The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is always associated with religious tourism. Millions of Muslims from around the world visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah every year. But Saudi was never on the radar of tourists and travelers for the longest time. However, this has changed over the past few years, as the country has eased its rules and regulations and simplified its visa process. With Saudi Arabia offering eVisas and visa-on-arrival to 49 countries, several tourists arrive in the country to explore its desert landscapes, unique culture, deep-rooted history, and interesting archeological sites. As a member of the GCC countries, Saudi Arabia offers special privileges to citizens and residents of the fellow GCC nations. Here is a comprehensive guide to the Saudi Arabia eVisa for GCC residents.
Who Can Apply for a Saudi eVisa from GCC Countries?
The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) comprises Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain. Citizens of these nations can visit each other without needing to get a visa or a visa-on-arrival. However, this privilege is not extended to GCC residents, who are foreign nationals living in these countries on a resident visa. Regardless of nationality, GCC residents with valid residency can apply online for a Saudi Arabia eVisa. For instance, you may be a citizen of a country that is not part of the 49 countries eligible for eVisa. But if you have a valid resident visa of any of the GCC countries like the UAE, you can apply for a Saudi Arabia visa from Dubai online.
Saudi Arabia Visa
Easy Documentation
Online Payment Option
Types of Saudi eVisas for GCC Residents
GCC Residents can apply for a Saudi Arabia visa for the following reasons:
- Tourist/Visitor eVisa: This eVisa is for those who want to visit the country for tourism or leisure purposes. It is also valid for those who wish to visit their family and friends in Saudi.
- Business eVisa: This eVisa is for GCC residents who need to attend a meeting or conference in Saudi.
- Umrah eVisa: This Visa is for Muslims who want to visit Saudi to perform Umrah (pilgrimage), outside the Hajj season.
- Transit eVisa: Transit eVisa is for those GCC residents who would be arriving at one of the Saudi airports to fly to another international destination.
How to Apply for a Saudi e-Visa?
The entire application process for Saudi Arabia eVisa is done online. There is no need to visit the Saudi Arabian embassy or visa center. The visa application can be completed with just a few clicks. Rayna Tours can do the process on your behalf. All you need to do is submit the documents online, and the visa experts will complete the process of filling out the form, uploading the documents, paying the visa fee, and submitting the application for you.
Saudi Arabia eVisa Requirements for GCC Residents
While the eVisa application process is completed online, the following documents are required for submission.
- Passport: A passport with a minimum of six months’ validity is required for the Saudi eVisa. Similarly, your passport should have at least two blank pages. Make sure your passport is in good condition.
- GCC Residency Visa/Permit: As you are applying for a visa as a GCC resident, submitting proof of the same is essential. You must have a valid resident visa of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, or Kuwait. Your resident visa should have a minimum validity of three months from the intended date of return from Saudi Arabia.
- Photographs: A digital copy of your passport size photographs is required for your Visa. The photo should be recent and should measure 35 x 45 mm. It should be a colored photo with plain, white background. No filters or digital alterations should be made to the photograph. The photo should be uploaded in JPEG format.
- Proof of Profession: If you are applying for a business eVisa, you may have to provide proof of your profession to assure that you are a part of the company or organization you are representing. This could be in the form of a copy of an employment letter from the GCC employee. If your profession is mentioned on your GCC residency card, this would also be enough.
- Travel Insurance: While travel insurance for Saudi eVisa is not mandatory, it would be a good idea to get one for your journey. A good travel insurance covers medical emergencies and accident-related expenses. It also strengthens your Visa application.
- Valid Email Address: As the eVisa will sent to you via your email id, having a functional email address is extremely crucial. Be sure to check the spellings of your email address before sending it to ensure that the visa delivered to your email correctly.
What is the Processing Time for a Saudi eVisa?
- The normal processing time for a Saudi Visa is 3-6 business days.
- If you opt for a faster or rush process, you can get your visa in 1-3 business days.
- If you opt for super rush process, you can get your Saudi Visa within 24 hours.
Validity and Duration of Saudi eVisa for GCC Residents
The Saudi Arabia eVisa is valid for one year. It is a multiple-entry visa that allows you to enter and exit the country as many times as you want until the visa is valid. However, each visit cannot exceed 90 days in duration.
Conclusion
The Saudi Arabia visa rules have eased the visa requirements for GCC residents, making them eligible for an eVisa. If you are a resident of any of the GCC countries, you can get in touch with Rayna Tours, who would help you in applying for your Saudi Arabia eVisa. Once you obtain your eVisa, all you need to do is check out the best time to visit Saudi Arabia, book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to explore this fascinating Arab country.
FAQs about Saudi eVisa
Q. What is the cost of a Saudi eVisa
Q. Is the eVisa fee refundable?
Q. What are the common causes of Saudi eVisa rejection?
- Your visa application is incorrect or incomplete
- Residency permit is invalid
- Passport validity is less than six months from the date of returning from Saudi Arabia
- Your professional is not eligible under GCC residency rules
Q. What are the limitations of the Saudi eVisa?
- For work purpose
- Cannot be used for Umrah during Hajj season
- Cannot be converted into residence visa
