Portuguese citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia are required to obtain a visa prior to entering the country.
The most common and convenient option is the Saudi Arabia eVisa, which allows a 90-day stay and is designed to streamline the application process for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.
Apart from the eVisa, Saudi Arabia offers several other types of visas depending on the purpose of the visit. These include a Transit Visa for short layovers and a Visa on Arrival for seeking quick entry without prior preparations.
A Regular Visa must be obtained through the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate for Portuguese travelers staying longer than 90 days or pursuing purposes like residence or work.
Each Saudi visa type has specific requirements, so it’s crucial to choose the right one and follow all application processes.
However, to be eligible for any visa to Saudi Arabia, Portuguese citizens must have a passport with at least 6 months of validity from their intended entry date.
NOTE: For official details and application links, visit the Saudi eVisa Portal or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Saudi eVisa Application for Portuguese Citizens
Applying for a Saudi eVisa as a Portuguese national is a straightforward process that can be completed online at https://visa.visitsaudi.com/.
Saudi eVisa is multiple-entry and stays valid for one year from the issue date. This visa permits Portuguese citizens to remain in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days in total, offering flexibility for tourism visits.
Use the step-by-step guide to apply for a Saudi eVisa without problems:
- Visit the website: Go to the Visit Saudi homepage and click “Sign In” or “Apply Now” to begin your application.
- Log in or create an account: Create an account with your email and password, or log in if you already have one.
- Select application type: Choose between an individual eVisa or a group application.
- Upload a photo: Submit a recent passport-style photo.
- Fill out personal information: Provide your details, such as name, address, and date of birth.
- Enter passport and travel info: Check if all details are accurate.
- Pick medical insurance: Select a plan as part of the process.
- Make payment: Pay the required fee using a secure payment method.
Once you have submitted your application and payment, you will receive updates regarding the status of your eVisa to Saudi Arabia via email.
Make sure to apply well in advance of your travel dates to allow time for processing – usually, it takes about 3 business days.
The Saudi eVisa is electronically linked to your passport once your application is approved. Make sure it is valid, as the Electronic Visa is non-transferable and tied directly to that specific passport.
Obtaining a Regular Visa at the Saudi Embassy
To get a Saudi Regular Visa at the embassy, Portuguese must follow a specific process to make their application successful.
First, you need to check the type of Saudi visa required based on the purpose of your visit, whether it is for tourism, business, or other reasons.
Then, gather all necessary documentation, such as a valid passport, completed application form, recent face photograph, and supporting documents relevant to your visa type, such as an invitation letter or proof of funds.
Submit these documents to the Saudi Embassy or Consulate in your region. It’s essential to make an appointment in advance if required and pay the associated visa fees.
Processing times may last up to 8 weeks, so applying well before your intended travel date is advisable to avoid delays.
Portuguese nationals can apply for the following Saudi visa types at the embassy:
- Diplomatic Visa: For government staff or diplomatic mission members.
- Tourist Visa: For leisure and tourism purposes.
- Business Visa: For attending business-related activities.
- Work Visa: For temporary or permanent employment.
- Residency Visa: For living in the country, includes premium and newborn residency options.
- Family Visit Visa: For visiting relatives residing in the country.
- Extend Return Visa: For extending the return period of residents abroad.
- Escort Visa: For accompanying individuals, such as dependents.
- Student Visa: For pursuing educational programs.
- Hajj Visa: For pilgrims performing Hajj.
- Umrah Visa: For pilgrims performing Umrah.
The validity and permitted stay for these visa types vary depending on the purpose of travel and specific visa regulations. Generally, most Regular Visas to Saudi Arabia allow a stay of more than 90 days.
Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia for Portuguese
Portuguese travelers to Saudi Arabia can take advantage of the Visa on Arrival policy, which grants a flexible way to enter the country without preparations in advance.
The visa is valid for a year from its issue date and allows for leisure stays of up to 90 days.
Upon arrival at your destination’s airport or an entry point in Saudi Arabia, you can apply for a visa using self-service devices (KIOSK) or by visiting the passport control office.
All travelers must hold a passport with at least 6 months of validity. Those under 18 may enter alone only if accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or an adult sibling over 18 years old.
Transiting through Saudi Arabia
The Transit Visa offers Portuguese citizens a unique opportunity to make the most of their layover in Saudi Arabia.
This Saudi visa allows travelers from Portugal to:
- perform Umrah
- go sightseeing
- attend various sporting and entertainment events
To apply, Portuguese must book their flights through Saudia or Flynas Airlines, with the application process seamlessly integrated into the flight booking system for simplicity and convenience.
Travelers can submit the application up to 90 days before their travel date, giving plenty of time for planning. The Transit Visa is valid for up to 96 hours from arrival, providing time to explore the country or attend planned events.
NOTE: Portuguese nationals do not need a visa if staying within the Saudi airport transit area and not leaving the terminal.
The Benefits of Saudi My Gov Portal
The Saudi My Gov portal offers a centralized platform that simplifies many administrative needs for Portuguese travelers planning to visit Saudi Arabia.
With digitalized features, the portal provides access to essential services such as visa processing, information on local laws and entry requirements, as well as real-time status notifications.
Its user-friendly and practical interface makes travel planning easier, reducing bureaucracy and guaranteeing visitors are well-prepared before their arrival.
This way, the portal is an indispensable tool for Portuguese nationals to make the travel experience in Saudi Arabia smoother and more efficient.
Photo Requirements for the Visa Application for Saudi Arabia
To submit a visa photo successfully, Portuguese travelers should follow the guidelines. The photo must be 200 x 200 pixels, with a file size between 5 KB and 100 KB.
The face should take up 70% to 80% of the photo, showing a close-up of the face and shoulders. The distance from the chin to the crown of the head should measure about 1.4 to 1.6 inches.
The image should be clear, with all facial features visible. This means a straight-on view of the face, from the chin to the crown, with both sides fully shown. Hairstyles must not obstruct the head or alter the required face proportions.
The background must be completely white, with no patterns, shadows, or objects. Only the person being photographed should appear in the frame.
You should have a neutral expression, facing directly forward with the head square to the camera.
NOTE: Headwear is only allowed for religious purposes, but the face must remain fully visible from chin to forehead, without shadows.
Finally, the photo must be less than 6 months old to reflect the applicant’s current appearance.
Contact Details of Saudi Embassy in Portugal
For visa inquiries, Portuguese can reach out to the Saudi Embassy in Portugal for assistance. They can provide guidance on visa requirements, application processes, and necessary documentation.
It is recommended that the embassy be contacted directly via phone or email during their official working hours to obtain accurate and up-to-date information.
Here are the contact details of the Saudi Embassy in Lisbon:
- Address: Avenida Do Restelo, 42, Lisboa, 1400-315, Lisbon, Portugal
- Phone Number: +351213041750
- Email: ptemb@mofa.gov.sa
- Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which Saudi visa types are available to Portuguese citizens?
Portuguese citizens have access to several types of visas when traveling to Saudi Arabia: an eVisa, a Visa on Arrival, a Transit Visa, or a Regular Visa.
- Can Portuguese citizens extend their stay in Saudi Arabia?
Portuguese citizens may be able to request an extension of their stay. Extensions are not guaranteed and typically require approval from Saudi authorities.
- How long does it take to process a Saudi eVisa?
The Saudi eVisa application is typically processed within 24 to 72 hours. However, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to account for any unforeseen delays.
- Is travel insurance required for a Saudi visa?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. It is included in the eVisa and Transit Visa application process to meet the country’s entry requirements.
- Are there any restrictions for Portuguese citizens entering Saudi Arabia?
Portuguese citizens must meet all Saudi visa requirements and possess a passport with at least 6 months of validity.
- What are the common reasons for Saudi Arabian visa rejection?
Common reasons for a Saudi visa denial include incomplete or incorrect application forms and lack of necessary documentation.
- What should I do if my Saudi visa application is rejected?
If your Saudi visa application is rejected, you should review the reasons provided, make sure all required documents were submitted accurately, and reapply.
Conclusion
Portuguese citizens need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia, with the eVisa being the most widely used and convenient option.
The Electronic Visa allows stays of up to 90 days and can be used for leisure activities.
Other available visas include the Visa on Arrival, Transit Visa, or a Regular Visa for extended stays or work, which requires processing through a Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
It’s important to select the appropriate visa type and meet all requirements to avoid issues. A Portuguese passport with at least 6 months of validity is mandatory, along with any additional documents based on the visa type.
Sources:
- https://ksavisa.sa/
- https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
- https://www.my.gov.sa/wps/portal/snp/main
- https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/eservices/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.