Saudi Arabia Visa for South Korean Citizens

South Korean citizens are required to have a valid visa to travel to Saudi Arabia.

A visa is an official document that allows entry to Saudi Arabia based on certain conditions. Various types of Saudi visas are available to South Korean travelers, including eVisas, Visas on Arrival, Transit Visas, and Regular Visas.

The processing times can vary; Saudi eVisa applications are generally processed within 3 business days, and Regular Visas could take up to 8 weeks, depending on the type and requirements.

To get a Saudi visa, you must participate in the visa application process, which consists of filling in the form, covering the fee, and receiving a visa.

Also, don’t forget about a passport that won’t expire within the next 6 months and a recent face photo that is necessary during the Saudi visa application procedure.

NOTE: For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Saudi visa requirements and processes, check the details on official government websites, such as the Saudi eVisa Portal.

Types of Saudi Visas Available for South Korean Citizens

South Korean citizens have the option to apply for several types of visas to Saudi Arabia. Each visa type has specific requirements and application procedures to meet the traveler’s needs.

eVisa

The eVisa is a convenient option for travelers from South Korea visiting Saudi Arabia for tourism or short-term purposes.

It allows entry for leisure activities, sightseeing, or cultural exploration and cannot be used for work or study purposes.

The application process is entirely online, making it quick and accessible to travelers.

The eVisa to Saudi Arabia is valid for 1 year and allows travelers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days in total.

It is a multiple-entry visa, giving visitors the flexibility to enter and exit the country numerous times within the validity period.

Visa on Arrival

South Korean travelers can obtain their visa upon arrival at Saudi Arabia’s entry points.

Upon arrival at the entry point in Saudi Arabia, visitors can use the self-service KIOSK devices or proceed directly to the passport control office to apply for their Visa on Arrival.

The Visa on Arrival process requires no prior arrangements, making it convenient for South Korean travelers.

Visitors simply need to make sure they have the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, before traveling to Saudi Arabia.

Transit Visa

The Transit Visa is ideal for South Korean travelers passing through Saudi Arabia on their way to another destination.

It is valid for a maximum of 96 hours and offers an opportunity to explore the country during a layover.

This visa is particularly useful for individuals who want to briefly visit Saudi Arabia without committing to a full visit.

Regular Visa

The Regular Visa offers a broader range of options, catering to individuals seeking to work, study, reunite with family, or undertake religious visits such as Umrah or Hajj. It also covers long-term stays over 90 days for other purposes.

Unlike the eVisa or Visa on Arrival, Regular Visa requires a more detailed application process, including documentation and approval from relevant Saudi authorities.

NOTE: Each Saudi visa type has specific requirements and processing timelines, so choosing the appropriate option is essential to avoid problems.

How to Obtain a Visa to Saudi Arabia

Different methods exist to apply for a Saudi Arabia visa, depending on the chosen type. You can apply online, through a Saudi Embassy or Consulate, or upon arrival.

eVisa

The Saudi eVisa is South Korean citizens’ fastest and most straightforward option. You can get the Online Visa by following simple steps:

1. Visit the official https://ksavisa.sa/ website.
2. Fill out the application form, providing your personal details and travel information.
3. Upload the necessary documents (passport copy, recent photo, etc.).
4. Pay the applicable visa fees using the online payment gateway.
5. Wait for the approval email (typically delivered within 3 business days).

Download and print your Saudi eVisa to present at the port of entry upon arrival.

Make sure the visa is clear and legible, as immigration authorities may require it for verification before granting you access to the country.

Visa on Arrival

Getting a Visa on Arrival is simple, as no prior preparations are necessary; you only need to:

1. Arrive at one of Saudi Arabia’s designated entry points.
2. Approach the visa desk upon arrival and provide your passport.
3. Pay the visa fee at the counter.
4. Receive your visa and enter Saudi Arabia.

TIP: Double-check the validity period of your Saudi Visa on Arrival to avoid any complications during your stay.

Regular Visa

Regular Visas require a more comprehensive application process through the Saudi Embassy in South Korea:

1. Obtain and complete the appropriate visa application form.
2. Schedule an appointment with the embassy or consulate in South Korea.
3. Submit your application along with supporting documents.
4. Pay the visa application fee.
5. Wait for processing, which may take up to 8 weeks.

It is advisable to begin the process for a Saudi Regular Visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to account for any unexpected delays.

Submitting your application early ensures sufficient time to address any issues that may arise.

What Documents are Necessary to Enter Saudi Arabia and Get a Visa

To enter Saudi Arabia, South Korean citizens must prepare a passport with a minimum of 6 months of remaining validity and a Saudi visa.

What is more, to obtain a Saudi visa, you must have:

• A completed visa application form filled out accurately
• A recent photo that meet the official requirements*
• Payment for visa fees as required by the Saudi Embassy or Consulate
• Additional documents or certifications based on the type of visa, such as business or work-related approvals, if applicable

*The passport-sized photo must be in color, taken against a plain white background, and clearly show your full face without obstructions. It should meet standard dimensions, typically 2 x 2 inches, and be recently taken to reflect your current appearance.

Extending the Saudi eVisa for South Korean Citizens

If you’re staying longer in Saudi Arabia than initially planned, you may be eligible to extend your Saudi visa; to do so, you should:

1. Visit an official Saudi passport office while in Saudi Arabia.
2. Submit a request for an extension before your visa expires.
3. Provide the required documents, including your passport and current visa.
4. Pay the applicable extension fee.

Note that visa extensions are not guaranteed and depend on the specific Saudi visa regulations.

Alternatively, it may be possible to extend your Saudi visa online through the official Saudi eVisa portal, depending on the type of visa you hold.

How to Correct Errors in Your Saudi Visa Application

Correcting your Saudi visa application errors is crucial to avoid rejection or complications.

If you notice a mistake with your Saudi visa application, contact the Saudi Visa Support Center immediately.

Log in to the portal to see if you can make edits. If changes aren’t possible, cancel the incorrect application and reapply with the correct details.

For Regular Visas, contact the Saudi Embassy or Consulate in South Korea for assistance.

Saudi Embassy in South Korea

For further assistance with your visa application or any inquiries, you can contact the Saudi Embassy in South Korea:

• Address: 36-37, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
• Phone: 008227390631
• Email: saudiskremb@mofa.gov.sa
• Office Hours: from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m

Make sure to schedule an appointment beforehand if you need to visit the embassy in person.

At the embassy, you can apply for various types of Saudi visas, including Work, Business, and Tourist Visas.

Additionally, the embassy can assist with legal document authentication and notarization services.

FAQ about Saudi Visa for South Korean Citizens

• Can I apply for a Saudi visa online?
  Yes, the Saudi eVisa is available for South Korean citizens. You can apply for it without contacting the embassy.

• How long does it take to process a Saudi eVisa?
  The Saudi eVisa is typically processed within 3 business days. It’s advisable to apply earlier to get all the documents on time.

• Is a Saudi Visa on Arrival available for South Korean citizens?
  Yes, South Korean citizens are eligible for a Saudi Visa on Arrival, provided they meet the requirements.

• Can I use my eVisa for work in Saudi Arabia?
  No, the Saudi eVisa is strictly for tourism or short-term visits—not for work or study.

• What happens if my Saudi visa application is rejected?
  You can reapply, but ensure all errors or missing information are corrected first.

• Can I extend my Saudi eVisa while in Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, eligible travelers can apply to extend their eVisa through a Saudi passport office.

• What are the photo requirements for a Saudi visa?
  The photo must be a recent passport-style photo with a neutral expression and a plain background.

• Can I cancel my Saudi visa application after submission?
  Yes, you can cancel it, but the application fee is usually non-refundable.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Saudi Arabia visa as a South Korean citizen is straightforward.

Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or another purpose, there’s a visa option perfect for your needs.

From the convenient Saudi eVisa to the Regular Visa, Visa on Arrival, Transit Visa, or Regular Visa, you can pick the one that meets your needs.

For personalized assistance or more details on visa requirements, don’t hesitate to contact the Saudi Embassy in Seoul.

Make sure all your documents are prepared, such as a passport valid for at least 6 months, and take part in the simple process.

Sources:

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