Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Multiple-entry visa valid for 12 months for eligible nations
- Electronic Visa (e-Visa) available for over 60 nationalities
- Allows for tourism, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj season)
- Maximum stay of 90 days per visit within the year
- Mandatory health insurance included in the visa fee
- Simplified online process for residents of the US, UK, and EU
- No requirement for a sponsor for tourist visa holders
- Access to historic sites including AlUla and Diriyah
Processing time
1-5 working days
e-Visas are often processed instantly or within minutes, while consulate sticker visas require physical document submission.
Estimated cost
$120 - $160
- Standard e-Visa Fee (Includes Medical Insurance)$120
- Standard Consulate/VFS Fee (For non e-Visa nationals)$140 - $160
Requirements
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months at time of entry
- Applicant must be at least 18 years old (unless travelling with a guardian)
- Eligible nationality for e-Visa or valid residency in GCC/US/UK/EU
- No criminal record in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or elsewhere
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry stamps
- Confirmed return flight ticket or onward travel arrangements
- Compliance with local laws and public decency regulations
- Valid email address for receiving the electronic visa document
- Sufficient funds to cover the duration of the visit
- A digital photograph that meets Saudi government specifications
Documents you'll need
- Original passport valid for at least six months beyond entry date
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation)
- Digital passport-sized photograph with a white background
- Return or onward flight ticket itinerary
- Proof of financial solvency (recent bank statements)
- Certificate of employment or student status (for Consulate applications)
- Proof of health insurance (usually included in the e-Visa fee)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Determine if you are eligible for an e-Visa, Visa on Arrival, or if you require a sticker visa from a Saudi consulate.
- 2
Complete the Application Form
Register on the official Saudi e-Visa portal or prepare your paper application for the VFS Global/Consulate route.
- 3
Upload Supporting Documents
Upload a high-quality digital passport photo and a scan of your passport's bio-data page.
- 4
Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the visa fee using a valid international credit or debit card; this fee includes mandatory medical insurance.
- 5
Submit and Await Approval
Submit your application and wait for the confirmation email containing your visa grant notice.
- 6
Print and Carry Visa
Ensure you print a physical copy of your visa to present to immigration officers upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your passport photo has a plain white background and no eyewear.
- Double-check that your passport number is entered exactly as it appears on the document.
- Always carry a digital and printed copy of your visa and insurance policy.
- Respect local customs by dressing modestly in public spaces and avoiding public displays of affection.
- Do not attempt to enter the country with alcohol or prohibited religious materials.
- Verify the current Hajj dates if you plan to perform Umrah, as rules change during the pilgrimage season.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.