Barbadian citizens require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, but there is a variety of visa options available to suit their different needs, including eVisa, Visa on Arrival, Transit Visa, and Regular Visa.
The validity and permitted stay vary depending on each visa type, with the standard validity period being between 30 days and one year.
Regardless of the Saudi visa application method, Barbadians must have a recent face photograph and a passport valid for no less than 6 months from the travel date.
For stays of up to 90 days an Electronic Visa is a great choice while taking up employment in the Kingdom or enrolling to a Saudi university requires a valid Regular Visa.
Barbadians passing through Saudi Arabia en route to another travel destination qualify for a Transit Visa, which is issued for short stays of up to 96 hours and can be arranged via approved airlines, such as Saudia or Flynas.
Transit Visas are ideal for layovers and can be combined with short sightseeing trips.
Eligible Barbadian passport holders may obtain a Visa on Arrival at Saudi airports, seaports, and border crossing points. It’s particularly convenient as it doesn’t require completing any previous visa formalities.
The Saudi VOA is usually issued for one year and permits a 90-day-long stay in the Kingdom.
NOTE: Review entry requirements to Saudi Arabia frequently on official sources like the Visit Saudi page for a hassle-free journey.
Saudi Arabian eVisa for Barbadian Citizens
If you’re seeking a convenient and quick visa application, the Saudi eVisa is the most convenient option.
The Electronic Visa permits Barbadian travelers to apply for, pay, and receive their visa entirely online.
The approved Saudi Arabian eVisa can be used to explore the Kingdom’s cultural and natural attractions, participate in the Umrah pilgrimage, visit family, or see sports/cultural events.
To apply for a Saudi Electronic Visa through the visa.visitsaudi.com website, start by clicking “Sign In” or “Apply Now” on the homepage.
You will need to create an account or log in if you already have one. Next, decide whether you are applying as an individual or for a group.
The application process includes several steps: submitting your photo, providing personal information, entering passport and traveler details, adding medical insurance, agreeing to the terms and conditions, and finally completing the payment.
The approved Saudi eVisa will be delivered to your email address within 72 hours of the application submission, so check your inbox regularly.
The benefits of the online application for a Saudi visa are:
- Convenience of applying from home.
- Quick processing times.
- 24/7 access to the application portal.
- Ability to track your application status online.
- No need for paper forms and documents.
NOTE: The Saudi eVisa is valid for up to one year, enabling multiple entries during this time.
How to Get a Visa from the Saudi Embassy?
Applying for a visa from the Saudi Embassy is a straightforward process that ensures you have all the necessary documentation for your travel and that they meet the official requirements.
This method is ideal for those who require Saudi visa types not covered by the online application for visits related to work, education, or residence.
By visiting the Saudi Embassy directly, Barbadians can receive personalized assistance from the immigration officers and address specific requirements for their trip.
1. Identify a suitable visa to Saudi Arabia
Determine the type of Saudi Arabian visa you need based on your travel purpose, such as tourism or work.
Each visa type has specific requirements, so make sure to research them carefully and collect all the mandatory documentation.
2. Contact the Saudi Embassy
Reach out to the embassy to confirm the application process and requirements for your visa. You should also schedule an appointment, as walk-ins aren’t generally approved.
This step is essential to clarify any doubts, verify the latest guidelines, and avoid missing important paperwork.
3. Complete the application form
Fill out the visa application form carefully, making sure that all information is accurate and matches your official documents. Double-check for errors, as even small mistakes can delay the approval process.
4. Submit your gathered documents
Collect and submit all required documents, such as your passport, photograph, proof of travel plans, financial statements, etc.
Make sure your paperwork is organized and meets the specific guidelines provided by the embassy.
The files should also be translated into English or Arabic.
5. Await the Saudi visa approval
Once your application is submitted, wait for the process to be completed.
Waiting times for visa approval can vary but typically take 2–8 weeks. Keep track of your application and be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
NOTE: A full list of necessary documents for your Saudi visa is available on the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal.
How to Prepare Documents for a Saudi Visa?
The success of your Saudi visa application can depend on correctly prepared documents, so verifying that all files are accurate, complete, and submitted on time can help you avoid delays or rejections.
Taking the time to double-check your paperwork or seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference in achieving a smooth and successful application.
To apply for a Saudi visa, each Barbadian national must make sure that their passport:
- Will stay valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of entering Saudi Arabia.
- Has at least 2 blank pages for the visa stamp (not applicable to online visa application).
- Has no visible damage and hasn’t been tampered with.
Barbadians also must provide a face photograph for the Saudi visa application, which is:
- Recent and no older than the last 6 months.
- Taken against a plain white background with no shadows.
- Displaying a neutral facial expression with both eyes open.
- Framed to show the full face, head, and shoulders without cropping.
- Free from hats, headgear, or accessories unless worn for religious purposes.
- Clear and sharp, with no filters or enhancements applied.
- Printed in high resolution if submitting a physical visa application.
Supporting documents are an essential part of the Saudi visa application process and help verify the purpose of your visit for specific visa types (such as Work Visas or Study Visas). These may include proof of accommodation, a letter of invitation, evidence of financial means, and more.
How to Check the Saudi Arabia Visa Status?
Tracking your Saudi Arabia visa application online is a straightforward process and can be done via the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
This convenient system allows Barbadian visitors to monitor the progress of their Saudi visa applications from anywhere, saving time and effort.
On the homepage, locate the “e-Services” section, which provides multiple options for individuals traveling to Saudi Arabia.
Once on the visa status check page, you will be prompted to enter information like passport number and application ID to access your application.
After submitting the required information, the system will provide an update on your Saudi visa application status, including its current processing stage, whether additional documents are needed, or if the visa has been approved or rejected.
NOTE: If you have trouble with the MOFA website, to know the status of your Saudi visa application, you can also contact the nearest embassy for assistance.
Saudi Embassy for Citizens of Barbados
Currently, there isn’t a Saudi Embassy in Barbados so it’s recommended that all Barbadian citizens apply for visas directly via the Saudi Embassy in the United States located in Washington, DC.
The embassy offers a variety of essential services to assist visitors to Saudi Arabia, such as visa processing and assistance with extending or renewing visas when required.
The immigration office also provides consular support, such as document authentication, issuing passports, and addressing legal or emergency matters.
- Address: 601 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA
- Phone: +12 023 423 800
- Email: info@saudiembassy.net
- Website: www.saudiembassy.net
NOTE: Contact the Saudi Embassy in the US during its working hours which are from Monday to Friday, 9:00-5:00.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can Barbadian citizens get a Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, all Barbadian citizens can get a Saudi VOA, but they must have a valid passport and be older than 18 years.
- How long does a Saudi Arabian eVisa take to process?
Typically, applications for Electronic Visas to Saudi Arabia take 24–72 hours.
- Is a Saudi Arabia eVisa valid for Umrah?
Yes, you can use Saudi eVisa for Umrah except during the Hajj seasons.
- Can I apply for a Saudi Work Visa online?
No, Saudi visa types related to employment or residence require an application via the embassy.
- What is the Saudi eVisa validity?
The Electronic Visa lasts up to one year, but in some cases, this time can be extended.
- What to do if my visa to Saudi Arabia is rejected?
If your visa to Saudi Arabia is rejected, you should contact the Saudi Embassy for further guidance on reapplication.
- How and where can I extend my Saudi visa?
You can extend your Saudi visa by visiting the immigration office in Saudi Arabia or using the Absher online platform.
Conclusion
Understanding the Saudi Arabian visa regulations is key to a smooth travel experience for Barbadian passport holders. Whether visiting for tourism, pilgrimage, or other purposes, having the correct visa ensures compliance with entry regulations.
The eVisa system has simplified visiting Saudi Arabia for most travelers, with applications processed in 24–72 hours. For work or residency, specific Regular Visas must be obtained through the Saudi Embassy.
Travelers from Barbados are also eligible for Saudi Arabian Visa on Arrival and Transit Visa, which are convenient alternatives.
If your visa application is rejected, contact the Saudi Embassy for guidance to reapply.
To extend your stay in Saudi Arabia, you can use official platforms like Absher or visit an immigration office.
Sources:
- https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
- https://www.visitsaudi.com/
- https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
- https://www.my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main
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.
