Saudi Arabia Visa for Solomon Islander Citizens

A Saudi Arabian visa is necessary for Solomon Islander citizens who wish to travel to the Kingdom for tourism, business, and other purposes.

Understanding the requirements and application process of Saudi visas is essential for a smooth and successful experience.

While Regular Visas and Transit Visas are commonly accessible, eVisas and Visas on Arrival for Solomon Islanders are only permitted in specific circumstances (such as holding a visa to UK, US or EU).

Vaccination against meningitis is a must for pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia. The requirement grants safety, as large gatherings increase the risk of disease transmission.

NOTE: Health insurance is mandatory for all Solomon Islander visitors applying for a Saudi Arabian visa.

The processing time for a Saudi Arabian visa can vary, but it typically takes 2–8 weeks in case of Regular Visas and up to 3 days for eVisas. Visa on Arrival and Transit Visas are issued almost immediately.

Regular Saudi Visas for Solomon Islander Citizens

The Regular Visa is the most common choice of Solomon Islander citizens. It can be used for various purposes, including tourism, business, work, or family visits.

The validity of these visas varies depending on the type, ranging from a few months to multiple years.

How Solomon Islanders can apply for a Regular Visa:

1. Locate the Saudi Arabian Embassy: You must visit the nearest diplomatic mission for visa processing.
2. Prepare Required Documents:
   • • A passport with at least 6 months validity.
     • A recent face photograph.
     • Any additional documents, such as a business invitation letter.
3. Submit Application: Complete the form and provide the required documents in person.
4. Wait for Processing: Processing typically takes 2–8 weeks, depending on visa type and workload at the embassy.

Regular Visas are necessary for compliance with entry requirements, making them essential for those planning longer or more purpose-specific stays in Saudi Arabia.

NOTE: The following Saudi Regular Visas are available: Diplomatic, Tourist, Business, Work, Residency, Family Visit, Extend Return, Escort, Student, Hajj, and Umrah Visas.

Visa on Arrival, eVisa, and Transit Visa to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia provides flexible visa options for eligible travelers from Solomon Islands, including the eVisa, Visa on Arrival (VOA), and Transit Visa.

Below, you can check the specific requirements and conditions for each Saudi visa type.

Visa on Arrival

Saudi Visa on Arrival is eligible to Solomon Islander citizens who are holders of valid UK, US, or Schengen visas/residency.

The Visa on Arrival allows a stay of up to 90 days, has a validity of one year, and is issued at designated entry ports upon arrival.

Solomon Islander nationals can obtain the VOA through self-service kiosks or at the Passport Control Office at the entry ports.

It offers a convenient and hassle-free way to experience the Kingdom without the need for extensive pre-travel visa arrangements.

TIP: Make sure you have all necessary documentation ready to make the Saudi visa process smooth and efficient.

Electronic Visa

The Saudi eVisa is a one-year, multiple-entry visa that permits stays of up to 90 days in total. It is primarily issued for tourism-related activities such as leisure trips, business, and pilgrimage (excluding Hajj).

How to apply for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia as Solomon Islanders:

1. Visit the official platform at https://ksavisa.sa/.
2. Complete the application form.
3. Attach necessary documents.
4. Add mandatory insurance.
5. Pay the visa fee via an available method.
6. Receive your visa approval within 24–72 hours.

Thanks to the introduction of the Electronic Visa, applicants are no longer required to visit the Saudi Embassy or Consulate, making the process more convenient and accessible.

However, Solomon Islanders must either be residents of a GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) country or hold a valid visa/permanent residence for the EU, US, or UK to qualify for an eVisa.

Transit Visa

Transit Visas are perfect for Solomon Islanders who are passing through Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination and wish to make a short stop.

These visas are easily obtainable when booking flights with Flynas or Saudia Airlines, making the process simple and convenient.

Upon getting your ticket, you can expect the visa to be issued immediately, allowing you to explore Saudi Arabia for 96 hours before continuing your journey.

Transit Visas can also be obtained even 90 days before, providing time to plan the itinerary and prepare for a stopover in Saudi Arabia. This added flexibility enables a stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on making the most of your short visit.

Vaccinations Required for a Saudi Visa Application

Saudi Arabia places significant importance on public health and requires visitors to meet specific vaccination requirements, particularly for those traveling for religious purposes such as Umrah or Hajj.

Solomon Islander citizens, along with nationals from other countries, must provide proof of vaccination for the following:

• Meningitis: This vaccine is mandatory for all pilgrims to protect against the spread of the disease, especially in crowded conditions.
• Other vaccines, which may include seasonal influenza, COVID-19, or yellow fever, depending on the traveler’s origin or health circumstances.

It is essential to consult the Saudi Ministry of Health or local healthcare provider well in advance of a trip to the Kingdom to confirm and meet the latest vaccination requirements.

Additionally, health insurance is mandatory for all visitors to Saudi Arabia. For convenience, this is often included when applying for an online visa.

Solomon Islanders should review the details of their insurance coverage to make sure it meets their health and travel needs while in the Kingdom. Preparing ahead of time will help with a safe and hassle-free journey.

Transit Through Saudi Arabia

For Solomon Islander citizens passing through Saudi Arabia, a Transit Visa may be a crucial requirement.

If you are traveling through Saudi Arabia as a transit passenger, you will not require a visa provided you remain within the international transit area of the airport and your layover does not exceed 12 hours.

In another case, you will need a Transit Visa, which streamlines the process for individuals with short layovers or connecting flights. Below, you can read some important details to keep in mind:

• Transit Visas are directly tied to flight bookings with specific airlines, such as Flynas or Saudia, meaning you must have a confirmed flight reservation.
• Stopover visas are designed to allow brief stops, lasting up to 96 hours, without permitting extended stays.

For those with longer transit periods, the Transit Visa provides a unique opportunity to explore parts of Saudi Arabia, such as its historic landmarks, cultural sites, and more.

Saudi Arabia Embassy for Solomon Islander Citizens

To apply for a Regular Visa or seek assistance with any travel-related queries, Solomon Islander citizens can connect with the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy (as there’s no diplomatic mission office in Solomon Island).

Embassy officials provide guidance on visa applications, document requirements, and regulations specific to Saudi Arabia. It’s advisable to schedule an appointment before visiting the embassy to ensure a smooth process.

You can contact the Saudi Embassy in Australia:

• Address: 38 GuilFoyle Street – Yarralumla ACT 2600 – Canberra
• Phone: 0061262507000
• Email: auemb@mofa.gov.sa
• Working Hours: from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

FAQ about Saudi Visa

• Is a visa required for Solomon Islander citizens to enter Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, all Solomon Islander citizens require a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia.

• Can Solomon Islander citizens apply for an eVisa?
  Yes, but only if they are residents of GCC nations or hold valid UK, US, or Schengen visas/residency.

• What is the processing time for a Saudi Regular Visa?
  The Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia typically takes 2–8 weeks, depending on the type.

• How long can I stay in Saudi Arabia with an eVisa?
  The eVisa allows multiple entries over one year, with a maximum stay of 90 days in total.

• Do I need health insurance to enter Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all travelers entering Saudi Arabia.

• Where can I apply for a Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia?
  VOA is issued at Saudi entry ports for eligible Solomon Islander citizens.

• What documents are required for applying for a visa?
  A passport valid for at least 6 months, a face photograph, and additional documents depending on your visa type.

Conclusion

Traveling to Saudi Arabia as a Solomon Islander citizen requires careful planning, from selecting the correct visa type to meeting health and vaccination requirements.

Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or a transit stop, knowing the process in advance ensures a hassle-free experience.

Be sure to prepare all required documents and consult the Saudi Arabian Embassy for guidance when needed.

Sources:

• https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
• https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
• https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/australia/EN/Pages/default.aspx