Saudi Arabia Visa for Iranian Citizens

Iranian citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and it’s mandatory for all purposes of travel, including visiting family, performing Umrah, or attending events in Saudi Arabia.

Nationals of Iran are not eligible for a Saudi Arabian Visa on Arrival, Electronic Visa, or Transit Visa.

For Iranian passport holders, a visa application at the Saudi Embassy is the only option to obtain a valid Saudi Arabian visa.

A Regular Visa requires visiting the immigration office, filling out the application form, and providing the necessary documentation.

Processing times for a Saudi visa can vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for but may last up to 2 months in some cases, so apply early enough to get your visa on time.

To obtain a visa to Saudi Arabia, Iranian citizens must have the following:

• A passport with at least 6 months of validity.
• A completed application form.
• A formal face photograph.

Moreover, all Iranian passport holders are required to have valid health insurance for their stay in Saudi Arabia, which will cover hospitalization, healthcare, and emergencies.

NOTE: Make sure you apply for a Saudi visa ahead of time, as embassy processing may take several weeks.

How to Apply for a Saudi Visa via the Embassy?

Applying for a Saudi visa through the embassy is an essential process for Iranian travelers visiting the Kingdom for various purposes, such as tourism, business, or religious pilgrimage.

The visa application involves submitting the required documentation and meeting specific guidelines to ensure eligibility for entry into Saudi Arabia.

Although Iranian citizens cannot apply for Saudi visas online or on arrival, Regular Visas are available for all travelers in a few types:

• Diplomatic Visa: Issued to government officials and members of international organizations for official duties, providing privileges for diplomats.
• Tourist Visa: Designed for individuals visiting the Kingdom for leisure, sightseeing, or cultural experiences, usually valid for an entire year.
• Business Visa: Granted to professionals traveling to attend meetings or exploring partnerships. It facilitates temporary access to commercial activities.
• Work Visa: For individuals employed or seeking employment in the Kingdom, either on a long-term or short-term basis.
• Residency Visa: Provides long-term residence for individuals, including standard options and premium packages for high-income applicants.
• Family Visit Visa: Allows residents or citizens to invite family members for a temporary visit to reunite for special occasions (such as weddings).
• Extend Return Visa: Enables individuals who have exceeded their permitted return period to extend their stay legally.
• Escort Visa: Issued, for example, to accompany someone who requires assistance, such as elderly family members or dependents.
• Student Visa: Granted to those enrolling in educational institutions within the host country. It allows students to reside and study for the duration of their program.
• Hajj Visa: Specifically for pilgrims traveling to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
• Umrah Visa: Enables Muslims to perform the Umrah pilgrimage outside the annual Hajj season.

Saudi Visa Application Process

Before traveling to Saudi Arabia, all Iranian passport holders are required to obtain a suitable visa.

The application process for a Saudi visa is uncomplicated but may be time-consuming. The entire procedure consists of a few steps:

1. Determine the type of Saudi visa you need.
   Begin by identifying the specific purpose of your visit to Saudi Arabia. Common visa types include Tourism Visas for leisure travel and Umrah Visas for religious pilgrimages. Each visa type has its own requirements and guidelines, so check them beforehand.
2. Gather the necessary documents.
   Collect all the required paperwork needed for your visa application, including a passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity and a recent face photograph. You may also need additional documents, such as accommodation proof or an invitation letter.
3. Fill out the visa application form.
   Carefully complete the visa application form, checking if all fields are filled out accurately and truthfully. Attach all supporting documents and double-check your entries to avoid errors that could delay your application.
4. Submit your application.
   Once your application form and documents are ready, submit them to the Saudi Embassy. You may be asked by the immigration officers to also provide your fingerprints or take part in a visa interview. Finally, pay for the visa processing.

By following these steps, you can make sure that your visa application for Saudi Arabia is processed smoothly and increase your chances of faster approval.

Once submitted, the processing time for a Saudi visa varies from 2-8 weeks, depending on the Saudi visa type and the amount of supporting documentation to be verified.

Usually, the Saudi Tourist Visa is the type that is approved the fastest.

NOTE: It’s best to apply at least two months before your planned travel date to receive your Saudi Arabian visa on time.

Saudi Visa Requirements for Iranian Citizens

To successfully apply for a Saudi visa, Iranian applicants must provide a completed application form (filled out and signed) together with some necessary documentation.

Along with the Saudi visa form, a passport is required, with at least 6 months of remaining validity from the intended date of entry.

Additionally, a passport-sized photograph that presents the applicant’s face and reflects their current appearance must be included as part of the application.

Depending on the type of your Saudi visa, further documents, such as an invitation letter, sponsorship details, or proof of employment, may be necessary, so it’s important to review the checklist provided by the embassy to make sure all required documentation is properly prepared and submitted.

• Tourism Visa: Travel itinerary, flight tickets, hotel booking.
• Business Visa: Invitation from a recognized Saudi business entity.
• Umrah Visa: Proof of travel arrangements for the pilgrimage.
• Work Visa: Employment contract, letter of sponsorship from the employer in Saudi Arabia.
• Student Visa: Acceptance letter from a Saudi university, proof of tuition payment.
• Family Visit Visa: Invitation letter from a family member, proof of relationship.

NOTE: A face photograph used for the Saudi visa application must be clear and taken on a blank, white background.

MOFA Website and My GOV Platform

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website is an essential online tool for Iranian citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia as it offers resources and services to guide them through the visa application rules and entry requirements.

The website serves as a centralized platform for accessing essential information and services related to traveling to or residing in Saudi Arabia.

With its user-friendly interface, the MOFA website is designed to suit both tourists and businesspeople from Iran.

With multilingual options and real-time updates, users can stay informed about the latest immigration policies, ensuring their travel plans align with current regulations.

The My GOV website is another key online resource for Iranian passport holders seeking services and information for their visit to Saudi Arabia, providing a wide range of e-services.

The platform is also a source of information regarding Saudi customs and the most important details about popular attractions.

Designed with a focus on efficiency, accessibility, and integration of advanced technology for data security, the platform has become an essential tool for tourists traveling to Saudi Arabia.

How to Avoid Mistakes in Saudi Visa Applications?

When applying for a Saudi visa, one of the most common mistakes applicants make is submitting incomplete or inaccurate information, so double-check all personal details, such as names, passport numbers, and dates.

Another frequent issue is failing to provide the required supporting documents, which can lead to delays or application rejection – contact the Saudi Embassy before visa application to find out what documentation is needed for your Saudi Arabian visa.

Timing is another critical factor, as submitting the visa application too close to the planned travel date can leave insufficient time for processing.

Mistakes can delay or even result in the rejection of your Saudi visa application, so remember to follow this short guide to avoid issues:

• Always double-check your application before submitting it.
• Make sure all documents, such as your passport, are up-to-date.
• Apply early to avoid time constraints.
• Check if your photograph meets the required criteria.
• Correct any errors in your personal details.

Contact the Saudi Embassy in Iran

The Saudi Embassy in Iran is the primary location for Iranian citizens to apply for Saudi visas.

Iranian applicants can schedule an appointment with the immigration office through the website or by contacting the embassy directly.

The Saudi Arabian Embassy offers services such as document translation and notarization, as well as visa application assistance.

If applicants have any questions or require further assistance regarding their visa or any related process, they are encouraged to reach out to the embassy.

The immigration staff is available to provide guidance, clarify doubts, and ensure that Iranian passport holders have all the information they need to move forward smoothly.

• Address: Tehran, Pasdaran Street, Khayaban Iassadran, Bostan, Niloofar, Iran
• Phone: +982 122 288 543
• Email: iremb@mofa.gov.sa

NOTE: Contact the Saudi Embassy in Iran during its working hours between 9:00-3:00. The office is closed on Thursdays and Fridays.

FAQ about Saudi Visa for Iranians

• Can Iranian citizens apply for a Saudi eVisa?
  No, Iranian citizens aren’t eligible for the Saudi eVisa. Visas must be obtained through the Saudi Embassy, and as of now, it’s the only possible method of visa application.

• How long does it take for a Saudi visa to be approved?
  The standard processing time for a Saudi visa approval ranges from 10-40 business days, depending on the type of visa.

• Can I extend my Saudi visa?
  Your visa may be extended in specific cases, but you must visit the immigration office once you’re in Saudi Arabia to request the extension.

• Can Iranian citizens enter Saudi Arabia without a visa?
  No, all Iranian passport holders must have a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia legally.

• Do children need separate visas to Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, children require their own visas, along with relevant documentation, to visit Saudi Arabia. The visa application should be completed by their guardians.

• What do I do if my Saudi visa application is rejected?
  You may reapply for a visa or consult the Saudi Embassy for guidance on addressing the rejection reasons.

• Is travel insurance required for Saudi visas?
  Travel health insurance is required from all visitors traveling to Saudi Arabia – it’s a mandatory entry rule.

Conclusion

Applying for a Saudi Regular Visa as an Iranian citizen is a straightforward process if you follow the proper steps and prepare adequately.

Currently, Iranian passport holders aren’t eligible for a Visa on Arrival or an Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia.

Understanding the type of visa you need to visit Saudi Arabia and submitting all the required documents will result in a trouble-free entry.

The processing times can vary, so it is crucial to plan your application well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays – it’s best to apply at least 2 months before your planned journey.

Saudi visa extensions may be possible under specific circumstances, but they require a visit in person at the immigration office in Saudi Arabia.

In the case of a rejected Saudi visa, reapplying with corrections or seeking advice from the embassy can provide clarity.

It’s important to note that every traveler, including children, requires a separate visa. Guardians must complete the necessary applications for minors.

Sources:

• 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