Saudi Arabia Visa for Tuvaluan Citizens

A valid Saudi Arabian visa is required for Tuvaluan citizens visiting the Kingdom, regardless of the purpose.

Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or transit, understanding the available visa options is essential for a smooth trip and allows choosing the most suitable visa.

For Saudi Arabia, all Tuvaluan citizens must obtain a valid visa before travel, and they can apply for a Regular Visa at the embassy or a Transit Visa while buying flight tickets.

Tuvaluans meeting additional criteria may obtain an Electronic Visa or a Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia.

Each visa type has different validity periods, required documents, and permitted activities.

To be allowed entry into Saudi Arabia, Tuvaluan citizens must prepare:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.
• A recent formal photo of the face.

Moreover, a vaccination certificate for meningitis or yellow fever is essential for selected visitors.

Health insurance is mandatory for all travelers entering Saudi Arabia, including the citizens of Tuvalu. It can be added to the online application or purchased separately.

NOTE: The most recent updates on the Saudi visa policy can be found on the official MOFA website.

Regular Visa to Saudi Arabia

For specific Saudi visa categories, all Tuvaluan citizens should choose the Regular Visa application via the embassy.

Nationals of Tuvalu can choose between Business, Diplomatic, Escort, Extend Return, Family Visit, Hajj, Residency, Student, Tourist, Umrah, and Work Visas.

The application process can be completed at any Saudi Embassy or Consulate:

1. Gather the required documents – Include your valid passport, face photo, and any visa-specific documents (e.g., employment contract for a Work Visa).
2. Contact the diplomatic mission – Tuvaluan citizens should reach out to the embassy or consulate earlier to schedule an appointment.
3. Complete the application – In person, you’ll need to fill out the visa form using your personal data, passport details, and travel plans.
4. Submit the documentation – Provide the immigration officers with the required documents. If it’s necessary, you’ll be asked a few questions.
5. Pay the submission fee – Fees vary based on the visa type and must be covered upon submitting the visa application.

Embassy applications typically take 2 to 8 weeks for approval if all the information is correct and the documentation is complete.

While applying via the embassy may take slightly longer, it suits Tuvaluan travelers with unique or non-standard travel needs, such as long-term stays or work/residency opportunities.

Other Saudi Visa Application Methods

Tuvaluan citizens have convenient alternatives to the traditional visa application process via the embassy or consulate.

These options offer faster processing and flexibility for specific travel needs. However, it’s best to check their specific eligibility criteria earlier.

Transit Visa

The Transit Visa enables Tuvaluan travelers passing through Saudi Arabia to stay in the Kingdom temporarily.

It is available to all nationals of Tuvalu and is issued when flying with Flynas or Saudia Airlines.

This visa allows a maximum stay of 96 hours in Saudi Arabia, giving travelers the opportunity to explore the country and its top attractions or rest between connecting flights.

The Saudi Transit Visa can be applied for online upon purchasing flight tickets, making the process accessible and straightforward.

For a hassle-free procedure, travelers should check if they have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, to avoid any delays or complications.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Tuvaluan citizens eligible for Visa on Arrival include residents of the UK/US/EU and visa holders from the UK/US/Schengen country.

In the case of using a visa, it must be related to tourism or business and used at least once.

The Saudi VOA can be obtained directly at entry points, granting up to 90 days of visit.

To apply for a Visa on Arrival, Tuvaluans should head to the passport control office or a self-service KIOSK machine. There, they need to complete the application form and submit the required documents.

Applicants do not have to apply in advance, as the visa is processed upon arrival, which is very convenient, especially for frequent travelers.

The VOA allows flexibility, supporting both tourism and business purposes. It is issued for one year and can permit a single visit or numerous trips to the Kingdom.

Electronic Visa (eVisa)

The eVisa offers convenience for Tuvaluan citizens who qualify for the online application.

To be eligible, they must meet one of the following conditions:

• Residence permit in a GCC country (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the UAE)
• Residence permit to the UK, US, or EU country
• Tourist/Business Visa to the UK, US, or Schengen country (used at least once)

The approved Saudi eVisa allows staying up to 90 days in the Kingdom for tourism, leisure, business, and Umrah pilgrimage. It’s valid for one year with multiple entries permitted.

The online application for a Saudi Arabian visa can be completed at www.visa.visitsaudi.com:

1. Create an account or log in to your existing account

If you’re new to the platform, you’ll be prompted to create an account by providing a valid email address and setting up a password. If you already have an account, simply log in using the existing data.

2. Select whether you’re applying as an individual or for a group

Choose the appropriate application type. If you’re applying alone, select “Individual.” If applying for multiple people, select “Group” and follow the additional instructions for group applications.

3. Upload your photo and proof of eligibility

Prepare a recent, clear photo of yourself that meets the official requirements. Additionally, upload any necessary documents proving your eligibility, such as resident permits or visas.

4. Provide your personal information and passport details

Fill out the form with personal details, including your full name, date of birth, and contact information. Make sure you enter your passport number and expiration date accurately.

5. Add medical insurance information

To the application form, add health insurance. This document must cover your entire stay in Saudi Arabia. It’s a requirement applicable to all visitors to the Kingdom.

6. Review your application for accuracy

Before submitting, carefully go over all the information you’ve entered, including uploaded documents and personal details, to ensure everything is correct.

7. Cover the payment process

Provide the necessary payment details to finalize your application. Once done, you’ll receive a confirmation of the application submission to your email.

NOTE: Citizens of Tuvalu, after successful application submission, should receive their Saudi eVisa via email within 24–72 hours.

Health Insurance for Traveling to Saudi Arabia

Having health insurance is mandatory for entry into Saudi Arabia, and it’s required for all visitors, including Tuvalu citizens. It must remain valid for the entirety of the trip to the Kingdom.

Saudi insurance policies have to include coverage of unexpected medical expenses and assistance in case of emergencies or accidents during your stay.

It is important to choose a plan that meets the requirements specified by Saudi authorities to avoid any delays or issues during your entry process.

More details on the subject can be found on the official Council of Health Insurance platform.

Saudi Visa Processing Time

Citizens of Tuvalu must check if all required documents are submitted correctly to avoid processing delays of their Saudi visa applications.

Missing or incorrect information can also result in the need for additional time to resolve issues.

If submitted correctly, these visa types to Saudi Arabia will be processed accordingly:

• Electronic Visa in 1–3 days
• Regular Visa in 2–8 weeks
• Transit Visa immediately with flight tickets
• Visa on Arrival right after the fee payment

It’s best that Tuvaluan citizens apply for a suitable Saudi visa well in advance to account for any potential delays.

Apart from mistakes made in the forms, peak travel seasons and public holidays in Saudi Arabia can affect the overall processing timeline and prolong it.

Embassy Assistance to Tuvaluan Citizens

Tuvaluan citizens unsure of the requirements for a Saudi visa or the application process can seek help from the nearest embassy or consulate.

The immigration office’s staff provides visa guidance, assistance with filling out forms, and answers to frequently asked questions.

For citizens of Tuvalu, the closest is the Saudi Embassy in Australia, which can be contacted by email or phone.

• Address: 38 Guilfoyle St, Yarralumla ACT 2600, Australia
• Phone: +61 262 507 000
• Email: auemb@mofa.gov.sa

FAQs

• Do Tuvalu citizens need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
  Yes, all travelers from Tuvalu need a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia, regardless of the purpose of the visit and the planned duration of stay.

• Can Tuvalu citizens apply for a Visa on Arrival?
  Yes, if they meet the eligibility criteria (valid visa/residence permit), Tuvaluan citizens can apply for a Saudi VOA.

• What documents are required for a visa application?
  To apply for a Saudi visa, it’s mandatory to have a passport valid for at least 6 months, a face photograph taken recently, and any supporting documents needed.

• Is health insurance mandatory?
  Yes, health insurance with coverage for the entire trip is mandatory to enter Saudi Arabia.

• How long can Tuvalu citizens stay in Saudi Arabia without a visa?
  None, as nationals of Tuvalu aren’t permitted visa-free entry to Saudi Arabia and need a visa.

• Can Tuvalu citizens work in Saudi Arabia on a Tourist Visa?
  No, a Work Visa is required for temporary or permanent employment in Saudi Arabia.

• Is there a fee for the Saudi visa application?
  Yes, there is a processing fee that varies depending on the type of Saudi visa selected.

Conclusion

Traveling to Saudi Arabia as a citizen of Tuvalu requires obtaining the appropriate visa, as visa-free entry is not an option. It’s possible to get a Regular Visa, Transit Visa, Visa on Arrival, or Electronic Visa.

The application process for a Saudi visa involves completing the suitable form, submitting the required documents, and covering a processing fee.

While visiting Saudi Arabia, Tuvaluan travelers must adhere to its immigration laws for legal entry.

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