All Kenyan citizens require a valid visa while traveling to Saudi Arabia, and depending on the purpose of their visit, there are different visa categories to choose from.
Nationals of Kenya should secure an appropriate visa from the Saudi Embassy unless eligible for a Visa on Arrival or an Electronic Visa (eVisa).
Kenyan passport holders can also apply for a Transit Visa to Saudi Arabia.
Essential facts about available visa types are:
- Regular Visa: Issued at the embassy for visits and residency in Saudi Arabia.
- Electronic Visa: Approved online for eligible Kenyan visitors.
- Visa on Arrival: Obtained by eligible travelers at Saudi entry ports.
- Transit Visa: Available for all Kenyan citizens for 4-day stays in Saudi Arabia.
A Kenyan passport is mandatory to apply for a Saudi visa, so make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months and has at least two blank pages for visa stamps (for application via the embassy).
To obtain a visa for Saudi Arabia, prepare a recent passport-sized photograph and accurately fill out the visa application form.
NOTE: Saudi visa requirements may change over time, so always verify the information with the Saudi Arabia diplomatic mission.
Methods of Applying for a Saudi Visa for Kenyan Citizens
Applying for a Saudi visa is essential for anyone traveling from Kenya to Saudi Arabia, whether for tourism, business, or religious purposes.
Understanding the application process and checking compliance with current requirements can save you time and effort.
Getting a Regular Visa via the Embassy
To apply for a visa via the Saudi Embassy, Kenyan applicants must visit the nearest immigration office and submit a completed application form with a valid passport and additional supporting documents.
It’s essential to contact the embassy beforehand to confirm the specific requirements and choose the date of a meeting, as walk-ins aren’t approved.
Completing the Online Application
The Saudi eVisa is available for Kenyan citizens who are:
- GCC residents
- US, UK, or EU residents
- US, UK, or Schengen visa holders
The eVisa system offers a convenient and streamlined method for a visa application.
This online platform allows individuals to submit their applications digitally, upload required documents, and receive their Saudi visas electronically.
The online visa system eliminates the need for in-person visits to the embassy.
Issuing a Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia
The Saudi eVisa is available for Kenyan citizens who are:
- US, UK, or EU residents
- US, UK, or Schengen visa holders
Travelers from Kenya are advised to verify their eligibility for this option before departure to avoid inconvenience.
The Saudi VOA option allows eligible travelers to obtain their visa upon arrival at the port of entry (airport or land crossing).
A great benefit of this visa option is immediate approval upon submitting the form.
NOTE: For Kenyan travelers, applying for a visa at the Saudi Embassy is the most convenient option.
Obtaining a Visa from the Saudi Embassy
Applying for a Saudi visa through the embassy is straightforward for Kenyan citizens who don’t qualify for the Visa on Arrival or eVisa options.
This visa application method ensures all necessary documentation is in place before traveling.
By obtaining a Saudi visa in advance, travelers can avoid any uncertainties or delays at the point of entry.
- Visit the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya.
- Collect the official visa application form and fill it out accurately.
- Provide all required documents for your visa type.
- Pay the visa processing fee as instructed by the embassy.
- Submit your application and keep the receipt.
The approved Saudi visa should be collected in person as soon as it’s authorized – the standard waiting time is between 2–8 weeks.
Regular Visa from the Saudi Embassy grants certain advantages to Kenyan travelers:
- Offers personalized assistance during application.
- Ensures greater precision for applications where documentation must be reviewed.
- Provides a clear understanding of specific requirements for each visa type.
- Allows applicants to address any potential issues directly with officials.
You can visit the Saudi Embassy in Kenya upon scheduling a visit to the office.
- Address: Main Muthaigh Road, Nairobi, Kenia
- Phone: +25 420 406 2781
- Email: keemb@mofa.gov.sa
Online Saudi Visa Application
The online visa platform offers an easier way for eligible applicants to apply for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia.
While not available for all Kenyan citizens, it’s a convenient option for GCC residents or holders of US, UK, or Schengen visas.
To obtain a Saudi Arabian eVisa, Kenyan citizens should:
- Visit the KSA website at the https://ksavisa.sa/.
- Click the “Menu” button on the right and select the Kenyan nationality.
- Provide travel purposes to check the eligibility and confirm if they qualify for a Saudi eVisa.
- Log in or create an account on the platform and verify the account.
- Complete the application form with essential details (full name, date of birth).
- Upload a digital copy of the applicant’s face photograph.
- Pay the necessary visa fee online to finalize the process.
Applying for a visa online makes the process more convenient and accessible, as you can complete the entire procedure from home.
Additionally, applicants can track their application progress in real time, ensuring transparency and timely updates.
This digital approach is also more sustainable, cutting down on paperwork and minimizing the use of physical resources.
NOTE: Waiting time for a Saudi eVisa approval shouldn’t be longer than 3 business days.
Face Photo Requirements for a Saudi Visa
A proper face photo is a critical requirement for visa applications to Saudi Arabia.
Meeting precise photo standards leads to avoiding delays in your visa process, so carefully check the guidelines for taking the perfect visa picture.
- Use a plain white background without any patterns.
- Ensure good lighting with no shadows on the face.
- The photo must represent facial features (no glasses or headgear unless for religious reasons).
- The photo must be in color and not black and white.
- The size should be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), with the face centered and visible.
Moreover, your Saudi visa photograph should be no older than 6 months to accurately match your current appearance (the same hair color, no face alterations).
While taking your picture, watch out for these common mistakes and avoid:
- Cropped or blurry images.
- Non-compliance with size requirements.
- Poor quality or pixelated images.
NOTE: Although you can take your photo at home, it’s a much safer option to visit a professional photographer to comply with visa rules.
Saudi Arabian Transit Visa for Kenyan Citizens
If you’re traveling through Saudi Arabia and wish to leave the airport transit zone, applying for a Transit Visa is an option.
Available for all Kenyan citizens, a Transit Visa allows short layover stays of up to 4 days (96 hours).
Travelers from Kenya can now apply for a Saudi Arabian Transit Visa when booking flights with Flynas or Saudia, as both airlines offer an integrated application process during ticket purchase.
The visa application process includes providing personal and travel details and uploading necessary documents like a valid passport.
This service ensures a hassle-free way for Kenyan citizens to secure a Transit Visa, making travel through Saudi Arabia more convenient.
FAQs about Saudi Arabia Visas
- Do Kenyan citizens need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
Yes, a visa is required for all Kenyan citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia, regardless of travel purpose.
- Which visa types are available for Kenyans?
Regular Visas, eVisas, Visas on Arrival, and Transit Visas are available to Kenyan travelers.
- Can I apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa as a Kenyan?
You can apply for a Saudi eVisa only if you are a GCC resident or hold valid US, UK, or Schengen visas.
- What documents are required for a Saudi visa?
Kenyan citizens need a valid passport and a face photo to obtain a Saudi visa. Depending on the visa type, additional documents may be required.
- How long is a Saudi eVisa valid?
The Saudi eVisa is issued for one year and allows multiple entries up to 90 days in total.
- How can I check my Saudi visa status?
You can check your visa application status by using the Saudi Visa Portal.
- What is the expedited Saudi visa processing?
The Saudi eVisa is usually approved in 3 business days, while the Regular Visa from the embassy is processed in up to 8 weeks.
- Where can I apply for a Saudi visa in Kenya?
Visit the Saudi Embassy in Nairobi to apply for a Saudi visa as a Kenyan citizen.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Saudi visa as a Kenyan citizen requires meeting specific requirements like a valid passport and a proper face photo.
The Saudi eVisa is issued for one year, allows multiple entries, and permits stays of up to 90 days. It’s a convenient option for Kenyan citizens traveling for tourism or business.
For Regular Visa applications, the Saudi Embassy in Nairobi is the main point of contact – submitting documents directly at the office ensures all requirements are met.
Visa processing times differ, with the eVisa typically approved within 3 business days. Regular Visas, processed through the Saudi Embassy, can take up to 8 weeks, requiring early application.
Kenyan applicants can check their visa status online or contact the immigration office.
Sources:
- https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
- https://ksavisa.sa/
- https://my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main
- https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Kenya/EN/Pages/default.aspx
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.
