Saudi Arabia Visa for Salvadoran Citizens

Salvadoran citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia must obtain a visa prior to entry, as it is a mandatory requirement established by the government.

The available Saudi visa options for all Salvadorans include the Regular Visa and Transit Visa.

Additionally, in specific circumstances, eVisa may be accessible, such as for travelers holding visas from the UK, US, or Schengen countries or for GCC residents (similarly to Visa on Arrival).

Standard processing time for a Regular Visa ranges from 2–8 weeks, and an Electronic Visa typically takes 24–72 hours.

The validity of each Saudi Arabian visa type varies based on the purpose and type of travel:

• Regular Visa: Typically valid for up to 90 days to 1 year, depending on the specific visa issued and the intended duration of stay.
• eVisa: Valid for a period of 1 year, allowing multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days.
• Transit Visa: Usually valid for 96 hours, intended solely for travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia to another destination.
• Visa on Arrival: Validity depends on the issuing authority at the time of entry, but typically, it allows for short-term stays, often not exceeding 90 days.

Salvadoran travelers should verify the validity and permitted duration of their visa before departure to meet Saudi visa regulations.

NOTE: A valid passport for at least 6 months is a primary document required for a Saudi visa.

Regular Saudi Visas for Salvadoran Citizens

The Regular Visa is one of the most common visa types for Salvadoran citizens visiting Saudi Arabia.

Salvadorans can apply for Regular Visa at Saudi Arabian Embassies or Consulates. This visa covers multiple purposes, including business, work, and tourism.

Processing times for a Regular Visa may take 2–8 weeks, so planning ahead is crucial.

Salvadoran citizens can follow below steps to apply for a Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia:

1. Gather Required Documents – Prepare essential documents such as a valid passport, completed visa application form, face photograph, and any supporting paperwork (e.g., invitation letter, proof of accommodation).
2. Contact the Embassy or Consulate – Reach out to the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate for detailed requirements and to schedule an appointment, if necessary.
3. Pay the Fee – Submit the appropriate visa application fee as required; payment processes may vary depending on the location.
4. Attend an Interview – Applicants may be required to attend an in-person interview at the embassy or consulate. Be prepared to provide additional information if requested.

Submit your completed application and paperwork for a Saudi visa, then allow for processing time, ranging from 2–8 weeks.

Keep track of your Saudi visa application status through the embassy or consulate’s communication channels.

Different Saudi Visa Options for Salvadoran Citizens

Depending on your travel plans and eligibility, Salvadoran citizens can choose from several visa types:

• eVisa: For GCC residents or travelers with UK, US, or Schengen visas. This is a one-year, multiple-entry visa allowing a stay of up to 90 days for business, pilgrimage, and tourism-related activities, excluding Hajj.
• Visa on Arrival: Available only to Salvadoran citizens meeting specific eligibility criteria (holding a UK, US, or Schengen visa). This allows stays of up to 90 days for leisure.
• Transit Visa: Specifically for travelers flying with Flynas or Saudia Airlines and stopping in Saudi Arabia during their transit for up to 96 hours.

Application Processes for Saudi Visas

To obtain a Saudi eVisa, travelers from El Salvador need to complete an online application through the https://ksavisa.sa/ platform.

Salvadorans must provide personal information and passport details, add health insurance, and pay the necessary fees.

The online process is straightforward, as the eVisa is sent electronically, making it accessible for printing or saving digitally.

For the Visa on Arrival, eligible Salvadoran citizens can obtain this visa directly upon reaching a Saudi port of entry (at the special KIOSKS or passport office).

Travelers should make sure they meet the outlined criteria, such as holding a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa, and must present the required documents to immigration officials.

The Transit Visa, on the other hand, is obtained through the airlines. Passengers traveling with Flynas or Saudia Airlines must request a Transit Visa during the booking.

What Documents Are Essential for Each Saudi Visa Type

To successfully apply for a Saudi visa, it’s crucial to have the correct documentation based on the type of visa you need, whether for tourism, work, or religious purposes.

Regular Visa for Saudi Arabia

• Passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining.
• Recent photo with white background.
• Additional documents, such as an employment contract for work purposes or an invitation letter for business travel.

eVisa for Saudi Arabia

• Valid passport (must match GCC residency, UK, US, or Schengen visa details).
• Digital photo uploaded as part of the application process.

Visa on Arrival for Saudi Arabia

• Valid passport (for at least 6 months).
• Proof of eligibility (UK, US, or Schengen visa).

Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia

• Valid passport that won’t expire within the next 6 months.

Whether you opt for a Saudi eVisa, Visa on Arrival, or Transit Visa, making sure that all required documents are prepared in advance will save time and avoid potential complications.

TIP: Proper preparation is key for a seamless entry experience in Saudi Arabia.

What to Do If Your Saudi Arabia Visa Application is Denied

Facing a Saudi visa rejection can be stressful and frustrating, but Salvadoran citizens should know that there are steps they can take to address the issue:

• Understand the reason for denial: Review the message from Saudi authorities for specific reasons.
• Correct and resubmit: If incorrect or missing information caused the denial, update your application and resubmit with the necessary documents.
• Seek legal counsel: If denied due to eligibility or legal concerns, consult an immigration expert or attorney.
• Transfer goals: Explore alternative visas or reschedule travel plans to meet the eligibility requirements.

By taking the above steps, you can effectively address the reasons for your Saudi visa denial and increase your chances of approval upon reapplication.

Remaining patient and proactive throughout the Saudi visa process will help you achieve your travel goals successfully.

Photo for the Visa Application for Saudi Arabia

A high-quality photo is essential for all Saudi visa applications, ensuring that your application is processed smoothly and without delays.

To avoid any issues, it’s essential to follow the specific guidelines set by the authorities for a passport photo.

• Background: Plain white background.
• Format: Clear, sharp, and free from shadows. Facial features must be fully visible.
• Size: Standard passport photo size (2″ by 2″).

Providing a professionally taken photo that meets these criteria is essential for your Saudi visa application.

Taking the time to follow the outlined guidelines helps avoid rejections or additional requests for corrections, allowing your application to be processed efficiently.

Saudi Arabia Embassy for Salvadoran Citizens

The Saudi Arabian Embassy plays a crucial role for Salvadoran citizens planning to travel to Saudi Arabia.

It serves as the primary point of contact for visa applications, travel document authentication, and providing essential information about entry requirements and local regulations in Saudi Arabia.

There is no Saudi Arabian Embassy in El Salvador. However, Salvadoran citizens can reach out to the Saudi Embassy in Mexico.

• Address: Embajada del Reino de Arabia Saudi Av.Paseo de las palmas No.2075 COL.Lomas de Chapultepec Mexico, D.F – 11000
• Phone: 00525550203161
• Email: mxemb@mofa.gov.sa
• Working Hours: From 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

FAQ about Saudi Visa for Salvadorans

• Can Salvadorans apply for a Saudi eVisa?
  Yes, if they are GCC residents or hold UK, US, or Schengen visas, Salvadorans can apply for a Saudi visa.

• What is the processing time for a Regular Visa?
  Processing for a Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia usually takes 2–8 weeks.

• What is the validity of a Saudi eVisa?
  An eVisa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 90 days in total.

• Is health insurance required for Saudi visas?
  Yes, health insurance is mandatory and often included with visas applied for online.

• What airlines offer Transit Visas?
  Flynas and Saudia Airlines customers can apply for Transit Visas to Saudi Arabia.

• How long can Salvadoran citizens stay with a Visa on Arrival?
  You can stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days for leisure purposes.

• What vaccines are required for travel to Saudi Arabia?
  Proof of vaccination against meningitis is required for pilgrims going to Saudi Arabia.

• Can a rejected Saudi visa application be appealed?
  Yes. Address the reason for rejection, correct the Saudi visa application, and resubmit.

• Where can I get an application form for a Regular Visa?
  Application forms are available at Saudi Arabian Embassies or Consulates.

Conclusion

Salvadoran citizens need to obtain the right visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Whether opting for a Regular Visa, eVisa, Transit Visa, or Visa on Arrival, understanding the requirements and preparing the necessary documents will help with a smooth visa process.

Salvadoran travelers should also know eligibility criteria and key details such as health insurance and photo guidelines.

If you face any challenges during the application process, the Saudi Embassy or Consulate is your best resource for assistance.

Sources:

• https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
• https://ksavisa.sa/
• https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/mexico/EN/Pages/default.aspx