly the period of personal visit visa for 365day. The staying period is maximum 90days but multiple entries in one year.

Conclusion  

If you are planning to apply for a personal visit visa to Saudi Arabia  it’s essential to gather the most recent and accurate information from official sources  such as the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate.

Visa requirements and procedures can change  so staying informed and following the guidelines provided by the authorities is crucial. What is Huroob

Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the documentation  sponsorship  and application process to facilitate a smooth and successful visa application for your intended visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

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Saudi Visas

• Saudi Personal Visit Visa

Saudi Personal Visit Visa Requirements

• Visa Details
• Visa Requirements

Fees & Timelines

Additional notes.

• Let's Get Started

If you thinking to travel to Saudi Arabia for a personal purpose, you will need a valid 'Saudi Personal Visit Visa’.

'Saudi Personal Visit Visa’ is required if you going to Saudi Arabia to visit friend based in Kingdom of Saudi, who is a Saudi national or Resident in Saudi Arabia

'Saudi Personal Visit Visa’ can be either single or multiple entries depending on the invitation letter from your friend.

Before you apply for this visa, there are Visa Requirements in this page, it should be fulfilled to be able to apply successfully .

Requirements

• Below requirements are only valid for British passport holder applicants. For other country passport holders, kindly contact us for your country specific requirements.
• Passport must Be valid for more than six months beyond post entry date and have two blank pages opposite each other.
• Saudi visa application and declaration form, (the forms are found in the pack).
• Two recent colour photographs taken against a white background and printed on high quality photo paper.
• An online visa application, we will complete this on your behalf.
• An Authorised letter of invitation issued by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia.
• Medical Insurance through Enjaz (visa online system) we will arrange this at the time of generating the visa application.

We charge a handling fee additional to the Saudi embassy visa fee, for our validation service to ensure all of your documents are in order. We will also book your appointment at a convenient time for the application submission

• Must need proof of relationship between the applicant and the Saudi resident sponsor.
• Visitors should not overstay the time approved on the visa
• Authorisation by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs must have been obtained by the sponsoring resident in Saudi Arabia prior to the applicant applying for a visa.
• We recommend that no travel arrangement are made until visas have been secured and confirmed by Us

Start the Visa Process

Get a  Free Saudi Personal Visit Visa Consultation callback or you can start the visa application process online by clicking the apply online button below or if your prefer offline then by downloading the visa pack at the bottom.

If you have any questions regarding the Personal visit visa pack or would like to make a payment before sending us the documents (that is highly recommended as it speeds up the visa application process) please do not hesitate to contact us through various options as detailed at the bottom of this page.

As consultants for all types of visas to Saudi Arabia we assist and have experience in all parts of visa process. Our Arab speaking Saudi visa consultants will guide you on every step and be hands on assist

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Needed my passport for work, couldn’t afford long delays. luckily found saudi arabia visa services, fast & efficient. have had 2 visas till now, thoroughly recommend, helped me few times with last minute business visas to saudi. in fact one of their guys even met me at the train station to hand my passport and visa back to me in time., the service is always excellent. responsive. to the point. polite. efficient. saudi visas are the best specially murphy, thank you once again., been with them for more than 4 years. highly appreciate your constant support even during the days off when there is a time pressure to meet the deadline. wish you all the success ahead., used saudi arabia visa services on all occasions, be it for myself, my family or friends. highly effective and very professional. highly recommend for a stress free assistance in obtaining a visa for saudi..

Our Expert Saudi Visa Consultants can turn the tiring and sometimes confusing experience of getting a visa into a fast, easy and stress less process where you just have to sit back and relax. Let us do all the running around for you!!

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• Happy Ramadan to you and your family! 12 April 2021 -->
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  Service Description

  service beneficiaries,   conditions and requirements.

• Complete the online form via  Visa services platform ​  and stamp it electronically and authenticate it from the Chamber of Commerce or from the employer.
• Enter all the data in Arabic except if​ the visitors are not from Arab nationalities, in that case their names should match their passports.
• For residents, they should have valid for residents.
• The visitors should be of first degree relatives
• Rresidents should have a work Iqamah not relative Iqamah.

We inform you that the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs Portal uses the cookies to meet basic security requirements and to ensure that the Portal works properly!

Saudi Visa Fee

A Saudi Arabia visa is an official authorization which is issued by the Saudi government. It is intended for foreign nationals who wish to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for various purposes, including tourism, business, work, studying, pilgrimage, and many more. Obtaining a visa to enter Saudi Arabia is essential for most foreign visitors. It ensures the security of the country as well as regulates the inflow of visitors.

Common visas obtained by foreigners include the Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Work Visa, Student Visa, Hajj Visa, Umrah Visa, and Transit Visa. Each type of visa has specific requirements, including differing application procedures, validity periods, and visa fees. It is essential for travelers to choose the appropriate visa type based on the purpose of their trip and their intended activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The KSA visa fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality.

Table of contents

Saudi arabia visa fee.

Understanding visa fees when planning travel to Saudi Arabia is essential as it directly impacts the overall cost of your trip. It is crucial to make sure you are financially prepared for your trip. The visa fee may vary based on several factors, including your nationality, the duration of your stay, and the type of visa you need for your trip. For example, the Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa cost is different from the price of the KSA Residence Visa. Visa fees may change periodically due to updates in immigration policies. It is essential to check the official website of the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate for your country to ensure you have the most accurate information.

You may also incur additional charges if you require expedited processing. If you require urgent visa processing due to last-minute travel plans or unforeseen circumstances, you will likely pay a significantly higher fee. It is essential to understand these charges to assess whether the urgency of your trip justifies the additional cost.

Understanding the visa fee is an incredibly important aspect of trip planning. You should be sure that you are accurately financially planning. By being aware of the factors influencing visa fees, travelers can make informed decisions about the visa application, helping you to navigate the visa application process more effectively.

Saudi Arabia Visa Types and Costs

There are numerous different visa types available for entry into Saudi Arabia. The purpose of your trip will help you determine which visa is best for you. Based on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for, the requirements, eligibility, and visa fees will differ. It’s important to thoroughly understand the specifics of the visa you wish to apply for based on your nationality. It is advisable to check your country’s official Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate website for the most accurate and up-to-date information for your nationality.

Tourist Visa

The most common Saudi Arabia visa is the Tourist Visa. This is intended for individuals visiting the country for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting cultural sites. The Saudi Tourist Visa fee varies depending on the applicant’s nationality, duration of stay, and processing time. The price may range from $50 to $300. Citizens of certain countries may need to provide additional information including proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, and sufficient funds during their stay. Many nationalities also have the option to apply for the Tourist Visa online. The Saudi Arabia e-visa fee varies based on your nationality, but is typically either 340 Saudi Riyal (equivalent to around 90.50 USD) or 494 Saudi Riyal (equivalent to around 131 USD). When applying online, the Saudi Arabia visa processing time is typically less than 2 business days.

Business Visa

The Saudi Business Visa is issued to individuals that are traveling to the country for business purposes, including meetings, conferences, or negotiations. Similarly to the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa price, the cost of the Business Visa varies based on nationality, duration, and processing time. Fees may range from approximately 100 USD to 500 USD. When applying for this visa, the applicant may need to provide a letter of invitation from a Saudi company, along with any other relevant business documents. You may incur additional fees if you require expedited processing for urgent business trips. There are a variety of reasons that people may visit Saudi Arabia for business purposes, but some of the most common business affairs include attending meetings/conferences, negotiating contracts/partnerships, exploring business opportunities, visiting clients, conducting market research, or attending a training or workshop.

The Saudi Work Visa is for foreigners who intend to work in Saudi Arabia, whether as employees of a Saudi company or as a self-employed individual. The Saudi Arabia Work Visa cost can vary significantly depending on the type of employment, duration of stay, and the nationality of the applicant. Fees may range from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. The Saudi employer typically sponsors the employee, covering this cost. When applying, applicants may need to undergo medical examinations and provide various documents, including a job offer, employment contract, and educational qualifications. People who obtain work visas typically work in a wide range of industries and professions, but some typical jobs held by expatriates in Saudi Arabia include engineering, healthcare, teaching and education, hospitality and tourism, finance, and information technology (IT).

Student Visa

The Saudi Arabia Student Visa is for those who have been accepted to study at educational institutions in the country. This allows foreign individuals to reside in Saudi Arabia legally for the purpose of pursuing their education. The fees for this visa vary based on the duration of study, the educational institutions, and the nationality of the applicant. It is most common for the price of this visa to be anywhere from $100 to $500. When applying, students will need to provide an acceptance letter from the educational institution and health insurance coverage. You will also need to provide proof of financial means proving that you have the funds to pay for the visa fee, your tuition, and the cost of living in Saudi Arabia. Typically, once an educational institution has accepted you into the school, they will facilitate the visa application process on behalf of you as the student.

The Hajj Visa is specifically for Muslims who wish to visit Saudi Arabia to take the pilgrimage to Mecca during the annual Hajj season. This occurs during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for able-bodied Muslims who can afford the journey. The Hajj Visa is typically issued through authorized travel agents or Hajj tour operators in the pilgrim’s home country. To apply, you must be able to provide proof of Muslim faith, along with other documents including a valid passport, medical certificate, and proof of accommodation arrangements. Hajj Visas are valid for a limited period of time and typically only cover the duration of the Hajj pilgrimage, which only lasts several days. Pilgrims are required to depart Saudi Arabia shortly after the pilgrimage and leisure or tourism activities are not permitted when visiting with this visa. The Hajj Visa fee typically ranges from approximately 200 USD to 300 USD depending on your nationality. You may incur additional charges based on the visa processing time and if you are using support services provided by a travel agency or tour operator.

The Umrah Visa is for Muslims coming to Saudi Arabia to perform the lesser pilgrimage, known as Umrah, to Mecca and Medina at any time of the year outside of the Hajj season. Umrah is considered a highly recommended act of worship in Islam and can be undertaken by Muslims at their convenience. The Umrah Visa is typically obtained through an authorized travel agent or Umrah tour operator, and proof of Muslim faith must be able to be proven. Umrah visas are usually valid for a specified period that allows pilgrims to perform Umrah rituals within a specific timeframe, although the duration may vary depending on certain regulations. Saudi Arabia visa fees for Umrah are generally lower compared to the Hajj Visa and typically range from approximately 100 USD to 150 USD. Additional charges may include visa processing and other services provided by the travel agency or tour operator.

Transit Visa

The Saudi Transit Visa is for travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia to reach their final destination. Transit Visas are typically valid for a short duration, usually 72 hours. This visa allows a short stay of up to 72 hours in Saudi Arabia. It is suitable for those with connecting flights or brief stopovers in the country. There may be specific eligibility criteria based on the traveler’s itinerary and nationality. A Transit Visa is usually lower compared to the other visa options and is typically approximately 20 USD to 100 USD. Additional fees may be required for expedited processing or extended transit stays.

Family Visit Visa

The Family Visit Visa allows individuals to visit their relatives or family members who are residents or citizens of Saudi Arabia for a temporary period. This facilitates family reunification and allows families to spend time together. Family members such as spouses, parents, children, siblings, and in-laws may be eligible for this visa. The sponsoring family member in Saudi Arabia must meet certain criteria and provide the necessary documentation. The Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa fee varies based on a number of factors, including the nationality of the visitor, duration of stay, and the processing time. Typically, the Saudi Arabia Family Visit Visa fee will range from anywhere between $50 to $200. Applicants may need to pay additional fees for services such as medical insurance, document attestation, and translation of supporting documents.

Medical Treatment Visa

The Saudi Medical Treatment Visa is for foreigners who are traveling to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment, surgeries, or specialized healthcare services. Patients seeking treatment must obtain sponsorship from a recognized healthcare facility or medical service provider, providing medical reports, treatment plans, and other relevant documentation. The standard price for the Medical Treatment Visa usually falls between 100 USD to 500 USD. Additional fees for this include the price of medical tests or examinations as well as the cost of healthcare services, consultations, hospitalization, and other medical expenses. This visa is valid for the duration of the medical treatment as specified in the treatment plan.

Diplomatic and Official Visa

Diplomatic and Official Visas are issued to diplomats, government officials, and representatives of international organizations traveling to Saudi Arabia for official purposes. These may include diplomatic missions, conferences, or meetings. Diplomatic and Official Visas are often exempt from visa fees or may be subject to reduced fees as part of diplomatic or official protocols. There may be administrative fees or service charges that still need to be paid. The validity of these visas is typically for the duration of the official assignment or as specified in the visa documentation. There is the possibility to extend or renew as needed.

Investor Visa

The Saudi Investor Visa is for foreign investors seeking to establish or invest in businesses in Saudi Arabia. The purpose of it is to facilitate investment opportunities, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the country by providing legal authorization for investors to engage in business activities. The fees for an Investor Visa vary depending on factors including the type of investment, size of investment, and processing requirements. Including visa processing fees, investment licensing fees, administrative charges, and legal and consultation fees, the total cost of the Investor Visa typically falls within the range of approximately 500 USD to 5,000 USD, depending on individual circumstances and specific requirements. Investor Visas are usually valid for the duration of the investment or business venture with the possibility of renewal or extension as needed.

Journalist Visa

Journalist Visas are issued to journalists, media personnel, and representatives of press organizations traveling to Saudi Arabia for journalistic assignments or reporting purposes. It facilitates the freedom of the press, media coverage, and journalistic activities. The fees for a Journalist Visa vary depending on factors such as the media organization’s accreditation status, duration of stay, and the processing requirements. The standard price may range from approximately $50 to $200 and is on a case-by-case basis from the Saudi embassy or consulate. The validity differs depending on the purpose of the visit and the nature of the journalistic activities. It may range from a few days to several months and may or may not allow for multiple entries.

Residence Visa

The Saudi Residence Visa allows individuals to reside in Saudi Arabia for an extended period of time. It provides legal authorization to live and work in the country. The eligibility varies depending on the purpose of living in the country, factors include employment sponsorship, family ties, or investment in the country. Employers or family members typically act as sponsors for Residence Visa applicants. The fees vary based on nationality, type of sponsorship, and duration of the visa. There are several costs that go into applying for this visa, including visa processing fees, residency permit fees, medical examination fees, and sponsorship fees. The total typically ranges from 500 USD to 2,000 USD depending on individual circumstances. Residence Visas are typically valid for one to two years and can be renewed as needed.

Does the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia visa cost differ based on nationality?

Yes, the KSA visa cost is based on nationality. For example, the Saudi Arabia visa fee for Pakistan nationals may be different from citizens of the United States. If you go to the official website: https://visa.visitsaudi.com/ you can choose your nationality to discover your country’s visa charges for Saudi Arabia. For example, if you want to know the visa fees for Saudi Arabia from an Indian passport, you can put India in the drop-down box and the site will provide all of your visa application options and how much they will cost.

Are visa fees refundable?

Visa fees are generally non-refundable. Whether your visa application was denied or you decide to no longer go to Saudi Arabia, you will not be refunded for your visa application fee.

If I apply online for a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa, how long can I stay in the country?

The Saudi e-Tourist Visa is valid for 1 year from the date of acceptance. You are eligible to stay in the country for a total of 90 days. The 3-month Saudi Arabia visa price is approximately 132 USD.

Saudi Visit Visa Fees And Costs in 2023

Here’s a simple cost breakdown for a Single-Entry Saudi Visit Visa in 2023:

• Visa Fee: $106
• Mandatory Health Insurance: $90
• Total Cost: $190

It is important to note that the costs vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, detailed below.

Saudi Visit Visa Fee Structure

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers different types of visit visas, each with its own fee structure. The most common types are the family visit visa, business visit visa, and tourist visa. As of 2023, the basic visa fee for a single entry visa is around $133 (500 SAR), regardless of the type of visit visa. However, these costs can vary based on factors such as the applicant’s nationality, duration of stay, and the number of entries.

It’s essential to note that in addition to the visa fee, applicants are also required to pay for mandatory health insurance, which is approximately $90 (338 SAR). This insurance covers any emergency medical expenses during your stay in the Kingdom.

Cost Breakdown of the Saudi Visit Visa in 2023

The above costs are indicative and may vary slightly based on exchange rates, your nationality, and other factors.

Visa Fee Differences by Nationality in 2023

While the basic visa fee for Saudi visit visas is generally uniform for most applicants, certain nationalities may be subjected to different fees due to bilateral agreements between Saudi Arabia and their respective countries. For instance, citizens of countries that have mutual visa fee agreements with Saudi Arabia may be eligible for lower fees or even visa fee waivers in some cases.

Conversely, in some instances, fees might be higher for countries that have higher fees for Saudi citizens.

Here is the visa fee differences by nationality in 2023:

Hidden Costs of the Saudi Visit Visa Fees in 2023

While the visa and health insurance fees are the primary direct costs, there may be other indirect or ‘hidden’ costs that travelers should be aware of:

• Currency Conversion Costs : Depending on your bank’s policies, a currency conversion fee might be applied when paying the visa fee in a currency other than Saudi Riyals. This fee usually ranges from 1-3% of the transaction amount.
• Transaction Fees : Similarly, some banks may charge a transaction fee for online transactions. These fees can range from $1-$10, depending on your bank and the specific type of transaction.
• Travel Insurance : In addition to the mandatory health insurance, travelers might opt for additional travel insurance for more comprehensive coverage. The cost of travel insurance can vary widely depending on the coverage level, but a basic plan might cost around $50 for a two-week trip.
• Professional Assistance Fees : If you choose to use a visa application service or a travel agency to help with your application, their service fees will add to your overall costs. These fees can range anywhere from $50-$200, depending on the complexity of your application and the level of service provided.

Remember to account for these potential hidden costs when budgeting for your trip.

Cost of Visa Extension in Saudi Arabia

As of 2023, a Saudi visit visa can be extended up to the maximum stay duration indicated on the visa, usually not exceeding 180 days. The cost for extending a single entry visit visa is around 100 SAR ($26.66) per week.

Extensions must be applied for before the expiry of the current visa. To apply for an extension, one must visit the nearest Department of Passport office (Jawazat) in Saudi Arabia or apply online through the Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform.

Please be aware that visa extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the Saudi authorities. Therefore, it’s important not to rely solely on the possibility of an extension when planning your trip. Overstaying without a valid extension can lead to hefty fines and penalties.

What are the Payment Methods and Processing ?

The visa fee and insurance costs can be paid online through the Saudi government’s eVisa portal or through the Enjaz payment system. The payment options include credit/debit cards and bank transfers. Please be aware that depending on your bank’s policies, transaction fees may apply.

A Cost Comparison with Other Visas

To put the Saudi visit visa cost into perspective, you can compare it with the cost of visit visas for other popular destinations. For example, as of 2023, the U.S. tourist visa fee is $160, and the Schengen visa fee is €80 (around $95).

Therefore, Saudi Arabia’s visit visa fee of $190 (including mandatory health insurance) falls in the upper-middle range.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding certain common mistakes can save you from incurring additional costs:

• Double-check all information : Any mistake in your visa application can lead to a rejection, which means reapplying and paying the fee again.
• Check Passport Validity : Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
• Check the Visa Validity : Overstaying your visa can result in hefty fines.

Tips for Cost-Effective Practices

Being savvy about your visa application can help you avoid unnecessary costs. Here are some cost-effective practices:

• Apply in Advance : Expedited visa processing usually comes at a premium. Avoid these extra fees by ensuring you apply for your visa well in advance of your planned travel dates.
• Double-Check Your Application : A simple error on your application can lead to rejection, requiring you to reapply and pay the application fee again. Double-check all your information before submitting your application to avoid this unnecessary expense.
• Choose the Right Visa : If you’re planning multiple visits to Saudi Arabia, consider applying for a multiple-entry visa instead of multiple single-entry visas. This could prove more cost-effective in the long run.

How to Gain Financial Support or Sponsorship

In certain cases, your visa costs might be covered by a third party. This is common for business travelers, students, and individuals visiting family members in Saudi Arabia. In such cases, your employer, educational institution, or family member might pay your visa fees.

You would typically need to provide documentation demonstrating their willingness and ability to cover your travel costs. This might include a letter from your employer or educational institution, a formal invitation from a family member, or similar official documentation.

It’s vital to clarify these requirements with the concerned parties and Saudi immigration authorities to ensure a seamless application process.

What are the Costs of Visa Overstays ?

Overstaying your visa can lead to substantial fines and penalties. In Saudi Arabia, the fine for overstaying a visit visa is around 10,000 SAR ($2,666) as of 2023. Additionally, overstaying can negatively impact your ability to obtain visas in the future.

Therefore, it’s crucial to keep track of your visa validity period and plan your travel accordingly to avoid these significant additional costs. Remember, it is always more cost-effective to adhere to visa rules and regulations than to face the consequences of violating them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there any discounts or waivers on saudi visit visa fees.

There are no general discounts on visa fees. However, fees can be waived for certain categories of visitors, such as diplomatic or official passport holders, based on reciprocal agreements between Saudi Arabia and specific countries.

Can I pay the visa fee upon arrival in Saudi Arabia?

No, the visa fee must be paid when you submit your visa application online.

What happens if my visa application is rejected? Is the fee refundable? A:

The visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

Are children also required to pay the same visa fee?

Yes, all travelers, including children, must have their own visa, and the same fee applies.

A clear understanding of the costs associated with the Saudi visit visa can help you budget your travel more effectively.

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Saudi Arabia Visa: A Complete Guide to Fees, Types, and Requirements

A lot of people who have never been to Saudi Arabia might know it for being an oil-rich state and the birthplace of Islam. While most tourists visit Saudi Arabia on religious pilgrimages, it is slowly opening up to leisure tourism.

That’s the reason they came up with the Saudi eVisa for tourism. And the Saudi Arabia visa system has been more streamlined since 2017.

It is also popular among expats who want to work there. For example, teaching English in Saudi Arabia comes with a lucrative salary usually. A lot of immigrants from India, Pakistan, Philippines, and other Asian as well as African countries also immigrate to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or KSA to work in many blue-collar jobs.

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Do I Need Visa for Saudi Arabia?

The short answer is yes, you do. Like many other countries in Asia such as Cambodia or Thailand, KSA needs the citizens of most countries in the world to come with a visa. And now that we are talking about it, getting a Cambodia visa or visa for Thailand is much simpler than a visa for KSA.

There are four countries whose citizens don’t need a visa for Saudi Arabia. Yep, you heard that right. People from these countries can enter with their ID cards. It’s like their mini Schengen zone.

• United Arab Emirates

Saudi Arabia Visa Types

Depending on teh purpose of your stay in the KSA, different Saudi visa types are available. Some of them can be applied online and some of them can only be obtained in a KSA consulate.

1. Saudi Arabia eVisa

Citizens of 51 countries/territories can obtain eVisas online or on arrival to Saudi Arabia. The KSA eVisa comes with a validity of 90 days.

Here are the countries whose citizens can get eVisa for Saudi Arabia. You can apply for a Saudi eVisa at the official website of Saudi Ministry of Tourism.

An eVisa can be granted for tourism, family visit or business purposes.

2. Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa

If you are not eligible to get an eVisa or visa on arrival for Saudi Arabia, you can get a visa from an embassy of KSA. The Saudi Arabia tourist visa will allow you to be in KSA for sightseeing and tourism purpose only.

3. Family Visit Visa for Saudi Arabia

A family visit visa for Saudi Arabia can be issued to foreigners who want to visit a family member in KSA.

To be eligible for this, you need to be a first line relative such as spouse, parents, children of the Saudi citizen.

You can apply Family Visit Visa online if you are from one of 51 countries eligible for eVisa or in a KSA embassy.

3. Saudi Arabia Business Visa

Foreign visitors wanting to visit KSA for business purposes such as meetings, trainings, business deals etc. can obtain a Saudi Arabi business visa.

4. Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa/Hajj Visa

Muslim pilgrims from all over the world can obtain a Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia free of charge at the Embassies or Consulates of Saudi Arabia.

If you are eligible for a Saudi Arabia eVisa, you can also use it to enter the Kingdom to perform Hajj/Umrah.

5. Saudi Arabia Work Visa

A Saudi Arabia work visa or employment visa can be issued to foreigners who will be gainfully employed in KSA. For this you need to have a job offer from an employer in Saudi Arabia.

Your employer has to procure a Saudi work permit for you, and then only you can apply for the Saudi employment visa in a Saudi embassy or consulate.

And once you receive the Saudi Work Visa and you enter the KSA, you also need to apply for a Residence Permit from the Ministry of Labor in KSA.

6. Student Visa for Saudi Arabia

If you want to study Arabic in the KSA or any other thing, you would need to get a Saudi student visa. In order to get it, you first need to be accepted in an accredited institute or university in the KSA first.

Then your university has to apply at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for authorization for the Saudi Student Visa. Once your visa is authorized, you can apply for a Saudi study visa at a consulate of the KSA.

7. Saudi Transit Visa

Citizens of many countries who need to fly to a third country en route to Saudi Arabia and are not visa exempt for the KSA, can get a Saudi transit visa.

But you don’t need a transit visa if

• You have a confirmed onward flight ticket a third country within 12 hours, and you don’t leave the international transit area of the airport.
• You are traveling via Dammam (DMM), Jeddah (JED) or Riyadh (RUH) international airport.
• You have a valid visa or residence permit or are visa-free for your final destination.

How to Apply Saudi Arabia Visa Online?

The only KSA visa that you can apply online is the Saudi eVisa, and that too if you are eligible for it. You can apply for it on the official website of Saudi Arabia .

Saudi Arabia Embassy Visa: How to Apply?

If you can’t get the Saudi visa online, you need to apply for KSA visa at a Saudi embassy in your country or any other country where you are a legal resident.

And it goes without saying that apart from the eVisa, any other visa like work visa or study visa can only be obtained from an embassy of Saudi Arabia.

And not to forget that different Embassies or Consulates always have their own way of doing things. And when it comes to Saudi Visa, most of them use authorized agencies for visa approvals.

So you can check for the visa requirements for Saudi Arabia in its embassy first, and then either make an appointment or contact the agency.

Here are all diplomatic missions of Saudi Arabia .

Saudi Arabia Visa Fees

Saudi Arabia visa fees can change without any notice and varies in different countries, and depending on the agency you are using. On top of that, you also have to pay VAT at the applicable rates.

Saudi Arabia Visa Agencies

A Saudi Visa application often involves the usage of an official agency approved by the KSA. So be it Umrah visa or work visa or visit visa, there is a big chance that you would need to deal with an agency rather than the embassy directly.

There are many fake agencies as well that cheat a lot of people. The official website of KSA embassy has a list of approved agencies for different countries, that you can contact for your visa application.

• Approved Saudi Visa Agencies in India
• KSA visa agencies in Canada
• Authorized agencies for Saudi Arabi visa for US citizens.

Saudi Visa Overstay

Trust me, you don’t want to overstay in the KSA. While there are many countries in South America or Asia where they might cut you some slack, in Saudi Arabia, they don’t play around with this.

You can be fined, deported or jailed or be punished with all three of them.

Can You Visit Saudi Arabia if You Have an Israeli Stamp?

As per Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, having an Israeli stamp on the passport does not disqualify someone from visiting Saudi Arabia. You can get an eVisa or Saudi embassy visa, and visit the KSA.

However, Israeli citizens are barred from visiting Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia Visa for US Citizens

US citizens can get an eVisa for Saudi Arabia as well as a visa on arrival if they want to go to the KSA for tourism, sports, leisure or business purposes.

But other visas such as Saudi work visa or student visa can be obtained through the Saudi embassy in Washington DC only.

Apply Saudi Visa via Mail

Saudi Embassy in Washington DC: 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20037.

To apply for Saudi visa via mail, US citizens would need to

• include a pre-paid return label and envelope (from FedEx, UPS, or USPS only) with the return address label filled out completely.
• A proper pre-paid return envelope must include a “PRE-PAID” label. 
• No cash, credit card, or personal check will be accepted.

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Saudi Arabia announces mechanism for personal visit visa

Saudi citizens can invite their friends and acquaintances to visit saudi arabia and perform umrah by submitting a request for a personal visit on the ministry’s evisa platform..

Riyadh : The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ministry of foreign affairs on Wednesday announced a mechanism for obtaining a personal visit visa, which enables visitors to enter the Kingdom to visit friends or acquaintances who are Saudi citizens, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

The visa holders will be allowed to travel in the regions and cities across the Kingdom as well as to perform Umrah, visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, in addition to visiting religious, and historical sites, and take part in cultural events.

The ministry said that people can apply for the visa through easy and convenient electronic steps on the visa platform website: https://visa.mofa.gov.sa.

وزارة الخارجية تعلن آلية الحصول على تأشيرة "الزيارة الشخصية". https://t.co/gwMrMGLnxn #واس_عام pic.twitter.com/G0a1dJsnDU — واس العام (@SPAregions) November 30, 2022

Saudi citizens can invite their friends and acquaintances to visit Saudi Arabia and perform Umrah by submitting a request for a personal visit on the ministry’s eVisa platform and applying for a “visit” request, by logging in through the unified national access platform and filling out the data for the invitees. The request will then be processed and a ‘personal visit visa document’ will be issued, of which the data can be viewed through the invitation request query service.

The Ministry stated that the person invited to visit will complete the process of paying the fees and health insurance after filling out the entry visa application form on the visa platform, and then submitting the application and passport to the embassy or consulate of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the guest country or through the centers or offices accredited by the embassy or consulate. They can come to the Kingdom through all air, land, and sea ports after obtaining a stamped entry visa.

The ministry pointed out that inquiries can be made about the submitted applications by entering the visa platform, selecting the inquiry icon, filling in the required data, and then clicking on the inquiry icon to know the status of the previously submitted applications.

This step comes within the framework of efforts to increase the number of foreign visitors in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, the ministry said.

#انفوجرافيك_الخارجية | آلية تقديم طلب زيارة شخصية على منصة التأشيرات بوزارة الخارجية pic.twitter.com/wZg1uWhIZo — وزارة الخارجية 🇸🇦 (@KSAMOFA) November 30, 2022

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