Saudi Arabia yesterday announced that all GCC residents can now obtain a Saudi tourist visa regardless of their profession.
“Saudi visa application is now simpler, more convenient and straightforward for residents of GCC States, regardless of their profession. Apply now,” Saudi Minister of Tourism and Chairman of Saudi Tourism Authority Ahmed al-Khateeb tweeted.
The visa enables the holder to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism and Umrah. It can be for a single entry or multiple entries.
To apply, one has to visit the eVisa page on the Visit Saudi Arabia website (https://www.visitsaudi.com/visa) and fill out the required information, upload the required documents and pay the eVisa fees. The applicant will then receive the eVisa by e-mail.
“The tourist visa allows you to take part in tourism-related activities such as events, family and relative visits, leisure and Umrah (excluding Haj), and excludes other activities such as studying,” the website says.
The multiple-entry tourist visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance, and the permissible period of stay is 90 days. On the other hand, the single-entry tourist visa is valid for three months from the date of issuance, and the permissible period of stay is 30 days.
The cost of the eVisa is 300 Saudi riyals plus full health insurance fees. The visa application fee is non-refundable.
The minimum age of applicants is 18. For children under 18, the parent is required to apply first. “For religious tourists, please note that visa holders can perform Umrah anytime except during the Haj season,” the website explains. “Applicants must complete separate visa applications for each member of their direct family and must accompany the member upon entering Saudi.”
The conditions also state that the applicant’s residency document from a GCC country must be valid for at least three months, and the passport for six months.
