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Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia Visa For Indians

One of the world's biggest yearly religious gatherings takes place in Saudi Arabia, or more formally known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia, the greatest oil exporter in the world, gets almost 45% of its GDP from the petroleum sector. You will, however, require a Saudi visa in order to enter Saudi Arabia.

 

About Saudi Visa

It is necessary to get a Saudi Arabian visa in order to enter the nation. You need to have a valid passport and visa in order to enter Saudi Arabia, unless you are from one of the countries that are exempt from the need. Regardless of the reason for the trip, a valid visa is required. The sort of visit determines the visa to apply for, as well as how long it lasts and how many times it can be used.

 

Procedure to Get a Visa for Saudi Arabia

Indian nationals can obtain a Saudi Arabian visa quite easily. The procedures vary based on the kind of visa that is needed. The general procedures for applying for a visa to Saudi Arabia are as follows:

  1. The first step involves finding out the type of visa you require, and if you are eligible for it.
  2. You must then collect the necessary documents as per the Saudi Arabia visa requirement for Indian citizens.
  3. Visit the website of the Saudi Arabia MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), and create an account for visa application.
  4. Fill in the details on the form.
  5. Pay the visa fee online and download the form with the MOFA number/reference number.
  6. Attach your visa documents with the form.
  7. Send the application to the nearest Saudi Arabian Embassy through a registered agent.

Since the Saudi government is so stringent about visa applications, you must complete the procedure honestly and accurately. Any errors could result in the denial or delay of your visa. You don't want a denied visa to appear on your record because it could lead to several issues with subsequent visa applications.

 

Saudi Arabia Visa Types

There are several types of visa which permits you to visit Saudi Arabia. However, the main common types are -

Saudi Tourist Visa: This category is issued for people travelling to Saudi Arabia to take part in tourism. Although since it has been only recently introduced, only 49 countries can apply online. The rest will have to apply offline.
Saudi Business Visa: The Saudi Arabia business visa is issued as a short term visit, for an individual whose sole purpose is to take part in business endeavours in the country. This can include taking part in business meetings, sales representatives, enquiring about potential business prospects, etc. The visa is normally issued for a period of up to 3 months. However, depending on a single entry, or multiple entries, it might also be issued for 6 months.
Saudi Visit Visa:  This visa is issued if the individual is visiting to meet a first-degree family member. For this, you will need an invitation letter from your family member in Saudi, as well as a few other documents. Similar to the other short stay visa, this is also issued for a duration of 3 months. However, the validity is 6 months.
Saudi Arabia Work Visa: For people visiting the country for the purpose of work for a short duration, a work permit is issued. Unlike the work permit, the work visa only has a limited time. Keep in mind that you can only do non-commercial work while you are on this.
Religious tourism Visa: Also known as the Hajj/Umrah visa, these visas are only for the religious pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah.

Checklist for Saudi Arabia Visa

  • A valid passport with 2 blank pages, and valid up to 6 months from the date of intended travel
  • The visa application form duly signed and filled
  • 2 Photos with white background
  • A covering letter

 

Photo Specifications

  • 2 identical passport size photos
  • Taken within the last 3 months
  • Coloured, with a white background
  • Saudi visa photo size - 35mm X 45mm
  • Face coverage - 85%
  • Neutral expression
  • Head position - centered
  • Eyeglasses -not permitted
  • Headwear - permitted only in religious cases

 

Saudi Visa Process Time

The Saudi visa is generally processed fast. For a good application, it can be processed in about 4-5 days. However, in cases which involve other factors or complications, these can take longer up to 3 weeks.