All Namibian citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, as it helps to regulate and facilitate the entry of foreign nationals into the Kingdom.
A visa is an official document that permits an individual to stay in the country for a specified period and purpose.
Various visa options are available, depending on the purpose of the visit. All Namibian citizens can apply for a Regular Saudi Visa at the embassy or consulate or a Transit Visa for layover in Saudi Arabia.
For those who are residents or visa holders of the UK, US, EU, or GCC countries, a Saudi eVisa is available through an online application process.
Additionally, if Namibians hold valid UK, US, or Schengen visas, they are also eligible to receive a Visa on Arrival.
NOTE: All applicants for a Saudi visa are required to present a passport valid for at least 6 months along with other relevant documents based on the visa type.
Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia
A Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia for Namibian citizens is typically issued for purposes such as work, study, or other long-term stays.
Travelers must apply through the Saudi Arabian Consulate or Embassy responsible for Namibia.
The process requires submitting a completed form, a passport with at least 6 months of validity, a recent face photo, and any additional documents specified for the visa type, such as an invitation letter, proof of accommodation, or sponsorship details.
NOTE: The processing time for a Saudi Regular Visa ranges from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the visa type and the completeness of the application.
Regular Visas to Saudi Arabia may require biometric data collection and, in some cases, an in-person interview at the embassy or consulate.
Transit Visa for Layover in Saudi Arabia
A Transit Visa is intended for Namibian visitors who are passing through Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination.
This visa allows for a stay of up to 96 hours and is valid for a single visit. It’s an excellent option for those who wish to explore the country briefly during a layover or while traveling onward.
Applying for the Transit Visa is a simple and convenient process. Namibians can easily get the permit online when booking their flight tickets through Flynas or Saudia Airlines.
The application process has been streamlined for efficiency, and the visa is issued immediately after submission.
Saudi Electronic Visa
The Saudi Electronic Visa, or eVisa, is a convenient and streamlined option for Namibian travelers looking to visit Saudi Arabia for purposes such as tourism, Umrah (excluding the Hajj season), or attending cultural events.
To be eligible for a Saudi eVisa, Namibian citizens must hold a valid visa from the UK, US, EU, or be residents of the UK, US, EU, or GCC.
Applying for a Saudi eVisa is a straightforward process that can be completed entirely online:
- Visit the KSA Visa homepage. Begin by navigating to https://ksavisa.sa/.
- Provide your travel purpose and nationality. Select your purpose of travel and choose your nationality from the dropdown menus.
- Check visa eligibility and apply. Confirm your eligibility based on the provided information and select a suitable visa type based on your travel plans.
- Log in or create an account. If you already have an account, log in. If not, create a new account with the required details.
- Proceed with the application. Once verified, log in to your account and start the visa process.
- Complete the form. Provide all the required personal, travel, and contact details.
- Submit the required documents. Upload the necessary documents, including a recent digital face photograph and eligibility proof, as per the instructions.
- Add insurance. Ensure you add mandatory health insurance, which is required for eVisa approval.
- Pay the fee. Complete the process by paying the eVisa processing fee through the available payment options.
Once submitted, the Electronic Visa will be processed, typically within 24 to 72 hours, and Namibians will be notified via email upon approval.
The Saudi eVisa grants a validity of up to one year from the date of issuance, allowing travelers from Namibia to plan their trips with flexibility.
While the visa is valid for multiple entries, the stay is limited to a maximum of 90 days in total.
Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia
A Visa on Arrival is another convenient option for travelers visiting Saudi Arabia. It is available for Namibian nationals holding a valid visa or residence permit from the UK, US, or EU.
NOTE: This VOA can be obtained upon entry at Saudi airports, seaports, and land crossings.
Travelers can get a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, allowing for a stay of up to 90 days.
The process is straightforward and can be completed at a self-service kiosk or at the passport counter. Visitors from Namibia need to fill out a form and present their valid passports to the immigration officers.
Once submitted, the visa is issued immediately, making it efficient for those seeking to enter the Kingdom with minimal pre-planning.
What to Do If Your Saudi Arabia Visa Application Is Denied
If the Saudi Arabia visa is denied, it’s important for Namibian visitors to stay calm and take the necessary steps to address the issue.
First, review the reason for the denial provided by the Saudi authorities. This information is typically included in the communication about your application status and can help identify any missing documentation or errors in your submission.
Next, make sure that all requirements have been met, such as providing a valid passport, correct visa form details, and any additional supporting documents.
You may reapply after correcting the issues or addressing the reason for rejection. If you are unsure about the reason for the denial or need further assistance, consider contacting the Saudi Embassy or Consulate for clarification.
Importance of the Saudi Embassy for Namibians
The Saudi Embassy plays an essential role for Namibian nationals, acting as the primary point of contact and authority throughout the application process.
For Namibian travelers facing challenges or uncertainties, the embassy serves as a reliable resource for clarifications or resolving issues related to their visa forms.
Currently, there is no Saudi diplomatic mission in Nabimia. In case of questions or for visa submissions, Namibians may contact the Saudi Arabia Embassy in Zambia:
- Address: Leopards Hill Road, Kabulonga 27BC, Lusaka
- Phone: 00260211266862
- Email Address: zmemb@mofa.gov.sa
- Working Hours: From 9 am – 3 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Saudi Visas
- What is a Saudi eVisa?
A Saudi eVisa is an electronic visa that allows eligible travelers to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes.
- What documents are required to apply for a Saudi visa?
Namibian travelers need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a recent face photograph, and insurance. Other documents may be required based on the visa type.
- What is the processing time for a Saudi eVisa?
Saudi eVisa applications are processed within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the accuracy of the submitted information.
- What is the Visa on Arrival option?
Visa on Arrival is issued immediately upon arrival in Saudi Arabia after payment of the required fees.
- Can I travel to Saudi Arabia for purposes other than tourism with an eVisa?
No, the eVisa is specifically for tourism purposes. For other purposes, you will need to apply for the appropriate Regular Visa type.
- What is the difference between the eVisa and a Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia?
The eVisa is obtained online, while the Regular Visa requires a visit to a Saudi Embassy/Consulate and is suitable for long-term purposes.
- Do children need a separate Saudi visa?
Every traveler, including children, requires a separate Saudi Visa. The forms for children must be completed by their parents or guardians.
Conclusion
Understanding the visa requirements for Saudi Arabia is essential for a smooth travel experience.
Namibian applicants should check whether their documents meet the necessary criteria and plan ahead to accommodate the processing times.
With the convenience of eVisas, Visa on Arrival, Regular Visas, and Transit Visas, traveling to Saudi Arabia has become more accessible than ever.
By being well-prepared, travelers from Namibia can focus on their trip to the Kingdom without issues.
Sources:
- 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
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.
