Saudi Arabia Visa for Eritrean Citizens

Eritrean citizens must obtain a Saudi visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and they have several options depending on their residency status or visa eligibility.

All Eritrean citizens can apply for a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy for visits over 90 days or specific purposes like studies or employment.

Alternatively, a Transit Visa allows short-term stays of up to 96 hours and has a simple application process.

Those Eritrean nationals who are GCC residents, as well as those holding UK, US, or Schengen visas or residing in the UK, US, or EU, are eligible for a Saudi eVisa or a Visa on Arrival.

These visas allow flexibility for tourism and related activities, with an Electronic Visa offering up to 90 days of stay within a one-year validity period.

NOTE: Eritreans looking for more details can refer to official platforms like Visit Saudi portal or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Saudi Regular Visa Categories

Eritrean citizens planning to visit Saudi Arabia have several visa options designed for their needs.

Whether traveling for tourism, religious purposes, or other reasons, understanding the available visa categories and requirements is essential.

• Diplomatic Visa

The visa is issued specifically to government officials, diplomats, and members of international missions or organizations visiting Saudi Arabia for official engagements. It facilitates their entry and stays for official duties and diplomatic missions.

• Tourist Visa

Tourist Visa is designed for individuals visiting Saudi Arabia for leisure purposes. It allows travelers to explore the country’s heritage sites, natural landscapes, and cultural attractions.

The application process generally includes submitting necessary documents, such as a valid passport and proof of accommodations.

• Business Visa

The Business Visa suits Eritrean nationals traveling to Saudi Arabia for professional purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or exploring business opportunities.

Applicants must provide an invitation letter from a Saudi-based company and other required documents.

• Work Visa

This visa is granted to Eritrean citizens who have secured employment within Saudi Arabia. Applicants must present a valid job offer and meet other requirements, such as providing a work contract and medical examination results.

The Work Visa allows long-term entry and stays for employment purposes.

• Student Visa

The Student Visa is designed for Eritrean nationals who have been accepted into a Saudi educational institution. It permits them to stay for the duration of their studies.

Necessary documents typically include proof of admission, financial support, and a valid passport.

• Family Visit Visa

This option is ideal for Eritrean citizens wishing to visit family members residing in Saudi Arabia, as it enables residents and citizens in Saudi Arabia to invite family members for a temporary stay.

Supporting documents often include proof of family ties and sponsorship by the host family member.

• Residency Visa (Standard, Premium, Newborn)

This Residency Visa is for those planning to make Saudi Arabia their home, whether temporarily or permanently.

The Premium Residency option offers additional benefits, while newborn residency visas are granted to children born to residents in Saudi Arabia.

• Extend Return Visa

This visa allows individuals who are currently outside Saudi Arabia on a re-entry visa to extend their return period, making sure they can return without complications.

It provides much-needed flexibility for those dealing with unexpected delays in their travel plans, such as personal emergencies, work commitments, or logistical issues.

By offering an extended window for re-entry, this visa  enables travelers to manage their schedules more effectively and return to Saudi Arabia when they are ready.

• Escort Visa

This visa is issued to companions, including caregivers, personal aides, or other support personnel, traveling with individuals visiting Saudi Arabia.

It allows them to accompany and assist their employers, family members, or individuals under their care throughout their stay in the country.

• Hajj Visa

A specialized visa is granted to Muslims traveling to Saudi Arabia to perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.

This visa is specifically designed to facilitate the journey for pilgrims, ensuring a smooth entry into the country and a hassle-free stay.

It allows Muslims from around the world to focus on their religious duties and experience the profound rituals of Hajj without administrative concerns.

• Umrah Visa

Specifically for Muslims planning to perform the Umrah pilgrimage in Mecca and Medina.

Unlike the Hajj visa, this visa can be used at any time of the year outside the Hajj season, offering flexibility for spiritual visitors.

NOTE: Understanding Regular Visa categories and their specific requirements provides that Eritrean citizens can select the appropriate Saudi visa based on their travel intentions and circumstances.

How to Apply for a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy

Applying for a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy involves several steps to provide a smooth process.

To obtain a visa for Saudi Arabia, the first step is to determine the type of visa you need, such as a Tourist, Work, or Business Visa, as each category may have specific documentation requirements.

Once you’ve identified the appropriate visa type, gather the necessary documents. This typically includes:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
• A recent face photograph
• Additional documents relevant to your Saudi visa type, such as an invitation letter or travel itinerary

Next, carefully complete the visa application form, check the fee for your Saudi visa category, and make the required payment, keeping the receipt as proof for later steps.

When your application form and documents are ready, submit them to your nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate. Make sure that all materials are properly organized and meet the stated requirements.

IMPORTANT: Depending on the Saudi visa type, you might need to attend an in-person appointment, which could include an interview or biometric data collection.

Finally, once your Regular Visa is approved, collect it from the Embassy or Consulate and verify all details carefully to guarantee accuracy before your trip.

Transiting through Saudi Arabia as an Eritrean

Eritrean travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia need to obtain a Transit Visa if leaving the airport’s transit zone during their layover.

To secure this visa, passengers should select the Transit Visa option when purchasing their flight tickets through airlines such as Saudia or Flynas.

Once the applicable fee for online processing is paid, the Transit Visa is quickly approved.

The visa allows travelers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours, providing an opportunity to explore the country before continuing to their next destination.

NOTE: Health insurance can be conveniently added to the Saudi Transit Visa application process.

Additional Saudi Arabia Visa Types

Only eligible Eritreans can apply for other Saudi visa options – Electronic Visa and Visa on Arrival. These methods are particularly convenient, since they allow omitting in-person visits to the Saudi Embassy.

To qualify for additional visas to Saudi Arabia, you must hold one of the following documents:

• A valid Tourist or Business Visa from the US, the UK, or one of the Schengen countries (used at least once to visit the visa-issuing country);
• A permanent residence permit in the US, the UK, or the EU;
• A valid residence permit for a min. 3 months in the countries of the GCC, including domestic workers coming with their sponsors.

Moreover, your passport shouldn’t expire for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Saudi Arabia.

How to Apply for the Saudi Electronic Visa

The Saudi Electronic Visa, or eVisa, is an online travel authorization that enables eligible individuals from Eritrea to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes.

The eVisa is valid for one year from the date of issuance, allowing multiple entries during this period. Total permitted stay can last up to 90 days, making it ideal for short-term visits to explore the Kingdom.

Applying for a Saudi Electronic Visa is a straightforward process:

1. Visit the official KSA Visa website at https://ksavisa.sa/.
2. Access the menu on the right-hand side of the page.
3. Select your travel purpose and input your nationality to check eligibility.
4. Log into an existing account or create a new one if needed.
5. Verify your account before proceeding.
6. Complete the online application form with the required details.
7. Prepare and upload necessary documents.
8. Add mandatory insurance to your application.
9. Pay the fee to submit your application.

Most Saudi Electronic Visa applications are reviewed and approved within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the accuracy and completeness of the submitted information.

While the eVisa is entirely electronic and linked to your passport, you need to prepare a paper copy to present to immigration officers upon arrival.

How to Obtain a Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Visa on Arrival makes it simple for Eritrean tourists to visit the Kingdom without applying in advance — a great option for last-minute trips or those short on time.

When you arrive in Saudi Arabia, go to the designated immigration counter or use one of the self-service machines at entry points.

The process is quick and hassle-free, as after providing documents and answering a few questions, a Saudi VOA will be issued immediately.

Once issued, the Visa on Arrival allows tourists to explore Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days, and it’s valid for up to one year from the date of issuance within a one-year validity period.

NOTE: To qualify for a Saudi VOA, visitors must be at least 18 years old when traveling alone.

Health Insurance for Eritrean Citizens Visiting Saudi Arabia

Health insurance is a crucial requirement for Eritrean citizens planning to visit Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi government states that all visitors, regardless of nationality, must obtain valid health insurance as part of the visa application process.

The insurance provides access to medical care in case of emergencies, accidents, or illnesses during the stay in the Kingdom.

Visitors from Eritrea should carefully review the policy to be sure that it offers appropriate coverage, including hospital visits, medication, and emergency evacuation if necessary.

NOTE: It is advisable to purchase insurance from a provider approved by Saudi authorities to ensure compliance with regulations and to avoid issues during travel.

Saudi Embassy in Eritrea

The Saudi Arabian Embassy plays a critical role for Eritrean travelers planning to visit Saudi Arabia. It serves as the primary point of contact for obtaining visas, legalizing documents, and providing valuable information related to travel requirements or consular services.

The embassy guarantees that the travel process is smooth and meets the necessary protocols, making it an essential resource for those traveling for business, pilgrimage, or personal reasons.

Eritreans can contact the Saudi Embassy in Asmara, Eritrea, by using the details below:

• Address: Symbol Area – Ras Demaira Street, Street no. 748, Asmara – 4th Sector
• Phone: 291154318
• Email: eremb@mofa.gov.sa
• Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Saudi Visas

• Do Eritrean citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, Eritrean citizens must obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and the type of visa depends on the purpose and duration of their stay.

• What types of Saudi visas are available for Eritrean citizens?
  Eritrean citizens can apply for Regular Visas, Transit Visas, Saudi eVisas, or Visas on Arrival, depending on their residency status and purpose for visiting.

• What is the validity of a Saudi eVisa?
  The Saudi eVisa is valid for one year and permits stays of up to 90 days for tourism purposes.

• What is the maximum stay allowed with a Transit Visa?
  A Transit Visa allows a stay of up to 96 hours in Saudi Arabia and is ideal for short-term visits or layovers.

• Can Eritrean nationals apply for a Work or Student Visa in Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, Eritrean nationals can apply for a Regular Visa for work, study, or other long-term engagements. They need to follow the application process through the Saudi Embassy.

• Is medical insurance required for Saudi visa applications?
  Yes, Eritrean visitors must provide proof of medical insurance when applying for a Saudi visa.

• How do Eritrean citizens apply for a Saudi eVisa?
  Eligible Eritrean citizens can apply for a Saudi eVisa online via the KSA Visa portal.

Conclusion

Understanding the visa requirements for Eritrean citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia is essential for a smooth and hassle-free experience.

By identifying the appropriate visa type — whether it be a Saudi Regular Visa, Transit Visa, eVisa, or Visa on Arrival — travelers from Eritrea can ensure they meet all necessary conditions.

Preparing in advance allows Eritrean nationals to leave enough time for processing, which minimizes the risks of Saudi Arabian visa rejection.

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