US citizens are not explicitly prohibited from traveling to Saudi Arabia, but it is difficult for non-Muslim Americans to visit the Kingdom, at least until the shelved tourist visa is resurrected post-Covid. The Bottom Line Do you need a Saudi Arabia transit visa? Probably not, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared just in case.
Can a US citizen travel to Saudi Arabia?
Since the United States and Saudi Arabia are strategic allies, United States citizens are welcome to visit the country. You need to apply for a visa and pay a small fee. The visa is valid for a year and you can enter the country several times.
Do you need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
You need to apply for a visa and pay a small fee. The visa is valid for a year and you can enter the country several times. Visitors can stay in Saudi Arabia for up to three months, which is plenty of time to fully explore everything that Saudi Arabia has to offer.
Is a Saudi Arabia e-visa available for US passport holders?
Unfortunately, only the citizens of 35 countries will have access to a Saudi Arabia e-visa when it goes live in a few weeks. The United States is among them, which means that a Saudi Arabia e-visa for US passport holders will be available soon. That is easier than you think. You can use the services provided by iVisa.
What are the exit requirements for a US citizen in Saudi Arabia?
Most U.S. citizens who are in Saudi Arabia on visit visas (business or family visit) will not have additional exit requirements but must depart the Kingdom before the expiration of their authorized period of stay.
Can a US citizen travel to Saudi Arabia right now?
Saudi Arabia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian facilities. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism.
How much is visa from USA to Saudi Arabia?
Visa fees (SAR 300) and insurance (SAR 140). The amount in SAR is equivalent to $123 dollars. The visa is valid for up to one full year (365 days) with a maximum 90-day duration of stay at one time and multiple entries.
Can I get tourist visa for Saudi Arabia at the airport?
Visitors to Saudi Arabia can obtain a VOA at any point of entry. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, visa on arrival applicants must go straight to immigration to start the process.
Who can enter Saudi Arabia without visa?
Nationals of the following five countries do not require a visa to visit Saudi Arabia and may use national ID Cards to enter the country:Bahrain.Kuwait.Oman.Qatar.United Arab Emirates.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia?
Tourist can apply for Visa on Arrival* at one of Saudi Arabia's entry points if any of the following conditions apply: The tourist is from one of the countries in the eligible countries list. The tourist is holding USA, United Kingdom, or Schengen visas.
How can I get Saudi visa from USA?
To apply for the Saudi eVisa, US citizens will need: US passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the expected arrival date in Saudi Arabia. Recent photograph of the traveler, passport-style, that meets the Saudi visa photo requirements. Valid credit or debit card details to pay the mandatory processing fee.
Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia as an American?
Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian facilities. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
How long does it take to get a Saudi eVisa?
1-2 business daysThe Saudi Arabia eVisa is usually approved within 1-2 business days. It can occasionally take longer during busy travel times, so US passport holders should ensure they leave plenty of time to apply prior to travel.
Who are eligible for Saudi visit visa?
Only a legal Saudi resident or citizen who is an Iqama holder can apply for the MoFA family visit visa on behalf of the visitor. For this, the Iqama should be valid for at least 4 months. The Iqama holder has to initiate the MOFA family visit visa application process in Saudi Arabia.
How can a tourist enter Saudi Arabia?
Planning your trip?Visa On Arrival. You can get a 12-month tourism visa on arrival in Saudi without needing to apply in advance. ... eVisa. You can apply for eVisa if you are from one of the below countries: ... Visa Through Embassy. If you do not meet the other requirements, then get your visa through your nearest Saudi embassy.
How long does it take to get a Saudi visa?
Standard processing – your visa application is processed within 5 days, and the price is USD 171.49 (service fees included). Rush processing – you will receive your visa within 3 days, and the total price of it is USD 233.99 (service fees included). Super rush processing – this is the fastest option.
How much is a family visa to Saudi Arabia?
One time entry visa for family visitors who are just entering the kingdom of Saudi Arabia are to pay a family visa fee of 2000 Saudi Riyals (about $534). This amount covers the cost of visa application procedure but there other charges which will add up to make a total of SR4,000 (about $1067).
Can I travel to Saudi Arabia from the United States?
Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saudi Arabia.
Can I travel to Saudi Arabia if I am vaccinated?
Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Saudi Arabia without restrictions.
Can I travel to Saudi Arabia without being vaccinated?
Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Saudi Arabia without restrictions.
Do I need a COVID test to enter Saudi Arabia?
Travelers from the United States are not required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result.
Can I travel to Saudi Arabia without quarantine?
Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.
Do I need to wear a mask in Saudi Arabia?
Mask usage in Saudi Arabia is required in enclosed environments.
Are the restaurants and bars open in Saudi Arabia?
Restaurants in Saudi Arabia are open with restrictions. Bars in Saudi Arabia are open with restrictions.
How to apply for an e-visa to Saudi Arabia using our service?
E-visa application to Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes is an undemanding process. Especially while using our service to do that!
Can US citizens travel to Saudi Arabia?
The United States citizens are now eligible to travel to Saudi Arabia, thanks to the changes made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia on September 27th of 2019. The ministry introduced the modifications not so long ago; thus, there is so much to experience in Saudi Arabia.
How long can I stay in Saudi Arabia?
The visa is valid for a year and you can enter the country several times. Visitors can stay in Saudi Arabia for up to three months, which is plenty of time to fully explore everything that Saudi Arabia has to offer.
Why wear a money belt in Saudi Arabia?
Wear a money belt to avoid pickpockets. Don’t appear lost or confused while out on the streets. Violent crime is not much of an issue in Saudi Arabia, even in the larger cities. Strict penalties deter criminal behavior and keep the streets largely safe for tourists.
Is Saudi Arabia promoting tourism?
Since Saudi Arabia is promoting tourism, you are far less likely to encounter nefarious elements than you would be in other parts of the world. While some Saudis certainly don’t like Americans or agree with American policy, people from the United States are not routinely targeted in the kingdom.
Do Saudi women drive?
Women do have the ability to drive in Saudi Arabia now, and foreign women are often held to a different standard than local women. Still, there are some things to be aware of.
Is Saudi Arabia safe to travel to?
Saudi Arabia is a fascinating country that is totally safe to visit for anyone.
Do you need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
The short answer is yes, but you need a visa. The travel to Saudi Arabia requirements are substantially less strict than they were in the past and the Saudi Arabia visa requirements for us citizens are fairly relaxed. Since the United States and Saudi Arabia are strategic allies, United States citizens are welcome to visit the country.
Can women swim in Saudi Arabia?
Some of Saudi Arabia’s private beaches even allow women to bask in the sun while wearing fashionable swimwear.
How to apply for a Saudi visa?
Applying for a visa to Saudi Arabia for US citizens has never been easier. The process is quick, transparent, and straightforward. You can do it in these 4 simple steps: 1 Download the Saudi Arabia application form online. You can get help from a travel agency or do it from home. Be sure to fill in and complete all the required details, some of which we have indicated in the requirements section above. That should take you less than an hour. 2 Submit the needed payment. Note that your application charge will include the costs of obligatory medical insurance for all American travelers. The insurance covers medical and other possible emergencies when you are already in Saudi Arabia. 3 Wait for the Saudi Arabian electronic visa (eVisa) to be processed and approved. That process takes 1 to 3 business days. Some applications may take longer, so you need to be patient. 4 Once the eVisa is approved, it will be sent to your personal email, from where you will print it. This is the copy you will produce at your Saudi Arabia port of entry in order to be granted access to the country.
How long does it take to get a Saudi visa?
Wait for the Saudi Arabian electronic visa (eVisa) to be processed and approved. That process takes 1 to 3 business days. Some applications may take longer, so you need to be patient. Once the eVisa is approved, it will be sent to your personal email, from where you will print it.
How long does a US passport last?
Some of these include: A valid US passport. Your passport needs to have three more months of validity after your visa expires. Your visa will expire after 3 months so, primarily, the passport has to be valid for at least 6 months from the day your visa is approved. Proof of meningitis vaccination.
How to get a Saudi itinerary?
Proof of travel. Obtain a computer-generated itinerary from an authorized travel agency, an e-confirmation tool, or an approved online booking platform. The itinerary must clearly indicate your departure date and time (from the US), arrival date at your selected Saudi port of entry, and departure date back to the US.
How to dress in Saudi Arabia?
It is important that you maintain the high moral standards set by the locals when visiting Saudi Arabia. Dress conservatively if you are a woman; at least cover your shoulders and knees when touring public places. Also, don’t bring alcohol, display affection in public, or use profane language or gestures.
How to send photos to a visa?
For those applying online, submit the photos via email- in PDF format. Note that when your application is approved, your visa will be sent to the e-mail address you used to send the photograph and other required documents. You have to make sure that the e-mail address you use is yours and that you have access to it at all times.
Can US citizens travel to Saudi Arabia?
Any holder of a US passport is eligible for a Saudi Arabia visa provided that he/she meets all the other application requirements. We shall be looking at these requirements later in this article. But first, which places within Saudi Arabia are US citizens allowed to visit? Well, not unless you are a Muslim, you will not be allowed access to the cities of Mecca, Medina, or any other holy site. The closest you can get to Mecca if you are a non-Muslim is Historic Jeddah, the city that locals fondly refer to as “the Gate to Mecca”. You are, however, free to visit the kingdom’s Unesco world heritage sites such as Al-Ahsa Oasis, the Mada’in Saleh in Al-Ula, the Hail Region, and At-Turaif District in Ad-Diriyah.
How long do you have to quarantine in Saudi Arabia?
Quarantine requirements. Visitors from the United States will need to quarantine for 7 days upon entering Saudi Arabia. Details and exceptions. Travelers are required to complete a 7-day institutional quarantine at their own expense at the institutional quarantine facilities. Saudi Arabians and their family members, diplomats, ...
How many PCR tests are required for Saudi Arabia?
Upon entry to Saudi Arabia, all travelers, including Saudi Arabians (except children who are 8 years old and below) are required to undergo two (2) PCR tests. The first test must be taken within 24 hours on arrival and the second test must be on the 7th day from the date of entry to the country.
How long do you have to take a RT-PCR test in Saudi Arabia?
Visitors from the United States must present a negative RT-PCR (NAAT) test taken 72 hours before departing to Saudi Arabia. Details and exceptions. All travelers, including diplomats and their family members must present a negative PCR test taken 72 hours prior to departure to the country. Saudi Arabians and children who are 8 years old ...
Does Saudi Arabia require medical insurance?
All travelers going to Saudi Arabia, except Saudi Arabians, residents and GCC citizens (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman) are required to have a medical insurance that covers treatment and 14-day quarantine for COVID-19 disease.
Is Saudi Arabia suspended?
The suspension is also applicable to travellers who have visited or transited any of the listed countries 14 days prior to entering Saudi Arabia. Health workers, diplomats and Saudi nationals, and their families are exempt from the suspension.
Do you have to quarantine after coming from Saudi Arabia?
Visitors returning from Saudi Arabia are not required to quarantine upon entering the United States. Fully vaccinated visitors with approved vaccination certificates do not need to quarantine. Details and exceptions. Travelers are recommended to quarantine between 7-10 days after arrival in the US.
How long can you travel to Saudi Arabia?
Visitors carrying an eVisa can enter Saudi Arabia for a maximum of 90 days in Total with Multiple Entry.
Why is Saudi Arabia releasing electronic visas?
As a result of a drop in oil prices, Saudi Arabia has to think of another way to bring revenue. That is when they thought of enhancing tourism by means of releasing electronic visas. It is an option that encourages more people to visit Saudi Arabia without going through the hassle of a consular visa.
What is an evisa in Saudi Arabia?
The Saudi Arabia eVisa is an official document that grants the right to enter multiple times to Saudi Arabia. There is no need to make an appointment or present original documents to the Embassy or Consular Office.
How long does it take to get a visa for a rush?
Rush processing – you will receive your visa within 3 days, and the total price of it is USD 198.00 (service fees included).
What are the concerns about electronic visas?
One of the common concerns about electronic visas is the cost . With iVisa, applicants have three available options when it comes to processing time and this will determine the price. The three options are:
Does ivisa accept credit cards?
Means of payment – iVisa accepts multiple methods of payment such as credit and debit cards or Paypal. Do not forget to double-check the spelling before submitting your application.
Can I change my Saudi Arabia evisa number?
Your Saudi Arabia eVisa is linked to your passport number, if we already submitted your application, then you can NOT make any changes and you will have to apply again but we will NOT charge you another service fee.
Which countries are still banned from traveling to Saudi Arabia?
Travel directly from the following nine countries to Saudi Arabia continues to be suspended: Argentina, Indonesia, Pakistan, Brazil, Turkey, South Africa, Lebanon, Egypt, and India. Those that do qualify for an exemption to the ban are still subject to quarantine and testing rules.
What level of travel advisory is Saudi Arabia?
On April 21, 2021, the U.S. Department of State elevated its travel advisory for Saudi Arabia from Level 3: Reconsider Travel, to Level 4: Do Not Travel. For more information visit state.gov
How long is Saudi quarantine?
Non-immune travelers in this category must comply with a home quarantine for a period of 7 days and may end the quarantine with a negative PCR test on the 6 th day of quarantine;
What is the fine for not wearing a mask in Saudi Arabia?
Those who fail to comply are subject to a fine of 10,000 Saudi riyals (SAR).
What is the phone number for Saudi Arabia?
For tourist visa related questions, those inside the Kingdom can dial 930, or call +966 920 000 890 to speak to a Saudi official. Outside the Kingdom, inquirers can contact the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.
When will Saudi Arabia resume flights?
The Saudi Ministry of Interior authorized international passenger flights to resume, and land and seaports to return to normal operations on May 17, 2021. As of May 17, Saudi citizens may resume travel outside of the Kingdom if they meet vaccination and/or insurance requirements; more information available here.
When will Saudi travel resume?
The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced that travel directly from eleven previously restricted countries, including the United States, will resume as of May 30, 2021, but travelers must follow existing entry requirements. These countries are the United States, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, ...
How much does it cost to get a transit visa for Saudi Arabia?
Indeed, I can extend this general advice: For many travelers, the $30 you need to pay for a Saudi transit visa pales in comparison to the time and money you’ll be out if you actually required one but didn’t get it. To learn about the process of getting a transit visa to Saudi Arabia, visit the website of your nearest Saudi diplomatic mission, and follow the instructions you find there (or, if you have to call, do what the receptionist tells you).
Can non-Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia?
In 2019, the government of Saudi Arabia began issu ing tourist visas to non-Muslims for the first time in modern history. These documents are relatively restrict (as is the case if you visit Iran, you’ll need to travel the entire time with a licensed tour guide), but they nonetheless open the Kingdom up to you (minus Mecca, naturally), which can be an illuminating experience indeed, especially if you haven’t traveled extensively in the Middle East.
Can I travel to Saudi Arabia on a transit visa?
However, this is not official policy, so I do recommend procuring a Saudi Arabia transit visa if your connection will exceed 12 hours, even if all your travel is on Saudia.
Do I need a transit visa to fly through Saudi Arabia?
The good news? Not everyone needs a Saudi Arabia transit visa if they plan to fly through Riyadh or Jeddah on their next trip. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that the vast majority of travelers don’t need a transit visa, so long as they book strategically and do their homework before travel.
Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
If you not a national of one of the few countries that do not require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, chances are high that you need a transit visa, depending (of course) on other facts. Namely, if you are not from Arab Muslim countries such as the UAE or Oman, it is almost certain that you need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia as a tourist, although this might not be the case during certain transit-only stays.
Is Saudi Arabia safe?
Saudi Arabia is an extremely safe country, so long as you follow its notoriously strict laws. While violent crime levels in Saudi Arabia are very low, you can put yourself in grave danger by drinking alcohol or engaging in content perceived to be immoral, or in opposition to Shariah law.
Is Saudi Arabia open to tourists?
Saudi Arabia briefly opened to tourists before the coronavirus pandemic, but has since closed its borders to most foreign visitors, regardless of the reason for travel. It is likely that Saudi Arabia will resume its tourism push after Covid-19 goes away, although no one knows when that will be.
How to apply for an e-visa?
To apply for an e-Visa with iVisa.com, you’ll only need the items below: Passport, with a scan of the information page. That’s the page with your picture on it. A Paypal account or a credit or debit card to pay the processing fee. A valid email address where you'll obtain the eVisa. Start the application.
How to submit a document to iVisa?
Attach any essential document scans, then click on submit. The document will be sent to your inbox when it has been approved and processed. That's all! iVisa.com makes it simple for you. Get started.
Is Saudi Arabia a tourist destination?
Saudi Arabia has welcomed lots more visitors to its stunning stretches of sand and beaches in recent years thanks to the opening and growth of its tourism industry.
Does Saudi Arabia allow travel?
Yes, Saudi Arabia has been taking steps to restore travel within its borders. In order to enter Saudi Arabia, you’ll need to display your COVID vaccine passport or vaccination certificate.
