If Saudi Arabia is on your travel bucket list, you’re in luck. The Kingdom has rolled out the red carpet for globetrotters with its Visa on Arrival (VOA)—a golden ticket to this mesmerizing land of sand dunes, skyscrapers, and sizzling shawarma. After a record-breaking 30 million visitors applying for different Saudi visa types, the kingdom is easying the system of entry. Its visa on arrival is another stepping stone to becoming a global tourism destination. But before you pack your bags and set sail or rather, take flight, let’s discover who can get a Saudi visa on arrival and how to get one hassle-free!
A. What is a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
When travellers have the freedom to avoid the pre-application and obtain the Saudi visa at the airport without prior application. It is called Saudi visa on arrival. It is issued at Saudi immigration counters upon arrival. It cuts down all the lengthy application process and preparation for interview. The visa on arrival is one of the easiest ways to enter the Kingdom. The Visa on Arrival is valid for 1 year with multiple entries, allowing a stay of up to 90 days per visit.
B. Who Can Get a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
Not everyone can waltz into Saudi Arabia without a pre-approved visa. But if you hold a passport from one of the 50+ eligible countries, you’re in for a treat! Here’s who gets the green light for Saudi visa on arrival:
- Passport Holders from Select Countries – Citizens from over 49 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, European Union member states, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea, can obtain a visa upon arrival.
- Schengen, UK, or US Visa Holders – If you’ve got a valid visa from any of these places US, UK, or Schengen zone that has been used at least once to enter the issuing country, congratulations! You can hop on board the VOA train.
- GCC Residents – If you’re living in a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country and working in an eligible profession, then you might just have a golden ticket to enter Saudi Arabia with ease.
C. How to Get a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
Now that you know if you’re eligible, let’s walk you through the process. No need to jump through hoops—Saudi Arabia has made it as easy as pie!
1. Touchdown & Head to Immigration
Upon landing at a Saudi airport, head straight to the Visa on Arrival counters. The professionals will carry on the process to help you get immediate visa.
2. Submit Your Documents
Make sure you’ve got these essentials as per Saudi visa requirements in your file:
- A valid passport (must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival).
- Proof of return ticket or onward travel.
- Hotel booking confirmation or accommodation details.
- Travel insurance (this may be provided as part of the visa issuance process at the airport).
- A credit or debit card for the visa fee payment (cash may not be accepted at all counters).
3. Pay the Visa Fee
After submitting the documents, it’s time to swipe that card! The VOA typically costs SAR 300 to 500 (including insurance), but prices can change, so keep an eye out.
4. Get Your Stamp & Explore
Once the officer gives you the nod, your passport gets stamped, and voilà! You’re officially in Saudi Arabia. Time to soak up the culture, savour some kabsa, and maybe even try sandboarding in the desert.
D. Tips for a Smooth Entry
To help you streamline the Saudi visa on arrival process and exploration, here are the best tips to follow:
- Check Your Eligibility Before Flying – Nothing stings more than getting turned away at the airport. So, make sure to bring all the documents mentioned above with you.
- Keep an Eye on Entry Points – Not all borders offer VOA, so double-check your arrival airport. Confirm with a visa expert or someone who has visited before to know about the correct airports.
- Have Travel Insurance – It’s usually included in the visa fee, but better safe than sorry. Do ensure with the officer while applying.
- Respect Local Customs – When in Saudi, do as the Saudis do. Dress modestly and follow Saudi laws. Avoid PDAs, taking pictures of government buildings or talking about royal families.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between a Saudi eVisa and a Visa on Arrival?
How long is the Saudi Visa on Arrival valid?
Which airports issue a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
- King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh)
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah)
- King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)
- Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Medina)
Can I perform Umrah with a Visa on Arrival?
How long does it take to get a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
What happens if my Visa on Arrival is denied?
Can I extend my Saudi Visa on Arrival?
Can GCC residents get a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
Getting a Saudi Visa on Arrival is very easy—if you fit the bill! So, if you’re one of the eligible travellers who can score the visa, pack your bags and get ready for an Arabian adventure like no other.
A travel influencer, adventurer and blogger on a mision to dicover the hidden gems of this beautiful planet. For me traveling isn’t a hobby, but a way of living.
