Saudi Arabia Launches New Instant KSA Visa Platform for Faster & Simplified Travel Entry
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Saudi Arabia has introduced a pilot version of its official KSA visa platform, making it easier and faster for international travellers to apply for electronic visas to visit their family and friends who are living in the kingdom. This launch has reinforced the nation's ongoing efforts to boost tourism, simplify entry procedures, and promote meaningful global connections.
The New Digital Gateway to Saudi Arabia
Developed by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the KSA visa platform serves as an all-inclusive digital portal for individuals who wish to: visit their loved ones, explore the country's cultural and tourist attractions, or attend events or perform umrah outside the Hajj season.
The system combines application information and processing into one central hub, offering transparency, convenience, and efficiency for millions of expected travellers all around the globe.
Family and Friends Visa Benefits
With this visa, travellers are permitted to:
- Visit relatives and friends living in the Kingdom
- Explore tourist attractions and experience cultural activities
- Attend public events and occasions
- Perform Umrah rituals outside the Hajj season
Also Read: UAE Introduces 4 New Visit Visas Along With Major Residency Rules Updates
Who Can Apply for the Friend and Family Visa?
The Family and Friends Visa can currently be applied for through 3 channels, namely:
| Visa Channel | Details |
|---|---|
| e-Visa | Instant visa approvals through email. This visa is eligible for Nationals of approved countries Valid Schengen, US or UK visa holders Permanent residents of these countries or GCC member states |
| Embassy or Visa Service Offices | Applicants can apply through an accredited visa service office, where available In countries without such offices, applications can be raised directly at Saudi embassies |
| Visa on Arrival | Available for travelers from eligible e-Visa countries or those holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen Visa, given that the visa has been used at least once Eligible travelers can purchase the Visa upon arrival at Saudi airports |
Visa Categories & Permitted Stay Durations
Applicants are invited to choose between the following visa types:
| Visa Type | Validity | Maximum Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | 90 days | Up to 90 days |
| Multiple Entry | 1 year | Up to 90 days per visit |
Most of the applications are processed in as little as one minute to up to 3 business days, depending on the verification requirements and system traffic.
Visa Fees and Payment Details
The official fee structure as provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the visas includes:
- USD 80 visa fees (refundable)
- USD 10.50 digital visa service fees (non-refundable)
- USD 10.50 digital insurance fee (non-refundable)
- Health insurance fees vary depending on the provider selected during the application.
Payments would be made online securely through the KSA Visa Portal, ensuring a seamless, end-to-end digital experience.
Minimum Requirements and Conditions
To qualify, applicants need to meet the following conditions:
- Must be 18 years or above in age, and for minors, they need to be accompanied by a guardian
- Must hold a passport valid for 6+ months
- Must maintain active health insurance
- Show proof of financial capacity
- Comply with Saudi laws and regulations
*It is important to note that visa misuse and overstaying are strictly prohibited
The list of permitted activities for these visa holders includes:
- Meet family and friends
- Explore attractions and attend events
- Perform Umrah outside the Hajj season
*Kindly note that Hajj travel is not included under this visa
Saudi eVisa for Global Travelers
The Saudi eVisa is widely preferred for leisure travel by foreigners, offering single or multiple entries with a validity of up to one year and a stay eligibility of up to 90 days per trip, along with a processing time of 24 to 72 hours (it could be faster in some cases). The list of required documents to apply for a Saudi eVisa includes:
- Passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
- Recent passport-size photo
- Completed online form
- Valid email ID
Eligible Countries for Saudi eVisa
Citizens from 60+ countries are eligible to apply for the Saudi eVisa, which includes:
| Country | Country | Country | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Poland | Kyrgyzstan | Chile |
| Canada | Portugal | Thailand | Mexico |
| Bahamas | Hungary | Uzbekistan | Albania |
| Barbados | Lithuania | China | Andorra |
| Grenada | Luxembourg | Malaysia | Liechtenstein |
| Germany | Monaco | Singapore | San Marino |
| France | Iceland | Brunei | Montenegro |
| United Kingdom | Estonia | Kazakhstan | Croatia |
| Spain | Latvia | Ukraine | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| Italy | Cyprus | Georgia | Bulgaria |
| Switzerland | Czech Republic | Azerbaijan | Romania |
| Belgium | Slovakia | Turkey | Vatican City |
| Austria | Malta | Taiwan | Serbia |
| Sweden | Maldives | Hong Kong | Slovenia |
| Denmark | Russia | Macau | Moldova |
| Netherlands | Australia | South Africa | Panama |
| Finland | New Zealand | Seychelles | Saint Kitts and Nevis |
| Norway | Japan | Mauritius | |
| Greece | South Korea | Argentina | |
| Ireland | Tajikistan | Brazil |
Also Read: GCC to Launch Unified Tourist Visa for Six Gulf Nations By Late 2025
Support Saudi Vision 2030
With its rich culture, heritage destinations, and world class modern attractions, Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as one of the premier global tourism destinations. The KSA visa platform marks a major milestone in the nation's Vision 2030 mission to welcome more visitors and make travel seamless and secure in Saudi Arabia.
How can GetGIS Help Your Seamless International Travel Experience?
Looking to explore or move abroad? GetGIS can help you with expert assistance and end-to-end support with your visa application process and much more. Connect with our team today to start your hassle-free journey
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