Saudi Arabia Visa for Icelandic Citizens

Icelandic citizens must obtain a visa when traveling to Saudi Arabia, as this requirement aims to regulate and monitor the entry of foreign nationals into the country.

They have several options available, including an eVisa, a Visa on Arrival, a Regular Visa, or a Transit Visa.

The most convenient method is the Saudi eVisa, which can be applied online. It is a one-year, multiple-entry visa allowing up to 90 days of total stay for tourism purposes, excluding activities like studying or attending Hajj.

Alternatively, those opting for the Visa on Arrival can apply directly at Saudi entry ports, while the Transit Visa is issued immediately upon booking flights through specific airlines. A Regular Visa for longer stays and purposes like employment is obtained at the embassy.

Travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months, and health insurance is also mandatory during their stay.

NOTE: For additional details or to explore Saudi visa types, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Everything You Need to Know About the Saudi eVisa

The Saudi eVisa process is designed to be quick and user-friendly, allowing travelers from Iceland to apply conveniently online.

The Electronic Visa has a validity period of one year from the date of issue and permits a stay of up to 90 days, whether for tourism, family visits, or attending events.

To complete the application process for a Saudi eVisa, follow the steps below:

1. Visit the official eVisa website.

Go to https://visa.visitsaudi.com/ and click either “Sign In” if you already have an account or “Apply Now” to start a new application.

2. Create an account or log in.

If you’re a first-time user, you’ll need to register by providing basic details like your name, email address, and password. Returning users can simply log in with their credentials.

3. Fill out the application form.

Complete the online application form with accurate personal information, including your name, date of birth, nationality, and travel details. You will also need to upload a recent face photo.

4. Pay the visa fee.

The application will require payment of a visa fee, which can be processed securely online using a credit or debit card. Ensure you keep a receipt of the payment for your records.

5. Review and submit your application.

Double-check all provided information for accuracy before submitting your application. Incorrect details could lead to delays or rejection of your visa.

6. Receive your eVisa.

Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Saudi visa via email. Print a copy to have it on hand when traveling.

NOTE: The approved Saudi Electronic Visa is automatically linked to the passport used during the application process. Travel with the same passport, as the visa cannot be transferred to a different document.

Applying for a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy

For those Icelandic nationals who prefer or require a Regular Visa, the application process involves visiting the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate.

This type of visa is suitable for individuals whose travel purposes may not be covered by the eVisa or Visa on Arrival options, such as employment, study, or religious pilgrimages to Hajj.

Applicants must prepare several documents, including:

• A completed visa application form
• A passport with at least 6 months of validity
• A recent face photograph
• Any additional paperwork specific to the type of visa being applied for, such as an invitation letter or a sponsor’s information for business visas.

It is also crucial to provide proof of health insurance covering the duration of the stay in Saudi Arabia and cover the fees.

The processing time for a Regular Visa may vary depending on the embassy or consulate and the completeness of the application. Usually, it takes about 14-40 days to make a decision.

IMPORTANT: Applicants from Iceland are encouraged to start the process well in advance of their intended travel date to the Kingdom to account for any delays.

Saudi Visa on Arrival for Icelandic Citizens

The Saudi Visa on Arrival is an option for Icelandic travelers who have not obtained a visa prior to their trip.

The VOA simplifies the travel process, being available at Saudi Arabia’s entry points, including:

• Airports
• Seaports
• Borders

Icelandic visitors can apply directly upon arrival by approaching a designated visa counter or using self-service kiosks.

To complete the application, travelers must present a passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity and pay the required visa fee.

Once processed, the Visa on Arrival is issued immediately, allowing a stay in the Kingdom of up to 90 days for tourism or related short-term purposes.

NOTE: To apply for the Saudi Visa on Arrival independently, applicants must be at least 18 years old. Minors are eligible only when traveling with an accompanying adult.

Transit Visa for Stopovers in Saudi Arabia

For Icelandic travelers making a stopover in Saudi Arabia, the Transit Visa permits stays of up to 96 hours (4 days) and can be easily applied for online when booking flights with participating airlines such as Saudia or Flynas.

This visa is specifically designed for passengers whose flight itineraries include a connection in Saudi airports and who wish to explore the country during their layover.

The streamlined application process includes the option to buy mandatory health insurance, meeting entry requirements efficiently and ensuring compliance with Saudi regulations.

Applicants should note that the Transit Visa can be applied for up to 90 days before the intended travel dates, which allows planning their stopover well in advance.

What to Do If Your Saudi Arabia Visa Application is Denied

If your Saudi Arabia visa application is denied, it is essential for Icelandic nationals to get familiar with the reasons for the rejection and take appropriate steps to address them.

Common reasons for visa denials include incomplete applications, missing documents, or issues in the provided information.

To resolve the issue, Icelanders should:

1. Review the rejection reason: Check the feedback provided by the Saudi authorities to understand why the application was not approved.
2. Confirm eligibility requirements: See if you meet all the requirements for the specific visa you are applying for, including age, documentation, and any other essential criteria.
3. Correct and reapply: If you identify any errors or incomplete information in your initial application, make the necessary corrections and gather any missing documents before reapplying.
4. Seek assistance: If the rejection reason is unclear or you are unsure how to proceed, consider consulting a professional visa service or contacting the relevant Saudi authority for clarification and guidance.
5. Explore alternative options: Depending on your travel purpose, you may consider applying for a different type of Saudi visa that better aligns with your situation.

By taking these measures, Icelandic applicants can improve their chances of obtaining a Saudi visa successfully in next attempts.

The Importance of the Saudi Embassy for Visa Applicants from Iceland

For Icelandic citizens seeking to apply for a Saudi visa, the Saudi diplomatic missions are essential for providing visa services, offering guidance on eligibility requirements, and addressing any issues or queries related to visa applications.

However, as Saudi Arabia currently has no diplomatic mission in Reykjavik, Iceland, applicants must rely on the local embassy or consulate for support.

The nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy for Icelandic residents is located in Dublin, Ireland:

• Address: 12 Fitzwilliam Square E, Dublin 2
• Phone: 35316766333
• Email: duemb@mofa.gov.sa

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Saudi Visas

• What is the validity period of a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
  The eVisa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with a stay being up to 90 days for tourism purposes.

• Can I perform religious activities like Hajj with a Tourist Visa?
  The Tourist Visa does not permit religious activities like Hajj. A specific Hajj Visa is required for such purposes.

• How do I apply for a Saudi eVisa?
  You can apply online through Saudi Arabia’s eVisa portal by following a straightforward process of filling out the form, uploading the necessary documents, and making the payment.

• Is health insurance mandatory for Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, health insurance is compulsory for all travelers, and it is included when you apply for your eVisa or Transit Visa.

• Can I extend my stay in Saudi Arabia with a Tourist Visa?
  Extensions are not guaranteed, and Icelandic travelers need to inquire with the visa authorities in Saudi Arabia about the possibility and procedures.

• What is the Visa on Arrival process for Saudi Arabia?
  Eligible travelers may apply for a Visa on Arrival at the airport upon entry, requiring valid documents like a qualifying passport and health insurance.

• Which airlines issue the Transit Visa for Icelandic travelers?
  Airlines like Saudia and Flynas issue a Transit Visa upon booking a connecting flight through Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

Traveling to Saudi Arabia as an Icelandic citizen can be a seamless experience if all visa requirements are met and the appropriate type of visa is obtained.

Opting for the eVisa is highly recommended for its convenience and flexibility for most travelers.

For those only passing through, the Transit Visa allows short-term entry while en route to another destination.

The Visa on Arrival is available for eligible travelers upon entering the country, and a Regular Visa can be obtained through the Saudi Embassy for specific purposes such as work or extended stays.

Each option suits different travel scenarios, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your travel plans.

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