A Saudi Arabia visa is required for Swedish citizens to enter the country. This ensures meeting international travel laws and helps maintain the secure and organized flow of visitors.
A visa is an official document enabling Swedish nationals to travel to Saudi Arabia for various purposes such as tourism, business, or other reasons.
Swedish travelers can choose between four main visa types based on the purpose of their visit:
- eVisa – An electronic visa, ideal for hassle-free entry for up to 90 days for tourism or leisure purposes.
- Visa on Arrival – Available at entry ports in Saudi Arabia and allows a stay of up to 90 days within a year.
- Regular Visa from the embassy – Suitable for trips over 90 days and those with specific travel reasons not covered by other visa types, e.g., employment.
- Transit Visa – Required for travelers passing through Saudi Arabia en route to another destination, valid for 96 hours.
When it comes to applying, Swedish citizens have two main ways: online application via the official eVisa website and traditional application through the Saudi Embassy.
Obtaining a Saudi visa requires a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months of validity from the entry date. Moreover, Swedish should provide personal and travel information along with additional documents, if necessary.
NOTE: For more information, visit the official resources, such as the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Saudi Regular Visa Types for Swedish Nationals
While Electronic Visa, Visa on Arrival, and Transit Visa are available in one type, Saudi Regular Visa is issued in various options.
Saudi Arabia offers several Regular Visa types to suit the diverse needs of visitors, workers, and residents.
Each visa type serves a specific purpose, guaranteeing that individuals entering the country have the appropriate authorization for their activities.
Tourist Visa
The Tourist Visa is available for individuals wishing to explore Saudi Arabia’s cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and vibrant cities. It is typically a short-term visa suited for leisure travel.
Business Visa
The Business Visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals attending business meetings, conferences, or other official engagements. It facilitates entry for commercial purposes.
Work Visa
The Work Visa can be permanent or temporary and is granted to individuals seeking employment in Saudi Arabia. It allows qualified workers to engage in job roles within the Kingdom legally.
Residency Visa
The Residency Visa is issued for individuals who intend to reside in Saudi Arabia. It includes several categories, such as the standard residency visa, premium residency visa, and visas for newborn dependents.
Family Visit Visa
Designed for family reunification, the Family Visit Visa enables individuals to visit family members living in Saudi Arabia temporarily.
Extend Return Visa
The Extend Return Visa allows individuals who are already residents to extend their return to Saudi Arabia beyond their originally approved travel period.
Diplomatic Visa
The Diplomatic Visa is issued to government staff, diplomatic missions, and members of international organizations. This visa allows individuals to carry out official government or diplomatic duties within Saudi Arabia.
Escort Visa
The Escort Visa is issued to companions, such as household staff or other dependents, who accompany Saudi residents or citizens during travel to the Kingdom.
Student Visa
For individuals pursuing educational opportunities in Saudi Arabia, the Student Visa offers permission to study at accredited institutions within the country.
Hajj Visa
The Hajj Visa is a special visa designed specifically for Muslim pilgrims participating in the annual Hajj pilgrimage. It is issued for a limited period in line with this significant religious event.
Umrah Visa
The Umrah Visa allows Muslim travelers to perform the Umrah pilgrimage, which can be done at any time of the year, unlike Hajj.
Saudi Visa Requirements for Travelers from Sweden
You must have all the necessary documents and information ready to successfully apply for a Saudi visa as a Swedish citizen.
The requirements for a Saudi Arabia visa typically include:
- Passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.
- Personal information (e.g., name, nationality, and contact details).
- Purpose of the visit stated clearly (tourism, family visit, etc.).
- Recent formal photograph (200 x 200 pixels).
- Payment method (credit or debit card for eVisa fees).
Additional documents may be required based on the type of visa to Saudi Arabia you are applying for.
PRO TIP: Double-check your passport’s validity and photograph dimensions while applying online to avoid delays.
How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide for Swedish Citizens
If you’re a Swedish citizen visiting Saudi Arabia, obtaining a visa is now easier than ever.
You can choose between two application methods — the quick and convenient Saudi eVisa process or the traditional embassy visit.
Option 1: Online Application (eVisa)
The Saudi eVisa is the most popular and efficient choice for Swedish travelers, offering a hassle-free process that saves both time and effort.
The online platform has a user-friendly interface, perfect for first-time travelers. Use these instructions to apply for a Saudi eVisa:
- Visit the Saudi eVisa portal: Go to https://visa.visitsaudi.com and click “Sign In” or “Apply Now.”
- Create an account or log in: Register a new account or sign in to continue.
- Select your application type: Choose whether you’re applying as an individual or for a group.
- Follow the application steps:
- Submit your photo
- Provide personal information
- Enter passport and personal details
- Choose medical insurance
- Agree to terms and conditions
- Review your application
- Complete payment: Make a secure online payment to finalize your application.
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Saudi eVisa via email.
The Electronic Visa is issued in a digital format, which you can download, print, and carry with you as necessary.
To avoid issues with immigration authorities, make sure that you have a copy ready for presentation upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
NOTE: If your passport expires, the Saudi eVisa will be inactive, as the visa is digitally connected to the applicant’s document.
Option 2: Applying Through the Embassy
For those Swedish nationals who prefer a more traditional way, applying for a visa directly at the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate is always an option.
The process may take a bit longer but provides a hands-on approach for those who value direct interaction.
This is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Saudi visa via the embassy:
- Find the nearest embassy or consulate: Check their specific requirements and hours, as these can vary.
- Prepare your documents: Gather the required documents for your visa type.
- Submit your application: Fill out the form accurately and submit it with all required documents and fees.
- Wait for processing: Processing times vary, so check with the embassy or consulate for an estimate.
After your visa to Saudi Arabia is approved, you’ll receive your passport with the visa by collecting it in person at the embassy or consulate.
Taking the time to apply directly through the embassy allows for a personalized visa process.
REMEMBER: It may be necessary to schedule an embassy appointment beforehand, as walk-ins are not possible.
Photo for the Visa Application for Saudi Arabia
When applying for a Saudi Arabia visa, making sure your photo meets the specified requirements is crucial to avoid delays or rejections.
Failure to comply with the criteria may also result in a request for resubmission, so it’s advised to review your photo carefully using the guidelines.
Format and Size
- Dimensions: 200 x 200 pixels.
- Size: 5 KB to 100 KB.
- The photo must clearly show your face and shoulders, with your face filling 70%–80% of the image (1.4″–1.6″ from chin to crown).
- Your face must be fully visible in a straight-on position, showing the entire face and both sides.
- Make sure your full head, including hairstyle, is visible without reducing face size (even for voluminous hairstyles).
- The photo must be taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.
Background
- The background must be white, plain, and free of patterns.
- No other objects or persons should appear in the photo.
- Shadows in the background are not allowed.
Expression
- Your head must be straight and square to the camera (not angled or tilted).
- Face and eyes should be directly facing the camera. Both ears and cheeks should be clearly visible.
Headwear
- Headwear is generally not allowed, except for religious reasons.
- If worn, the face must remain fully visible from the chin to the forehead.
- No shadows can be cast on the face.
NOTE: Glasses are not recommended for your photo. If you must wear them, there must be no glare on the lenses and your eyes must be clearly visible.
Contact Details of the Saudi Embassy in Sweden
The Saudi Embassy in Sweden plays a crucial role in diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Sweden since it promotes mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.
For Swedish citizens, the embassy is an essential point of contact for various purposes, such as obtaining information about travel to Saudi Arabia, learning about visa requirements, and addressing any inquiries related to trade or investments in Saudi Arabia.
For further inquiries or assistance, please visit the official website of the Saudi Embassy in Sweden or contact them directly via the provided details:
- Address: Sköldungagatan 5, P.O. Box 26073, Stockholm 10041
- Phone: 00468238800
- Fax: 004687969956
- Email: seemb@mofa.gov.sa
FAQs about Saudi Arabia Visa for Swedish Citizens
- Do Swedish citizens need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
- Yes, Swedish citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. You can conveniently apply online using the eVisa system, which simplifies the process and eliminates the need for visits to the embassy.
- What type of Saudi visa can Swedish nationals apply for?
- Swedish citizens can apply for an eVisa, Visa on Arrival, Transit Visa, and various categories of Regular Visas to Saudi Arabia.
- Can Swedish citizens work or study on a Saudi eVisa?
- No, the eVisa does not permit working or studying in Saudi Arabia. To work or study, applicants from Sweden will need to apply for a different type of visa specifically issued for those activities.
- What documents are needed for the eVisa?
- Applicants from Sweden need to provide a passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining, a recent face photo, and additional documents based on the Saudi visa type.
- Is health insurance required for a Saudi eVisa?
- Yes, health insurance is arranged as part of the eVisa application process, guaranteeing that travelers are covered during their visit to Saudi Arabia.
- How long does it take to process the Saudi eVisa?
- Processing an eVisa for Saudi Arabia typically takes 24 to 72 hours.
- Should Swedish apply for a Saudi visa in advance?
- Yes, applying for a Saudi visa in advance is highly recommended. Early application allows enough time to address any issues and avoid delays.
- Can the Saudi eVisa be used for multiple entries?
- Yes, the Saudi eVisa allows multiple entries within its validity period, enabling Swedish travelers to enter and exit the country as needed, provided their visits don’t exceed 90 days in total.
Conclusion
A Saudi Arabia visa is a mandatory requirement for Swedish citizens planning to visit the Kingdom.
Swedish nationals can choose between several Saudi visa types based on their travel needs, including the eVisa for short stays, the Visa on Arrival for spontaneous trips, the Regular Visa for longer stays or specific purposes like employment, and the Transit Visa for layovers.
The application process is straightforward, whether completed online through the official eVisa platform or traditionally via the Saudi Embassy.
Swedish applicants must check if their passport has at least 6 months of validity and prepare any additional required documentation.
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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.