Saudi Arabia Visa for Filipino Citizens

Filipino citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia to comply with the immigration regulations and entry requirements set by the Saudi Arabian government.

Filipino passport holders can apply for a visa at the Saudi Arabian Embassy, and those who meet additional requirements may also have the option to get an eVisa, Visa on Arrival, or Transit Visa.

Tourist visas typically allow a duration of stay of up to 90 days, while Work or Business Visas may allow longer stays, depending on the specific terms.

Before making a decision, it’s important to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application procedures for each type of visa to reduce stress and eliminate issues.

Complete and accurate documentation, such as a passport with a 6 months validity, must be provided during the Saudi visa application process to avoid potential processing delays.

NOTE: For more detailed information, please visit official sources like visa.visitsaudi.com.

Types of Saudi Arabia Visas and Their Requirements

Saudi Arabia offers Filipino nationals a diverse range of visa options suitable for various travel purposes, from tourism and work to religious pilgrimages and education.

If you are planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, it’s critical to understand which visa meets your travel needs and its accompanying requirements.

Regular Visa

Saudi Arabia’s Regular Visa options accommodate different travelers from the Philippines, such as government officials, tourists, business professionals, and temporary or permanent workers.

At the Saudi Embassy, it is possible to get Diplomatic, Tourist, Business, Work, Residency (Standard, Premium, or for newborns), Family Visit, Student, Hajj and Umrah, Escort and Extend Return Visas.

For all visa types mentioned above, you’ll need a valid passport and a recent face photo that meets the specifications set by the Saudi authorities.

Since each Regular Visa type has unique requirements, you may require additional documents. Therefore, check official sources, e.g.,the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, for the complete list of documentation.

Saudi eVisa

The Saudi eVisa simplifies the process for Filipino tourists, enabling online applications. This visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 90 days in total.

Key Requirements:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond your entry date)
• Face photo
• For first-time travelers, a valid Schengen, UK, or US Business/Tourism Visa or residency permit with an entry stamp, or
• Residency visa from one of the GCC countries with a minimum validity of at least 3 months beyond the date of entry

NOTE: Returning visitors with valid Saudi visas do not need to verify Schengen, UK, or US visa/residency permits again.

Visa on Arrival

Travelers from the Philippines eligible for a Visa on Arrival can apply upon reaching an entry point (airport or border crossing) in Saudi Arabia.

Use self-service kiosks or visit the passport control office for assistance.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Valid Business or Tourist Visa issued by the US, UK, or Schengen countries
• Proof of entry stamp into the country of visa issuance
• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.

Transit Visa

Flyanas or Saudia Airlines offer Transit Visas for Filipino travelers with stopovers in Saudi Arabia. You’ll receive the visa via email automatically upon booking your flight.

The Transit/Stopover Visa is valid for 3 months, with a maximum stay of 96 hours.

PRO TIP: If eligible, using the Saudi online portal is the best decision — the process is efficient and hassle-free.

Saudi Visa Application Process for Filipinos

As a Filipino visiting Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to understand the Saudi visa application process to have a smooth experience.

Securing your visa is straightforward if you follow the necessary steps, either through an embassy application or the convenience of the eVisa system.

Applying for a Saudi Visa at the Embassy

All Filipinos can apply for a visa at the Saudi Embassy. Follow these steps to get your visa processed efficiently:

1. Visit the Saudi Embassy – Filipinos should contact the nearest embassy to make an appointment.
2. Submit Your Application – Hand over your completed application and all documents to the embassy staff for processing.
3. Pay the Visa Fee – The visa fee amount will vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for.
4. Wait for Processing – Processing times can vary, so plan your application with sufficient time before your travel dates.

When you get a notification, visit the Saudi Embassy to collect the approved visa in person. You may be required to provide a receipt or an extra photocopy of the passport.

Applying for a Saudi eVisa

Alternatively, for tourist purposes, eligible Filipinos can apply online for a Saudi eVisa. The online process is simple, time-saving, and can be completed from any place with internet access. Below is a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Saudi eVisa Portal – Head to the official eVisa website at https://ksavisa.sa/.
2. Create an Account or Log In – Register for a new account or log into your existing one.
3. Verify Your Account – A verification email will be sent. Click the link to activate your account.
4. Check Eligibility and Apply – The portal will determine your eligibility for a visa. Choose a suitable visa type and proceed.
5. Fill Out the Application – Provide your personal details, travel purpose, and nationality. Make sure all information is accurate.
6. Upload Documents – Submit all required documentation online.
7. Cover the Fee – Make the payment using available options and wait for processing.

Once approved, your Saudi eVisa will be sent electronically within a few days. Make a paper copy to have it on hand during the trip.

Top Tips for a Successful Saudi Arabia Visa Application

A smooth visa application process is essential to starting your trip to Saudi Arabia as a Filipino. To have a successful Saudi visa procedure, you need to avoid common mistakes that applicants often make.

Increase your chances of Saudi visa approval with these tips:

• Provide accurate data: See if all information is error-free to avoid delays.
• Check travel details: Review if your documents match the travel information.
• Apply early: Find out the processing time and submit your application well in advance.
• Learn about customs and regulations: Familiarize yourself with Saudi laws to guarantee compliance during your stay.
• Keep copies of your documents: Have both digital and physical backups of your important paperwork.
• Review your medical requirements: Make sure you meet vaccination or health guidelines before traveling.

By following the recommendations, you can reduce the chances of rejection or delays. Keep in mind that even a small mistake can result in denial and affect your travel plans.

Saudi Embassy in the Philippines

The Saudi Embassy in the Philippines plays a vital role in facilitating diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.

It serves as the primary point of contact for Filipinos seeking to travel, work, or study in Saudi Arabia, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with visa requirements.

The embassy provides guidance and support for visa-related inquiries and coordinates with local authorities to strengthen ties between the countries.

Contact Information

• Address: 128 H.V. Dela Costa St., Corner Sanchez St., Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines
• Phone Number: +63 28 856 4444
• Fax: +63 28 856 5366
• Email: phemb@mofa.gov.sa

How to Check Your Saudi Arabia Visa Status Online

By using the online visa status check, Filipinos can easily stay updated on the progress of the Saudi visa application or verify the validity of the existing visa.

This convenient and user-friendly process ensures that you have the necessary information at your fingertips. To check your Saudi Arabia visa status online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the KSA Visa website.
2. Select the “Track your application” option.
3. Have your Application/Visa Number and Passport Number ready.
4. Enter your details in the provided fields.
5. Select the option to verify your visa’s status.
6. View your visa details, including validity and type.

This process is quick and accurate, and it saves you time by avoiding unnecessary visits to visa offices or phone calls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Do Filipinos need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, Filipino citizens need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia, as there are no visa-free options for Philippine passport holders.

• What is the Saudi eVisa, and who is eligible?
  The Saudi eVisa is an electronic visa mainly for tourism. Filipinos with valid Schengen, US, or UK visas or GCC residency permits are eligible.

• What documents are required for Saudi visa applications?
  Requirements include a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months), a recent photo, and additional documents depending on the visa type (e.g., employment or invitation letters).

• Can Filipinos get a Saudi Visa on Arrival?
  Yes, Filipinos can get a Visa on Arrival if they hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa with an entry stamp.

• What is the Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia, and how does it work?
  Filipinos with stopovers in Saudi Arabia via Flynas or Saudia Airlines can use the Transit Visa. It lasts 3 months and allows a maximum 96-hour stay, issued automatically with flight booking.

• How can I check the status of my Saudi visa application?
  Check your visa status online via the KSA Visa using your visa or passport number.

• Where is the Saudi Embassy in the Philippines?
  The Saudi Embassy is located at 128 H.V. Dela Costa St., Corner Sanchez St., Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines.

Conclusion

Filipinos visiting Saudi Arabia need a visa, as there are no visa-free options. Saudi Arabia offers visas for tourism, work, education, business, and religious pilgrimages.

You can apply through the Saudi Embassy or the eVisa platform, which allows online applications, multiple entries, and stays up to 90 days.

For Work or Family Visit Visas, embassy applications are required, while Transit Visas are issued automatically for airlines like Flynas or Saudia.

To have a seemless process, prepare accurate documents, apply early, and check official sources like the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Sources

• https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
• https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/eservices/Pages/default.aspx
• https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/visaservices/searchvisa
• https://www.moh.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
• https://ksavisa.sa/