The United States is not on the list of visa-free countries, so American citizens must obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.

The following countries are visa exempt, meaning they do not require a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia:

• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Qatar
• United Arab Emirates
• Jordan
• Lebanon
• Morocco
• Tunisia

Visa on arrival is an option for travel to Saudi Arabia for citizens of certain countries. The following countries are eligible for visa on arrival:

• Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia (for these citizens, a visa on arrival isn’t necessary but they can get one if they choose)
• Holders of a valid US, United Kingdom, or Schengen visa
• Holders of a valid permanent-residence permit in the US, UK, or European Union

To apply for visa on arrival, you must:

• Possess a passport valid at least six months beyond your intended stay in Saudi Arabia
• Have a confirmed onward travel ticket
• Pay the visa application fee

While these specific travelers qualify for a visa on arrival, it’s still advisable to obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia to avoid any errors or delays that might bar you from entering the country. The visa process is simple and easy—Entriva is here to help .

Saudi Arabia offers a service called Muqeem or Absher, which allows residents and expatriates in the country to obtain an identification card known as an Iqama, or residence permit. This card serves as an official identification for non-Saudi residents living in Saudi Arabia.

The process of obtaining an Iqama involves sponsorship by an employer or a Saudi citizen who acts as a sponsor. The sponsor is responsible for initiating the visa application and permit process through the appropriate government agencies, such as the Ministry of Interior or Jawazat. The sponsor submits the necessary documents and supports the visa application on behalf of the individual seeking residency in Saudi Arabia.

The specific requirements and procedures for obtaining an Iqama may vary based on the individual’s circumstances, such as their employment status, family relations, or purpose of stay in Saudi Arabia. Consult with the appropriate Saudi Arabian government authorities or seek guidance from the sponsor or employer to understand the detailed process and documentation required for obtaining an Iqama, or any specific identification card related to residency in Saudi Arabia.

The process of getting a Saudi Arabian visa is relatively easy and takes about 10 business days. There are several types of visas available, like tourist visa, business visa, and religious pilgrimage visa. Each option also includes single-entry and multiple-entry visas.

To apply for a Saudi Arabia visa, you will need to provide the following information:

• Your passport information
• Your contact information
• Your travel dates
• Your reason for travel
• A recent passport-style photo
• Payment for the government visa fee of approximately ﷼‎545 (Saudi Arabian riyal; SAR), in addition to Entriva’s handling fee of $50

The visa processing time can be as little as one day, but we still advise you to apply well in advance of your travel date.

Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a Saudi Arabia visa. Start your visa application process.

For more information on other aspects of travel to Saudi Arabia,  including travel requirements, visa extensions, local laws, and culture and traditions, visit our Saudi Arabia content hub.