Saudi Arabia Visa for Cape Verdean Citizens

Cape Verdean citizens must secure a visa to enter Saudi Arabia as having a valid permit is required by the immigration authorities of the Kingdom.

Depending on the purpose of the trip and its planned length, travelers from Cape Verde can apply for an eVisa, Regular Visa, Visa on Arrival, or Transit Visa (each has specific requirements).

• Regular Visa is available to all Cape Verdeans who want to work, reside, or study in Saudi Arabia. It’s available through the embassy application and can usually be issued for 1–12 months.

• Transit Visa is the best choice for those with layovers in Saudi Arabia traveling with Flynas or Saudia Airlines. With a valid Transit Visa, you can spend 96 hours in Saudi Arabia.

• Electronic Visa has a quick and convenient application process to secure a one-year, multiple-entry visa, but it’s not available to all visitors.

• Visa on Arrival (VOA), issued at Saudi entry points, is ideal for spontaneous travel. However, it has specific eligibility requirements.

NOTE: Saudi Arabian eVisa and VOA can be obtained by Cape Verdeans who are visa holders/residents of the UK, US, EU, or GCC countries.

To apply for a Saudi visa, each applicant must submit a passport valid for at least 6 months and a face photograph reflecting their current appearance.

Cape Verdeans should also have proof of health insurance and meet Saudi Arabia’s vaccination requirements, including for meningitis in case of a pilgrimage.

Visa Application at the Saudi Embassy

Applying for a visa at the Saudi Embassy is crucial for Cape Verdeans who wish to visit Saudi Arabia but do not qualify for the eVisa or Visa on Arrival options.

The Regular Visa application process ensures that all applicants meet the necessary requirements for entry into the Kingdom, including compliance with its laws and regulations.

This process is especially relevant for those visiting Saudi Arabia for purposes such as work, study, or religious pilgrimages that may require additional documentation.

To obtain a Regular Visa from the Saudi Embassy, travelers from Cape Verde should:

1. Contact the embassy or visit the MOFA website to check the requirements for their visa type.
2. Schedule an appointment at the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy.
3. Collect the required documents and make sure they are valid and translated into Arabic or English.
4. Visit the immigration office in person and complete the visa application form.
5. Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the visa.

It’s advisable to begin the application process for a Saudi Regular Visa well in advance of the intended travel date, as processing times can vary between 10-40 business days.

Using the embassy staff assistance provides greater support and accuracy for complex visa types like work or residence permits – their team can guide you through the legal requirements.

Saudi Arabian Regular Visa Types

Saudi Arabia offers several visa types to Cape Verdeans for flexibility and convenience.

Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or religious purposes, there’s a visa suitable to meet your travel needs.

From short-term Tourist Visas to long-term residency options, the system is designed to accommodate a wide variety of visitors:

• Diplomatic Visa: Issued to diplomats for official business.
• Tourist Visa: Allows travelers to visit for leisure or sightseeing.
• Business Visa: Permits individuals to take part in meetings or conferences.
• Work Visa: Grants permission to live and work in Saudi Arabia.
• Residency Visa: Enables Cape Verdeans to reside in the Kingdom.
• Family Visit Visa: Allows foreign nationals to visit family members.
• Extend Return Visa: Provides extra time for residents to return.
• Escort Visa: Issued for accompanying someone who requires supervision during travel.
• Student Visa: Allows individuals to study at educational institutions in Saudi Arabia.
• Hajj Visa: Granted for Muslims traveling to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
• Umrah Visa: Issued to Muslims visiting Saudi Arabia for the Umrah pilgrimage.

NOTE: Once your Saudi Arabian visa is issued, you can’t change its category.

Saudi Arabian Transit Visa for Cape Verde

A Transit Visa is designed for Cape Verdeans passing through the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination and allows stops in the country, typically for connecting flights or brief layovers.

The Saudi Transit Visa is a convenient option for those who want to leave the airport and make the most out of their visit to Saudi Arabia but do not intend to stay for an extended period.

Benefits of Saudi Arabian Transit Visa:

• Available to all visitors from Cape Verde.
• Obtainable even 90 days before the travel date.
• Valid for 96 hours from landing in Saudi Arabia.
• Includes mandatory health insurance.

Obtaining a Saudi Arabian Transit Visa requires submitting an application while buying flight tickets with airlines like Flynas or Saudia.

This type of visa is an excellent opportunity for travelers from Cape Verde to explore Saudi culture and attractions, provided the time permits and the visa guidelines are respected.

NOTE: Visitors to Saudi Arabia don’t need a Transit Visa if they stay at the airport transit zone.

Saudi Visas for Eligible Cape Verdeans

Saudi Arabia offers various visa options for eligible travelers from Cape Verde who can take advantage of streamlined visa services designed to facilitate their travel experience.

Cape Verdeans can apply for a Saudi Electronic Visa or a Visa on Arrival if they are visa holders or residents of the United Kingdom, United States, or the Schengen member country.

The Saudi Arabian eVisa can also be obtained by residents of a GCC country (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, or the UAE).

Saudi Arabian eVisa for Cape Verde Citizens

The Saudi Arabian eVisa application is an efficient method of obtaining a mandatory visa that allows eligible visitors to enter Saudi Arabia.

The Electronic Visa for Saudi Arabia is a multiple-entry permit valid for one year, enabling Cape Verdeans to stay in the Kingdom for up to 90 days.

The online visa application process eliminates the need for in-person appointments or lengthy procedures:

1. Go to the KSA Visa homepage to begin your application process.
2. Select your travel purpose and enter your nationality to proceed.
3. Check if you’re eligible for a visa and choose the most suitable visa type.
4. Log in to your account if you already have one, or create a new one.
5. Start your application by filling out the application form carefully.
6. Upload your face photograph that meets the Saudi visa requirements.*
7. Make the necessary payment to complete the visa application process.

*Your photograph must be taken on a white, pattern-free background with your face fully visible, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression. It must be well-lit, high-quality, and in color with no filters.

NOTE: All Cape Verdean travelers need to print out the Saudi eVisa, as only paper copies are accepted by immigration staff.

Saudi Arabian Visa on Arrival

The Visa on Arrival is a convenient option available to eligible Cape Verdeans, enabling them to obtain a visa upon arrival at designated Saudi ports of entry.

The Saudi VOA allows visitors to explore the Kingdom for tourism purposes and is typically valid for a stay of up to 90 days within a one-year period.

To qualify, travelers must present a passport valid for at least 6 months and be older than 18 years – minors can travel only if accompanied by an adult.

The Visa on Arrival simplifies the process for visitors, encouraging seamless access to the Kingdom’s historic sites and culture.

NOTE: Cape Verdean travelers can apply for a Saudi Visa on Arrival at immigration offices or at special self-service machines and have it approved immediately.

Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Application

Applying for a Saudi Arabian visa can be a straightforward process if handled correctly, but even small errors can lead to delays or rejection. To ensure a successful application, Cape Verdeans should understand common mistakes applicants make and how to avoid them.

Issues with Saudi Arabian visa applications are often related to:

• Submitting incomplete documents.
• Ignoring health insurance requirement.
• Choosing the wrong visa type.
• Providing false information in the form.
• Neglecting vaccination certificates.
• Missing application deadlines.
• Overlooking fee payment requirement.

By paying careful attention to details and following official guidelines, travelers from Cape Verde can save time and avoid unnecessary complications.

NOTE: Double-check information provided in the Saudi visa application form and redo any errors.

Saudi Embassy Information

For visa application procedures or checking the recent updates on Saudi visa policy, contact the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate.

The embassy staff can assist with visa applications, authentication of documents, and other consular services. Keep in mind that walk-ins aren’t permitted, so plan your visit beforehand.

There is no Saudi Embassy in Cape Verde now, so Cape Verdeans are recommended to head to the neighboring office, such as a Saudi Embassy in Mauritania.

• Address: District of Las Palmas, Nouakchott
• Phone: 45 252 633
• Email: mremb@mofa.gov.sa

FAQs about Saudi Visa Application

• Do Cape Verdeans need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, all Cape Verdean citizens require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. They can apply at the nearest embassy, online, or on arrival (if eligible).

• How do I apply for a Saudi eVisa?
  Visit ksavisa.sa, fill out the form, cover the fee, and submit your application online to obtain a Saudi eVisa.

• What documents are required to apply for a Saudi visa?
  You must prepare a valid passport, a face photograph, and a completed application form to get a Saudi visa.

• What is the processing time for a Saudi Regular Visa?
  Processing time is typically 2–8 weeks for a Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia.

• Can Cape Verdeans apply for a Visa on Arrival?
  Yes, if they meet eligibility criteria like holding a UK, US, or Schengen visa or being residents of one of these countries.

• Is health insurance mandatory to enter Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, health insurance is required for all foreign travelers entering Saudi Arabia.

• Can I use an embassy to apply for all Saudi visas?
  Yes, you can apply for all types of Saudi visas through the nearest Saudi Embassy.

Conclusion

Understanding the process of obtaining a Saudi visa is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Whether Cape Verdeans are applying for an eVisa, a Regular Visa, a Transit Visa, or a Visa on Arrival, being aware of the requirements will save time and effort.

With many Saudi visa options, the application process is flexible and accommodates Cape Verdean travelers with different needs.

Ensuring that you have the necessary documents, such as a valid passport and health insurance, is essential to enter the Kingdom without issues.

Staying informed about visa policies to Saudi Arabia will allow you to focus on the travel experience.

Sources:

• https://ksavisa.sa/
• https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
• https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Mauritania/EN/Pages/default.aspx
• https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-regulations