Saudi Arabia Visa for Afghan Citizens

Afghan citizens must obtain a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia. A visa is an official document granting the holder permission to enter and leave the Kingdom under specified conditions.

Afghan citizens are typically not eligible for a Saudi eVisa and Visa on Arrival under normal conditions and must apply for Regular Visas through the Saudi Embassy.

However, exceptions may apply in certain circumstances, such as residency in a GCC country or holding specific visas from the US, UK, or EU.

Visa processing times may vary and can take up to 8 weeks in the case of Regular Visas, so applying in advance is essential.

Key documents required include a passport with at least 6 months of validity from the intended date of travel.

Travelers from Afghanistan also have the option to apply for a Transit Visa if they are passing through Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination.

NOTE: Afghan applicants should make sure they meet the Saudi visa requirements and need to check the guidelines with the relevant authorities before applying.

Regular Saudi Visas for Afghan Citizens

Afghan citizens have access to multiple types of Saudi visas, depending on their purpose of travel.

Each visa type comes with specific requirements and conditions designed to suit the nature of the traveler’s visit to Saudi Arabia.

• Tourist Visa: For leisure visits.
• Diplomatic Visa: For government staff or diplomatic missions and organizations.
• Business Visa: For attending conferences or meetings.
• Work Visa: For employment, whether temporary or permanent.
• Residency Visa: For expatriates planning to live in Saudi Arabia.
• Family Visit Visa: For visiting family members residing in Saudi Arabia.
• Extend Return Visa: For longer stays surpassing the initial return agreement.
• Escort Visa: For individuals traveling with those requiring assistance.
• Student Visa: For Afghans enrolling in Saudi educational institutions.
• Hajj Visa: Specific to performing the Hajj pilgrimage.
• Umrah Visa: Open year-round for Umrah purposes.

To obtain a Regular Visa, Afghan citizens must follow a series of steps for a smooth application process.

Applicants need to schedule an appointment at the relevant embassy or consulate beforehand, as walk-ins are not accepted.

1. Visit the Saudi Embassy: The application must be submitted to the Saudi Embassy.
2. Prepare Required Documents: A valid passport, face photo, and supporting documentation are necessary.
3. Complete the Visa Application Form: This form can often be obtained online or directly at the embassy.
4. Pay Applicable Fees: Saudi visa costs depend on the type requested.
5. Submit the Application: Provide all necessary documents and the completed form to the embassy.
6. Wait for Processing: Processing times vary and can take up to 8 weeks.

It’s best to apply a few weeks before your intended travel to Saudi Arabia to make sure there’s enough time for processing and to avoid any last-minute complications.

Earlier preparation allows you to address any potential issues that might arise during the process and avoids unnecessary stress or last-minute complications.

What Documents Do I Need for a Saudi Visa

To apply for a Saudi visa, Afghan citizens must provide specific documents and fulfill certain requirements. It’s essential to have the following:

• Valid passport: the passport must not expire within 6 months beyond the intended stay.
• Face photo: recent and meeting the required standards.
• Supporting documents: these are additional files or materials required to provide evidence or further clarification for a process.*

*For instance, if you are applying for a Business Visa, you may need an official invitation letter from a Saudi organization or company.

For Tourist Visas, itineraries or hotel bookings confirming your travel plans may be required.

Similarly, Pilgrimage Visas often demand evidence of religious arrangements through authorized travel agents.

It is also common to submit financial statements or proof of income to demonstrate the ability to support oneself during the stay in Saudi Arabia.

Who is Eligible to Get a Saudi eVisa as an Afghan Citizen

A Saudi eVisa is generally not available to Afghan citizens except under specific conditions.

Afghan nationals may be eligible if they meet certain criteria, such as:

• Residency in a GCC country: Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries may qualify for an eVisa due to residency status.
• Valid residence permits in the UK, US, or EU: Afghan citizens holding valid residence permits for these regions can apply for a Saudi eVisa.
• Holders of a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa: Those with valid visas for the UK, US, or Schengen Zone countries may also meet eligibility requirements.

For individuals falling under these categories, there may also be an option to get a Visa on Arrival when traveling to Saudi Arabia.

The eVisa option provides greater flexibility for travelers who meet the outlined conditions and wish to visit the Kingdom.

How to Get a Saudi Electronic Visa

If you meet the eligibility criteria for a Saudi eVisa, you should read the following guide that will help you understand the Saudi visa application process:

1. Access the online https://ksavisa.sa/ portal: Visit the official eVisa platform for Saudi Arabia to begin your application.
2. Fill Out the application form: Provide accurate personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, and contact details.
3. Upload required documents: Prepare a recent passport-sized photograph.
4. Pay the processing fee: Use a credit or debit card to securely pay the Saudi visa fee online.
5. Submit the application: After completing all the steps, submit your application. Take a moment to review all the information entered, as errors could lead to rejection or delays.
6. Check your email: Once approved, your eVisa will be sent to the email address you provided during the application process.

Print a copy of the eVisa and keep it with you; you may be required to present it upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, along with your passport.

NOTE: The processing of a Saudi eVisa application can take up to 3 days. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any inconvenience.

How to Check Your Saudi Arabia Visa Status Online

Checking your Saudi visa status online is quick and straightforward, saving you time and effort.

Start by visiting the official Saudi visa website, ensuring you use the legitimate government website to avoid misinformation or scams.

Once there, look for the “Check Status” section, which is usually found on the homepage or under the visa services menu.

Enter your application reference number and passport details carefully, making sure the information matches exactly what was submitted during your visa application process to avoid errors.

After submitting the details, review the displayed results to confirm your visa’s progress, current updates, or approval status.

If your Saudi visa is approved, you may also have the option to download or print additional details directly from the website.

Common Mistakes Made When Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa

Applying for a Saudi visa can be straightforward, but there are common errors to avoid.

Submitting expired or nearly expired passports is a frequent mistake, as is providing incomplete or inaccurate visa application forms.

Forgetting critical documents, such as travel arrangements or financial proof, can also lead to issues.

Applying too close to your intended travel dates might result in delays, and failing to verify your eligibility for a Saudi eVisa before applying can cause complications.

Avoiding the mistakes listed above can save time and reduce the likelihood of visa refusals.

Saudi Embassy in Afghanistan

Afghan citizens should apply for Saudi visas at the Saudi Embassy in Kabul.

Embassy staff are available to assist with any questions you may have and to guide you through the necessary processing steps so you have the support you need throughout the process.

• Address: Shish Dark Area, Main Street
• Phone: 0093202304184
• Fax: 0093202304185
• Mission Head Name: His Excellency Mr. Mesfer Al-Ghaseb – Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

FAQ about Saudi Visa for Afghans

• How long does it take to process a Saudi visa?
  Processing times for a Saudi eVisa takes up to 3 days, while for Regular Visas up to 8 weeks.

• Can Afghan citizens apply for a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
  If Afghans meet certain eligibility requirements, such as holding GCC, UK, US, or Schengen visas, they can apply for a Saudi Visa on Arrival.

• Do Afghan eVisa holders need a printed copy?
  Yes, it’s advisable to carry a printed copy of your Saudi eVisa to present upon arrival.

• What type of photo is required for the Saudi visa application?
  A recent passport-sized photo meeting Saudi visa requirements is a must-have. It needs to be made on a white background and show the full face.

• Can I apply for a Saudi Transit Visa?
  Yes, this is an option for Afghans if they pass through Saudi Arabia en route to another destination.

• What is the validity of a Saudi Tourist Visa?
  The Tourist Visa is typically valid for a year, allowing multiple entries.

• Can Afghan students apply for a Saudi Student Visa?
  Yes, provided they have proof of acceptance from a Saudi educational institution.

• What do I do if my Saudi visa application is rejected?
  You may reapply after addressing the issues that led to rejection or consult the embassy for guidance.

• Can I extend my Saudi visa while in the country?
  Some Saudi visa types allow extensions. Visit the nearest embassy for information on extending your visa.

Conclusion

Afghan citizens must obtain a valid visa to travel to Saudi Arabia, with Regular Visas being the most common option.

Eligibility for eVisas or Visas on Arrival depends on residency or specific visa conditions.

A smooth Saudi visa application process involves accurate documentation, early applications, and avoiding common errors.

For assistance, Afghan citizens can contact the Saudi Embassy in Kabul. Start your visa application early to meet all requirements and to have a hassle-free experience.

Sources:

• https://www.my.gov.sa/
• https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
• https://ksavisa.sa/
• https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/afghanistan/EN/Pages/default.aspx