Saudi Arabia Visa for US Citizens

US citizens must obtain a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia, whether for tourism, business, or employment purposes.

The most accessible option for US travelers is the Saudi Arabia eVisa, which can be applied for online. The Electronic Visa is valid for one year, allowing multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days in total.

Another choice for United States nationals traveling to Saudi Arabia is the Visa on Arrival. This type of visa can be obtained upon arrival at select ports of entry in Saudi Arabia.

In certain situations, visitors from the US may need to apply for a visa through the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate. This can be the case for specific types of travel, such as employment or long-term stays.

The Saudi Arabia visa application process typically involves submitting the required documents, including the application form, passport, photograph, and supporting documents related to the purpose of travel.

NOTE: Each visa type has its specific requirements and procedures. It is advisable to contact the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate in advance to gather the necessary information.

Saudi Arabia Visa Types for US Travelers

Several Saudi Arabia visa types are available for US citizens, depending on the travel purpose.

It’s essential to choose the appropriate visa type to Saudi Arabia to plan your trip effectively and avoid overstaying, which may lead to penalties or deportation.

Here’s a general list of visa types available for US citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia:

• eVisa – For short-term tourism, valid for one year with multiple entries.
• Visa on Arrival – For convenient entry without the need to obtain a visa in advance.
• Tourist Visa – For leisure or tourism purposes, similar to the eVisa.
• Work Visa – For individuals seeking employment in Saudi Arabia.
• Hajj and Umrah Visas – For religious pilgrimages during Hajj or Umrah seasons.
• Residency Visa – For long-term stays, including family or premium residency.
• Family Visit Visa – For visiting family members residing in Saudi Arabia.
• Student Visa – For pursuing education at Saudi institutions.
• Escort Visa – For accompanying eligible travelers to Saudi Arabia.

IMPORTANT: All visa types require US travelers to comply with Saudi Arabia’s entry policies and regulations.

Required Documents for United States Travelers

Regardless of the type of Saudi Arabia visa, US citizens are expected to meet certain conditions before traveling.

The requirements ensure travelers from the United States satisfy Saudi Arabia’s immigration regulations.

To apply for a Saudi Arabia visa, US passport holders must prepare specific documents to support their application:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay
• Recent photo with a white background clearly showing facial features

Depending on the type of Saudi Arabia visa, additional documents might be required to complete your application. These could include, among other supporting documents:

• Employer’s letter detailing your purpose of travel and employment status
• Invitation letter from a host or organization in Saudi Arabia
• Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the cost of your trip, such as bank statements

The accuracy and completeness of these documents are crucial to avoid application delays or rejections.

Saudi Arabia Visa Procedure in the Embassy

When applying for a Saudi Arabia visa through the embassy, knowing the exact steps makes the process smoother.

US citizens can apply at the embassy for various visa types: Diplomatic, Tourist, Business, Work, Residency, Family Visit, Extend Return, Escort, Student, Hajj, and Umrah Visas, depending on the purpose of their travel.

Before visiting the embassy, you must book an appointment. You can typically schedule this online by visiting the official Saudi Embassy.

Make sure to select the date and time that fits your schedule. Walk-in applications are often not accepted, so appointments are mandatory.

During your visit to the embassy, you’ll need to follow specific steps:

1. Document submission: Hand over your completed application form and all properly organized documents.
2. Biometric scanning: Be prepared to provide fingerprints and a recent photo.
3. Interview (if required): Some visa types, such as Work Visas, may require an interview to discuss your purpose of travel.

Arrive on time for your appointment and carry all original documents to avoid being turned away. Verify all documents are current and meet the exact embassy standards to prevent delays.

Step-by-Step Application Process for a Saudi Arabia eVisa

The eVisa allows US citizens to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes with a one-year validity and multiple entries. Each stay can last up to 90 days.

Before applying, double-check your passport validity, which must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date.

The Saudi Arabia eVisa application is straightforward, but you’ll need to follow specific steps to get approval:

1. Visit the Official Website. Start by heading to the official Visit Saudi website. Look for the “Sign In” or “Apply Now” button on the homepage to begin your application process.
2. Create an Account or Log In. If you’re a first-time user, you must create an account using your email address. Returning users can simply log in with their credentials.
3. Choose an Application Type. Select whether you’re applying as an individual or for a group. Choose the option that best suits your travel plans to proceed.
4. Fill Out the Online Form. Complete the application form by providing accurate personal information and uploading the required documents.
5. Select Medical Insurance. Saudi Arabia requires visitors to have medical insurance, and the online portal will guide you in choosing from pre-approved providers.
6. Agree to Terms and Conditions. Read and accept the terms and conditions carefully before proceeding. Double-check that all the details you entered are correct.
7. Review and Submit Your Application. Take a moment to verify every detail before submitting the form. Errors at this stage may result in your application being rejected.
8. Make Payment. Pay the visa fee using a valid credit or debit card or any other available online payment option.

Once submitted, your application will usually be processed within 24 to 72 hours. You’ll receive a notification via email when the Saudi Arabia eVisa has been approved.

NOTE: Save the approved eVisa document as a digital file and print a copy to carry with you during your trip to Saudi Arabia.

Getting a Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival

Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival is straightforward once you land at any entry point within the country.

You should head to the self-service KIOSKs or visit the passport control office at the airport to begin the process.

Then, it is necessary to provide the required details and payment at the counter. Once processed, your Visa on Arrival will be issued immediately.

This process is easy for travelers and meets Saudi Arabia’s growing initiatives to modernize travel procedures.

US citizens can enter Saudi Arabia as long as their passports are valid. Additionally, travelers must satisfy these criteria:

• You must be at least 18 years old to enter unaccompanied.
• If you are under 18, you must travel with a parent, grandparent, or adult sibling who is over 18.

Transit Through Saudi Arabia

A Transit/Stopover Visa enables US travelers to pass through Saudi Arabia, perform Umrah, visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina and UNESCO heritage sites, and participate in entertainment events.

Applicants from the United States can secure this visa while booking flights with Saudia or Flynas.

Religious travelers interested in Umrah or Ziyarah must visit nusuk.sa to schedule their appointments for Makkah or Medina.

The Transit Visa is free but requires travelers to cover administrative and medical insurance fees. It grants a maximum stay of 96 hours in Saudi Arabia.

NOTE: Applications for this visa can be submitted up to 90 days prior to travel, allowing ample time to plan your visit.

Writing Your Name in Arabic for a Visa Application

When applying for a Saudi Arabia visa, pay close attention to the requirement of writing your name and surname in Arabic on the application.

The rule applies to all applicants, including US citizens. Regardless of the type of visa — whether it’s an eVisa, Embassy Visa, or Visa on Arrival — this step cannot be overlooked.

Important tips:

• Verify your full legal Arabic name from an official source, such as your embassy or Arabic-speaking notary.
• Avoid misspellings or inconsistencies, which will delay processing or lead to rejection.
• For additional details, visit the official Saudi Arabia eVisa portal at https://visa.visitsaudi.com or consult your local consulate.

NOTE: It is essential to double-check all the information provided and ensure compliance with the latest guidelines and requirements when applying for a Saudi Arabia visa.

Medical and Health Insurance for Saudi Arabia

US citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia should be aware that medical and health insurance is mandatory as part of the visa application process.

All visa applicants from the US are required to include proof of approved health insurance coverage when submitting their applications.

For a Tourist eVisa, health insurance is included in the visa fee, ensuring travelers meet the requirements for their stay.

Key guidelines for insurance requirements include:

• The insurance policy must cover accident and emergency costs, including medical evacuation.
• Requirements may vary based on visa type, so ensure your policy meets the specific criteria for your visa, whether for tourism, business, or employment.
• Insurance purchased through the eVisa application portal is pre-approved and simplifies the process.

If you’re applying for a work visa, your Saudi employer typically sponsors your health coverage under their corporate insurance plan.

However, confirm specific coverage details, since additional private insurance is advisable.

Contact Information for the Saudi Arabia Embassy in US

Saudi Arabia Embassy can provide US citizens with helpful resources and guidance.

To contact the Saudi Arabian Embassy in the United States, use these details:

• Address: 601 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C.
• Phone: (202) 342-3800
• Website: saudiembassy.net
• Regular business hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Frequently Asked Questions about Saudi Arabia Visas

• How can I apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
  Apply online by filling out the official Saudi Arabia visa website application form. Submit your passport details, photo, and pay the visa fee.

• Is it possible to travel to multiple cities within Saudi Arabia with a Tourist eVisa?
  Yes, the Tourist eVisa allows you to travel to multiple cities within Saudi Arabia during your visit.

• How long does a Saudi Arabia eVisa application process take?
  Processing typically takes between 24 to 72 hours after submitting your online application.

• What happens if I overstay my Saudi Arabia visa?
  Overstaying can result in fines or deportation, so make sure to respect your visa’s validity period.

• What should I do in case of an emergency in Saudi Arabia?
  Registering with the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia before traveling is advisable. They can assist in emergencies and provide important alerts.

• Where can I get official information about the visa process?
  Visit visa.visitsaudi.com or contact the nearest Saudi Embassy for accurate information.

• Can I work on a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa?
  No, the Tourist Visa does not permit any form of employment or business activities. Engaging in work-related activities without the appropriate visa is strictly prohibited.

• Do I need medical insurance for my trip to Saudi Arabia?
  It is mandatory to have comprehensive travel medical insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses during your stay in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

To sum it up, US citizens need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, or work.

The easiest option is the Saudi Arabia eVisa, which is valid for one year with multiple entries and a stay of up to 90 days in total. Another option is the Visa on Arrival, available at select entry points.

For employment or long-term stays, a visa through the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate may be required.

Conditions vary by visa type, so it’s best to consult the Saudi embassy or consulate in advance.

Sources

• https://www.visitsaudi.com/en
• https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
• https://www.my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main?lang=en
• https://www.saudiembassy.net/