Welcome to this blog dedicated to providing comprehensive information about the visa requirements for Indians traveling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Saudi Arabia is a captivating nation that boasts a wealth of cultural heritage and a storied past. If you have plans to visit this remarkable country, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the visa process specifically designed for Indian nationals. In this blog, we will delve into the details of obtaining a Saudi Arabia visa for Indians, ensuring that you are well-prepared for your journey. Without further ado, let's delve into the intricacies of the Saudi Arabia visa application process for Indian citizens.

Do Indians Need A Visa For Saudi Arabia?

Travelers holding an Indian passport who plan to visit Saudi Arabia are required to obtain a visa prior to their trip. It is important to note that India is not among the visa-exempt countries, which means having a valid visa is a mandatory requirement.

A Saudi visa is an official document that grants entry permission to the country. Without a valid visa, you will not be allowed to board your flight to Saudi Arabia.

If, by any chance, you manage to arrive in Saudi Arabia without a valid visa, the immigration officers will deny you entry. Consequently, you will be deported back to India and will need to apply for the appropriate visa from there.

Furthermore, it's crucial to be aware that being deported can have implications on your future visa applications for Saudi Arabia from India.

Visa on Arrival in Saudi Arabia: Is it Available?

Please note that not all Indian citizens are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia.

To be eligible for a Saudi Arabia visa on arrival, Indian citizens must meet the following criteria:

• Possess a valid visa for the USA, United Kingdom, or a Schengen country.
• The visa must be valid at the time of arrival in Saudi Arabia.
• It should be a tourist or business visa issued by the mentioned countries.
• The visa must have been utilized or used to enter the issuing country at least once.
• Have an entry stamp from the issuing country in their passport.
• Arrive in Saudi Arabia on a national air carrier such as Flyadeal, Saudia, Flynas, or SaudiGulf.
• Possess an international credit card or MADA to pay the visa fees.

Please note that meeting these eligibility criteria does not guarantee a visa on arrival. It is advisable to check with the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information and to ensure compliance with all requirements before traveling.

Saudi Arabia Visa Requirements For Indians

When applying for a visa at the Saudi Arabian Embassy, it's important to be aware of their stringent regulations and procedures.

The Saudi Arabian Embassy maintains a strict policy regarding visa issuance, and as such, it is crucial to ensure that all required documents are complete and accurate.

Failure to submit any necessary documents or providing incorrect information in your visa application may lead to the rejection of your application. Therefore, it is imperative to meticulously review all the requirements and double-check the accuracy of your application to avoid any potential setbacks.

Documents Needed for a Saudi Arabia Visa Application for Indian Citizens

To apply for a Saudi visit visa as an Indian citizen in 2023, certain requirements must be fulfilled. Please find below the revised content:

In order to be eligible for a Saudi visit visa for Indian citizens in 2023, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

Applicants are required to provide the following documents when submitting their visa application:

• Valid Passport: A passport with a validity of at least six months beyond the intended stay in Saudi Arabia.
• Passport-size Photographs: Two recent passport-size photographs, adhering to the specified guidelines.
• Visa Application Form: A completed visa application form, providing all necessary details.
• Personal Information: Submission of personal details, including address, phone number, and email address.
• Return Flight Ticket: A copy of the return flight ticket demonstrating the intention to leave Saudi Arabia after the visit.
• Accommodation Proof: Documentation validating the accommodation arrangements in Saudi Arabia, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.
• Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient financial resources, typically in the form of bank statements, to cover the expenses during the visit.
• Employment Proof: Proof of employment, such as recent pay slips or a letter from the employer, indicating the applicant's current employment status.
• Travel Insurance: Proof of valid travel insurance that provides coverage for the duration of the visit, including medical emergencies and repatriation.
• Invitation Letter or Cover Letter (if applicable): In certain cases, applicants may be required to provide an invitation letter from a Saudi host or a cover letter explaining the purpose and nature of the visit.

Passport Requirements for Indian Citizens Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa

To apply for a Saudi visit visa as an Indian citizen, it is important to ensure that your passport meets the following entry requirements for Saudi Arabia visa:

• Validity: Your passport should have a minimum validity of six months from the date of your visa application. It is crucial to check the expiration date of your passport and ensure that it meets this requirement.
• Blank Pages: Your passport must have at least two blank pages available for visa stamps. These pages should be consecutive and facing each other to accommodate the visa and any other necessary endorsements.
• Validity upon Entry: In addition to the initial validity requirement, your passport must still be valid for a minimum of six months at the time of entering Saudi Arabia. This means that the expiration date of your passport should not fall within six months from your intended arrival date in Saudi Arabia.

Ensuring that your passport meets these requirements is essential to avoid any issues or delays during the Saudi visit visa application process and your subsequent entry into Saudi Arabia.

Financial Requirements for Indian Citizens Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not provided specific information regarding the cost of tourist visas for Indians. Nevertheless, it is necessary to submit bank statements that have been officially sealed or stamped by the bank. These statements should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses or those of your family members if you are sponsoring them.

Requirements for Minors Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa as Indian Citizens

To apply for a visa, individuals must be Indian citizens aged 18 or above. However, in the case of minors, their parents or guardians must apply on their behalf.

The following documents are required for the visa application process:

• Certified letter of consent from BOTH parents: If the minor is traveling alone, both parents must provide a certified letter of consent, granting permission for the minor to travel.
• Certified letter of consent from the other parent: If the minor is traveling with only one parent, the accompanying parent must provide a certified letter of consent from the other parent, authorizing the minor to travel.
• Copy of the unabridged birth certificate: A copy of the unabridged birth certificate must be included with the visa application.
• Unabridged birth certificate during travel: It is mandatory for the minor to carry their unabridged birth certificate when traveling.

Please ensure that you have all the necessary documents mentioned above before applying for a visa.

Photo Requirements for Indian Citizens Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa

Please ensure that your passport-sized photographs meet the following requirements when applying for a Saudi visit visa for Indians:

• You are required to submit a minimum of TWO passport-size photographs.
• The photographs should have a white background.
• The Saudi Arabia visa photo size must be 2 inches x 2 inches (5cm x 5cm).
• Your full face should be visible in the photograph, with your eyes clearly visible as well.
• The photographs should be attached or loosely stapled to the completed visa application form.

Obtaining a Saudi eVisa for Indian Citizens: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Visit the official website

Go to the official website for the Saudi Arabia eVisa application process. Make sure you are on the correct website, as there may be fraudulent websites claiming to offer visa services.

Step 2: Create an account

Create an account on the website by providing your personal details, such as your name, email address, and password. Make sure to double-check the accuracy of the information you enter.

Step 3: Fill in the application form

Once you have created an account, fill in the online Saudi Arabia eVisa application form. Provide all the required information accurately, including your passport details, purpose of visit, duration of stay, and accommodation details.

Step 4: Upload required documents

Upload the necessary documents as per the instructions provided. These may include a scanned copy of your passport-sized photographs.

Step 5: Pay the visa fee

Proceed to make the payment for the  Saudi Arabia visa fee. The payment methods may vary, so ensure you have a valid payment option. Remember to keep a copy of the payment receipt for future reference.

Step 6: Submit the application

Review all the information provided in the application form and attached documents. Once you are certain everything is accurate, submit your application. Note that the application cannot be modified once submitted, so review it carefully.

Step 7: Wait for processing

After submission, your application will enter the processing stage. The Saudi authorities will review your application and make a decision. The processing time may vary, so it's advisable to submit your application well in advance of your intended travel dates.

Step 8: Receive the eVisa

Once your application is approved, you will receive your Saudi eVisa via email. Make sure to print a copy of the eVisa and keep it with your travel documents. The eVisa will be electronically linked to your passport.

Step 9: Travel to Saudi Arabia

When traveling to Saudi Arabia, ensure you have your original passport with the eVisa attached, along with any other required documents. Present them to the immigration authorities upon arrival for verification.

Applying for a Saudi Visit Visa for Indian Citizens: A Comprehensive Process

If you are planning to apply for a Saudi visa on your own, there are only two options available to you, unless you have a friend or family member in Saudi Arabia who can apply for the visa on your behalf through the online system.

If you choose to apply for your visa through a registered travel agent, here are the steps you need to follow:

STEP 1: Gather the Required Documents

Start by gathering all the necessary documents for your visa application. It is crucial to ensure that all the documents are accurate and complete, as incorrect or incomplete information may result in your application being denied. The Embassy of Saudi Arabia maintains strict standards when granting visas.

STEP 2: Complete the Visa Application Form

Once you have all the required documents, fill out the Saudi visa application form. You can either complete the form with a pen or use an application such as Adobe to fill it out electronically and then print it.

Here is what the visa application form looks like:

STEP 3: Find a Registered Travel Agent

With your documents and application form ready, it's time to find a registered travel agent in India who can apply for the visa on your behalf. Make sure to choose a reputable and reliable travel agent to handle your application.

STEP 4: Submit and Pay for the Visa Application

It is important to note that the visa application should be submitted through a visa agent and not directly at the embassy. Your chosen travel agent will handle the submission process for you. Additionally, you will need to pay the relevant visa fees for Saudi Arabia, which are generally included in the service fees charged by the travel agent.

STEP 5: Await the Visa Process

Once your visa application has been submitted by the travel agent, it will be sent to the Embassy in New Delhi or the consulate in Mumbai. The processing time for the visa can vary from 3 days to 3 weeks, depending on the quality of your application and the efficiency of the travel agent.

STEP 6: Receive Your Saudi Arabia Visa

Congratulations! If your visa application is approved, your travel agent will return your passport to you with a valid Saudi Arabia visa. Ensure that you carefully review the visa details and validity period before making any travel arrangements.

Please note that if you have a family member who is a resident or citizen of Saudi Arabia, they can apply for your visa through the online MOFA portal. However, this type of application requires approval from the Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia before the visa is granted.

Applying for a Saudi Arabia Visa: Embassy Procedures and Requirements

Unfortunately, it is not possible for Indian citizens to directly apply for a Saudi Arabia visa at the Embassy. The process requires individuals to go through authorized visa agents who handle the application on their behalf.

Checking Saudi Arabia Visa Status: A Step-by-Step Guide

Unfortunately, Indian citizens are currently unable to apply for a Saudi eVisa, which means there is no option to perform a Saudi visa check online. However, if someone, such as a citizen or resident, has applied for a visa on your behalf through the MOFA platform, they can check the status of the visa application online. To check the visa status, they need to follow these steps:

• Visit the MOFA platform.
• On the homepage, locate the section titled "Query: Inquiry for applied requests."
• Provide the necessary details for the inquiry, including the Inquiry type, Application Number, ID Number, and Captcha.
• Click on the "Search" button to retrieve the visa status information.

By following these steps, individuals who have applied for a visa on your behalf can track the progress of the application and obtain the latest visa status updates.

To access the desired information, please follow these steps:

• Open your web browser and navigate to the MOFA platform website.
• Once on the homepage, locate and click on the "Login" button.
• From the available login options, select "Individual login."
• Enter your account credentials, including your username and password, in the provided fields.
• After providing the required account information, click on the login button to proceed.
• Once successfully logged in, you will gain access to your account dashboard.
• Look for the option or tab labeled "Visa Status" and click on it.
• On the visa status page, you will be able to view the current status of your visa.

By following these steps, you will be able to easily access and check the status of your visa on the MOFA platform.

An Overview Of The Saudi Arabia Visa For Indians

Before delving into the details of the Saudi tourist visa application process, let's briefly explore a few other important aspects:

Saudi Arabia Visa Options for Indian Citizens

When it comes to visiting Saudi Arabia, Indians have various visa options depending on the purpose of their trip. The type of Saudi visa they can apply for determines the duration of their stay and the activities they are allowed to engage in.

Here are the different types of Saudi visas available for Indians:

• Saudi Business Visit Visa: This visa allows individuals to visit the country for short-term business trips. However, it does not permit them to work during their stay.
• Saudi Educational Visa: Designed for those seeking educational opportunities in Saudi Arabia, this visa allows individuals to pursue courses or study at educational institutions within the country.
• Saudi Family Visit Visa: This visa is suitable for individuals who wish to stay in Saudi Arabia with their family members for an extended period. It enables them to spend quality time with their loved ones.
• Saudi Hajj Visa: Specifically for the purpose of performing the Hajj pilgrimage, this visa allows individuals to visit Saudi Arabia during the holy pilgrimage season.
• Saudi Medical Visa: Intended for medical or treatment purposes, this visa allows individuals to travel to Saudi Arabia to receive medical care or undergo treatments.
• Saudi Resident Visa: This visa grants individuals the opportunity to establish permanent residence in Saudi Arabia. It is suitable for those who plan to live in the country long term.
• Saudi Tourism Visit Visa: This visa is exclusively for tourism purposes, enabling individuals to explore and experience the cultural and historical treasures of Saudi Arabia.
• Saudi Transit Visa: If your layover in Saudi Arabia is longer than 12 hours, you can apply for a transit visa, which allows you to pass through the airport and explore the country during your stopover.
• Saudi Umrah Visa: This visa is designed for those who wish to visit Saudi Arabia specifically for the Umrah pilgrimage, which can be performed at any time of the year.
• Saudi Visit Visa: This short-term visa allows individuals to visit friends and family in Saudi Arabia. It can be applied for online through the MOFA portal by a sponsor residing in the country.

While there are various visa types available, this blog will focus on the Saudi visit visa for Indians, which is suitable for tourism and short visits.

Availability of Saudi eVisa for Indian Nationals

Unfortunately, India is currently not included in the list of eligible countries for obtaining a Saudi eVisa. As a result, Indian citizens are required to apply for a visa through the Saudi Arabian embassy.

Saudi Arabia Visa Fees for Indian Applicants

The visa fees for Indian citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia vary depending on the type of visa. These fees are to be paid to authorized and registered visa agents in India. It's important to note that visa fees should not be paid directly to the Embassy.

Here are the different visa fees for Indian citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia:

• Consulate Visa: SAR 300
• VIP Business Visa: SAR 1000
• Business Visa Multiple Entry: SAR 500
• Business Visa Single Entry: SAR 200
• Work, Residency, Transit, and Student Visa: SAR 50
• Government, Hajj, and Umrah Visa: Free of Cost
• Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival for Indians: SAR 480
• Saudi Insurance: SAR 140

The visa application fees paid to the visa agents include the Saudi Arabia visa fees for Indian citizens. It's important to keep in mind that these fees are non-refundable.

Processing Time for Saudi Arabia Visa for Indian Citizens

The processing time for Saudi tourist visas for Indian citizens typically ranges from 3 to 5 days. However, it's important to note that each visa application is unique, and in some cases, the processing time may extend up to 3 weeks.

Moreover, the visa application procedure involves working with authorized travel agents, which can add a few extra days to the overall processing time. To ensure a smooth experience, I highly recommend planning ahead and initiating your visa application at least one month prior to your intended travel date. This will allow for any unforeseen delays and provide ample time for the application to be processed successfully.

Validity of Saudi Arabia Visa for Indian Nationals

The validity of the Saudi tourist visa depends on the specific type of visit permit you have applied for.

In the case of a single entry Saudi visit visa for Indian citizens, the validity is typically 90 days. This means that once the visa is issued, you have 90 days to enter the country. Once you enter, you are allowed to stay in Saudi Arabia for a period of 30 days.

On the other hand, a multiple entry visa provides a longer validity period of 365 days. With this visa, you can enter and exit Saudi Arabia multiple times within the one-year period. Each time you enter, you are permitted to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change, so it is advisable to consult the official Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding visa validity and requirements.

Challenges in Obtaining a Saudi Visa from India

Not all visa applications are straightforward, and encountering obstacles along the way is not uncommon.

However, certain issues can significantly impede the progress of your visa application or even result in rejection. Let's explore some of the typical problems:

• Ineligibility for the visa types you are applying for.
• Inadequate or incorrect passport-sized photographs.
• Possession of a criminal record in India, which may lead to visa rejection.
• Previous denial of entry into Saudi Arabia.
• Insufficient funds to cover the expenses of your trip.
• Incomplete or incorrectly filled out visa application form.
• Failure to provide all the required supporting documents.
• Unclear purpose of your visit to the KSA embassy.
• Failure to submit acceptable documents for a minor.
• Previous travel history to Israel.
• Presence of an Israeli stamp on your passport.

I hope these revised explanations clarify the potential issues that could arise during the visa application process.

Arrival Procedures and Guidelines in Saudi Arabia

Once you have obtained your visa and are preparing to travel to Saudi Arabia, it's important to be aware of the following requirements and expectations:

• Valid Visa: Ensure that you possess a valid visa that permits entry into the country.
• Passport Validity: Check that your passport has a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of your intended departure.
• Travel Insurance: It is essential to have valid travel insurance that provides coverage during your stay in Saudi Arabia.
• Travel Itinerary: Don't forget to organize and keep a copy of your travel itinerary, including details of your accommodation, transportation, and any planned activities.
• Minors' Consent: If you are traveling with minors, make sure to have a certified letter of consent from their legal guardians, granting permission for their entry into the country.
• Visa Checks by Flight Crew: Prior to boarding your flight, the flight crew will conduct checks to verify your Saudi visa.
• Visa Not a Guarantee: It's important to note that holding a Saudi visa for Indians does not guarantee automatic entry into the country.
• Immigration Checkpoint: Upon arrival, Saudi immigration officers will examine your visa and passport to ensure their validity at the checkpoint.
• Right to Deny Entry: Keep in mind that the immigration officers have the authority to deny your entry into the country, even if you possess a valid visa and passport.
• Passport Stamping: Once your passport is stamped, you will be allowed to enter the country and proceed with your travel plans.

By being well-prepared and adhering to these guidelines, you can increase the likelihood of a smooth and hassle-free entry into Saudi Arabia.

Important Saudi Arabian Laws to Note

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during your visit to a foreign country, it is crucial to adhere to the local regulations and customs. Therefore, I have compiled a set of guidelines for you to keep in mind: 

• Respectful Conduct:

• Refrain from consuming alcohol in public areas or displaying signs of intoxication.
• Avoid engaging in any form of drug use or possession.
• Dress modestly and appropriately when in public spaces, adhering to local norms.

• Public Behavior:

• Exercise discretion and refrain from displaying excessive affection in public.
• Seek permission before taking photographs of individuals, including women, children, government officials, and notable landmarks.

• Compliance with Customs:

• Ensure that you do not bring any items that are considered inappropriate or illegal according to the customs regulations of the country you are visiting.
• During the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public areas between sunrise and sunset.

• Cultural Sensitivity:

• Avoid making derogatory remarks or engaging in any form of criticism against the Saudi Royal family, local laws, customs, or religion.
• LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution and be aware that same-sex relations are not permitted in the country.

• Visa and Legal Matters:

• Adhere to the stipulated duration of your visa and avoid overstaying.
• Refrain from participating in activities that contravene the guidelines set by your visa.

• Currency Declaration:

• If you are carrying or transporting an amount exceeding SAR 60000, it is essential to declare it upon arrival or departure from Saudi Arabia.

• Personal Identification:

• Always keep your passport or ID document with you in case of emergencies or official inquiries.

• Familiarity with Local Laws:

• Be mindful of the Sharia Law, which governs various aspects of life in the country you are visiting.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a positive and respectful experience while visiting a foreign country. It is always recommended to conduct additional research and seek advice from local authorities or reliable sources to stay informed about any specific rules or regulations pertaining to your destination.

FAQ

Do Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia. A visa is mandatory for various purposes such as tourism, business, work, or religious visits.

Is tourist visa open for Indians in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Saudi Arabia is open for travel from India.

Do Indian citizens need a sponsor to apply for a Saudi tourist visa?

No, Indian citizens do not need a sponsor when applying for a Saudi Arabia tourist visa in India.

Do Indian citizens need a sponsor to apply for a Saudi visit visa?

Yes, for a family/personal visit visa, you need a sponsor in Saudi Arabia. If you have friends or family members who wish to invite you, they can sponsor you and apply for your visit visa online on the MOFA platform.

Can Indian citizens extend a Saudi visa?

Yes, Indian citizens can extend their Saudi visit visa on the Online Platform. However, this is only possible for a family visit visa.

What happens if I overstay my Saudi tourist visa validity?

The duration of stay for Saudi Arabian visa holders depends on the visa type, purpose of visit, and validity of their visa. If you overstay your visa, you will need to pay overstay fees of SAR 100 for each day you overstayed. In extreme cases, you could be penalized, jailed, deported, and never allowed into the country.

What if my Saudi tourist visa is denied?

If your Saudi visa application is denied in India, you can go through the process and pay the visa fees again. However, this does not guarantee visa approval.

Why would my visa for Saudi Arabia be denied?

There are several reasons why a visa can be denied, such as incomplete or false documents, incompetently or inaccurately filled out visa application form, insufficient funds, criminal record, previous visa denials, Israeli stamp on your passport, or unclear purpose of visit. You should check the blog or relevant sources to find out the reasons for rejection.

Do I need a flight ticket to apply for a Saudi tourist visa?

You will need a return flight ticket if you are applying for a Saudi tourist visa as an Indian citizen.

How long can Indian citizens stay in Saudi Arabia?

Indian citizens can only stay in Saudi Arabia for the validity of their visa. A Saudi visa for Indians is generally valid for a single entry or multiple entries, allowing them to stay for 30 or 90 days, respectively.

Can Indians get a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia?

Indian citizens who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia at the port of entry.

What if I am visiting a friend in Saudi Arabia?

If you are visiting a friend in Saudi Arabia, they can provide you with an invitation letter along with a copy of their ID or visa. If they cover any costs, they must also provide you with bank statements showing proof of sufficient funds.

What can I use my Saudi visa for?

You can use your Saudi visa for tourism purposes or to visit friends or family residing in the country. You can also use the visa for Umrah, but it cannot be used for Hajj, and you must apply for a relevant visa.

When should I apply for a Saudi visa as an Indian citizen?

The visa process can take up to 3 weeks in certain cases, so it is advisable to apply for your visa 30 days in advance.

Can Indians apply for a Saudi eVisa online?

No, only 49 countries are eligible to apply for a Saudi eVisa, and India is not on this list. Indian citizens would have to apply in India at the Embassy of Saudi Arabia.

Can Indians apply for a Saudi visa on arrival?

Yes, there is a Saudi visa on arrival available for Indians. Indian citizens can apply for a Saudi visa on arrival upon reaching the international airport in Saudi Arabia. However, certain requirements must be met, and the visa fees must be paid using an international credit card or MADA card.

What are the COVID-19 entry requirements for Saudi Arabia?

As of now, Saudi Arabia has lifted all COVID-19-related rules, which means that the mask mandate is no longer in place, proof of vaccination is not required, and a negative COVID-19 test result is not needed for entry. However, registering on the Arrival Form on the Muqeem Portal is still optional. It's important to note that COVID-19 rules can change at any time, so staying up to date with the requirements is crucial. Additionally, checking with the airlines for any specific regulations before boarding your flight is recommended.

Do Indians require a transit visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, the Saudi transit visa allows individuals to pass through the Kingdom and is applicable for short stays of over 12 hours, providing transit visas.

Can I transit through Saudi Arabia without a visa?

Yes, you can transit through Saudi Arabia without a visa if you meet certain conditions. Saudi Arabia offers a visa-free transit facility for passengers who have a valid onward ticket, a layover of less than 12 hours, and remain within the designated transit area of the airport.