Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival

What is the Saudi Arabia Visa-on-Arrival?

The Visa-on-Arrival is a tourist visa issued directly at Saudi border checkpoints, mainly at international airports such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah. Once approved, it usually has similar validity and permitted stay as the online tourist eVisa, commonly multiple entries for up to 1 year, with a total stay of up to 90 days for tourism, visiting friends and family, attending events or performing Umrah outside the Hajj season

However, the main difference is when and how you get it:

• Visa-on-Arrival: Apply upon arrival at immigration, while other passengers wait in line.
• Saudi Arabia eVisa: Apply fully online before you travel and receive approval by email, so you arrive with your visa already granted.

Who can get the Saudi Arabia Visa-on-Arrival?

1. Citizens of Countries Eligible for eVisa: If your passport is eligible for a Saudi Arabia eVisa, you are also generally allowed to obtain a Visa-on-Arrival at major Saudi airports. In practice, the eVisa is much smoother. Please refer to the webpage listing all countries eligible for the Saudi Arabia eVisa.
2. Holders of US, UK or Schengen Visas or Permanent Residence: Travellers of many nationalities can often obtain a Saudi Visa-on-Arrival if they:
   • Hold a valid tourist or business visa for the US, UK or Schengen area or
   • Hold permanent residence in the US, UK or an EU/Schengen country
   • Have used that visa at least once (there is usually an entry stamp from that area in the passport)

Regardless of eligibility, applicants must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and meet basic entry requirements, including accommodation details, a return ticket, and proof of travel.

How does Visa-on-Arrival work at the Airport?

If you decide to rely on Visa-on-Arrival and you are eligible, the typical process is:

1. Arrive at a Visa-on-Arrival Airport: Land in Saudi Arabia at an airport that offers the tourist Visa-on-Arrival.
2. Proceed to the Visa Counter: Go to the dedicated visa counter before immigration.
3. Present Required Documents: Submit your passport, show proof of eligibility (e.g., US/UK/Schengen visa or residence card if applicable), and provide trip details.
4. Pay the Required Fees: Pay the visa fee plus mandatory health insurance.
5. Receive Your Visa: Once approved, the visa is attached electronically to your passport, and you proceed to immigration and baggage claim.
6. Be Aware of Possible Delays: If there are long queues, incomplete documents, payment issues or policy changes, this process can become slow and stressful, which is precisely what the eVisa helps you avoid.

Visa-on-Arrival FAQs

• Can a Visa-on-Arrival be extended inside Saudi Arabia?

  No, Visa-on-Arrival is not typically extendable. Travellers must leave before the permitted stay expires.

• What happens if my Visa-on-Arrival application is refused?

  You may be denied entry and required to return on the next available flight at your own expense.

• Can I work in Saudi Arabia with a Visa-on-Arrival?

  No. Visa-on-Arrival is strictly for tourism and Umrah; employment requires a work visa.

Saudi Arabia Visa-on-Arrival vs eVisa: Which is better?

For most travellers, eVisa wins easily on convenience and peace of mind.

Why We Recommend Applying for a Saudi eVisa with us?

Our service is focused on helping travellers get their Saudi eVisa quickly and correctly, so they do not have to worry about surprises at the border.

With our team of experts, you can: