Saudi Arabia Visa for Colombian Citizens

Colombian citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, as it is a requirement to ensure proper documentation, security, and compliance with the country’s immigration and travel policies.

Depending on their residency and travel circumstances, Colombians may apply for different types of visas.

All Colombian nationals can get a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy, including options for tourism, business, and Hajj or Umrah.

A Transit Visa is also available to travelers from Colombia, which allows short stays in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours during layovers.

If you are a Colombian citizen residing in GCC countries or holding residency/visa in the UK, US, or Schengen country, you may qualify for a Saudi eVisa or a Visa on Arrival.

Before submitting the Saudi visa application, make sure to check the specific visa type and requirements to avoid processing delays. For example, all applicants need a passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.

NOTE: For further assistance, consult the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or your nearest Saudi Embassy.

Regular Visa Types for Saudi Arabia

A Regular Visa is an official authorization issued by the Saudi government that allows Colombian citizens to enter, stay, or transit within the Kingdom for specific purposes and visits exceeding 90 days.

Depending on the traveler’s intent, duration of stay, and legal requirements, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers various types of visas to meet different needs.

• Diplomatic Visa: This visa is granted to government staff, members of diplomatic missions, and international organizations. It allows performing of official duties and responsibilities within Saudi Arabia.

• Tourist Visa: Designed for leisure purposes, the Tourist Visa permits Colombians to explore the country’s cultural, historical, and natural landmarks and is typically issued for short stays up to 90 days.

• Business Visa: Aimed at professionals traveling to Saudi Arabia for trade or economic purposes, the visa facilitates business meetings, conferences, or exploration of investment opportunities.

• Work Visa: Issued for individuals intending to work in Saudi Arabia, the Work Visa comes in two forms — permanent and temporary. It requires sponsorship by a Saudi employer or organization.

• Residency Visa: This type includes various options, such as the Standard Residency Visa for expatriates, the Premium Residency Visa, which offers extended privileges without sponsorship, and the Residency Visa for newborns of Saudi residents.

• Family Visit Visa: The option allows expatriates living in Saudi Arabia to invite close family members, such as parents or siblings, for a short-term visit.

• Extend Return Visa: The visa is issued when a resident or dependent outside of Saudi Arabia needs to extend their permitted return date.

• Escort Visa: Typically granted to companions traveling with individuals, such as children or domestic workers, accompanying their employers or families.

• Student Visa: Designed for those pursuing education in Saudi Arabia, the Student Visa facilitates enrollment in universities, colleges, or other academic institutions within the Kingdom.

• Hajj Visa: Issued specifically for Muslims traveling to Saudi Arabia to perform the pilgrimage of Hajj during the designated time each year.

• Umrah Visa: Similar to the Hajj visa, the Umrah visa allows Muslims to visit Saudi Arabia for the purpose of performing Umrah, a pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time of the year.

NOTE: With proper preparation and commitment to all requirements and regulations, traveling to Saudi Arabia can be a seamless experience for Colombians.

How to Get a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy

Obtaining a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy involves a series of steps for Colombian travelers to make sure all conditions are met.

First, you should determine the type of visa you need — Tourist, Business, or other categories — based on the purpose of your visit.

Next, prepare the required documents, which typically include:

• A passport with at least 6 months of validity
• A completed visa application form
• A recent face photograph
• Additional documents, such as an invitation letter for business purposes or proof of a stable income, depending on the visa type

Once your documents are ready, schedule an appointment with the Saudi Embassy. Make a visit on the specified date to submit your documents and pay any applicable fees.

Some visas may require an interview or biometric data collection during this process.

After submitting your application, monitor its status either online or through the embassy’s provided channels.

Processing times for Saudi Regular Visas may vary, taking up to 8 weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

Saudi Transit Visa for Colombian Nationals

Colombian visitors flying with Saudia Airlines or Flynas can opt for the free Transit/Stopover Visa during the booking process.

The visa enables travelers to enter Saudi Arabia while in transit for up to 96 hours. It offers the chance to perform Umrah, visit cultural landmarks, and attend entertainment or sports events.

Colombians can apply for the Transit Visa in just 3 minutes during the flight booking process with Saudia Airlines or Flynas. Once approved, the visa is automatically emailed to you.

If you’re a religious traveler planning to visit Makkah or Madinah, it’s important to schedule your Umrah or Ziyarah appointments in advance through Nusuk.sa.

Additional Saudi Visa Options for Eligible Colombian Citizens

Colombian passport holders who are residents of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries are also eligible to apply for a Saudi eVisa, allowing for a straightforward and efficient online application process.

Additionally, Colombian citizens residing in the UK, US, or Schengen member countries have further options; they can either apply for a Saudi eVisa or obtain a Visa on Arrival upon entering Saudi Arabia.

These flexible visa options aim to facilitate travel for Colombian citizens, providing convenient ways to visit Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Electronic Visa and Its Application Process

The Saudi eVisa has simplified the process for Colombian citizens wishing to travel to Saudi Arabia. The streamlined system grants travelers easier access to the Kingdom for purposes such as tourism, business, or even specific religious visits.

To apply for the Saudi eVisa, Colombian visitors can follow these simple steps:

1. Visit https://ksavisa.sa/. Start by navigating to the KSA Visa homepage.
2. Access the menu. Click on the menu button located on the right-hand side of the homepage to begin your application process.
3. Select travel purpose and nationality. Specify your intended purpose of travel and select “Colombia” as your nationality.
4. Check visa eligibility and apply. Confirm your visa eligibility and proceed to apply for the most suitable visa type based on your travel intentions.
5. Log in or create an account. Create an account on the platform if you don’t already have one. Existing users can simply log in for faster application processing.
6. Verify your account. Once registered, verify your account using instructions provided via email or text to activate your profile.
7. Complete the application form. Carefully fill out all sections of the application form, ensuring accuracy to avoid processing delays.
8. Submit the required documents. Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as your passport copy and recent face photograph.
9. Pay the visa fee. Finalize your application by paying the required fee using the available payment methods shown on the platform.

Once the Saudi eVisa application is submitted, the processing time is typically 3 business days.

After approval, your Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia will be sent via email, allowing you to travel to Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days within a one-year validity period with minimal hassle.

How to Receive a Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers eligible Colombians a Visa on Arrival that can be issued as either multiple-entry or single-entry, depending on the decision of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance and permits stays of up to 90 days.

Upon arriving at your destination’s airport or entry point in Saudi Arabia, you can apply for your Visa on Arrival in one of two ways:

• Use the self-service devices (KIOSK) available at the airport.
• Visit the passport control office directly for assistance in issuing your visa.

With a valid Visa on Arrival, Colombian nationals can travel to Saudi Arabia for various tourism-related purposes like sightseeing or visiting family members.

Official Saudi Government Websites for Visa Applicants from Colombia

For Colombian citizens applying for a Saudi visa, having access to the right resources can greatly simplify the process.

Below are some government websites to help applicants from Colombia:

• Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA): The official MOFA website provides comprehensive information on visa requirements, application procedures, and related updates.
• Tawakkalna: An official app for verifying health status, often needed during the visa process.
• Absher: A user-friendly portal for handling visa services, including exit and re-entry permits.
• Visit Saudi: Your guide to tourist visas, travel requirements, and must-visit destinations in Saudi Arabia.

Make sure to use these official resources to have accurate and up-to-date information about the Saudi visa process.

Having the correct tools and information provides a smoother application process, minimizing potential delays or errors.

How to Check Your Saudi Arabia Visa Status Online

Checking your Saudi Arabia visa status online is quick and easy using the KSA Visa website.

Colombian citizens can monitor the progress of their Saudi visa application by following the steps below:

1. Visit the official KSA Visa website. Open the official portal in your web browser. Make sure it’s the correct website to avoid errors.
2. Go to visa services. Find the section labeled “Visa Inquiry” or “Check Visa Status.”
3. Enter your information. Provide your visa application number, passport number, or any required details. Double-check for accuracy.
4. Complete captcha verification. Enter the captcha code or complete any security checks.
5. Submit the request. Click “Track My Application” to process your inquiry.
6. Review your visa status. View the displayed information, including the status and validity of your visa.

NOTE: Saudi visa statuses may change or be updated at any time, so it is recommended to regularly check the KSA Visa website for any updates or changes.

Additionally, if your visa application has been rejected or denied, you can also find out the reason for the rejection on the website. This information can help guide you in reapplying for a visa in the future.

Contact Details of Saudi Arabian Embassy

At the moment, Saudi Arabia has no diplomatic missions in Colombia.

However, for assistance, Colombian nationals can contact the nearest Saudi Arabia Embassy or Consulate in their region.

For example, you may reach out to the Saudi Arabia Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela:

• Address: Calle Andres Pietri- Quinta Makkah Urbanizaciin Los Chorros 1071, Venezuela
• Phone: 582122390290
• Email: veemb@mofa.gov.sa

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Saudi Visas

• Can Colombians apply for a Saudi visa online?
  Yes, Colombian citizens who hold residency or visas in GCC countries, the UK, the US, or Schengen areas are eligible to apply for a Saudi eVisa.

• What is the maximum duration for a Transit Visa in Saudi Arabia?
  The Transit Visa allows Colombians to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours, commonly during layovers between flights.

• Are there any specific document requirements for a Saudi visa application?
  Yes, all applicants must have a passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity and a recent face photo. Additional requirements may vary based on the visa type being applied for.

• How long does it take to process a Saudi visa for Colombian nationals?
  Processing times may vary depending on the visa type and whether all required documents are submitted. For Regular Saudi Visas, processing may take up to 8 weeks.

• Can Colombians extend their stay in Saudi Arabia after their visa expires?
  Saudi visa extensions are possible under specific circumstances, but they must be applied for before the visa expires.

• Are there age restrictions for Saudi visa applications?
  There are no age limits for Saudi visa applications, but minors traveling alone or with one parent may need extra documents, like a consent letter from the other parent or guardian.

• Do Colombians need a visa to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, Colombians need a visa to perform Umrah. It is advisable to apply for a specific Umrah Visa or a Tourist Visa that permits religious activities.

• Can a Colombian national work in Saudi Arabia with a Tourist Visa?
  No, to engage in employment activities, Colombians need to apply for a Work Visa, which requires sponsorship from a Saudi employer and additional documentation.

Conclusion

Understanding the Saudi visa types available to Colombian nationals is crucial for a smooth and successful application process.

While all travelers from Colombia can apply for Regular and Transit Visas to Saudi Arabia, the eVisa and Visa on Arrival options are only available to GCC residents or those holding residency/visa in the UK, US, or Schengen states.

By reviewing the requirements and preparing the necessary documents in advance, applicants can avoid common delays and guarantee their travel plans proceed as intended.

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