Applying for an electronic visa to Saudi Arabia is one of the easiest ways to visit the Kingdom for leisure, family visits, business events, or Umrah. However, even minor documentation errors—such as uploading a low-resolution photograph or providing a passport with less than six months of validity—can result in unexpected application delays or rejections.
Whether you are planning a desert safari in AlUla, attending a business summit in Riyadh, or traveling to Makkah for pilgrimage, understanding the Saudi Arabia eVisa requirements in advance is crucial. This comprehensive pillar guide covers every single requirement, specification, and rule to help ensure a smooth, hassle-free online application.
Saudi Arabia eVisa Requirements at a Glance
The table below provides a concise summary of the essential documentation and eligibility criteria required to obtain a Saudi tourist eVisa.
Saudi Arabia eVisa Requirements Overview
| Requirement | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Original passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date, with a minimum of 2 blank pages. |
| Passport Photo | Digital passport-size photo (JPEG/PNG) with a plain white background, clear image, and ICAO-compliant quality. |
| Email Address | A valid personal email address to receive your application updates and approved eVisa PDF. |
| Payment Method | International Visa, Mastercard, or American Express credit/debit card for secure online payment. |
| Accommodation Details | Hotel reservation confirmation or the address of your host/accommodation in Saudi Arabia. |
| Travel Information | Confirmed return or onward flight itinerary to support your travel plans. |
| Supporting Documents | Valid and previously used US, UK, or Schengen visa, or a valid GCC Residency Permit (Iqama) if applying under special eligibility. |
| Health Insurance | Mandatory medical insurance is automatically assigned during the application process and included in the overall visa fee. |
| Nationality Eligibility | Applicants must be citizens of 66+ eligible countries or qualify through approved residency or supporting visa programs. |
Who Can Apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
Eligibility for the Saudi electronic visa is categorized into specific qualification tracks. Travelers must fall into one of the following eligibility groups to apply online.
Saudi eVisa Eligibility Tracks
Group 1
66+ Eligible Countries
Citizens of eligible countries can apply online directly using their valid passport.
Group 2
GCC Residents
Applicants with a valid GCC Residency (Iqama) may qualify for an online Saudi eVisa.
Group 3
US / UK / Schengen
Travelers holding qualifying visas or permanent residency from the US, UK, or Schengen Area may also be eligible.
1. Citizens of Eligible Countries
Passport holders from over 66 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Caribbean can apply directly through the official Visit Saudi eVisa portal. These include citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, European Union member states, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and China, among others.
2. GCC Residents
Foreign expats who legally reside in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations—United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman—can apply for an eVisa provided their GCC Residency ID (Iqama) is valid for at least 3 months from the application date.
3. Holders of US, UK, or Schengen Visas
If your passport nationality is not on the primary 66+ country list, you can still qualify for a tourist eVisa if you hold an active, valid tourist or business visa issued by the United States, United Kingdom, or any Schengen state.
Crucial Rule
The qualifying US, UK, or Schengen visa must have been used at least once to enter the issuing country or region before applying for a Saudi Arabia eVisa.
Permanent Residents
Permanent residents such as US Green Card, UK Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and EU Permanent Residence Permit holders may also qualify for a Saudi eVisa, subject to current eligibility requirements.
4. Visa on Arrival Eligible Travelers
Anyone who is eligible to receive a Saudi eVisa online is also technically permitted to obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Saudi international airports. However, applying for the eVisa in advance is strongly recommended to prevent long lines at airport arrival kiosks and ensure smooth check-in with your airline.
Passport Requirements
Your passport serves as the primary legal document linking your identity to your electronic visa. Saudi Arabia enforces strict regulations regarding passport condition and validity.
Passport Validity Checklist
Minimum 6 Months Validity
Passport must remain valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date.
Two Blank Pages
Your passport should contain at least 2 blank pages for immigration stamps.
Machine Readable Passport
The MRZ (Machine Readable Zone) must be clear, readable, and undamaged.
Application Must Match
Every passport detail must exactly match your Saudi eVisa application.
Essential Passport Rules
Minimum Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended arrival date. Applications with less validity are usually rejected.
Blank Pages
Immigration officers require 2 blank passport pages for entry and exit stamps.
Machine Readable Passport
Handwritten or non-machine-readable passports are not accepted for Saudi tourist eVisa applications.
Additional Requirements
Damaged Passport
Passports with torn pages, water damage, or a detached cover may be refused at immigration.
Dual Nationality
Use the same passport for application and travel. Switching passports can result in entry refusal.
Emergency Passports
Temporary, emergency, diplomatic, and travel documents generally do not qualify for the Saudi tourist eVisa and require embassy processing.
Passport Photograph Requirements
Submitting an incorrect digital photograph is the single most common reason for Saudi eVisa processing delays. The photo uploaded to the online portal must meet strict International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) biometric standards.
Detailed Photo Specifications
Dimensions
Minimum 200 × 200 pixels with a standard square aspect ratio.
Background
Plain white background without patterns, shadows, or objects.
Lighting & Clarity
Even lighting with no harsh shadows, glare, or red-eye effects.
Head Position
Face the camera directly with your full face visible from chin to crown.
Expression
Neutral facial expression with mouth closed and eyes looking directly at the camera.
Glasses
Remove eyeglasses whenever possible. Dark or tinted sunglasses are not permitted.
Head Coverings
Religious head coverings are allowed if the entire face remains clearly visible.
File Format & Size
Upload a JPG, JPEG, or PNG file between 10 KB and 100 KB.
Pro Tip
Never upload a photo of a printed photograph, a scanned passport photo, or a casual selfie. For the best chance of approval, take a high-resolution passport-style photo against a plain white wall in bright natural daylight.
Required Personal Information
When filling out the official online application form on the Visit Saudi portal, you must provide precise personal and travel data matching your identity documents.
Information Required for Your Saudi eVisa Application
Full Legal Name
Enter your first name, middle name(s), and surname exactly as shown on your passport MRZ lines.
Gender & Date of Birth
Select your gender and birth date exactly as listed on your passport.
Country of Birth & Nationality
These details must match your current valid passport.
Passport Details
Provide your passport number, issue date, expiry date, and issuing authority.
Occupation & Marital Status
Choose the appropriate options from the official government dropdown lists.
Contact Details
Provide a valid email address and an active mobile number with the correct international country code.
Travel Dates
Enter your estimated arrival date and intended port of entry into Saudi Arabia.
Accommodation Address
Provide your hotel or host's full address and contact telephone number within Saudi Arabia.
Application Tip
Double-check every detail before submitting your Saudi eVisa application. Even minor spelling mistakes or passport information mismatches can delay processing or result in application rejection.
Required Supporting Documents
Depending on your qualification path, you must attach digital scans of specific supporting documents during the application process.
Required Digital Documents
All Applicants
- Passport Bio Page Scan
- Passport Photo (White Background)
GCC Residents
- Valid GCC Iqama Scan
US / UK / Schengen Track
- Valid Visa Copy
- Entry Stamp Copy
Passport Bio Page Scan
Upload a clear color scan showing your personal details, signature, photograph, and the machine-readable (MRZ) lines.
Digital Passport Photo
Recent passport-size photograph with a plain white background that meets Saudi eVisa photo specifications.
GCC Residency Permit (Iqama)
GCC residents must provide a clear copy of their Iqama showing at least 3 months of remaining validity.
US / UK / Schengen Visa
Upload your valid visa or residence permit along with the passport page showing the official entry stamp from that country or region.
Hotel Booking or Host Details
Provide your accommodation confirmation or host information, including the address and contact details for your stay in Saudi Arabia.
Important Document Checklist
Ensure every uploaded file is clear, complete, and matches the information entered in your application. Blurry scans, cropped passport pages, or expired supporting documents may delay processing or result in your Saudi eVisa application being rejected.
Saudi eVisa Health Insurance Requirement
All visitors entering Saudi Arabia on a tourist eVisa are legally mandated to carry health insurance covering medical emergencies within the Kingdom.
Key Insurance Details
Automatic Assignment
You do not need to purchase a separate private health insurance policy before applying. During the Saudi eVisa application, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) automatically assigns an approved local medical insurance provider.
Insurance Cost
The mandatory insurance fee of approximately SAR 180 (~$48 USD) is already included in your total Saudi tourist eVisa application fee.
Coverage Limits
Coverage generally includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, prescription medication, and emergency medical evacuation up to SAR 100,000 (~$26,600 USD).
Not Covered
Insurance does not typically cover elective cosmetic procedures, pre-existing chronic conditions (unless emergency treatment is required), or routine dental and vision care.
Good to Know
Your insurance certificate is normally issued together with your approved Saudi eVisa. Download and keep both digital and printed copies with you throughout your trip in case medical assistance or immigration verification is required.
Saudi Arabia eVisa Application Process
The step-by-step process below outlines how to complete your application online.
Saudi eVisa Application Process
Check Your Eligibility Status
2 MinutesVisit the official Saudi eVisa portal and confirm whether your nationality or qualifying visa/residency status is eligible for an online Saudi eVisa application.
Gather Required Documents
5 MinutesPrepare your passport bio page, passport-size photo with a white background, hotel or accommodation details, and your expected travel dates.
Complete the Online Form
10 MinutesCreate your account, choose the correct visa type, and enter your personal information, passport details, and accommodation address exactly as shown on your passport.
Upload Digital Documents
3 MinutesUpload your passport scan and digital passport photo. Ensure all files are clear, readable, and meet the required upload specifications.
Review Your Application
2 MinutesCarefully review your name, passport number, travel dates, and other information. Correct any mistakes before submitting because changes cannot usually be made after payment.
Pay Visa & Insurance Fees
2 MinutesComplete payment using an international credit or debit card. Your mandatory Saudi travel health insurance is automatically included in the total application fee.
Receive Your Approved eVisa
5 Minutes – 24 HoursAfter approval, your Saudi eVisa PDF will be delivered to your registered email address. Download both digital and printed copies before traveling.
Pro Tip
Carefully verify every passport detail before submitting your application. Even a small typo can delay processing or require you to submit and pay for a new application.
Processing Time Options
Saudi Arabia boasts one of the fastest automated electronic visa processing systems globally.
Saudi eVisa Processing Time
| Processing Category | Average Approval Time | Recommended Timing |
|---|---|---|
Standard Automated ProcessingFast automated approval system |
5 Minutes – 30 Minutes | Apply at least 48–72 hours before departure for a smooth travel experience. |
Manual Verification ReviewAdditional document or security checks |
24–72 Hours | Applies when your application requires manual document verification or additional security screening. |
Common Mistakes That Cause Application Rejection
Avoid these frequent mistakes to ensure your application is approved on the first try:
Common Mistakes That Delay or Reject a Saudi eVisa
Typographical Errors in Passport Number
Entering the letter "O" instead of the number "0", or swapping digits in your passport number, may cause your application to fail verification.
Name Order Mismatch
Ensure your first name, middle name, and surname exactly match your passport's MRZ. Reversed or missing names can result in rejection.
Invalid Photo Background
Uploading photos with dark, patterned, or off-white backgrounds may fail the automated image quality checks.
Unused Third-Country Visa
If applying through a qualifying US, UK, or Schengen visa, it must have been used at least once before your Saudi eVisa application.
Passport Near Expiry
Your passport should remain valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Payment Failures
Payments may fail if your card does not support international transactions or 3D Secure authentication.
Helpful Tip
Carefully review your passport details, uploaded documents, and payment information before submitting your Saudi eVisa application. Even a minor mistake can delay processing or require a new application.
Expert Tips to Ensure 100% Approval
Expert Tips for a Successful Saudi eVisa Application
Double-Check Your Passport MRZ
Compare every detail entered in your application with the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) at the bottom of your passport to avoid data mismatches.
Apply Early
Submit your application at least 3–5 days before departure to allow extra time for any unexpected manual verification or security review.
Carry Printed Documents
Although your eVisa is linked electronically to your passport, airlines may request printed copies of your eVisa PDF and return flight itinerary.
Verify Payment Card
Ensure your debit or credit card supports international transactions and has sufficient available credit for payments in Saudi Riyal (SAR).
Pro Tip
A few extra minutes spent reviewing your passport details, travel information, uploaded documents, and payment method can significantly reduce the risk of delays or rejection and help ensure a smooth Saudi eVisa approval process.
Special Requirements for Specific Traveler Groups
Special Applicant Requirements
GCC Residents
Your GCC residency permit must remain valid for at least 3 months from the date of application.
Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months.
A clear scanned copy of your GCC residency card must be uploaded during the application.
US, UK & Schengen Visa Holders
Your qualifying visa must be active and valid at the time of application.
The visa must include an official entry stamp showing previous travel to the issuing country or region.
Upload both your qualifying visa copy and the passport page containing the entry stamp.
Children & Minors
Every child must have an individual passport and submit a separate Saudi eVisa application.
Applicants under 18 cannot apply independently. A parent or legal guardian must complete the application.
Children under 18 must enter Saudi Arabia while accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
Umrah Pilgrims
Tourist eVisa holders may perform Umrah in Makkah and visit Madinah outside the Hajj season.
Download and register in the Nusuk App to reserve Umrah and Rawdah permit time slots.
A Saudi Tourist eVisa cannot be used to perform Hajj. A dedicated Hajj visa is required.
Important Reminder
Ensure all supporting documents, passport details, and eligibility requirements are accurate before submitting your Saudi eVisa application. Missing or incorrect information may delay processing or result in a visa refusal.
Documents Required at Saudi Border Control
When arriving at border control at Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, or Medina airports, keep these documents readily accessible:
Border Immigration Checklist
Original Passport
Carry your original passport with at least 6 months validity. Your approved Saudi eVisa must be electronically linked to this passport.
Printed Saudi eVisa
Keep a printed copy of your approved Saudi eVisa PDF for airline check-in and immigration verification.
Return or Onward Ticket
Immigration officers may request proof of your confirmed return or onward travel itinerary.
Accommodation Details
Carry your hotel reservation confirmation or the full address and contact details of your host in Saudi Arabia.
Supporting Eligibility Documents (If Applicable)
Travelers applying under special eligibility categories should carry the original supporting documents used during the Saudi eVisa application.
Important Reminder
Border Control officers may request any of the above documents before granting entry. Keeping both digital and printed copies of your travel documents can help speed up the immigration process and prevent unnecessary delays.
What Happens If You Don't Meet Requirements?
If you do not fulfill the official eVisa criteria:
Application Rejection
The automated Saudi eVisa system will reject your application if you do not meet the required eligibility criteria or submit incorrect or incomplete information.
Non-Refundable Policy
All government visa fees and mandatory medical insurance charges are 100% non-refundable, even if your Saudi eVisa application is refused.
Airline Boarding Denial
Airlines verify Saudi entry authorization electronically before departure. Travelers without a valid visa or sufficient passport validity may be denied boarding immediately.
Reapplication Required
Correct all identified errors, obtain updated supporting documents if necessary, and submit a completely new Saudi eVisa application with a new payment.