All German citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and depending on the purpose of their travel, they can choose between an eVisa, a Visa on Arrival, and a Regular Visa from the embassy.
For short layovers of up to 96 hours, German passport holders can obtain a Saudi Transit Visa.
Citizens of Germany applying for any type of Saudi visa need a passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining from the planned date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
For certain visas, like Work Visas or Business Visas, further documentation, such as an invitation letter to a conference or a certificate of employment, might be necessary.
German travelers can choose the most convenient visa application method based on their individual travel needs.
More information for German visitors to Saudi Arabia is available on the Visit Saudi website.
NOTE: Visa-free entry to Saudi Arabia isn’t possible for German nationals who must obtain a visa before traveling.
Saudi Visas Available for German Citizens
German citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia have several visa options to choose from, depending on the purpose and duration of their stay.
Understanding the different types of visas available can help German travelers choose the most suitable visa and streamline their application process for a smooth entry into the country.
- Electronic Visa (eVisa)
The Saudi Arabia eVisa is a convenient and fast choice for German citizens traveling for tourism and business purposes that can be applied for online.
The Electronic Visa allows travelers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days within a one-year period and is valid for multiple entries.
You can apply online for the Saudi eVisa through the official Saudi eVisa Portal.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA)
German citizens who prefer to avoid online processes or like to travel last minute will appreciate the Saudi Visa on Arrival option available at entry ports.
The application process is smooth and quick – the passenger must head to a self-service KIOSK or visit the immigration desk and present their valid passport.
The Saudi VOA can be issued for a single visit or multiple entries.
- Transit Visa
The Saudi Arabian Transit Visa is issued for a maximum of 96 hours and is useful for travelers connecting flights through Saudi Arabia who want to explore the country.
To get a visa for transit, you must choose its option while buying flight tickets via the Flynas or Saudia websites.
- Regular Visa
For stays exceeding 90 days or related to more specific activities like working, studying, or taking part in religious pilgrimages, a Regular Visa from the embassy is required.
German nationals can apply at the Saudi Embassy in Berlin or the Saudi Consulate in Frankfurt.
Saudi Visa Application at the Embassy
Applying for a Saudi visa at the embassy is a straightforward process that must be completed by all German citizens visiting Saudi Arabia for more than 90 days.
Make sure to allow sufficient time for Saudi visa processing when planning your trip, as the standard waiting time for approval is 2–8 weeks.
- Prepare the required documents like your valid passport and a face photograph.
- Inquire about extra documentation suitable for your selected visa type.
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
- Submit your application form with the collected documentation.
- Participate in a visa interview (if required from the immigration officers).
- Pay the mandatory visa fees as guided by the officials.
Once the Saudi visa application is processed and approved, the applicant will be notified via the contact details provided.
The Saudi visa can be collected in person from the designated Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
Follow the instructions provided in the approval notification to ensure a smooth collection process.
NOTE: Scheduling an Saudi Embassy visit is crucial since walk-ins are usually not allowed. Contact the office in advance to secure your date and time.
Guide to Obtaining a Saudi Electronic Visa
Obtaining a Saudi eVisa is the easiest way to get a visa necessary to enter Saudi Arabia.
For a successful application, German citizens are required to only prepare a passport valid for at least 6 months and a face photo taken on a white background.
- Visit the online portal at visa.visitsaudi.com and select “Apply Now.”
- Create an account if it’s your first time using the website or log in.
- Indicate if you’re applying for yourself or a group (for example, a family).
- Submit your passport information, personal details, and travel plans.
- Upload a face photo that meets the official guidelines.
- Add mandatory travel insurance – it’s required for all visitors.
- Agree to the Terms & Conditions and review the form for accuracy.
- Pay the visa fee securely with a credit card, debit card, or PayPal.
Once your application is processed (usually within 24-72 hours), the Saudi Arabian eVisa will be sent directly to the email address you provided during the registration process.
Make sure that you enter a valid email address when applying.
The Saudi eVisa should be printed for presentation during your travel, but it’s good to have a digital copy downloaded to your mobile.
NOTE: Benefits of the online visa for Saudi Arabia include convenience, quicker processing, and flexibility.
How to Correct Mistakes in a Saudi eVisa Application
If you notice a mistake in your Saudi eVisa registration form, it’s important to address it promptly to avoid delays or potential rejection.
To correct mistakes, visit the Saudi Online Visa Portal and log into your account. Then, search for your application number and click the “Edit” button.
If edits are not permitted, you may be required to cancel the incorrect application and submit a new one with the accurate details.
To avoid similar situations, make sure that all information in the form is correct and matches your official documentation before submitting it for processing.
Documents Required for Saudi Visa Application
To easily apply for the Saudi Arabian visa, regardless of the selected method, follow this checklist of documents you’ll need:
Basic requirements
- Passport with at least 6-month validity from the travel date
- Recent face photograph on a plain, white background
Additional documents for specific visas*
- Flight itinerary for Tourist Visas
- Invitation letter and cooperation proof for Business Visas
- Employment contract and police clearance report for Work Visas
- Proof of family ties for Family Visit Visas
- And more
*You will be informed by the Saudi Arabian Embassy what documents are exactly required for a particular visa type.
More information about the available visas, visa policy, and entry requirements to Saudi Arabia can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs platform.
Saudi Visa on Arrival for German Citizens
German citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia are eligible to obtain a Visa on Arrival.
This visa option is designed for tourists and business travelers, providing a convenient alternative to pre-arranged visas.
- Present yourself at the dedicated visa counter or visit the self-service KIOSK.
- Submit your passport (valid for at least 6 months) and your German ID card.
- Make the visa payment on the spot and wait for the document.
- Receive your visa immediately.
The Saudi Visa on Arrival eliminates the need to apply for a visa in advance, allowing travelers to plan their trip more flexibly and spontaneously.
With minimal documentation required (valid passport, European ID), the application is quick and straightforward.
Key Saudi Embassy Details for German Nationals
For German nationals planning to visit Saudi Arabia, having accurate and up-to-date information can help streamline travel preparations.
For guidance and assistance with the visa application, contact the Saudi Arabia Embassy in Berlin.
- Address: Tiergartenstrasse 33-34, 10785 Berlin
- Telephone: +49 30 889 250
- Email: deemb@mofa.gov.sa
You can also contact the immigration officers at the Saudi Arabian Consulate in Frankfurt.
- Address: Messeturm, Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 49, 60308 Frankfurt am Main
- Telephone: +49 69 768 0580
- Email: fkcon@mofa.gov.sa
FAQs about Saudi Arabia Visa for Germans
- Can German citizens enter Saudi Arabia visa-free?
No, travelers from Germany are required to have a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
- Can I apply for Saudi eVisa at the last minute?
Electronic Visas for Saudi Arabia are often processed in under 72 hours.
- Are Work Visas covered under Saudi eVisa?
No, German citizens traveling on a Saudi eVisa can only pursue tourism and business.
- Can German travelers get a Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia?
Yes, they can apply for a Saudi Transit Visa while buying flight tickets.
- What is the validity period of the Saudi eVisa?
The Saudi eVisa is valid for one year from the date of issue and allows multiple visits.
- Are there age restrictions for the Saudi eVisa?
No, individuals of all ages may apply for a Saudi eVisa.
- Can I use my Saudi eVisa to visit religious sites?
Yes, the Saudi eVisa permits visits to religious sites for tourism purposes.
- What payment methods are accepted for the Saudi eVisa application?
The application platform accepts most major credit and debit cards for payment.
- Is the Saudi eVisa valid for multiple entries?
Yes, the Saudi eVisa allows multiple entries within its one-year validity period.
Conclusion
German citizens can choose one of the few available visa application methods – online, at the entry ports, or at the embassy.
The Saudi eVisa makes the country more accessible to travelers worldwide. With a simple online application process and quick approvals, visitors can secure their visa without hassle.
A Regular Visa from the embassy is essential in case of long-term trips lasting longer than 90 days. It can be issued for travel purposes, including employment and residence.
To apply for a Saudi visa, applicants must have the necessary documents prepared, such as a passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
Sources:
- https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
- https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/eservices/Pages/default.aspx
- https://www.saudiembassy.net/visa-types
- https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Germany/EN/Frankfurt/Pages/default.aspx
- https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Germany/EN/Pages/default.aspx
Hello, I’m Sara Ali, and I have dedicated my career to navigating the intricacies of immigration and visa processes. With over a decade of experience in the field, I have assisted countless travelers in achieving their travel and relocation goals. My expertise lies in simplifying complex procedures and ensuring seamless visa applications for clients from diverse backgrounds. Passionate about facilitating international travel, I continually stay updated with the latest immigration policies to provide reliable guidance and support.
