Saudi Arabia Visa for Aruban Citizens

Aruban citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia as part of its immigration and border control policies.

The visa requirement is designed to regulate the entry of foreign nationals, ensure security, and maintain an organized flow of tourists, workers, and other visitors.

There are multiple Saudi visa options available for Aruban nationals, depending on residency or visa status.

All Aruban citizens can apply for a Saudi Regular Visa through the Kingdom’s Embassy for various purposes like work, business, and studies.

Additionally, travelers passing through Saudi Arabia may apply for a Transit Visa up to 90 days before their trip.

If eligible, Arubans who are GCC, US, UK, or Schengen residents/visa holders take advantage of options such as an eVisa or Visa on Arrival.

NOTE: It is important for applicants from Aruba to meet all the necessary requirements for the specific Saudi visa type they are applying for.

How to Apply for a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy

Obtaining a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy as an Aruban citizen involves a series of steps to guarantee a smooth and successful process.

First of all, you must identify the category of visa you need, such as a Tourist Visa, Business Visa, or Family Visit Visa. Each type has specific requirements, so reviewing the official Saudi Embassy website is essential.

Then, collect all required documents, including:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
• A completed visa application form
• A recent face photograph
• Any supporting documents like an invitation letter or proof of accommodation

After scheduling an appointment, you need to submit your application directly at the embassy or consulate. Some visa applications may require an interview or providing biometric data like fingerprints.

Pay the associated Saudi visa application fee and keep proof of payment, as it may be required during the application review process.

After completing all necessary steps, wait for your Saudi visa application to be processed. Processing usually takes up to 8 weeks, but specific times may vary depending on the type of visa and other factors, so plan your travel accordingly.

Saudi Regular Visa Categories for Aruban Nationals

Aruban nationals planning to visit Saudi Arabia have various Regular Visa options based on the purpose of their travel.

Each visa category is specifically designed to meet the needs of travelers, whether for work, tourism, religious purposes, or other activities.

• Diplomatic Visa

The Diplomatic Visa is issued to government officials, employees, and individuals associated with diplomatic missions, consulates, and international organizations.

It enables entry into Saudi Arabia for official diplomatic duties and functions, providing smooth facilitation of international relations.

• Tourist Visa

Designed for tourists planning to explore the rich culture, historical landmarks, and modern attractions of Saudi Arabia, a Tourist Visa allows leisure travelers to experience the Kingdom’s hospitality, desert landscapes, vibrant cities, and heritage sites.

• Business Visa

Granted to professionals and businesspeople, a Business Visa permits visiting Saudi Arabia for work-related purposes such as attending meetings, conferences, trade exhibitions, or negotiating business deals.

The visa provides an opportunity to engage in potential partnerships or expand business networks within the Kingdom.

• Work Visa

The Work Visa is tailored for individuals seeking employment within Saudi Arabia, whether for long-term or short-term roles.

This category involves various industries in the Kingdom, with the necessary permits to perform professional duties legally.

• Residency Visa

The Residency Visa covers multiple categories, including standard residency permits for expatriates, premium residency options for high-level professionals or investors, and visas for newborns born to residents or nationals of Saudi Arabia, enabling them to settle within the Kingdom.

• Family Visit Visa

This Family Visit Visa allows the family members of Saudi residents or citizens to visit their loved ones. It’s specifically designed to promote family reunification and is often issued to spouses, children, parents, or other close relatives.

• Extend Return Visa

Designed for individuals who need an extension of their return period to Saudi Arabia due to unforeseen delays, the Extend Return Visa ensures that expatriates or temporary residents can maintain their legal status and return to the Kingdom without complications.

• Escort Visa

Issued to individuals accompanying a primary visa holder traveling to Saudi Arabia, an Escort Visa makes sure that dependents or companions, such as family members or assistants, can legally enter the Kingdom alongside the primary traveler.

• Student Visa

The Student Visa is granted to individuals who have been accepted into academic or vocational training programs within Saudi Arabia. It allows students to pursue higher education, language courses, or specialized training while residing in the country.

• Hajj Visa

Specifically issued to pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia, the Hajj Visa permits participating in the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the most significant religious events for Muslims.

The visa facilitates the journey to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, providing an organized experience.

• Umrah Visa

The Umrah Visa is granted to individuals intending to perform the Umrah pilgrimage, which is a non-compulsory religious visit to the holy sites. It is available year-round, except during the Hajj season, and enables pilgrims to engage in worship and spiritual reflection in Mecca and Medina.

NOTE: Understanding the Saudi visa types is essential for having a smooth application process and compliance with Saudi regulations.

Transit Visa for Layovers in Saudi Arabia

A Saudi Transit Visa offers Aruban travelers the opportunity to explore Saudi Arabia while passing through the country. This visa allows visitors to perform Umrah, explore heritage sites, and even attend sports and entertainment events.

The application can be made during the flight booking process with Saudia or Flynas Airlines up to 90 days before your travel date:

The Saudi visa for transit itself is free; however, administrative and medical insurance fees apply.

NOTE: The Transit Visa is valid for up to 96 hours (4 days) from the time of arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Additional Saudi Visa Options for Qualifying Aruban Citizens

Aruban citizens may also be eligible for such convenient visa options like Saudi eVisa and Visa on Arrival, if they hold visas or residency permits in certain countries.

US, UK, and Schengen visa/residency holders can apply for an Electronic Visa and Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia, provided they satisfy the conditions:

GCC residents can apply for a Saudi eVisa when meeting specific requirements:

How to Apply for a Saudi Arabian eVisa

The Saudi Electronic Visa is valid for one year from approval and allows numerous trips up to 90 days in total within this period.

You can get a Saudi visa online if traveling for such purposes as exploring the Kingdom’s famous places and meeting family members.

Applying for a Saudi Arabian eVisa is a straightforward process that can be completed online by following these steps:

1. Go to the official KSA Visa website.
2. Click the menu button on the right side of the page.
3. Select your travel purpose and nationality to check visa eligibility and find the right visa type.
4. Log in or sign up with your details and verify your account to continue.
5. Fill out the application form accurately to make sure it’s ready for submission.
6. Upload your recent face photograph.
7. Complete your application by paying the fee using the accepted payment methods.

Once your online application is successfully submitted, the visa approval process typically takes 24 to 72 hours.

You will be notified of your Saudi eVisa status via email. Make sure to download and print a copy of the Electronic Visa to keep with you during your travels, as it may be required at immigration upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Obtaining a Visa on Arrival in Saudi

Eligible Aruban travelers looking to visit Saudi Arabia last minute can take advantage of the convenient Visa on Arrival option.

The multiple-entry visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance, granting stays of up to 90 days.

Upon arrival at the chosen entry point in Saudi Arabia, Arubans have two options to apply for a Visa on Arrival: use the self-service devices (KIOSK) available at the port of entry or proceed directly to the passport control office for assistance.

This streamlined process guarantees a smooth entry into the Kingdom without obtaining a visa in advance.

Photo Guidelines for Saudi Arabia Visas

Applying for a visa to Saudi Arabia requires following specific guidelines, including those related to the applicant’s photograph.

Aruban travelers must check if their face photo meets the required standards, as an incorrect image can lead to delays or rejection:

• Dimensions and size: The photo must be 200 x 200 pixels and between 5 KB to 100 KB. It should provide a close-up of your face and shoulders, ensuring your face occupies 70-80% of the image, or measures approximately 1.4 inches x 1.6 inches from chin to crown.
• Composition: Your entire face must be clearly visible in a straightforward position, including the tip of the chin, the crown of the head, and both sides of the face. If you have voluminous hair, it should be captured without reducing your face size.
• Background: The background must be completely white with no patterns, shadows, or other objects — only the individual being photographed should be visible.
• Expression and position: Keep your head straight and square to the camera, facing directly forward. Both ears and cheeks should be clearly visible, with no tilting or turning of the head.
• Headwear: Headwear is not allowed unless for religious reasons. If worn, the face must remain fully visible from the chin to the forehead, with no shadows obstructing visibility.

NOTE: Make sure that the photo is taken within the last 6 months to reflect an up-to-date likeness. Meeting these specifications is crucial for the acceptance of your Saudi visa application.

Contact Details of the Saudi Embassy

Currently, there is no Saudi Embassy located in Aruba. For consular assistance, Aruba citizens may need to contact the nearest Saudi Embassy, which is typically located in a neighboring country.

Embassy staff can provide detailed information and guidance on the specific Saudi visa types available, helping applicants understand the eligibility criteria and required documentation.

For instance, Arubans may get in touch with the staff of the Saudi Arabia Embassy in the Netherlands:

• Address: Koninginnegracht 26, 2514 AB, The Hague
• Phone number: 0031703614391
• Email address: nlemb@mofa.gov.sa
• Working hours: From 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (consular office working hours 9 a.m. – 12 noon)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Saudi Visas

• Do Aruban citizens need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, all Aruban citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.

• What types of Saudi visas are available to Aruban nationals?
  Arubans can apply for various visa types, including the Saudi Regular Visa, Transit Visa, and, depending on eligibility, Visa on Arrival or eVisa.

• Can Aruban citizens apply for a Saudi eVisa?
  Aruban nationals who are valid GCC or Schengen residents/visa holders may apply for a Saudi eVisa.

• How can Aruban travelers apply for a Saudi Regular Visa?
  Arubans can apply for the Saudi Regular Visa directly through Saudi Arabia’s Embassy for purposes like work, business, or studies.

• What is a Transit Visa to Saudi Arabia?
  The Transit Visa is a visa designed for travelers passing through Saudi Arabia en route to another destination.

• How long does it take to process a Saudi visa for Arubans?
  The processing time depends on the visa type. Regular Visas may take up to 8 weeks, while eVisas could be approved within 3 business days.

• Where can Arubans find more information about Saudi visa policies?
  Aruban nationals can visit Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for up-to-date visa policies and requirements.

Conclusion

Aruban citizens looking to visit Saudi Arabia have a variety of visa options to suit different travel purposes, ranging from work and study to transit or tourism.

It is essential to carefully review the eligibility criteria (for example, check if you qualify for Saudi eVisa or a Visa on Arrival) and make sure that all required documents are prepared to facilitate a smooth application process.

Understanding the specific visa requirements will help Arbans make the experience of visiting Saudi Arabia more seamless.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, applicants should consult official Saudi government resources or the nearest Saudi Embassy.

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