Understanding Saudi Arabia’s Visa Categories, Residency Schemes, and Costs
Saudi Arabia has increasingly opened its doors to visitors, professionals, and investors through a wide range of visa categories and residency schemes. Whether you’re planning to visit the kingdom for work, religious purposes, or to explore investment opportunities, understanding the various visa options, fees, and requirements is crucial.
1. Visit Visa (Tourist Visa)
Saudi Arabia’s tourist visa is available for citizens from eligible countries, promoting tourism to explore its rich cultural and historical heritage. You can apply online through the Saudi eVisa portal.
Key Features:
- Multiple entry visa.
- Valid for up to 90 days.
Cost:
- Approximately SAR 440 (about USD 117), including medical insurance.
2. Work Visa
For expatriates seeking employment in Saudi Arabia, the work visa is essential. This visa is typically sponsored by a Saudi employer and allows professionals to live and work in the kingdom.
Key Process:
- Obtain a job offer from a Saudi employer.
- The employer initiates the work visa process.
- Medical and educational documents may be required.
Cost:
- SAR 1,000–2,000 (approximately USD 267–533) depending on the profession and employer’s agreement.
3. Business Visa
The business visa is designed for entrepreneurs and professionals attending business meetings, conferences, or seminars in Saudi Arabia.
Highlights:
- Single or multiple-entry options.
- Generally valid for short stays.
- Can be applied through Saudi embassies or online for eligible countries.
Cost:
- SAR 800–1,500 (approximately USD 213–400) depending on the type and duration of the visa.
4. Hajj and Umrah Visa
Saudi Arabia issues Hajj and Umrah visas specifically for Muslims who wish to perform pilgrimage. These visas are valid for specific periods during Hajj or Umrah season.
Key Details:
- Non-workable visa; strictly for religious purposes.
- Sponsorship from an authorized travel agent is required.
Cost:
- The Umrah visa is free, but pilgrims must pay for packages that include accommodation and transportation (usually starting from SAR 2,000 or USD 533 for budget packages).
- Hajj visa: Costs are part of Hajj packages, which vary widely from SAR 10,000–25,000 (USD 2,670–6,670) depending on the services and accommodations.
5. Family Visit Visa
The family visit visa allows expatriates working in Saudi Arabia to invite close family members for a short-term stay.
Important Points:
- Available as a single or multiple-entry visa.
- Valid for up to 90 days.
Cost:
- SAR 300 (approximately USD 80).
6. Student Visa
The student visa is for those who wish to study at Saudi universities and is sponsored by the educational institution.
Visa Requirements:
- Admission confirmation from a Saudi university.
- Financial proof and academic credentials may be required.
Cost:
- SAR 500 (approximately USD 133), though some universities sponsor students for free depending on scholarships.
7. Permanent Residency (Premium Residency Program)
Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency Program, also known as the Saudi Green Card, offers long-term residence without the need for a Saudi sponsor. The program is available in two categories: permanent residency and temporary residency.
Cost:
- Permanent residency: A one-time fee of SAR 800,000 (around USD 213,000).
- Temporary residency: An annual fee of SAR 100,000 (around USD 26,600).
Benefits:
- No need for a Saudi sponsor.
- Ability to own property and invest in the kingdom.
8. Investor Visa
The investor visa encourages foreign nationals to invest in various sectors in Saudi Arabia, such as real estate, manufacturing, and services.
Key Benefits:
- Multiple entry visa.
- Long-term validity, depending on the investment.
Cost:
- The cost depends on the sector and size of the investment, but typically, an initial investment of SAR 1,000,000 (around USD 267,000) is required to qualify for certain business or real estate opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Saudi Arabia’s visa system has diversified significantly to cater to tourists, professionals, students, and investors. Each visa category comes with specific purposes, eligibility criteria, and fees. Knowing the associated costs will help you plan your stay or residency in Saudi Arabia more effectively. Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or seeking long-term residency, understanding these options and their associated fees is vital.
For further information, visit viza.pk for the latest updates, guidelines, and tips on securing the correct visa for Saudi Arabia.
