Mauritanian citizens are obliged to obtain a visa for entry into Saudi Arabia, and they can choose between several visa types, each suitable for different purposes of travel, such as tourism, transit, pilgrimage, or other activities.
From the Electronic Visa convenience, through Transit Visa and Visa on Arrival with immediate approvals, to a Regular Visa from an embassy, Mauritanians can select the most convenient application method.
You should remember that each Saudi visa type has different processing timelines ranging from a few minutes to several weeks.
Documents required for all Saudi visa applicants include a passport valid for 6 months or more and a recent face photograph that reflects the traveler’s appearance.
Moreover, to enter Saudi Arabia, foreigners must have valid health insurance, which will cover the entire visit.
NOTE: Additional documents, such as employment contracts, may be required for Regular Visas obtainable at Saudi Arabian Embassies.
Embassy Application for a Saudi Visa
Mauritanian citizens can secure a Regular Visa by visiting the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy and completing the application form in person.
It’s a primary method of obtaining a Saudi visa available to all travelers from Mauritania.
Depending on the travel purpose, such as employment, residency, or education, the applicant can choose one of the several visa types.
The application process for a Saudi Arabian visa can be completed in the embassy in a few steps:
1. Gather the documents
Start by collecting all the necessary documents for your visa application. Double-check the specific requirements outlined by the Saudi authorities to see if nothing is missing.
This includes a valid passport, recent face photographs, and additional documents relevant to the purpose of your visit (e.g., invitation letters, work permits, or travel itineraries).
2. Visit the embassy
Locate the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy and plan your visit (it’s necessary to schedule the appointment earlier).
Bring along all the required documents and submit them as part of your application. Be prepared for potential interviews or clarifications that embassy officials might need.
3. Fill out the application
Carefully complete the visa form in person and provide accurate information, including personal details, travel plans, and the purpose of your visit.
Review the provided data for any errors before submission to avoid processing delays. Once you’re ready, cover the visa fee payment as required.
4. Wait for approval
The processing time can vary depending on the type of Saudi visa and the volume of applications, but it should take between 2-8 weeks.
During this period, the embassy may reach out for additional information or documents if needed.
Once your visa is approved, you will be notified, and you can collect it from the embassy or receive it electronically, depending on the system in place.
NOTE: Applying for a Saudi visa at an embassy provides structured processing and personal assistance, especially needed for complex visa types for purposes like work or study.
Other Saudi Visa Application Methods
Besides the Regular Visa, Mauritanian travelers can explore alternative Saudi visa application methods such as Transit Visa, Electronic Visa, or Visa on Arrival.
Each option comes with its own set of requirements and benefits, making it easier to find a solution that suits different travel needs.
Understanding these alternatives can save time and simplify the process for many visitors from Mauritania.
Transit Visa for Mauritanians
The Transit Visa is ideal for Mauritanian travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia and is linked to flights booked with approved airlines such as Flynas or Saudia.
The Saudi Transit Visa allows visitors to stay in the Kingdom for up to 96 hours during a layover, giving them the opportunity to explore tourist attractions like historic sites.
However, Mauritanians must make sure that their layover is long enough to allow sightseeing to respect the Saudi visa policy.
The visa application is completed online and requires basic information about the traveler (name, surname, birth date, nationality).
NOTE: Transit Visas to Saudi Arabia are quickly issued when paying flight-related fees.
Saudi Arabian Electronic Visa
Applicable to Mauritanian citizens who meet eligibility requirements, the Saudi eVisa process is quick and convenient. It also eliminates the hassle of physical paperwork, offering a seamless online process.
Activities permitted under the Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia include sightseeing, visiting friends and family, relaxing, and taking part in the Umrah pilgrimage.
The online processing for a Saudi eVisa includes the following steps:
- Visit the KSA Visa homepage and check your eligibility by providing your nationality.
- Log in or create an account if it’s your first time using the platform.
- Complete the application form with personal and travel information.
- Submit the required documents, including a face photo and eligibility proof.
- Add travel health insurance, which is mandatory for all Mauritanian visitors.
- Pay the required fee and wait for the visa approval email.
The Electronic Visa is typically approved for one year and multiple entries (lasting up to 90 days in total). The processing time is very short and takes 1-3 business days.
NOTE: The Saudi eVisa is only available to Mauritanians who are UK/US/EU/GCC residents or UK/US/ Schengen visa holders.
Visa on Arrival to Saudi Kingdom
Mauritanian citizens eligible for Visa on Arrival can secure entry at Saudi airports, seaports, and land crossings.
The VOA provides great flexibility of travel with a one-year validity and 90 days of permitted stay. Depending on the decision of Saudi authorities, it can be issued for a single visit or multiple entries.
The Saudi Visa on Arrival allows visitors from Mauritania to explore the Kingdom for tourism, leisure, or religious purposes. The application process is straightforward, with visas issued upon arrival at designated machines or the passport counter.
Applicants must check if they have a passport with at least 6 months of validity and proof of eligibility.
NOTE: To apply for a Saudi VOA, Mauritanian citizens must have a visa or residency in the UK/US/Schengen country.
Saudi Visa Passport and Photo Requirements
To obtain a Saudi visa, it is essential to meet the passport requirements for a smooth application process.
Travelers from Mauritania must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia and at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Additionally, they are required to submit a recent face photo as part of their visa application.
The photo must meet specified guidelines, including having a white background, a clear and unobstructed view of the face, and proper lighting to ensure visibility.
The applicant should maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open, and the photograph must be taken without any headwear or accessories except for religious or medical purposes.
Being mindful of the passport and photo requirements not only simplifies the visa process but also helps avoid unnecessary complications while traveling to Saudi Arabia.
Vaccinations for Saudi Visa Applications
Travelers to Saudi Arabia must meet the vaccination requirements to safeguard their health and obey entry regulations.
For Mauritanian pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia, a meningitis vaccine certificate is mandatory, alongside any vaccination guidelines issued by the Saudi Ministry of Health.
Other visitors may be required to present proof of vaccination against other diseases based on their country of origin or recent travel history. For example, vaccination against yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries where the disease is endemic.
All Mauritanians are advised to consult with healthcare professionals well in advance of their trip to discuss their vaccination needs.
Some vaccines may require multiple doses over several weeks or months, so early preparation is key.
Following the vaccination guidelines not only ensures compliance with Saudi visa regulations but also helps promote a safer and healthier travel experience.
Saudi Embassy Assistance for Mauritanians
If you’re unsure about the application process, visiting the embassy or contacting the staff via email can clarify procedures and simplify documentation challenges.
The immigration officers provide Mauritanian citizens with professional support aligned with their travel needs to guide them in avoiding common errors that may delay the application. Speaking directly with the staff can help address any specific questions you have.
Saudi visa applicants can contact the Saudi Embassy of Mauritania:
- Address: District of Las Palmas, Nouakchott Branch
- Phone: 452 52 633
- Email: mremb@mofa.gov.sa
FAQs about Saudi Visas
- Can Mauritanian citizens apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa?
Yes, but they must fulfill residency or visa eligibility criteria, such as being GCC, UK, US, or EU residents or UK, US, or Schengen visa holders.
- How long is the Saudi eVisa valid?
The eVisa is valid for one year, with multiple entries allowed. All the time spent in the Kingdom cannot exceed 90 days.
- Can Mauritanians perform Hajj?
Yes, but they must apply for a suitable Hajj Visa at the Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
- Is health insurance mandatory to visit Saudi Arabia?
Yes, health insurance is required for all visitors to Saudi Arabia, and it’s an essential entry requirement.
- Can Mauritanian citizens use a Transit Visa for short stays?
Yes, Transit Visas allow short stays in Saudi Arabia of up to 96 hours between connecting flights.
- Should my passport have a specific validity period to apply for a Saudi visa?
Yes, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of entry into the country.
- Where can I apply for a Regular Visa?
Mauritanian citizens can submit applications at the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulates.
Conclusion
Obtaining a visa to Saudi Arabia as a Mauritanian citizen involves understanding a few key requirements and choices for the application process to be hassle-free.
The Saudi eVisa provides a convenient way to explore the Kingdom, offering a one-year validity with multiple entries, though stays cannot exceed 90 days in total.
For specific purposes such as employment or studying, Mauritanians must apply for a Regular Visa through Saudi Embassies or Consulates.
Other available options are Transit Visas and Visas on Arrival, which facilitate traveling to the Kingdom.
All visitors are required to secure health insurance for their stay, guaranteeing proper coverage during their visit to Saudi Arabia.
Sources:
- https://ksavisa.sa/
- https://www.moh.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
- https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
- https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Mauritania/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.
