Citizens of Cameroon who visit Saudi Arabia are required to obtain a visa before their trip to meet Saudi immigration laws and verify their purpose of travel.
NOTE: A Saudi visa acts as permission from the Kingdom to legally enter its borders for a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, or transit.
Cameroonian citizens are eligible for Saudi Regular Visas and Transit Visas. Options like eVisas or Visas on Arrival are available only in specific circumstances, such as being a holder of US, UK, or Schengen Resident or Business/Tourist Visa.
The Saudi visa application process can take time (even up to 8 weeks for Regular Visas), so planning ahead is essential. It involves completing a visa form, submitting the required documents, and covering the fee.
What is more, to be eligible for a Saudi visa, you must have a passport valid for at least 6 months.
Regular Saudi Visa for Cameroonian Citizens and How to Get It
The Regular Saudi Visa is the most common type for which Cameroonian citizens can apply. It is processed within 8 weeks and requires fulfilling several essential steps:
- Determine your purpose of visit: Whether you’re visiting for tourism, work, or a business meeting, you must apply for the correct visa category.
- Complete the application form: This can typically be done online via the Saudi Arabia Embassy website or submitted physically.
- Submit the required documents, such as a passport and face photo.
- Pay the visa fee (fees vary depending on the type of visa).
- Wait for processing and collect your visa: If approved, you’ll need to visit the embassy or receive your documents via mail, depending on the chosen method.
There are several types of Regular Visas available for entry into Saudi Arabia, each designed for specific needs and purposes.
A Diplomatic Visa is granted to government staff or members of diplomatic missions and organizations, allowing them to fulfill their official duties. The Tourist Visa is for Cameroonian travelers who wish to explore the country for leisure purposes.
For professionals attending business meetings, conferences, or commercial activities, the Business Visa meets their requirements.
Those seeking employment in Saudi Arabia can apply for a Work Visa, which can be issued as either permanent or temporary, depending on the job duration.
Additionally, other types of Saudi visas are available, such as the Residency Visa, Family Visit Visa, Extend Return Visa, Escort Visa, Student Visa, and Pilgrimage Visa.
Other Saudi Visa Types for Cameroonians
Saudi Arabia offers a range of visa types to meet the diverse needs of Cameroonian travelers.
There are several methods available for applying for a Saudi visa, depending on the type, eligibility, and the applicant’s convenience.
Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia
While Saudi Arabia offers Visa on Arrival services, Cameroonian citizens are typically not eligible for it unless they meet specific conditions, such as holding a valid Schengen, UK, or US visa.
You may obtain your Visa on Arrival at Saudi Arabia’s entry points. You can use the self-service KIOSK devices or proceed directly to the passport control office to apply for your
Visa on Arrival.
For a multiple-entry visa, the validity of Saudi VOA is typically one year from the date of issuance. This visa allows for stays of up to 90 days per visit within the validity period.
Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia
Electronic Visas (eVisas) to Saudi Arabia are available for Cameroonians in specific cases, such as holding one of the below documents:
- a valid Business or Tourist Visa issued by the UK, US, or one of the Schengen member countries (the visa must have been used at least once to enter the visa-issuing country)
- a Permanent Residence Visa issued by the UK, US, or the EU countries
- a valid Residence Visa in a GCC country (for at least 3 months)
The application process for an Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia is simple and can be completed online.
Cameroonian applicants must first visit https://ksavisa.sa/ and create an account.
After logging in, you need to fill out the application form, add insurance, and upload a face photo.
Once the form is complete, the visa fee must be paid using a valid payment method.
After submission, the application is reviewed, and the Saudi eVisa will be sent via email if approved.
Saudi Transit Visa for Cameroonians
If you’re traveling to another destination and stopping in Saudi Arabia temporarily, you may require a Transit Visa.
A Saudi Transit Visa allows you to stay in the Kingdom for 96 hours while waiting for your connecting flight.
To apply for a Transit Visa, you’ll need to purchase plane tickets through Saudia or Flynas, as these airlines are partnered with the visa program.
What Documents Do I Need for a Saudi Visa
Before applying for your Saudi visa, make sure you have all the necessary documents prepared and organized, as it will streamline the visa process. You need to have the following:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining.
- A completed application form filled out accurately.
- A face photo that meets the official requirements.*
- Any additional documents required based on the nature of your visit (e.g., an invitation letter for Business Visas).
Missing documents can cause delays and may require additional follow-ups or resubmissions to resolve.
TIP: To avoid unnecessary problems, make sure to carefully double-check all required documents for a Saudi visa before submitting them.
*The photograph should be recent, taken within the last 6 months, and must have a plain white background. Additionally, it should meet specific size requirements and clearly show your face without coverings such as hats or sunglasses.
Pilgrimage Visas to Saudi Arabia
Cameroonian Muslims intending to perform the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage must apply for a special Saudi visa.
Hajj Visas are specific to the pilgrimage period and must be obtained beforehand. Vaccinations may also be necessary, so ensure you check the requirements beforehand.
Umrah Visas, on the other hand, can be applied for at any time of the year except during Hajj season. Requirements for Umrah visas include proof of religious intent and additional documentation.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia provides an online Nusuk portal designed to streamline Hajj registration and bookings.
It is essential to consult with the Saudi Embassy or Consulate in your region to make sure all visa requirements are met before applying.
Writing Your Name in Arabic for a Visa Application
If you’re required to write your name in Arabic for your Saudi visa application, don’t worry—this is common.
Consulting professionals or native Arabic speakers is highly recommended when it comes to transliterating your name accurately.
They can ensure that your name is written correctly in Arabic to match the pronunciation and legal spelling, minimizing any potential issues with your application.
Professional assistance can also help you meet any specific guidelines set by the Saudi authorities.
Saudi Arabia Embassy
To apply for a Saudi visa as a Cameroonian, in most cases, you’ll need to contact the Saudi Embassy, which handles all visa-related processes.
The embassy serves as the main point for submitting your Saudi visa application, providing the required documents, and addressing any questions or concerns you may have about the process.
You may also reach out to the Saudi Embassy in Cameroon in advance to confirm their working hours and specific requirements for the type of visa you’re applying for.
- Address: Nouveau Quartier administratif, MBALLA II, Yaounde
- Phone: 00237650803020
- Email: cmemb@mofa.gov.sa
- Working Hours: From 9:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m.
FAQ about Saudi Visa for Cameroonians
- How many days can I stay in Saudi Arabia with a Tourist Visa?
Tourist Visas to Saudi Arabia generally permit a stay of up to 90 days and may be extended.
- Can I apply for a Saudi visa online from Cameroon?
Most Saudi visa applications must go through the Saudi Embassy, as eVisa is available only for specific cases (such as being a GCC resident).
- Is a Transit Visa mandatory for layovers?
Yes, if your layover requires leaving the airport, you need a Saudi Transit Visa.
- Can I travel to Saudi Arabia for work with a Saudi Tourist Visa?
No, work-related visits require a Saudi Work Visa.
- What if my Saudi visa application is rejected?
You can contact the Saudi Embassy for clarification and consider reapplying.
- Does Saudi Arabia offer visas for sporting or cultural events?
Yes, certain events may allow for event-specific visas.
- Is a vaccination certificate required to enter Saudi Arabia?
Yes, travelers from Cameroon may need to present proof of certain vaccinations, such as for yellow fever or other diseases, depending on current health regulations.
Conclusion
Cameroonian citizens planning to visit Saudi Arabia need an appropriate visa based on their purpose of travel.
Regular Visas and Transit Visas are the primary options, while eVisas and Visas on Arrival are available only in select cases.
Make sure all documentation, including your valid passport, is ready and complete for a smooth application process.
For the best results, work closely with the Saudi Embassy, as they can provide valuable guidance, support, and resources to help navigate any processes or requirements effectively.
Sources:
- https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
- https://ksavisa.sa/
- https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Cameroon/EN/Pages/default.aspx
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.
