Saudi Arabia Visa for Filipino Citizens

Filipino travelers are required to have a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia for any purpose, including tourism, business, or transit.

Although several Saudi visa types are offered, some, such as Visa on Arrival and eVisa, are only available to Filipino citizens under specific circumstances (for example, when they are a US, UK, or Schengen resident or Business/Tourist Visa holder).

Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia and Visa on Arrival are usually valid for one year and allow a 90-day stay as multiple-entry permits.

Validity and available stay of Saudi Regular Visa vary and depend on the type of permit, while the Transit Visa enables a 96-hour visit in the Kingdom.

NOTE: The Saudi visa application process consists of filling out the forms, submitting necessary documents, and paying the fees.

All You Need to Know about Saudi Visas

A visa is an official document that allows Filipino citizens to enter Saudi Arabia legally. It defines the purpose and duration of your stay, ensuring a smooth and legal visit.

For Filipino travelers, Saudi Arabia offers several visa options. Below, you can read all the necessary details about Saudi visas:

• Processing time: eVisas are processed within 24–72 hours, while Regular Visas take between 2 to 8 weeks. Transit Visas and Visa on Arrival are issued on the spot.
• Documents required: Filipino citizens must have a passport with at least 6 months of validity and other documents, depending on the visa type.
• Basic visa options:
  • Regular Visa
  • eVisa (under specific circumstances)
  • Visa on Arrival (for qualified travelers)
  • Transit Visa (issued when booking with certain airlines)

Choosing the right Saudi visa type depends on the purpose and duration of your travel as well as the specific requirements.

It is always recommended to verify the latest immigration policies of Saudi Arabia and prepare all necessary documents in advance for a smooth application process.

Regular Saudi Visas for Filipino Citizens

Filipino citizens can get a Regular Visa through the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate.

This visa is available for various purposes, such as work, business, or long-term residence.

To apply for a Saudi Regular Visa, a Filipino citizen should:

1. Prepare the documents, including a passport (minimum 6 months validity), a recent photograph, and other specified documents depending on the visa type (e.g., work contract for a Work Visa).
2. Visit the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate in person to submit the form and required documentation.
3. Pay the visa fee as directed by the consular office.
4. Wait for processing, which typically takes 2 to 8 weeks.

Before visiting an embassy, remember to make an appointment beforehand. Check the required paperwork in advance for a smooth process.

More Saudi Visa Types for Filipino Citizens

Saudi Arabia offers various visa types designed for different purposes of travel, making it essential to choose the one that suits your needs.

Understanding these Saudi visa options can help with a hassle-free application process and successful entry into the Kingdom.

1. Electronic Visa

The eVisa is a convenient option for short-term tourism, business, or pilgrimage. However, Filipino citizens are eligible for this visa only if they meet certain criteria, such as being residents of GCC, the UK, the US, or the EU or holding valid UK, US, or Schengen visas.

To obtain an Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia, eligible Filipinos must:

1. Visit the official https://ksavisa.sa/ website.
2. Fill out the online application form and upload the documents.
3. Add the required health insurance, as it’s necessary to cross the border.
4. Cover the fee with one of the available methods.
5. Receive your eVisa within 24–72 hours via email.

It allows multiple entries over a one-year period, with a maximum stay of 90 days in total. This visa makes it easier for Filipino travelers to explore Saudi.

2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Filipino citizens who meet the requirements for the eVisa (except being GCC residents) are also eligible to apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at designated Saudi entry ports.

This convenient option allows travelers from the Philippines to obtain their visa upon arrival, avoiding the need for prior application.

The Visa on Arrival permits a stay of up to 90 days and is a single or multiple-entry permit (depending on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) with a validity of one year.

Filipinos can obtain the Visa on Arrival at designated kiosks or passport control offices located within Saudi entry ports.

3. Transit Visa

If you’re transiting through Saudi Arabia on a connecting flight, you can easily obtain a Transit Visa when purchasing tickets with Flynas or Saudia Airlines.

This convenient visa is perfect for Filipino citizens with short layovers or those looking to explore the country briefly.

A Saudi Transit Visa allows travelers to stay in the Kingdom for up to 96 hours. It is issued immediately upon application, making it perfect for those with tight schedules or last-minute plans.

You can obtain the Saudi Transit Visa up to 90 days prior to your trip, allowing for flexible travel planning.

Vaccinations and Health Insurance Required for Entry to Saudi Arabia

Pilgrims from Philippines going to Saudi Arabia must provide proof of vaccination against meningitis. This is a compulsory requirement, particularly for individuals performing Umrah or Ziyarah, as it helps prevent the spread of diseases in crowded areas.

TIP: It is important to make sure that the vaccination is up-to-date and documented within the required timeframe before departure.

Additionally, health insurance coverage is mandatory for all travelers entering Saudi Arabia and is included with eVisa applications.

Thanks to that, visitors have access to necessary health services during their stay, providing peace of mind in case of unforeseen medical needs.

For the most up-to-date vaccination and health requirements, travelers are encouraged to regularly check updates provided by the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia or consult their healthcare provider before planning their trip.

Contacting the Saudi Arabia Embassy

The Saudi Arabian Embassy in the Philippines is the best point of contact for inquiries, applications, or any assistance related to Saudi visas.

Their office processes Regular Visas, ensuring a smooth application experience for travelers, and also offers detailed guidance and support for other visa types, including work, student, and temporary visas.

They also provide updates on the latest travel regulations and requirements for visitors.

• Address: 128 H.V. Dela Costa St. Corner Sanchez St. Salcedo Village, Makati City
• Phone: 0063288564444
• Email: phemb@mofa.gov.sa
• Office Hours: from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

FAQ about Saudi Visas

• Do I need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia as a Filipino citizen?
  Filipino citizens require a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia. What is more, it’s essential to have health insurance.

• How do I qualify for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia?
  Filipino travelers must either be GCC residents or hold a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa/residency to be eligible.

• How long does it take to process a Saudi Regular Visa?
  Saudi Regular Visa processing typically takes 2–8 weeks, so it’s recommended to apply earlier.

• How do I apply for a Transit Visa to Saudi Arabia?
  Purchase tickets with Flynas or Saudia Airlines and the Transit Visa will be issued immediately.

• What vaccines are required for entry to Saudi Arabia?
  Meningitis vaccination is mandatory for Umrah or Hajj pilgrims. Also, you may be asked for a yellow fever vaccination if traveling from the risk area.

• What is the duration of stay allowed with a Saudi eVisa?
  The Saudi eVisa allows stays of up to 90 total days within a one-year period.

• Where can I find accurate Saudi visa information?
  Visit the official Saudi website or consult the Saudi Arabian Embassy near you.

Conclusion

Traveling to Saudi Arabia as a Filipino citizen may require careful planning, but the process becomes seamless when you’re well-prepared.

Saudi Arabia offers various types of visas, such as Electronic Visas, Regular Visas, Transit Visas, or Visas on Arrival.

For the smoothest application experience, consult official resources like the Visit Saudi website or your nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy.

Sources:

• https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
• https://ksavisa.sa/
• https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Philippines/EN/Pages/default.aspx