If you are planning to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whether for tourism, work, or visiting family, you have come to the right place. This comprehensive guide explains all types of visas available in 2026, their requirements, and how to apply.

Tourist Visa (e-Visa)

The tourist visa is the most common and easiest option, available to citizens of many countries worldwide.

  • Purpose: Tourism, leisure, visiting relatives, and performing Umrah (excluding Hajj season)
  • Duration: Valid for one full year (12 months), multiple entry
  • Stay: Up to 90 days per visit
  • Application: Fully online via Visit Saudi portal

Visit Visas

Family Visit: For residents to sponsor first-degree relatives (spouse, children, parents).

Personal Visit: For visiting friends or individuals without family or business ties — Saudi Arabia has simplified this process significantly.

Business Visit: For investors and businesspeople to complete contracts and meetings in the Kingdom.

Event Visit: For attending major conferences and events in the Kingdom, especially Riyadh and Jeddah seasons.

Work Visas

  • Permanent Work Visa: Tied to an official employment contract, leading to a residence permit (Iqama)
  • Temporary Work Visa: For short-term projects (up to 180 days), no permanent residency
  • Freelance Visa: For freelancers in specific fields — a pioneering step by Saudi Arabia to support the digital economy

Other Visas

  • Transit Visa: Allows passengers on Saudi airlines to stay up to 96 hours — free of charge!
  • Umrah Visa: Dedicated for Umrah, available via Nusuk platform (nusuk.sa)
  • Hajj Visa: Issued through official channels with quotas — Hajj cannot be performed on a tourist visa
  • Student Visa: For students wishing to enroll in Saudi educational institutions
  • Medical Visa: For patients coming for treatment at Saudi medical facilities
  • Premium Residency: Special track for investors and talent, offering extensive rights without a sponsor

Important Tips Before Applying

  • Official Platforms: Always use government sources — Visit Saudi for tourist visas, and Enjaz platform for other visa types
  • Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from entry date
  • Medical Insurance: Mandatory for most visa types — covers medical emergencies
  • Pre-approval: Some nationalities require security clearance — check your country’s requirements

Laws and procedures change regularly, so always check the latest updates from official sources before applying.