Saudi Arabia Visa for Palauan Citizens

Palauan citizens need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia, as it regulates and monitors the entry of foreign nationals into Saudi Arabia, ensuring security and compliance with the country’s laws and policies.

Travelers from Palau can apply for a Saudi Regular Visa at the embassy or obtain a Transit Visa if traveling through Saudi Arabia with Flynas or Saudia Airlines.

For those who are residents of GCC countries, the UK, the US, or the EU, or hold valid UK, US, or Schengen visas, a Saudi eVisa or Visa on Arrival is available.

Palauans must prepare a passport valid for at least 6 months and a recent face photo; additional documents may vary based on the Saudi visa type.

NOTE: Palauan nationals must comply with vaccination requirements, such as a certificate for meningitis, before traveling for the pilgrimage.

Saudi Regular Visa for Palauan Nationals

Palauan citizens planning to visit Saudi Arabia for a stay of over 90 days or for purposes like employment/studies are required to apply for a Regular Visa prior to their travel.

The application process involves submitting key documents:

• A filled-out visa application form
• A passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry
• A formal face photograph meeting the official specifications
• Health insurance for Saudi Arabia

Additionally, applicants from Palau must provide, in some cases, supporting documents such as an invitation letter, a travel itinerary, or evidence of sufficient financial resources for the duration of their stay.

Travelers must schedule an appointment at the Saudi Embassy in advance. Palauans may be asked to provide biometric data such as fingerprints or participate in a short interview regarding their travel plans.

Types of Saudi Regular Visas

Saudi Arabia offers a variety of visas depending on the purpose of travel. Each visa type has specific requirements and conditions that applicants must meet.

It is essential for Palauan travelers to clearly identify the purpose of their visit before applying, as this will determine the application process and the supporting documents required:

• Diplomatic Visa: Issued to government staff or members of diplomatic missions and organizations.
• Tourist Visa: For individuals traveling for leisure or tourism purposes.
• Business Visa: Designed for attending meetings, conferences, or engaging in professional activities.
• Work Visa: Granted for permanent or temporary employment within the Kingdom.
• Residency Visa: Available for a standard residency, premium residency, or for newborns of residents.
• Family Visit Visa: For relatives wishing to visit family members residing in Saudi Arabia.
• Extend Return Visa: For residents who need to extend their return date to Saudi Arabia.
• Escort Visa: For individuals accompanying another person, such as dependents or helpers.
• Student Visa: Issued to those pursuing educational opportunities in the country.
• Hajj Visa: Specifically for pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
• Umrah Visa: For pilgrims visiting to perform Umrah outside the Hajj season.

Contacting Saudi Arabia’s Embassy or Consulate is highly recommended to obtain accurate and up-to-date information about visa types.

NOTE: It is crucial to meet all stated guidelines and submit Saudi visa applications well in advance to avoid delays.

Saudi Electronic Visa Application Process

Applying for a Saudi Electronic Visa (eVisa) is a straightforward process that can be completed online by Palauan nationals who are GCC residents or hold a US, UK, EU visa/residence permit.

Follow these steps to apply for a Saudi visa online:

1. Visit the official KSA Visa homepage. Start by accessing https://ksavisa.sa/.
2. Click on the menu button on the right. On the homepage, click the menu button located in the top-right corner of the page.
3. Complete the application form. Provide accurate and up-to-date information as required.
4. Submit the required documents. A recent face photograph, eligibility proof, and any additional paperwork in the application instructions are necessary.
5. Add insurance. Include it as part of the visa application, ensuring compliance with Saudi Arabia’s travel policies.
6. Pay the fee. Complete the application process by paying the visa fee using the available online payment methods.

Upon approval, a Saudi eVisa will be electronically issued, allowing travel to Saudi Arabia multiple times within a one-year validity period. The total permitted stay cannot exceed 90 days.

After arriving in Saudi Arabia, Palauan travelers must carry a copy of the Electronic Visa, along with the original passport used during the application, as these may be requested by immigration officials.

Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia

Palauan travelers with Schengen, US, and UK visas or residence also have the option to obtain a Visa on Arrival upon reaching Saudi Arabia.

This visa can be issued at designated entry points, such as international airports, seaports, and land border crossings.

Palauans can obtain a Saudi visa at entry ports either by applying at the passport counter with the help of Saudi officials or using self-service machines called ‘KIOSK.’

A Visa on Arrival generally permits a similar stay duration as the eVisa, with up to 90 days of total allowable time in the country within one year of the validity period.

NOTE: It is advised to carry any supporting documentation, such as itineraries or travel insurance, to ensure a smooth Saudi visa application process at the point of entry.

Visa for Transit through the Kingdom

A Transit Visa is available for all Palauan travelers who are passing through Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination.

This type of visa is ideal for short stays, allowing passengers to spend a limited amount of time within the country during their layover or stopover.

Transit Visas can be applied for through Flynas or Saudia Airlines via a straightforward process.

The Transit Visa duration is 96 hours, after which travelers need to leave the Kingdom.

Photo Requirements for the Visa Application for Saudi Arabia

When applying for a visa to Saudi Arabia, one photograph must be submitted.

The photo must meet the following specifications:

• Size and dimensions: The photograph must be 200 x 200 pixels, with a file size between 5 KB and 100 KB. The face should cover 70% – 80% of the photo (vertical size 1.4″ x 1.6″ from chin to crown).

• Position and composition: The photo should be a close-up of the face and the top of the shoulders, with the head centered and facing the camera directly.

• Background: Use a plain white background with no patterns, objects, shadows, or uneven lighting.

• Expression: Maintain a neutral expression with eyes open and mouth closed. The head must face forward without tilting or angling.

• Headwear: No headwear is allowed, except for religious reasons, as long as the entire face (chin to forehead) is visible.

• Recency: The photo must have been taken within the last 6 months to ensure it is current.

Meeting these guidelines is crucial for Palauans to ensure that Saudi visa application is processed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.

Importance of the Saudi Embassy for Applicants from Palau

For visa applicants from Palau, the Saudi Embassy plays a critical role in the visa application process.

The embassy makes sure that all documentation complies with Saudi regulations, including passport validity, photos meeting specific criteria, and proof of travel purposes.

Additionally, the embassy guides the required procedures, timelines, and any supplementary information that may be necessary.

Currently, there are no diplomatic issues in Palau, but applicants can contact the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in the Philippines:

• Address: 128 H.V. Dela Costa St. Corner Sanchez St. Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines
• Phone Number: 0063288564444
• Email: phemb@mofa.gov.sa
• Operating Hours: From 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Saudi Visas

• What is the validity period of the Saudi eVisa?
  The Saudi eVisa is typically valid for one year, allowing multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.

• Do children need a separate visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, all travelers, including minors, must have their own visa to enter Saudi Arabia.

• Do I need health insurance to visit Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, health insurance is mandatory for visitors and is often included as part of the online visa process.

• What is the processing time for a Saudi eVisa?
  The processing time for a Saudi eVisa is usually quick, often taking as little as 24-72 hours.

• Are there any travel restrictions with the Saudi Tourist Visa?
  The Saudi Tourist Visa permits travel for tourism purposes only. Visitors cannot engage in work, study, or perform religious pilgrimages, such as Hajj.

• What should I do if my Saudi visa application is rejected?
  If your application is rejected, you may review the provided reason for rejection and reapply with updated or corrected information if possible.

• Can I extend my Saudi Tourist Visa if I want to stay longer?
  In some cases, the Saudi Tourist Visa can be extended. Palauans can request extensions before the visa’s expiration through the appropriate government channels.

Conclusion

Obtaining the appropriate visa is an essential part of preparing for a trip to Saudi Arabia as a Palauan citizen.

By familiarizing yourself with the requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and applying in advance, you can avoid unnecessary delays or complications.

It is advisable for Palauan citizens to consult with the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate to verify the information and make sure that all documentation is prepared according to the regulations.

Sources:

• https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
• https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
• https://www.my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main
• https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-regulations