All Mexican citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and there are several visa types available to them that will suit different travel needs.
A visa is a document issued by the Saudi government granting permission to enter the Kingdom under certain conditions.
For visiting Saudi Arabia, Mexican travelers can choose from an eVisa, Visa on Arrival, Transit Visa, or a Regular Visa issued at the embassy.
To apply successfully for a Saudi Arabian visa, citizens of Mexico should have the following:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity).
- A completed visa application form.
- A formal photo of the applicant’s face.
Supporting documentation may be required from travelers entering Saudi Arabia for a particular reason (like employment or studies) and will vary based on the visa type.
Processing time of a Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia is 2–8 weeks, while the Electronic Visa is approved in 1–3 days. The Transit Visa and VOA are issued immediately upon submission.
To enter Saudi Arabia, Mexican travelers must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a visa for their stay.
- Have a valid passport.
- Purchase health insurance for the trip.
NOTE: Your Saudi visa is linked to your passport number so once the travel document expires, it makes your visa invalid too.
Obtaining a Saudi Visa from the Embassy
To apply for a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia, visiting the embassy is a trusted and reliable option for all Mexican citizens.
There are various types of Saudi visas issued to Mexicans to meet different purposes of travel. A Diplomatic Visa is granted to government staff while the Tourist Visa allows exploring the Kingdom and the Business Visa is for professionals pursuing business opportunities.
For those seeking employment, the Work Visa facilitates legal work arrangements. Residency Visas are available in different categories, and Family Visit Visas are ideal for reuniting with loved ones.
The Extend Return Visa allows residents to extend their return deadline and the Escort Visa is intended for accompanying visa holders during travel. For education purposes, the Student Visa ensures legal stay for those pursuing studies.
Religious pilgrims can apply for the Hajj Visa or Umrah Visa.
The Saudi visa application process can be done via the embassy in a few steps:
- Prepare the Documents: Gather all required documents, including your passport and supporting documentation.
- Schedule the Visit: Contact the Saudi Embassy to arrange an appointment for submitting your application and biometric data.
- Visit the Embassy: Begin your application by filling out the form accurately and submitting it with all necessary attachments.
- Pay the Fee: Submit the visa processing fee (it’s advised to carry cash); amounts vary depending on the visa type.
Most Saudi visa applications are processed within a month, but the waiting time can vary between 2–8 weeks. For expedited requests and last-minute submissions, check directly with the embassy.
NOTE: Applying for a visa through the Saudi Embassy gives you access to personalized assistance from immigration experts.
Saudi Transit Visa for Mexican Citizens
If you’re simply passing through Saudi Arabia and expect a short layover in the Kingdom, a Transit Visa might be all you need for your travel.
A Transit Visa allows Mexican visitors to stop in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours en route to their final destination.
The application can be made while purchasing flight tickets via airlines like Saudia or Flynas. The process is simple and allows you to add mandatory health insurance.
You can apply for a Saudi Arabian Transit Visa even 90 days before the planned entry.
NOTE: A Transit Visa offers great benefits, like breaking up long flights and giving travelers the chance to briefly explore Saudi Arabia while in transit.
Other Application Methods for Saudi Visas
For Mexican nationals seeking convenience, online and on-arrival options for Saudi visas should be explored. By choosing one of these options, they can obtain a visa without the need to visit the embassy.
Saudi Arabia eVisa for Mexico
The Saudi eVisa is a modern option allowing travelers to apply from anywhere as it eliminates the need to visit embassies or consulates in person.
With an Electronic Visa to Saudi Arabia, Mexican travelers can participate in tourism, family visits, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj).
Eligibility criteria for a Saudi eVisa:
- Mexican citizens residing in the GCC, UK, USA, or EU.
- Mexican citizens holding a UK, US, or Schengen visa (used at least once).
To apply for a Saudi eVisa through the official KSA Visa platform, follow these simple steps:
1. Visit the KSA Visa homepage
Click on the menu button located in the top right corner of the page. Then, you must provide your travel purpose and nationality to determine your visa eligibility.
2. Create a KSA Visa account
Log in to your account or create a new one if you are a first-time user. You’ll need a valid email address and a strong password. Verify your account through the confirmation link sent to your email.
3. Apply for a Saudi eVisa
Proceed with the Saudi visa application online by completing the form with accurate details regarding your personal data and travel plans.
Upload your face photograph – it must be clear and recent (no older than 6 months), taken against a white wall. You should have a neutral facial expression and cannot wear glasses.
Pay the associated visa fee through the platform to submit the application.
4. Saudi eVisa approval
Once all steps are completed, your application will be processed, and you will be notified about its status.
You can use the official Saudi eVisa website to track your visa application progress in real-time.
Usually, the Saudi eVisa is approved in 24-72 hours and delays occur rarely.
NOTE: The Saudi Arabian eVisa allows up to 90 days of stay in the Kingdom with multiple entries over a year.
Saudi Visa on Arrival
The Saudi Visa on Arrival provides an alternative entry option for eligible Mexican travelers issued directly at the port of entry, such as airports or sea borders, without the need for prior application.
The VOA is available to Mexican citizens who are holders of valid US, UK, or Schengen visas or are residents of the UK, US, or an EU country.
To obtain a Saudi Arabian Visa on Arrival, travelers from Mexico need to proceed to the designated immigration counters upon arrival to submit their application and pay the applicable visa fee (it’s also possible to use special self-service machines to avoid queues).
Once approved, the visa is issued on the spot, allowing visitors to enter Saudi Arabia with minimal delays.
The Saudi Visa on Arrival permits a stay of up to 90 days in the Kingdom, with multiple entries allowed during its one-year validity period.
NOTE: The applicant must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Saudi VOA. Minors can travel only accompanied by an adult guardian.
Useful Saudi Government Websites for Mexican Visitors
For Mexican visitors planning to travel to Saudi Arabia, accessing official government websites can provide reliable and up-to-date information.
The portal of the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is a key resource for understanding visa requirements, travel advisories, and consular services.
The MOI (Ministry of Interior) offers detailed guidance on the Saudi entry regulations and required documentation, ensuring applicants have all the necessary information before departure.
The Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH) website is an essential platform for accessing information related to healthcare in Saudi Arabia, as it provides details on vaccination requirements and health insurance guidelines.
Another important resource is the Absher platform, which serves as a comprehensive hub for various government services in Saudi Arabia. It supports multiple languages and provides real-time updates on policies affecting international travelers.
The Visit Saudi website is excellent for planning your trip to Saudi Arabia, offering detailed insights into top attractions, events, and cultural experiences, and providing travel tips and recommendations.
These official websites are invaluable tools for Mexicans exploring Saudi Arabia, offering clarity and convenience for a smooth travel experience.
Saudi Embassy in Mexico – Contact
The Saudi Embassy in Mexico serves as a crucial point of contact for both Mexicans seeking to visit Saudi Arabia and Saudi nationals residing or traveling in Mexico.
The embassy provides a wide range of consular services, including visa processing, passport renewals, and authentication of documents.
Located in Mexico City, the office regularly shares updates on Saudi policies, events, and initiatives to strengthen ties with Mexico.
By visiting the Saudi Embassy in Mexico, you’ll get all your questions answered directly and be helped with checking if your documents meet all requirements.
- Address: Av. Paseo de las Palmas 2075, Lomas de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, México
- Phone: +525 552 510 789
- Email: mxemb@mofa.gov.sa
FAQ
- Can Mexican citizens apply for a Saudi eVisa?
Yes, but only if they are residents of GCC, UK, EU, or USA or hold a valid UK, Schengen, or US visa.
- What is the validity of the Saudi eVisa?
A Saudi Arabian eVisa is valid for one year and supports a stay of up to 90 days.
- How long does it take to process a Saudi Visa?
Electronic Visas are processed in 1-3 days, while Regular Visas take 2-8 weeks to be approved. Transit Visas and VOAs are issued immediately.
- What is the maximum stay allowed on a Saudi Transit Visa?
A Transit Visa permits a stay of up to 96 hours in the Kingdom that can be used to see its attractions or rest during the layover.
- Are there resources for first-time travelers to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, there are many official government websites that provide comprehensive travel details for Saudi Arabia.
- Is there a special Saudi visa for pilgrimages?
Yes, there are two Saudi visas designed specifically for Umrah and Hajj.
- Do I need travel insurance to visit Saudi Arabia?
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Mexican citizens visiting Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
Visiting Saudi Arabia requires Mexican citizens to understand the visa options available to ensure a smooth travel experience.
From the convenience of the Saudi eVisa to the reliable Regular Visa from the embassy, there are many ways to enter the Kingdom.
The Transit Visa offers flexibility with a maximum stay of 96 hours, while a Visa on Arrival is best for those who like traveling without any pre-arranged documents.
For first-time visitors, official government resources provide invaluable assistance, offering detailed instructions and guidelines to help plan a memorable trip.
Additionally, it’s essential to note that travel insurance is mandatory as it protects the traveler throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Sources:
- https://ksavisa.sa/
- 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

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.