Saudi Arabia visas
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, arranged before travel. Saudi Arabia's visas fall under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with tourism handled through the online KSA Visa platform and pilgrimage (Umrah and Hajj) arranged through the Nusuk platform. Eligible nationals can obtain a Tourist Visit Visa as an e-Visa, a visa on arrival or through an embassy. This hub explains the main visa types in plain language and links to the official sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you before you travel or apply.
Important information
Saudi visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Saudi Arabia — tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips and transit, plus any visa-free or electronic-authorisation options.5 visas
- Work visasComing to Saudi Arabia to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Saudi Arabia — student visas and permits for accepted students, and what they let you do.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a family member in Saudi Arabia — spouse, partner, child and other relative routes.2 visas
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Saudi Arabia as a highly skilled or exceptional individual.3 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Saudi Arabia long term — permanent residence and, where available, the path to citizenship.1 visa
Saudi visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Who needs a visa to Saudi Arabia?
Visitors visiting Saudi Arabia are required to get a visa unless they come from one of the countries that are exempt from obtaining a visa. Visas for certain travellers may be obtained online or on arrival, while others must submit an application at one of the Saudi diplomatic posts in advance.
All visitors are required to have a passport that is valid for at least six months.
Requirements to apply for a Saudi Arabia Visa
You will require the following documents:
- Completed application form.
- Valid passport for at least six months.
- Health insurance must be purchased from the Saudi Arabian government.
- Accommodation documentation (hotel, residence, etc.)
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Who Can Visit Saudi Arabia Without a Visa?
Nationals of the following five nations are exempt from visa requirements and may enter Saudi Arabia with their national ID cards:
France additionally exempts holders of diplomatic and official passports from visa requirements.
- Bahrain
- Kuwait Oman
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates
What To Do If Your Saudi Arabia Visa is Refused?
Applicants whose previous Saudi Arabia electronic visa application was denied will be able to apply for a new eVisa. However, they must ensure that the online form is filled out with accurate personal information and travel details; otherwise, their application may be denied.
Saudi Arabia — key facts
- Entry document
- Visa required
- Most nationalities need a visa arranged before travel
- Authority
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Tourist e-Visa
- ksavisa.sa
- e-Visa, visa on arrival or embassy for eligible nationals
- Umrah & Hajj
- Nusuk
- Pilgrimage arranged through the official Nusuk platform
Saudi visas — people also ask
Most foreign nationals need a visa arranged before travel. Eligible nationals can obtain a Tourist Visit Visa online as an e-Visa, as a visa on arrival, or through a Saudi embassy. Check the official KSA Visa platform for your nationality before you travel.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-09. Information only — not legal advice.