Saudi Arabia Visa for Maldivian Citizens

Maldivian citizens require a visa to visit Saudi Arabia as part of the country’s immigration policies to regulate and monitor entry into its borders.

The visa requirement guarantees that individuals meet specific criteria for travel, whether for tourism, business, or religious purposes, such as performing Umrah or Hajj.

Obtaining a Saudi visa is straightforward for Maldivians as they are eligible to apply through multiple options, including eVisa, Visa on Arrival, Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy, or a Transit Visa:

• The eVisa is a one-year multiple-entry Electronic Visa, allowing up to 90 days of stay for tourism, business, or visiting relatives.
• The Visa on Arrival is available at Saudi entry points without applying in advance for visits up to 90 days, primarily for tourism or business purposes.
• The Regular Visa is suitable for long-term stays over 90 days or specialized purposes like employment. It can be obtained at the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
• The Transit Visa is offered for stopovers through certain airlines like Flynas or Saudia Airways for up to 96 hours.

Maldivian citizens who wish to apply for any Saudi visa need to meet specific requirements – hold a valid Maldivian passport with at least 6 months of validity, a recent face photo, and any supporting documents depending on the purpose of the visit.

NOTE: For additional resources or assistance, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs eServices page.

Saudi Regular Visa Types for Maldivian Nationals

Maldivian nationals planning to visit Saudi Arabia have several Regular Visa options available, depending on their purpose of travel.

The Diplomatic Visa is designed for government officials, staff, and individuals associated with diplomatic missions or international organizations on official duty in Saudi Arabia.

With the Tourist Visa, Maldivian nationals can explore Saudi Arabia’s cultural, historical, and modern attractions.

The Business Visa grants access to conferences, trade events, corporate meetings, and other professional activities, fostering networking opportunities in the Kingdom.

Maldivian professionals looking to work in Saudi Arabia can apply for the Work Visa, which accommodates both temporary and permanent employment based on their contracts.

The Residency Visa includes options like standard residency for expatriates, premium residency offering long-term benefits without sponsorship, and residency for children born to expatriate parents in Saudi Arabia.

Family members of Saudi residents can use the Family Visit Visa to spend time with their relatives in the Kingdom.

The Extend Return Visa gives residents extra time to stay outside Saudi Arabia before returning.

Dependents or staff, such as spouses, children, or caregivers, can accompany a primary visa holder through the Escort Visa.

The Umrah Visa permits pilgrims to visit Mecca and Medina to perform Umrah outside the Hajj season.

The Hajj Visa is issued to Maldivian nationals undertaking the sacred Hajj pilgrimage, an essential pillar of Islam.

Finally, students granted the Student Visa can pursue their education at Saudi universities or institutions, valid for the duration of their studies.

How to Apply for a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy?

Applying for a Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia requires careful preparation and attention to detail.

Follow the instructions below to get a Saudi visa at the embassy without issues:

1. Choose the visa type. Identify the visa you need based on your purpose, such as tourist, business, or family visit.
2. Gather the required documents. Prepare necessary documents like a completed application form, a valid passport (at least 6 months left), a recent face photo, and supporting documents like an invitation letter or proof of accommodation.
3. Submit your application. Bring your application and documents to the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate. Some visa types may require an appointment for biometrics or an interview.
4. Make the payment. Cover the visa fee, which varies by type and duration. Keep your receipt as proof.
5. Track your application. After submission, you can track the status of your application through the embassy’s system or by contacting them directly.

Once approved, you will need to collect your passport with the stamped visa, allowing you to enter Saudi Arabia within the stated validity period.

By following the guide, you can ensure a smooth and successful visa application process at the Saudi Embassy.

Saudi eVisa Application Process

Applying for a Saudi eVisa is a straightforward process that can be completed online through the official Visit Saudi website.

The Electronic Visa stays valid for one year and allows multiple entries up to 90 days in total.

Follow the steps below to successfully submit your application:

1. Visit the website. Go to https://visa.visitsaudi.com/ and click on the “Sign In” or “Apply Now” button to begin your application.
2. Create an account or log in. If you are a new user, create an account by following the instructions provided, while existing users can log in.
3. Select application type. Choose whether you are applying as an individual or submitting an application for a group.
4. Submit required information. Upload your recent face photo, provide personal information, and enter your passport and traveler details as requested.
5. Add medical insurance. Select a medical insurance option as part of your application to guarantee you’re covered during your stay.
6. Pay the fee. Complete the process by making the required payment using the available online payment options.

Once the application is successfully submitted, you will receive updates on your Saudi eVisa status via email.

The Saudi eVisa is linked to your passport upon approval. Make sure to carry your valid passport used during your application, as the eVisa is valid only with the associated document.

Recommendations for a Successful Saudi Arabia Visa Application

Obtaining a visa for Saudi Arabia demands attention and compliance with the guidelines established by Saudi authorities.

Determine the appropriate visa type based on your purpose of travel: selecting the right type is crucial to avoid complications.

Fill out the visa application form accurately. Double-check for any errors or omissions, as these can lead to delays or rejection.

Check if your face photograph meets the requirements:

Certain Saudi visas may require proof of vaccination or medical certificates, especially for pilgrims. Be sure to meet all health-related criteria to avoid issues.

By following the recommendations, Maldivian applicants can streamline the process and increase their chances of obtaining a Saudi Arabia visa successfully.

How Long Does It Take to Process a Saudi Arabia Visa?

The processing time for a Saudi Arabia visa depends on the type of visa being applied for.

An eVisa is typically processed within 3 business days, making it a fast and convenient option for many Maldivian travelers.

For a Regular Visa, the processing time may vary between 2 and 8 weeks, depending on the specific circumstances like the number of applications in the system or additional requirements.

Transit Visas and Visas on Arrival, in contrast, are processed almost immediately, allowing for quicker entry into the country.

NOTE: It is always recommended to apply well in advance for Saudi Regular Visas to account for any unforeseen delays.

Vaccinations Required for a Saudi Visa Application

When applying for a Saudi visa, certain vaccinations are required to ensure the health and safety of both Maldivian travelers and the local population.

The most commonly mandated vaccination is against meningococcal meningitis, particularly for those traveling for Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages.

Proof of this vaccination must be documented on an official health card and is typically required at least 10 days before travel.

Additionally, vaccinations against yellow fever are necessary for travelers coming from areas where this disease is prevalent.

Other recommended vaccinations include those for hepatitis A and B, polio, and seasonal influenza.

IMPORTANT: It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic well in advance of your trip to Saudi Arabia to make sure all vaccination requirements are met.

Contact Details of the Saudi Embassy in the Maldives

The Saudi Embassy in the Maldives plays a crucial role in strengthening relations between the two nations.

For Maldivian citizens, the embassy serves as a point of contact for various diplomatic, cultural, and consular services.

It provides support for visa applications, assists pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah, and facilitates the promotion of educational and business opportunities.

You can contact the Saudi Arabian Embassy in the Maldives using these details:

• Address: SH Abdulla Zuhair Higun, Male 20095
• Phone Number: +9603333741
• Email: mdemb@mofa.gov.sa

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Saudi Visas

• What is an eVisa, and how long can I stay in Saudi Arabia with it?
  The eVisa is a one-year multiple-entry Electronic Visa that allows stays of up to 90 days for purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting relatives.

• What is the Saudi Visa on Arrival, and who is eligible for it?
  The Visa on Arrival can be obtained at Saudi entry points without prior application. It is available for visits up to 90 days for all Maldivian citizens.

• What type of visa should I apply for if I plan to stay in Saudi Arabia for more than 90 days?
  For stays over 90 days or for specialized purposes like employment, a Regular Visa is required. This visa can be obtained through the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.

• Can I get a visa for a brief stopover in Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, a Transit Visa is available through designated airlines like Flynas or Saudia Airways for stopovers up to 96 hours.

• What are the requirements for Maldivian citizens to apply for a Saudi visa?
  Maldivian citizens need a Maldivian passport with at least 6 months’ validity, a recent face photo, and any supporting documents specific to the purpose of their visit.

• Can I apply for a Saudi Transit Visa through any airline?
  No, the Saudi Transit Visa is only offered through designated airlines such as Flynas or Saudia Airways.

• What is the duration of validity for the Saudi eVisa?
  The eVisa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries for up to 90 days within that period.

Conclusion

Knowing the different types of Saudi visas – Regular Visa, eVisa, Transit Visa, and Visa on Arrival – as well as their requirements is essential for Maldivian citizens visiting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to avoid any complications.

Whether traveling for tourism, business, or transit, selecting the appropriate visa provides a smooth and hassle-free experience.

When applying for a Saudi visa, ensuring that all required documentation is complete and accurate is crucial to avoid delays or rejections.

Always verify the latest information and guidelines before applying to stay up-to-date with any changes in the process. For further support, consult Saudi official resources or reach out to the relevant authorities.

Sources:

• https://ksavisa.sa/
• 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