Saudi eVisa: Your Complete Guide to Visiting Saudi Arabia
Planning to enter Saudi Arabia has never been easier, thanks to the Saudi eVisa. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, to perform Umrah, or just curious about exploring the country’s history and culture, the eVisa system makes it simple. Instead of standing in long embassy queues, most tourist can now apply online and get approval in just a few days.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the Saudi electronic Visa: costs, requirements, application steps, and tips to avoid rejection.
What Is the Saudi eVisa?
The Saudi eVisa is an electronic visa that allows eligible tourists to visit the kingdom for short stays. It’s linked directly to your passport, so there’s no need for physical stamps.
Once approved, you can use it to arrive in Saudi Arabia through any of the designated airports, land borders, or seaports.
Travelers can choose between a single-entry visa or a multiple entry visa. With the multiple entry option, you can make several trips during its validity, which is perfect for frequent travelers or those combining Hajj and Umrah visits with regular tourism.
Who Can Apply?
Most countries are eligible, including travelers from the UK. If you hold a British passport, you can apply for a Saudi Saudi electronic Visa from the UK online without much hassle.
But here’s a common question: Does a UK BRP holder need a visa for Saudi Arabia? Yes. Holding a UK BRP doesn’t automatically make you eligible for visa-free travel. You’ll still need to apply for the eVisa if your passport country requires it.
The Ministry of Tourism regularly updates the list of eligible countries, so always check the latest information before booking your ticket.
How Much Does the Saudi eVisa Cost?
If you’re wondering, How much is Saudi eVisa from UK?, the answer depends on the visa type. Generally, fees cover both the visa itself and mandatory travel insurance. On average, the total cost is around £100–£120, but prices may vary depending on updates or if you use a travel organization for the application.
Always confirm the latest fees on the official portal before paying, as refunds are rare if your application gets rejected.
The Application Process
Applying is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the official Saudi eVisa website.
Avoid third-party sites unless it’s a trusted travel agency. - Fill out the online application form.
Enter your personal details, passport information, and expected date of arrival. - Upload required documents.
A clear passport copy and a recent photo are usually enough. - Pay the fees online.
Credit and debit cards are accepted, but make sure your card is enabled for international payments. - Wait for approval.
Processing is quick. If you’re asking, How long will it take for a Saudi eVisa? — most applications are approved within 24 to 72 hours. Sometimes, you may get approval in just a few minutes.
Single vs. Multiple Entry Visa Options
| Visa Type | Validity | Stay Duration | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-entry visa | Valid for one entry only | Up to 30 days | Short-term visitors, first-time tourists | Ideal for one-off trips; straightforward process |
| Multi-travel visa | Valid for 1 year | Up to 90 days per trip | Frequent travelers, business visitors, or those performing Umrah multiple times | Lets you re-enter without reapplying; great for combining tourism and religious visits |
Validity and Stay Rules
Once issued, the electronic Visa is typically valid for one year. With a multiple entry visa, you can spend up to 90 days per trip inside the kingdom. For a single-entry visa, the stay is shorter, usually capped at 30 days.
Remember: overstaying your visa can cause fines, penalties, or issues when you leave the country. Always check the permitted stay duration on your approval notice.
What Is the Saudi Tourist eVisa?
The Saudi tourist Electronic Visa is a digital travel document that allows visitors from eligible countries to enter Saudi Arabia for leisure, cultural exploration. Unlike traditional visas that require long embassy visits, the tourist eVisa is completely online.
Once approved, the eVisa is electronically linked to your passport, which means there’s no need to carry extra paperwork. Immigration officers can easily verify it when you arrive at airports, land borders, or seaports. This makes it one of the most efficient ways to experience the country’s fast-growing tourism sector.
Another plus? The tourist eVisa covers multiple activities under one application. Whether you want to explore Riyadh’s modern skyline, walk through Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district, relax by the Red Sea, or make a spiritual visit to Makkah and Madinah for Umrah, the eVisa gives you that flexibility.
Tips to Avoid Delays or Rejection
- Double-check your passport details before submitting. Even a small typo can get your application rejected.
- Apply early — don’t wait until the last minute, especially if your trip is close.
- Save both the approval email and a printed copy. While the eVisa is digital, having a hard copy avoids problems at the airport.
- Ensure your documents (passport, Entry Pass, hotel bookings) match the information you entered.
Final Thoughts
The Saudi eVisa has transformed how tourists and pilgrims access the kingdom. Whether you’re traveling from the UK for a desert adventure, cultural exploration the process is fast and convenient.
With the right preparation, you’ll find it easy to enter Saudi Arabia smoothly. Just apply early, keep your details accurate, and enjoy your trip.