How to Get a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa

Saudi Arabia offers eVisas for tourists from eligible countries through their online portal, typically processed within 24-48 hours for $80. You'll need a passport valid for 6+ months, photo, and proof of accommodation.

  1. Check your eligibility. Visit visa.visitsaudi.com to confirm your nationality qualifies for the eVisa. Citizens from 49 countries including US, UK, EU nations, Australia, and Japan are eligible. If your country isn't listed, you'll need to apply through a Saudi consulate.
  2. Gather required documents. You need a passport with 6+ months validity, recent color photo (white background), proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter), and a valid email address. Have digital copies ready as PDFs or JPEGs under 2MB each.
  3. Complete the online application. Go to visa.visitsaudi.com and fill out the application form. Enter personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. Upload your documents and photo. Double-check everything before submitting.
  4. Pay the visa fee. Pay $80 USD using a credit or debit card. The fee covers the visa plus mandatory insurance. You'll receive a confirmation email immediately after payment.
  5. Wait for processing. Most eVisas are approved within 24-48 hours. You'll receive an email with your visa attached as a PDF. Print two copies - keep one with you and leave one at home.
  6. Prepare for arrival. Arrive with your printed visa, passport, and return ticket. Immigration officers may ask about your accommodation and travel plans. The visa is valid for multiple entries within one year, with stays up to 90 days per visit.
Can I get a Saudi visa on arrival?
No, Saudi Arabia doesn't offer visas on arrival for tourism. You must obtain an eVisa online or through a consulate before traveling.
Do I need a sponsor or invitation letter?
No sponsor needed for tourist visas. You only need proof of accommodation, which can be a hotel booking or invitation letter from friends/family in Saudi Arabia.
Can women travel alone to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, women can travel alone and don't need male guardian approval or accompaniment. The guardianship system was reformed for tourists.
What if my eVisa application is rejected?
You'll receive an email explaining the rejection reason. Common issues include poor photo quality or insufficient passport validity. You can reapply immediately after fixing the problem.
Can I extend my tourist visa inside Saudi Arabia?
Tourist visas cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must exit the country and re-enter, as long as your visa is still valid and you haven't exceeded the annual 90-day limit.