Costa Rican citizens must obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia to comply with the immigration rules, regardless if traveling for leisure, business, or transit.
Saudi visas available for Costa Rican visitors include the following:
- Electronic Visa has an application processed online and is suitable for tourism.
- Visa on Arrival can be obtained at entry ports such as airports, seaports, or crossing points.
- Regular Visa requires in-person application through an embassy and offers multiple options such as Business or Work Visas.
- Transit Visa, tied to the airline booking, is ideal for travelers passing through Saudi Arabia.
Saudi visas vary in processing times and necessary documentation, but each application requires a valid passport and a face photograph.
The Electronic Visas are issued within 24–72 hours, while Regular Visa processing can take 2–8 weeks.
NOTE: Health insurance is mandatory for all Costa Rican travelers entering Saudi Arabia and is included with applications online.
Saudi Arabian Visas for Costa Ricans
A Saudi visa is an official document approving entry into Saudi Arabia, and can be classified as an eVisa, VOA, Regular Visa, and Transit Visa, each application method suiting different travel needs.
Embassy Application for a Regular Visa
For Costa Ricans not eligible for an eVisa or Visa on Arrival or those who wish to travel for a specific reason (like employment), the embassy application is the most reliable option.
There are various types of Regular Visas, including Diplomatic, Tourist, Business, Work, Residency, Family Visit, Extend Return, Escort, Student, Hajj, and Umrah Visas.
The Saudi visa process can be completed in a few simple steps:
- Gather the required documents, such as a passport valid for at least 6 months.
- Visit the nearest embassy, remembering to schedule the appointment early.
- Complete the application form with accurate details and attach supporting documents.
- Pay the obligatory fee (costs vary depending on the visa type and validity).
- Await approval, as Saudi Regular Visas are typically processed in 10–40 days.
Embassy services offer flexibility in visa options, making it ideal for long-term trips or work opportunities. They also provide face-to-face assistance for complex requirements.
Transit Visa with Saudi Airlines
A Transit Visa is perfect for Costa Rican citizens making a short stop in Saudi Arabia en route to another destination who want to spend their stop outside the airport.
This visa is ideal for exploring nearby attractions or relaxing during your layover.
The most important information to remember about the Transit Visa to Saudi Arabia include:
- Eligibility – Can be applied for by all Costa Rican travelers.
- Application – Available when booking flights with Flynas or Saudia Airlines.
- Processing – Issued immediately upon purchasing flight tickets.
- Validity – Allows spending up to 96 hours in Saudi Arabia during a stopover.
The Saudi Arabian Transit Visa provides a convenient solution for travelers seeking a seamless journey, ensuring their time in transit is hassle-free and well-organized.
NOTE: Costa Ricans can apply for a Transit Visa 90 days before their planned travel dates.
Online Visa Application for Costa Ricans
The Saudi Electronic Visa is an efficient option for eligible Costa Ricans, offering convenience and flexibility for short-term trips up to 90 days.
It simplifies the application process by allowing travelers to apply online without visiting an embassy, saving time and making travel planning much more straightforward.
To apply for a Saudi Arabian eVisa, Costa Ricans must be one of the following:
- Residents of a GCC, US, UK, or EU country.
- Holders of a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa.
To apply for an eVisa, begin by visiting https://ksavisa.sa/ and selecting your travel purpose and nationality to check if you are eligible for the eVisa.
Once confirmed, log in to your existing account or create a new one if needed.
Proceed to fill out the application form in detail (personal, passport, travel information), upload a mandatory face photo, add the necessary travel insurance, and pay the associated fee.
NOTE: The approved Saudi eVisa allows Costa Ricans to enter the Kingdom several times during the one-year validity period.
Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia
Costa Ricans can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Saudi entry ports, which is available for individuals holding valid US, UK, or Schengen visas/residency.
To apply, make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months and have it ready on hand. Then, head to the self-service machine or visit the passport check desk to fill out the form.
Payment for the visa can be made at the port of entry using credit or debit cards, so the process is straightforward and convenient.
An approved Visa on Arrival permits stays of up to 90 days for tourism and leisure purposes. It can be issued for a single entry or multiple visits at the discretion of the Saudi authorities.
How to Ensure a Successful Saudi Visa Application?
The key to a hassle-free Saudi visa process is proper preparation and attention to detail.
Taking the time to gather all required documents and understanding the application requirements can save Costa Ricans from unnecessary stress and potential visa refusal.
To successfully obtain a Saudi Arabian visa, follow these steps:
- Apply well in advance to accommodate potential delays.*
- Double-check required documents specific to the selected visa type.
- Ensure all forms are correctly filled out and your passport is valid.
- Verify health insurance as mandated by Saudi authorities.
- Consult the authorities or visit websites like https://www.mofa.gov.sa/ if you have any doubts.
*It’s best to apply at least a week early for a Saudi eVisa and in case of a Regular Visa not later than 2 months before the travel date.
NOTE: Any differences or errors in documentation may lead to delays or rejections of Saudi visas.
Health Insurance Coverage for Saudi Arabia
Health insurance is a mandatory entry requirement for all travelers from Costa Rica visiting Saudi Arabia.
The online visa applications (for eVisa and Transit Visa) include the necessary insurance to keep you protected for the duration of your stay, but for other visa types, consult your insurer to meet the Kingdom’s requirements.
When traveling to Saudi Arabia, your health insurance must provide comprehensive coverage, including medical treatment for illnesses and injuries, emergency medical evacuation, and hospitalization.
Additionally, it’s advisable to check if the insurance covers the repatriation of remains and accidental death.
Having health insurance will not only fulfill the entry requirements of Saudi Arabia but also offer peace of mind during your trip.
Saudi Arabian Embassy Assistance
For an in-depth understanding of specific visa types or in-person help, Costa Ricans are advised to visit the nearest embassy or consulate. The expert team assists with complex applications and provides guidance in case of unique travel needs.
As of now, there is no diplomatic mission of Saudi Arabia in Costa Rica. Therefore, travelers from this region should consult the Saudi Embassy in Mexico for assistance.
- Address: Paseo de las Palmas 2075, Lomas de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11000 México
- Phone: +52 555 251 0789
- Email: mxemb@mofa.gov.sa
FAQs about Saudi Arabian Visas
- Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
Yes, all Costa Rican citizens must secure a visa to enter Saudi Arabia – they can apply for it online, upon arrival, or at the embassy.
- What are the main types of Saudi Arabia visas available?
The main types include the eVisa, Visa on Arrival, Regular Visa, and Transit Visa.
- Who is eligible for a Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia?
Costa Rican individuals with valid US, UK, EU, or Schengen visas are eligible for a Saudi VOA.
- Can Costa Ricans apply for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Costa Rican citizens residing in GCC countries, the US, the UK, or the EU can apply for a Saudi visa online.
- What documents are required for a Saudi visa?
You’ll need a passport valid for 6 months, a recent face photo, and additional documents specific to your visa type.
- Is health insurance mandatory for all travelers?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all visitors to Saudi Arabia, including Costa Ricans.
- Is the Saudi eVisa multiple-entry?
Yes, the eVisa is a one-year, multiple-entry visa valid for stays of up to 90 days.
Conclusion
Traveling to Saudi Arabia is now more accessible than ever for Costa Rican citizens, thanks to options like the eVisa, Visa on Arrival, Transit Visa, and a Regular Visa.
Eligibility criteria depend on factors such as GCC residency and possession of valid US, UK, EU, or Schengen visas.
The Saudi visa application processes are straightforward, requiring essential documents such as a valid passport and face photo.
Health insurance is mandatory for all visitors, ensuring access to medical care if needed during your stay.
With proper preparation and understanding of the requirements, Costa Ricans can travel stress-free to Saudi Arabia.
Sources:
- https://ksavisa.sa/
- https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
- https://www.my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main
- https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/mexico/EN/Pages/default.aspx
- https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-regulations
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.
