Saudi Arabia Visa for Indian Citizens

Indian citizens must have a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia for various purposes, including tourism, business meetings, religious pilgrimages, and family visits.

There are various types of Saudi visas available, such as Tourist, Business, Residence, or Work Visas.

The application process requires essential documents such as a passport valid for at least 6 months and a recent photo of the applicant’s face.

Indian nationals can apply for their Saudi visa through three main methods:

• At the Saudi Arabia Embassy: This method involves submitting an application in person along with the required documents and fees.
• Online via the Saudi KSA Visa Portal: It’s time-efficient and convenient to complete your application digitally.
• On arrival at the Saudi Arabian airport: Available only under specific circumstances and doesn’t require pre-arranged visas.

The Saudi Arabian eVisa has a validity period of a year and allows multiple entries into the country.

The online application method streamlines the process and eliminates the need to physically visit the embassy.

Additionally, the ability to track your application online makes it more transparent and user-friendly.

NOTE: For Work Visas or Sponsored Visas, confirm that appropriate sponsorship letters are in place before applying to avoid delays or denials.

Saudi Visa Types for Indian Citizens

Obtaining a regular visa for Saudi Arabia is mandatory for all Indian travelers.

Under specific conditions, Indian nationals may apply for a visa on arrival or online:

• Holders of a valid US, UK, or Schengen tourist or business visa are eligible for a Saudi eVisa and a Visa on Arrival.
• GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) residents who have a residency visa valid for at least 3 months, along with an eligible occupation, can apply for a Saudi eVisa.

Indian travelers who don’t meet the above criteria must apply for a visa via an embassy. There are multiple visa options available:

• Tourist Visa: Leisure travel and sightseeing.
• Business Visa: Attending meetings or conducting business activities.
• Work Visa: Planning to work in Saudi Arabia.
• Family Visit Visa: Visiting family members residing in Saudi Arabia.
• Student Visa: Pursuing education in Saudi institutions.
• Religious Visa: Performing Hajj or Umrah (specific guidelines apply).
• Transit Visa: Passing through Saudi Arabia to another destination.

Indian visitors are advised to carefully review the requirements for their selected visa type and plan well in advance to avoid last-minute delays.

NOTE: For more information regarding traveling to Saudi Arabia, visit the My GOV website.

Visa Application at the Saudi Arabia Embassy

To visit Saudi Arabia, Indian citizens require a visa. The application process is straightforward if you follow all the steps carefully.

To successfully apply for a visa at the Saudi Arabian Embassy, follow this guide:

1. Determine the visa you need. Check the specific requirements for your visa type, as they may vary significantly.
2. Prepare the necessary documents, such as a valid passport and a recent face photograph (color, white background, 2×2 inches).
3. Visit the nearest Saudi Embassy and submit your visa application form with the required documents.
4. Pay any applicable processing charges. It’s best to carry both card and cash.
5. Wait for visa processing. The duration depends on the visa type and volume of applications.
6. Collect your Saudi Arabia visa from the office or have it delivered if mail services are available.

Indian travelers with valid US, UK, or Schengen visas are eligible for a Saudi Online Visa. The same regulation applies to GCC residents.

Saudi eVisa Application Process

Navigating the process of applying for a Saudi Arabia eVisa is simpler than you think.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process:

1. Visit the KSA Visa Homepage – Start by visiting the official website for Saudi eVisa applications.
2. Click on the Menu Button – You’ll find this option on the right-hand side.
3. Provide Your Travel Purpose and Nationality – Select whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or another purpose.
4. Check Visa Eligibility and Apply – Specify your nationality to check eligibility and proceed to the application for a suitable type of visa.
5. Log in or Create an Account – You’ll need an account to start the process. Don’t forget to verify your email address.
6. Complete the Application Form – Carefully fill in all necessary details and upload the required documents.
7. Submit Your Form and Pay Fees – Once you’ve finished, submit the form and proceed with the payment.

After approval, your eVisa will be delivered directly to your email. Print a copy or have it accessible on your phone when you travel to Saudi Arabia.

Indian citizens must ensure their passport has at least 6 months of validity and two blank pages.

The Saudi eVisa is valid for 365 days, allowing numerous entries to the country. You can spend up to 90 days in Saudi Arabia in total.

NOTE: Indian citizens can only apply for the Saudi eVisa if they have a GCC residency or are US, UK, or Schengen residents/business or tourist visa holders.

Saudi Visa Requirements

To apply for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia as an Indian citizen, there are several documents involved. Below, I’ve broken it into essentials and additional requirements you may find helpful.

Documents Indian Citizens Need for a Saudi Visa Application

When applying for your Saudi visa, you’ll need the following basic documents:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages.
• A color face photo with a white background (2×2 inches) displaying a natural expression.

Supporting Documents That May Be Required

Depending on the purpose of your visit or the Saudi visa type, you might also need:

• Proof of travel itinerary, including flight bookings or hotel reservations in Saudi Arabia.
• A letter of invitation or confirmation from a Saudi host (for business or family visits).
• Proof of financial means, such as recent bank statements to show the ability to fund your trip.
• Sponsorship details from a Saudi employer or family member for work or family visits.

Copies of your documents must be clear and legible. Pay attention to guidelines on file sizes and formats for successful submission.

For the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding Saudi visa application requirements, it is recommended to visit the official website of the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Make sure the contact information (email address, telephone number) on your form is accurate, as it will be used for all official updates regarding your visa status.

Common Reasons for a Saudi Visa Denial

When applying for a Saudi Arabia visa, watch out for the mistakes applicants tend to make.

Note that each visa application is evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Saudi authorities.

• Incomplete or incorrect information – Even small errors can result in rejection.
• Insufficient supporting documents – Such as missing financial records or invitation letters.
• Expired or invalid passport – Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
• Prior visa violations or overstaying – In Saudi Arabia or other countries.
• Criminal records or security concerns – May impact your eligibility.

To avoid these issues, always double-check your documents before submission, making sure they are complete and up-to-date.

For added security, consider getting assistance from a credible visa service provider or the officials of the Saudi Embassy to review your application.

Careful preparation and attention to detail can greatly increase the likelihood of a successful visa application and pave the way for a smooth and hassle-free journey to Saudi Arabia.

Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia for Indian Citizens

Indian citizens may qualify for a Visa on Arrival when traveling to Saudi Arabia, under specific conditions.

This visa option allows eligible travelers to obtain authorization at their port of entry, which is ideal for avoiding the hassle of pre-approved applications.

To be eligible for a Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival, Indian travelers must:

• Hold a valid visa issued by the United States, United Kingdom, or a Schengen member state, and this visa must have been used at least once to enter the issuing country or;
• Be a permanent resident visa of the United States, United Kingdom, or an EU country.

Upon arrival at a Saudi port of entry, proceed to the immigration desk. Present your passport with entry stamps along with the visa-required documents.

Once processed, you’ll receive a visa on arrival and spend up to 90 days in Saudi Arabia.

NOTE: This Saudi visa does not permit religious pilgrimage or employment-related activities.

Contact Details to Saudi Embassy

If you’re an Indian citizen planning to travel to Saudi Arabia, you’ll likely need a visa. The Saudi Arabian Embassy in India is your go-to authority for this process.

• Address: EP-30, Chandragupta Marg, Chanakya Puri 110021 New Delhi, India
• Telephone: 00 911 124 102 000
• Email: inemb@mofa.gov.sa

The embassy staff is committed to assisting applicants with everything from guiding them through the visa requirements to reviewing applications and issuing approved visas promptly.

If you’re unsure about any part of the process, they are there to help ensure a smooth experience.

Saudi Arabia Visa FAQ

• Can Indian citizens apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
  Yes, Indian citizens can apply for a Saudi visa online if they meet specific requirements.
• Is a visa required for Indian citizens to visit Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, Indian citizens must obtain a visa to visit Saudi Arabia.
• What documents do Indian citizens need to apply for a Saudi visa?
  Indian citizens need a valid passport and a recent face photograph. Additional documents may be required.
• Can Indian citizens perform Umrah with a tourist visa?
  Yes, Indian citizens can perform Umrah using a tourist visa, except during the Hajj season.
• What is the validity of a Saudi eVisa for Indian citizens?
  A Saudi Online Visa for Indian citizens is valid for one year, allowing multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days.
• How long does it take for an Indian citizen to get a Saudi visa?
  Processing times for Saudi visas for Indian citizens vary. The eVisas are processed within 72 hours, while regular visas from the embassies may take several weeks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a Saudi Arabia visa is a crucial step for Indian citizens planning their visit.

By understanding the various visa types, eligibility criteria, and application processes, travelers from India can travel without issues.

Whether applying online or at the embassy, thorough preparation and attention to detail are key to a successful visa application.

Sources:

• https://ksavisa.sa/
• https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
• https://www.my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main?lang=en
• https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/india/EN/Pages/default.aspx