saudi arabia tourist visa

Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa For Indians For Indian Passport Holders

Summary:

  • Eligibility: Indian citizens for business purposes in Saudi Arabia

  • Key Requirements:

    • Valid Passport (6+ months)

    • Invitation Letter (attested by Saudi authorities)

    • Company documents from both India and Saudi Arabia

    • Medical Insurance for the entire stay

  • Application Process:

    • Gather documents

    • Enjaz Registration & Payment

    • Submit to Saudi Embassy/Consulate or authorized agents

  • Timeline:

    • Processing Time: 3-5 working days

    • Visa Validity: Up to 3, 6, or 12 months (single/multiple entry)

  • Important:

    • Verify latest requirements with Saudi Embassy/Consulate

    • Apply well in advance of travel date

 

1. Introduction to Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa

saudi tourist visa

The tourist permit is an endorsement that lets people enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to engage in tourism activities. The visa is issued as a multiple-entry time and will be valid for 1 year with a maximum stay duration of 90 days.

The Saudi Arabia tourist visa from India has to be made through an embassy or consulate. However, in the following years, the Saudi tourist visa from India may even be issued as an e-visa or visa on arrival.

2. Eligibility and Nationalities

  • Visa on Arrival (VOA) Eligible Countries (Subject to Change):

    • Australia
    • Austria
    • Belgium
    • Bulgaria
    • Canada
    • China (including Hong Kong and Macau)
    • Croatia
    • Cyprus
    • Czech Republic
    • Denmark
    • Estonia
    • Finland
    • France
    • Germany
    • Greece
    • Hungary
    • Iceland
    • Ireland
    • Italy
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Kazakhstan
    • South Korea
    • Latvia
    • Liechtenstein
    • Lithuania
    • Luxembourg
    • Malta
    • Malaysia
    • Malaysia
    • Monaco
    • Montenegro
    • Netherlands
    • New Zealand
    • Norway
    • Poland
    • Portugal
    • Romania
    • Russia
    • San Marino
    • Singapore
    • Slovakia
    • Slovenia
    • Spain
    • Sweden
    • Switzerland
    • United Kingdom
    • United States
    • Ukraine
    • Brunei


  • All Other Nationalities: Must apply for an e-Visa.

3. Requirements for Tourist Visa

For Visa on Arrival (VOA):

 

  • Valid Passport: At least six months' validity from the date of entry.

  • Onward/Return Ticket: Proof of onward or return travel.

  • Health Insurance: Automatically included in the VOA fee, covering the visitor for the duration of their stay.

  • VOA Fee: Currently SAR 440 (approximately USD 117), including SAR 100 for health insurance.

For Electronic Visa (e-Visa):

  • Valid Passport: At least six months' validity from the date of entry.

  • Recent Photo: Meeting specific requirements (check the official website for details).

  • Travel Arrangements:

    • Flight Itinerary
    • Hotel Booking or Proof of Accommodation

  • Health Insurance: Must cover the visitor for the entire stay in Saudi Arabia.

  • e-Visa Fee: Varies depending on the type chosen (single entry, multiple entry, duration), plus the health insurance cost.

4. Application Process

4.1 Visa on Arrival (VOA) Application Process

Step 1: Travel to Saudi Arabia

  • Destination Airports: Ensure you're arriving at one of Saudi Arabia's international airports that offer Visa on Arrival services. These typically include:

    • King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh

    • King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah

    • King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam

    • Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) in Madinah

    • Other airports might be added, so it's best to check the latest information before your trip.

Step 2: Proceed to VOA Counter

  • Location: After disembarking and before proceeding to the immigration counters, look for the dedicated "Visa on Arrival" or "VOA" counters. These are usually well-signposted within the airport's arrivals hall.

  • Queue and Wait: Be prepared to queue. Waiting times can vary depending on the airport's traffic and the number of staff available.

Step 3: Submit Documents

  • Required Documents:

    • Valid Passport:

      • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Saudi Arabia.

      • Check that your passport has at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.

    • Onward/Return Ticket:

      • Proof of onward travel (to another country) or a return ticket to your home country.

      • Sometimes, proof of sufficient funds or a hotel booking might be requested, though not always mandatory.

Step 4: Pay VOA Fee

  • Fee Structure:

    • The current VOA fee is SAR 440 (approximately USD 117).

    • This fee includes SAR 100 for health insurance, which covers you for the duration of your stay.

  • Payment Methods:

    • Typically, you can pay using major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) or cash in the local currency (SAR) or sometimes in USD.

Step 5: Receive VOA

  • Processing Time: After submitting your documents and paying the fee, the processing time is usually quick, often taking just a few minutes.

  • VOA Issuance:

    • Once your application is approved, your passport will be stamped with the Visa on Arrival.

    • Double-check your visa for any errors (e.g., name, nationality, duration of stay).

  • Proceed Through Immigration:

    • With your VOA in hand, you can now proceed to the immigration counters for entry into Saudi Arabia.


4.2 Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Application Process

Step 1: Visit Official Website

Step 2: Fill Out Application Form

  • Required Information:

    • Personal Details:

      • Full Name (as it appears on your passport)

      • Date of Birth

      • Nationality

      • Gender

    • Travel Information:

      • Intended Dates of Travel

      • Purpose of Visit (Select "Tourism")

      • Accommodation Details (if available)

    • Contact Information:

      • Email Address

      • Phone Number

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

  • Mandatory Documents:

    • Scan of Your Passport:

      • Ensure the scan is clear and all details are visible.

      • Passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned entry date.

    • Recent Digital Photo:

      • Meeting the specified requirements (check the website for dimensions and format).

    • Proof of Travel Arrangements:

      • Flight Itinerary or Travel Tickets

      • Hotel Booking or Proof of Accommodation (if available)

  • Additional Documents (If Required):

    • Proof of Health Insurance that covers you for the entire duration of your stay in Saudi Arabia.

Step 4: Pay e-Visa Fee

  • Fee Structure:

    • Varies depending on the type of e-Visa (single entry, multiple entry, duration of stay).

    • Health Insurance: If not already covered, you can purchase it during the application process.

  • Payment Methods:

    • Online Payment: Major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are accepted.

Step 5: Receive e-Visa

  • Processing Time:

    • Typically, e-Visas are processed within minutes to a few hours after submission.

    • In some cases, it might take longer, so apply well in advance of your trip.

  • e-Visa Delivery:

    • Once approved, your e-Visa will be sent to the email address you provided during the application.

    • Print or Save: Ensure you have a printed copy or a clear digital version of your e-Visa for presentation upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

5. Photo Specification for Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa

As per the Saudi Arabia tourist visa photo requirements, the following are the photo specifications required - 

saudi arabia tourist visa photo specifications

  • Recently taken

  • Coloured, with a white background

  • Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm

  • Face should cover 80% of the photo

  • Facial expression - neutral

  • Head in a central location

  • Eyeglasses are not permitted

  • Headwear - permitted in case of religious reasons

6. Types of e-Visas and Their Validity

  • Single Entry Visa:

    • Validity: Up to 3 months from the date of issuance.
    • Stay Duration: Up to 30 days from the date of entry.

  • Multiple Entry Visa:

    • Validity: Up to 1 year from the date of issuance.
    • Stay Duration: Up to 90 days (cumulative) from the date of first entry.

6. Activities Allowed Under Tourist Visa

  • Tourism: Exploring historical sites, cultural events, and natural attractions.
  • Visiting Family/Friends: Allowed, but not for extended family support.

  • Business Meetings: Permitted, but not employment or work.

7. Important Considerations

  • Dress Code: Respect Saudi Arabia's conservative dress code.

  • Cultural Norms: Familiarize yourself with and respect local customs.

  • Local Laws: Adhere to all laws and regulations during your stay.

8. Latest Updates and Advice

  • Check Official Sources:

    • Saudi Arabian Government Websites
    • Ministry of Tourism Website
    • Embassy or Consulate of Saudi Arabia in Your Country

  • Plan Ahead: Apply with sufficient time before your trip to account for any processing delays.

  • Stay Informed: Register with your country's travel advisory department for the latest safety and security updates on Saudi Arabia.

9. Contact Information for Further Assistance

Embassy/Consulate of Saudi Arabia in Your Country: Find through a web search or your country's foreign ministry website.



Need more clarity on the Saudi Arabia visa? Check out helpful resources below

 

Saudi Arabia Visa Requirement

Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa Requirement

Saudi Arabia Business Visa Requirement

Saudi Arabia Visit Visa Requirement

Saudi Arabia Embassies and Consulates

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work on a tourist visa?

No, employment is strictly prohibited under a tourist visa.

How long does it take to process an e-Visa?

Typically within minutes to a few hours, but can vary.

Can I extend my tourist visa?

Yes, but conditions and fees apply. Check with the relevant Saudi authorities.

How Much Bank Balance is required to get a Saudi Arabia tourism permit?

As per the regulations, there is no mandatory requirements regarding the number of funds needed. The embassy requires that you possess enough funds to sustain your stay in the country. The bank statements also need to show steady transactions. Ensure that you do not have any unusual funds flowing in.

How many months before the trip should I apply for a Saudi Tourist visa?

The Saudi tourist category is issued within a few days itself. In extreme cases, it may take slightly longer. As a result, if you apply for it a week or two in advance, you will most likely receive the visa in time for your flight. 

Does Saudi Arabia grant a tourist visa to Muslims to visit Mecca and Medina?

Yes, the tourist visa can be used to enter the cities of Mecca and Medina for travellers belonging to the Muslim religion. However, the cities are restricted to people from other categories. If you are visiting the country for Hajj or Umrah, you must apply for the Hajj visa or Umrah visa instead of the regular tourist visa 

 

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