Greek citizens require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, as it helps regulate and monitor travel, ensuring that visitors comply with national laws and policies.
Fortunately, Greek nationals are eligible for several types of visas, including eVisa (Electronic Visa), Visa on Arrival, Regular Visa, or Transit Visa.
Among these, the eVisa is one of the most convenient options, allowing tourists multiple entries for leisure purposes over a one-year period with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.
For Greeks who didn’t apply in advance, a good option is to get a Visa on Arrival. Alternatively, a Regular Visa for stays over 90 days and purposes behind tourism can be obtained from the Saudi Embassy.
Even though a visa is not required when remaining within the airport transit area, Greek visitors can obtain a Transit Visa to explore Saudi Arabia during layover.
Greek travelers applying for a Saudi Arabia visa must provide a valid passport, a recent face photo, and additional documents such as a letter of invitation or proof of financial means if required.
NOTE: For detailed Saudi visa information and processing, you can visit official websites like visa.visitsaudi.com or visa.mofa.gov.sa.
Saudi Arabia Electronic Visa Application
Greek citizens planning to visit Saudi Arabia can now take advantage of the convenient Electronic Visa system.
The streamlined process allows travelers from Greece to apply for their visa online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate.
The Saudi eVisa is available for various purposes, including:
- Tourism
- Business trips
- Religious visits such as Umrah (excluding Hajj).
The application process for the Saudi eVisa is simple and user-friendly. Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Visit the official application website. Click on either “Sign In” or “Apply Now“ on the homepage.
- Create an account or log in. If you are a first-time user, you will need to create an account. Returning users can log in with their existing data.
- Choose your application type. Select whether you are applying as an individual or for a group.
- Submit your photo: Upload a recent, clear photo that meets the specified requirements.
- Provide personal information: Fill in your basic details, such as name, date of birth, and contact information.
- Enter passport information: Include your passport details and make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry.
Processing typically takes 3 business days, and you will be notified via email after your application has been reviewed.
Once approved, the Saudi eVisa is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and allows for multiple entries for 90 days in total within the one-year validity period.
Obtaining a Saudi Visa at the Embassy
Various types of Saudi Regular Visas can be obtained through the embassy.
Depending on the purpose of the visit, Greek passport holders can choose between:
- Diplomatic Visa: Issued to government staff or members of diplomatic missions and international organizations.
- Tourist Visa: For individuals wishing to explore Saudi Arabia for leisure and cultural experiences.
- Business Visa: Designed for professionals traveling for business purposes, such as attending meetings or conferences.
- Work Visa: Granted for both permanent and temporary employment opportunities within Saudi Arabia.
- Residency Visa: Includes standard residency permits, premium residency options, and visas for newborn dependents.
- Family Visit Visa: Allows families to visit their relatives who reside in Saudi Arabia.
- Extend Return Visa: For individuals needing an extension on their previously issued return visas.
- Escort Visa: Issued for accompanying dependents or family members.
- Student Visa: For individuals pursuing educational opportunities within the Kingdom.
- Hajj Visa: Specifically intended for those traveling to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
- Umrah Visa: For individuals traveling to perform the Umrah pilgrimage.
Once you select the Saudi visa category, complete the form from the Saudi Embassy’s, checking if all information is accurate.
Then, gather the required documents like a valid passport, a recent passport photo, and any other visa-specific items, such as proof of travel.
Submit your form and documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate on a scheduled date. You must also pay the fees, which vary by visa type and processing time.
NOTE: Some Regular Visas to Saudi Arabia may require an interview or fingerprint submission.
Processing times vary from 2 to 8 weeks, so apply early. Once approved, the Saudi Regular Visa will be added to your passport – double-check the details for accuracy.
Getting a Saudi Visa on Arrival for Greek Citizens
Greek citizens are eligible to obtain a Saudi Visa on Arrival, which permits stays of up to 90 days and stays valid for one year.
Upon arrival at your airport or entry point in Saudi Arabia, you can apply for your visa using the self-service devices (KIOSK) or by visiting the passport control office directly.
NOTE: Travelers must be 18 or older to enter Saudi Arabia alone, while minors must be accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or an adult sibling over 18.
This straightforward process provides ease of travel for Greek citizens, making it simpler to explore Saudi Arabia, whether for tourism, religious pilgrimage, or other leisure purposes.
Transit Travel through Saudi Arabia
The Transit Visa is an opportunity for Greek travelers to explore Saudi Arabia during their stopover. It is conveniently available when booking flights with Saudia or Flynas Airlines.
The visa itself is free, although you should be aware of associated administrative and medical insurance fees.
Applications can be submitted up to 90 days before your travel date, providing plenty of time to plan.
Once granted, the visa allows Greek visitors to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours, giving time to explore key attractions or attend short sports or entertainment events.
Photo Requirements for Visa Application to Saudi Arabia
When submitting a photo for a Saudi Arabia visa application, it must meet certain requirements to make sure it is accepted.
These include specific dimensions, proper lighting, and a clear image of your face without any obstructions, such as hats or sunglasses.
Format and Size
- The photo must be 200 x 200 pixels.
- File size should be between 5 KB and 100 KB.
- The image should show a close-up of your face and upper shoulders, with your face covering 70% to 80% of the frame (about 1.4″ x 1.6″ from chin to crown).
Composition and Positioning
- The photo should clearly show your entire face, from chin to top of head, including both sides.
- If you have a large hairstyle, make sure the whole head is visible without reducing face size.
- The face must be centered, and the photo should be taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.
Background
- Use a plain white background, free of patterns or distractions.
- The photo must not include other people, objects, or shadows.
Expression
- Face the camera directly, with no tilting or angling.
- Keep your face and eyes aligned with the camera, showing both ears and both sides of your cheeks.
- Maintain a neutral expression — no smiling or exaggerated emotions.
Headwear
- Headwear isn’t allowed unless for religious reasons. If worn, it must not cover the face; the area from chin to forehead must be fully visible.
- Make sure headwear doesn’t create shadows on the face.
By satisfying these guidelines, Greek applicants will meet the necessary standards for the Saudi Arabia visa application process.
Contact Information of the Saudi Embassy in Greece
Travelers from Greece visiting Saudi Arabia are encouraged to contact the Saudi Embassy in Greece for various reasons.
The embassy provides important support services such as issuing emergency travel documents, offering assistance during emergencies, and answering inquiries related to travel regulations and safety guidelines.
Additionally, the embassy can guide Greek nationals on local laws and customs, ensuring a smooth and informed travel experience.
By staying connected with the embassy, Greeks can access reliable help whenever needed during their stay in Saudi Arabia:
- Address: Marathonodromon Street 71, P. Psychico 15452, Athens
- Phone: +302106716911
- Email: gremb@mofa.gov.sa
- Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (hours may vary, confirm before visiting)
FAQs about Saudi Visas for Greek Citizens
- What is the Saudi eVisa, and why is it convenient?
The eVisa is an Electronic Visa that allows tourists to enter Saudi Arabia multiple times within a one-year period. It is considered convenient due to its ease of application and flexibility.
- Can Greek citizens get a Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Greek citizens who have not applied for a visa in advance can opt for a Visa on Arrival, provided they meet the necessary requirements.
- What should a Greek national do for stays in Saudi Arabia longer than 90 days?
For stays exceeding 90 days or for purposes beyond tourism, Greek nationals should apply for a Regular Visa through the Saudi Embassy.
- Is a visa required for transit through Saudi Arabia?
A visa is not necessary if a traveler remains within the airport transit area. However, Greek nationals can opt to obtain a Transit Visa if they wish to explore Saudi Arabia during their layover.
- What documents are necessary to apply for a Saudi Arabia visa?
Greek citizens need a valid passport, a recent face photo, and additional documents such as a letter of invitation or proof of financial means, if required.
- How long does it take to process a Saudi Arabia visa?
The processing time typically ranges from 3 business days to 7 weeks, depending on the type of visa and the completeness of the application.
- Can Greek nationals extend their visa while in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, extensions are possible for certain types of visas. Greek nationals should contact the Saudi Ministry of Interior or visit the Absher platform for details on the process and documentation.
Conclusion
Traveling to Saudi Arabia as a Greek national is accessible through various visa options that suit different needs.
Whether going on a short tourist trip with an Saudi eVisa or preparing for an extended visit requiring a Regular Visa, understanding the available choices guarantees a smooth and hassle-free process.
By preparing the necessary documents in advance and consulting official resources like Visit Saudi or MOFA, Greek travelers can look forward to a seamless experience in Saudi Arabia.
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

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.