Saudi Arabia visas
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, arranged before travel. Saudi Arabia's visas fall under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with tourism handled through the online KSA Visa platform and pilgrimage (Umrah and Hajj) arranged through the Nusuk platform. Eligible nationals can obtain a Tourist Visit Visa as an e-Visa, a visa on arrival or through an embassy. This hub explains the main visa types in plain language and links to the official sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you before you travel or apply.
Important information
Saudi visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Saudi Arabia — tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips and transit, plus any visa-free or electronic-authorisation options.5 visas
- Work visasComing to Saudi Arabia to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Saudi Arabia — student visas and permits for accepted students, and what they let you do.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a family member in Saudi Arabia — spouse, partner, child and other relative routes.2 visas
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Saudi Arabia as a highly skilled or exceptional individual.3 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Saudi Arabia long term — permanent residence and, where available, the path to citizenship.1 visa
Saudi visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Saudi Arabia — key facts
- Entry document
- Visa required
- Most nationalities need a visa arranged before travel
- Authority
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Tourist e-Visa
- ksavisa.sa
- e-Visa, visa on arrival or embassy for eligible nationals
- Umrah & Hajj
- Nusuk
- Pilgrimage arranged through the official Nusuk platform
Saudi visas — people also ask
Most foreign nationals need a visa arranged before travel. Eligible nationals can obtain a Tourist Visit Visa online as an e-Visa, as a visa on arrival, or through a Saudi embassy. Check the official KSA Visa platform for your nationality before you travel.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-09. Information only — not legal advice.