Before traveling to Saudi Arabia, citizens of Lesotho must obtain a suitable visa either at the embassy, online, or upon arrival. The fitting type of visa will vary depending on the purpose of travel.
A Saudi visa is an official document granting permission to enter a foreign country, and in the case of Saudi Arabia, it’s essential for most foreign visitors.
Saudi Arabia offers four primary types of visas for Basotho citizens:
- eVisa: Convenient, valid for one year, and allows multiple entries.
- VOA: Issued at Saudi entry ports to those who meet eligibility requirements.
- Regular Visa: Applied for through Saudi embassies, covering various purposes.
- Transit Visa: Available when connecting flights with specific airlines.
Nationals of Lesotho must hold a valid passport and respect Saudi entry protocols, such as having mandatory health insurance.
It’s best to apply early enough to get the Saudi visa on time – processing times vary based on the application method from 72 hours to 8 weeks.
NOTE: Transit Visas and Visas on Arrival to Saudi Arabia are usually issued immediately upon fee payment.
Saudi Visa Application from the Embassy
Understanding the visa requirements is essential when planning a trip to Saudi Arabia for a problem-free experience. For citizens of Lesotho, several visa options are available, each suiting different travel purposes.
When considering a Saudi Regular Visa, embassy services will provide the necessary assistance. These documents are ideal for longer stays, work contracts, or specific activities like extended family visits.
By understanding the available options, applicants can determine the visa that aligns with the purpose of their trip.
The application for a Saudi Regular Visa is simple but may be time-consuming:
- Prepare the necessary documents: A passport valid for at least 6 months and supporting documents specific to the visa type.
- Visit the Saudi Embassy in person: Locate the nearest Saudi immigration office for Basotho citizens and schedule a visit.
- Complete the application process: Fill out the visa application form accurately with personal data and travel plans.
After covering the payment, the immigration office will accept the application submission. The processing time may take from 2 weeks up to 2 months.
A visa approval notice will be delivered to the applicant – they must collect the document in person.
Other Saudi Visa Application Options
Saudi Arabia also offers Electronic Visa, Visa on Arrival, and Transit Visa options. These alternatives are the best for quick stopovers and short tourism-related visits.
Saudi Arabian eVisa
The Electronic Visa allows a seamless application process online for eligible citizens of Lesotho who are EU, GCC, UK, or US residents / hold visas to the UK, US, or Schengen country.
Permitted activities for travelers with Saudi eVisas include tourism, visiting heritage sites, pilgrimage (Umrah), and meeting family members.
To apply online for a Saudi Arabian visa, the traveler must:
- Go to the KSA Visa website and select the menu icon on the right-hand side.
- Enter nationality and reason for travel to confirm visa eligibility.
- Sign in or register an account and activate the profile through verification.
- Begin the application process by filling out the form completely.
- Upload the necessary documents, including a face photo.
- Include insurance coverage, which is mandatory for all visitors.
- Make the payment for the visa processing fee.
The approval is usually decided within 24–72 hours of submitting the completed form for the Saudi eVisa, and it’s delivered to the applicant’s email address.
The Saudi Arabian eVisa is valid for one year and permits staying 90 days in the country.
NOTE: Benefits of the Saudi Electronic Visa system include the comfort of applying from home, shorter approval times, and flexibility with multiple entries.
Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia
Basotho visitors to Saudi Arabia also have the option of obtaining a Visa on Arrival, which provides convenience.
This type of visa is issued upon arrival at Saudi airports, seaports, and land border crossings, eliminating the need to apply in advance. However, it is essential to confirm eligibility before traveling, as the Visa on Arrival is not available to all nationalities.
Processing the Saudi VOA is relatively straightforward and includes filling out a form and paying the required visa fees upon entering the country.
It can be done at the designated visa counters located at checkpoints or special KIOSK machines.
The process is designed to make travel to Saudi Arabia more accessible for those who did not apply for an eVisa but are eligible for this option.
The Visa on Arrival generally allows travelers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days within a one-year period.
NOTE: To apply for a Saudi VOA, nationals of Lesotho should be UK, US, or EU residents / have valid visas from the UK, US, or a Schengen country.
Saudi Arabian Transit Visa
Available for travelers transiting with airlines as Flynas or Saudia, the Saudi Transit Visa is ideal for short layovers not exceeding 96 hours.
The Saudi Transit Visa is particularly advantageous for Basotho travelers looking to explore the Kingdom during a brief stopover. This visa allows passengers to leave the airport and experience Saudi Arabia’s culture, history, and attractions.
The online application process for the Transit Visa is streamlined, making it easy for those with connecting flights to apply.
Passengers from Lesotho are encouraged to check with their airline for the most recent guidelines and documentation requirements before traveling to Saudi Arabia.
NOTE: Travelers from Lesotho who aren’t going to leave the Saudi airport don’t need to apply for a Transit Visa.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Saudi Visa?
Processing times for Saudi visas vary depending on the type of visa, the completeness of the documents, and the applicant’s eligibility.
It’s always a good idea to apply well in advance to avoid any delays and obtain the Saudi visa on time as without a valid document, entry is not possible.
The Saudi Arabian eVisa is usually approved in 24–72 hours. The Regular Visa, on the other hand, is processed in 2–8 weeks. A Saudi Visa on Arrival and Transit Visa are approved immediately upon payment.
NOTE: To avoid delays in securing a Saudi visa, make sure all required documents are accurate, double-check for errors, and follow official guidelines to avoid complications.
Official Resources for Saudi Travel
For verified, up-to-date information regarding Saudi visa policy and entry requirements, nationals of Lesotho are advised to visit these official platforms:
- Visit Saudi: Discover essential guidelines and tips for tourists visiting Saudi Arabia, including travel advice, a list of attractions, and cultural information.
- Nusuk App: Access detailed information and services for pilgrims, including guidance on rituals, locations, and necessary preparations for a seamless pilgrimage experience.
- Ministry of Health: Stay updated on required vaccinations, health regulations, and medical advice to ensure a safe and healthy trip to the Kingdom.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Check the latest entry requirements, visa information, and travel regulations for visiting Saudi Arabia.
They are trusted sources to ensure accuracy and reliability when planning your trip. Travelers can count on them for up-to-date information and recommendations.
Saudi Embassy Assistance for Lesotho
For Basotho citizens, the Saudi Embassy in South Africa offers in-person support for all visa needs. From document validation to personalized application assistance, embassy services streamline the visa process.
In case of any questions regarding current requirements to enter Saudi Arabia or mandatory health regulations, the embassy should provide the visitor with essential help.
- Address: 711 Duncan St, Hillcrest, Pretoria 0083
- Phone: +27 127 436 614
- Email: zaemb@mofa.gov.sa
FAQ
- Do Basotho citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia?
Yes, all Basotho citizens require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and they can apply for it at the embassy, online, or on arrival.
- Can Basotho citizens apply for a Saudi eVisa?
Yes, provided they are GCC, UK, US, or EU residents/holders of UK, US, or Schengen visas, nationals of Lesotho can get a Saudi eVisa.
- What’s the validity of the Saudi eVisa?
The Electronic Visa is valid for one year with multiple entries, allowing stays of up to 90 days in total.
- Can Basotho citizens get a Visa on Arrival?
Yes, but only if they meet the required eligibility criteria, such as appropriate residency permits or visas.
- What’s the purpose of a Saudi Transit Visa?
A Transit Visa allows short stays in Saudi Arabia while connecting flights with approved airlines.
- What documents are needed for a Saudi Regular Visa?
A valid passport, a face photo, and additional documents based on visa type are essential to apply for a Saudi visa.
- Is health insurance mandatory for Saudi Arabia?
Yes, health insurance is required for all travelers from Lesotho to enter Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia offers various types of visas for travelers from Lesotho, each serving a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, or transit.
A Transit Visa enables travelers to stay briefly in Saudi Arabia while connecting flights. An Electronic Visa and a Visa on Arrival are the most convenient choices for tourism and leisure.
Moreover, a Regular Visa is an option, but it requires essential documents, including a valid passport and any additional papers based on the visa category.
Health insurance is mandatory for all travelers entering Saudi Arabia – it ensures that visitors have access to medical care during their stay.
Sources:
- https://ksavisa.sa/
- https://visa.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.
