New Instant e-Visa Announced by Saudi Arabia

The Ministry of Tourism stated on Monday that permanent residents from any EU nation as well as holders of UK, US, and Schengen tourist visas are eligible for fast entry into Saudi Arabia by requesting an instant eVisa through the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

An exception has been made for people who have a current tourist or business visa from the US, the UK, or one of the Schengen countries, as long as the visa has been used at least once to enter the country of issuance.

First-degree relatives of the visa holder and those who have earned permanent residence in the US, EU, or UK are also granted the same entry rights under the previously mentioned exception. 

Holders of permanent residency may also provide first-degree relatives with a visa-on-arrival at any airport, on land, or at sea.

The initiative is in line with the Ministry's efforts to make it easier for people who want to visit the Kingdom to do so, enabling them to take advantage of tourist attractions, take part in tourist activities, and learn more about the heritage and depth of the Kingdom's history.

The Ministry further emphasized that holders of tourism visas are not permitted to perform the Hajj or Umrah during the pilgrimage season.
 

Saudi Arabia is one of the world's fastest-growing tourism markets since it opened to tourists in 2019, with 93.5 million visitors predicted there in 2022. This accomplishment is the result of the extraordinary efforts made by travel places all throughout Saudi Arabia to give tourists unmatched experiences and a smooth travel experience.
 

The ministry advised those looking for further details on the rules governing tourist visas or access to a list of the nationalities qualified to apply for a visa to go to the MOFA website.