Saudi Arabia Visa for Turkmenistani Citizens

Citizens of Turkmenistan must have a valid visa to legally enter and stay in Saudi Arabia to meet the Kingdom's immigration policy rules.

The permits that Turkmenistani travelers can obtain are a Regular Visa, Electronic Visa, Visa on Arrival, and Transit Visa. Each of these visas differs in the permitted length of stay, validity period, and permitted activities.

Basic Requirements

To get a Saudi visa, all nationals of Turkmenistan must have:

• A passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity
• A recent face photo meeting official requirements
• Health insurance (included with online visa applications)

Before application, consider processing times for your chosen visa and apply in advance to avoid delays. The eVisa application is processed within 24-72 hours, while a Regular Visa takes 2-8 weeks. Transit Visa and VOA are approved right after fee payment.

Visa Application at the Saudi Arabian Embassy

Turkmenistani citizens applying for a Regular Visa need to visit a Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate upon scheduling an appointment (walk-ins are not approved).

Application Process:

1. Collect the documents, Gather all required paperwork, including passport, face photo, and supporting documents
2. Visit the embassy, Check office hours and bring identification. Call ahead to confirm appointment
3. Fill out the form and submit it, Complete carefully to avoid errors and attach all required paperwork
4. Attend any required interviews, Be prepared to answer questions about travel plans or provide fingerprints if requested. Dress professionally
5. Pay the visa fee, Confirm accepted payment methods in advance and keep receipt as proof

Regular Visa applications are typically processed within 2-8 weeks, but approval time may vary based on individual circumstances.

NOTE: Application for a Saudi Regular Visa is available to all travelers from Turkmenistan, making it a primary method of obtaining entry to the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabian Electronic Visa

The one-year, multiple-entry eVisa allows Turkmenistani visitors to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days in total. Activities permitted include leisure trips, exploring landmarks, business negotiations, and religious visits.

The Electronic Visa is available to eligible Turkmenistani travelers who are GCC, UK, US, or EU residents/holders of valid UK, US, or Schengen visas.

Application Steps:

1. Click on the menu button in the top right corner of the official KSA portal at ksavisa.sa
2. Select your travel purpose and nationality from provided options
3. Sign in to existing account or register as a new user
4. Fill out the application form with accurate information
5. Upload all required documents, such as face photo and additional paperwork
6. Include your health insurance details as part of the application
7. Make the payment for the visa fee and keep transaction confirmation

The Saudi eVisa processing time may vary depending on immigration office workload, but on average takes 24-72 hours. You can monitor your Electronic Visa status through the portal and respond quickly to additional information requests.

Visa on Arrival to Saudi Arabia

For Turkmenistani citizens who are holders of UK, US, or Schengen visas for tourism/business and residents of the UK, US, or EU, applying for a Saudi Visa on Arrival is convenient.

Application Process:

1. Head to the passport control desk or self-service KIOSK machine at the entry point
2. Present your valid passport and eligibility proof to start the VOA process
3. Provide necessary personal data and passport information in the application form
4. Pay the visa fee and receive your Saudi Arabian visa immediately

Eligible citizens of Turkmenistan can obtain a Saudi Visa on Arrival which will be valid for one year and permit staying up to 90 days in the Kingdom.

NOTE: More information about the Saudi VOA can be found at the Visit Saudi website.

Transit Through Saudi Arabia with a Visa

The Transit Visa is perfect for Turkmenistani travelers with layovers who want to explore the Kingdom during short-term stays. This can only be obtained when flying with cooperating airlines like Saudia and Flynas. The application is available 90 days before the planned travel date.

Once approved, the Transit Visa permits spending 96 hours in Saudi Arabia. The visa application can be completed for minors with assistance from parents or guardians.

Taking a Face Photo for the Saudi Visa Application

When taking a face photo for the Saudi visa application, Turkmenistani citizens should follow specific guidelines.

The photo must be in color with a plain white background. Your face should be directly facing the camera with a neutral expression, and eyes clearly visible. Head coverings or accessories that obscure features should be avoided.

The photo must be recent, taken within the last 6 months, to accurately represent current appearance. The image should be high-resolution and free of filters that could misrepresent your appearance. Proper lighting is crucial so shadows do not distort the image.

Non-compliance with these specifications may result in delays or rejection of your Saudi visa.

Dealing with a Saudi Visa Denial

Facing a Saudi visa denial can be frustrating for Turkmenistani citizens, especially when travel plans are time-sensitive. It is important to remain calm and understand possible reasons behind the rejection.

The most common reasons for rejection include incomplete documentation or inconsistent information in the application.

Steps to take in case of denial:

1. Review the rejection notice to understand the reasons behind the decision
2. Double-check your documents and correct any errors
3. Reapply after addressing the issues highlighted in the rejection

If your application is still denied after reapplying, you may want to seek clarification directly from the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate. Patience and attention to detail are crucial to avoid unnecessary stress.

Saudi Embassy Assistance

The Saudi Embassy can provide extensive support throughout the visa application process for Turkmenistanis. The assistance of immigration officers can lead to a smoother application process.

Embassy staff can also provide information about current entry requirements or recommend insurance policies, which are required for all visitors.

Contact Information for Saudi Embassy in Turkmenistan:

• Address: Str. crossing Gorogly 2009 & Sh. Batyrova 2056, Ashgabat
• Phone: +99 312 369 621

FAQ

Do Turkmenistani citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia? Yes, a visa is required for all Turkmenistani citizens traveling to the Kingdom, and it can be obtained in person, upon arrival, or online.

How can Turkmenistani citizens apply for a Saudi eVisa? Turkmenistani citizens can apply through the official KSA Visa portal. After approval, the eVisa is sent to the applicant's email.

What is the processing time for a Saudi eVisa? The processing time is typically 1-3 business days.

What is the difference between an eVisa and a Visa on Arrival? An eVisa is applied for and processed online, while a Visa on Arrival is granted at Saudi entry points such as airports, seaports, and land crossings.

Can I perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia with an eVisa? Yes, you can perform Umrah while traveling with an Electronic Visa (except during Hajj season).

Is health insurance mandatory for Saudi visas? Health insurance is mandatory for obtaining a Saudi visa as it ensures travelers can access medical services during their stay.

How long is a Transit Visa valid? A Transit Visa for Saudi Arabia is valid for up to 96 hours.

Conclusion

Traveling to Saudi Arabia is very accessible for Turkmenistani citizens as they can choose between available visa types: Electronic Visa, Visa on Arrival, Transit Visa, and Regular Visa. Whether visiting for tourism, business, or other purposes, understanding visa types, requirements, and stay durations allows for a seamless travel experience. Thanks to mandatory health insurance, visitors are well-protected throughout their stay.