Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians

Saudi Arabia, also known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), has opened its gates to the world for tourism, employment and education, increasing the number of people visiting the nation.

The Saudi Arabian government requires all Indians to obtain a Saudi Arabian visa for Indians before heading to this beautiful country. Therefore, no matter what the purpose of your travel is, you must apply for a KSA visa for Indians to be allowed entry.

To make the most of your trip, a Saudi travel insurance plan from Reliance General Insurance is the way to go. In this article, we will discuss the requirements for Saudi visas for Indians, the visa process and fees, and our travel insurance for Saudi Arabia.

Do Indians Need a Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians?

Yes, all Indians who want to visit Saudi Arabia must compulsorily apply for a Saudi visa for Indians. A visa is a permit or document that allows foreign nationals (Indians) to stay in Saudi Arabia for a specific duration and a specific purpose.

The government issues various types of Saudi Arabia visas for Indians depending on the travel purpose. Each visa comes with a stipulated time for which the holder can visit the country. For instance, you can obtain a tourist visa, Hajj or Umrah visa, business visa and so on.

Before you plan your trip and book your tickets, determine which type of Saudi visa for Indian citizens is applicable to you.

It is also advisable to check the Saudi Arabia visa requirements for Indian citizens well in advance as the rules may change from time to time.

Is There a Saudi Visa-on-Arrival for Indians?

The government of Saudi Arabia lays down specific requirements, the fulfilment of which grants on-arrival Saudi Arabia visas for Indians. To be eligible for VoA, you must either

• Be a resident of GCC, or
• Hold a USA, UK or Schengen visa.

Besides, the following additional conditions must be met to obtain a Saudi tourist visa for an Indian on arrival:

• The visa must be valid.
• It must be a tourist or business visa.
• The visa must be used at least once and must contain an entry stamp of the issuing country.

India does not fall under the category of eligible countries for e-visa. Hence, Indians cannot apply for a Saudi E-visa for Indians.

Types of Saudi Arabia Visas for Indian Citizens

Saudi Arabia Visa for Indian: Duration, Validity of Different Types of Visas

Importance of Reliance Travel Insurance for Saudi Arabia

Features of Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians

• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issues various types of Saudi visas for Indians. One can apply for a visa depending on the reason for the visit. Some visa types include Saudi tourist visasfor Indians, work visas, business visas, hajj visas, etc.
• Each visa comes with a validity period,during which the holder can visit the country. Once the validity is over, one must re-apply for the visa by way of renewal/extension.
• While applying for the visa, every applicant must fulfilthe Saudi visa requirement for Indians. Some of the requirements include having a valid passport, duly filled visa application form, medical fitness certificate, and so on.
• It is also necessary to follow the visa application processto complete the visa application.
• Saudi Arabia offers visas with varying entry options. Indians can opt for a single-entry visa or multiple-entry visa as required.

Who Needs a Saudi Arabia Visa in India?

• Tourists: Travel enthusiasts who want to visit this country may obtain a Saudi tourist visa for Indians and witness the wonderful tourist sights.
• Businessmen: Businessmen from India may require a Saudi visa for Indiansif they want to attend business-related events in the country.
• Pilgrims: Indians who want to visit the country for Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage also require a Saudi Arabia visa for Indian citizens.
• Employees:Employees who receive an employment offer from employers in Saudi Arabia must apply for a Saudi work visa for Indians to legally work in the country.
• Others: Other individuals who want tovisit their friends or family require a Saudi visit visa for Indians.

Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians: Factors to Consider When Applying for a Visa

1. Check the Documents:Submitting the right and accurate documents is a crucial Saudi visa requirement for Indians.
2. Turnaround Times: The visa processing time varies from one country to another. Before planning your trip and applying for a visa, find out the exact time it takes for the visa process so you can apply and receive the visa well in time.
3. Saudi Arabia Visa Price in India: Different types of visas have different Saudi visa fees for Indians. Before applying for the visa, one must find out the exact cost and pay it duly to process the application.
4. Visa Process for Saudi Arabia from India: A visa can be obtained from the country’s Embassy or Consulate offices in India. It is essential to understand the visa process and follow the steps accurately for a successful visa application.

Saudi Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens – Eligibility Criteria

Passport

A valid passport is a primary requirement for KSA visas for Indians. A visa application is accepted only if the passport has a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of departure.

Age of the Applicant

Applying for a Saudi visit visa for Indians or any other visa requires an individual to be at least 18 years old. Applicants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian.

Appropriate Documents

A Saudi Arabia visa for Indians requires the applicants to submit all the necessary documents based on the type of visa they wish to apply for. For instance, a visa type may require you to submit your passport, return ticket confirmation, medical certificate, bank statement, offer letter, education transcripts, letter of financial support and so on.

How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia Visa for Indian Citizens?

Since there is no E-visa service available to Indians, to apply for a Saudi visa, you’ll need to visit your nearest Embassy, Consulate or authorised visa centre with the appropriate documents.

Applying for Saudi Visa from India

• Go to the Tasheer Visa Services website or the KSA portal and enter your country of residence (India) to start your process for Saudi Arabia visa application for Indians.
• Click on the “How to Apply” tab and review the steps for your chosen visa.
• Once you know what visa you need to apply for, the documents you need, and the corresponding fees for the Saudi Arabia visa process for Indian citizens, click on “Schedule an Appointment” on the homepage and proceed to schedule your appointment by entering your details.
• Gather hard copies of all the required documents and submit them at the nearest Saudi Embassy, Consulate or VAC.

Useful Links:

• Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA)
• KSA Visa Services
• TasheerVisa Services (Authorised VACs)
• Saudi Arabia Embassy in New Delhi
• Saudi Arabia Consulate in Mumbai

Saudi Arabia Visa Price In India

*The insurance fee varies depending on the provider.

Disclaimer: Visa fees are subject to change and can vary depending on the additional service charges implemented by service providers.

List of Visa Documents for Saudi Arabia from India

The Saudi Arabia visa requirements for Indian citizens include the submission of the following documents for the application to be accepted.

• Application Form:If you want to apply for a Saudi visa, ensure you submit a duly filled application form. One must take care to provide accurate and complete information, including all personal details.
• Passport: Another crucial Saudi visa requirement for an Indian is a valid passport. Applicants must make sure their passport has a minimum validity of 6 months for their visa application to be considered.
• Photograph:Submitting photographs along with the application is also a pivotal visa document for Saudi Arabia from India. One must ensure that the photograph meets the standards set by the government. Some specifications of the photograph include:

1. Passport size photograph (2”x2”)
2. White background
3. Full-face view with the applicant looking directly at the camera
4. Recent photograph, not older than 6 months.

• Sponsorship Letter for Students: Students travelling to Saudi Arabia for academic purposes must submit a letter of sponsorship from their parents or guardians stating that they will take care of the student's expenses.
• Travel Confirmation Proof: Saudi visa requirements for Indians also include submitting a return flight ticket. It implies that you have the intention to return to your home country once your visa expires.
• Hotel Booking: You must also submit proof of hotel reservation along with the visa application form.
• Travel Medical Insurance: Saudi Arabia visit visa requirements for Indian citizens include mandatory health coverage that is issued and approved by the Saudi Government. The coverage is valid till the duration of your stay.

For enhanced coverage and protection, businessmen may consider adding Annual-Multi Trip Travel Insurance, or students can consider opting for Student Travel Insurance at affordable rates/ from Reliance General Insurance.

COVID-19 Travel Guidelines for Saudi Arabia Visa

As the COVID-19 situation is under control, Saudi Arabia does not require any negative PCR test or vaccination certificates while applying for Saudi Arabia visas for Indians.

However, other travel guidelines for a Saudi Arabia visa, such as a valid passport, necessary documents, etc., continue to be in place.

If you happen to fall sick in Saudi Arabia, you must immediately consult a doctor and take the necessary precautions to avoid spreading any infection to others.

What is the Saudi Visa Processing Time for Indians?

Note: The processing of other types of visas depends on the purpose of the visit, volume of applications, document attestation, etc.

How to Track Saudi Arabia Visas for Indians?

Once you complete the Saudi visa process for Indians, you can track it online using the KSA visa official website. Here are the steps to follow:

• Step 1: Click on the “Track Application” tab in the upper right corner of the page.
• Step 2: When the next window pops up, enter the application number and ID number (passport number, iqama number, etc.). Next, input the correct captcha in the box.
• Step 3: Click on “Track my Application”to see the Saudi visa application tracking for Indians. You must be able to see the exact status of your application.

Process for Saudi Visa Renewal for Indians?

Saudi visas for Indians can be renewed or extended as per the rules of the government.

Saudi Visit Visa Renewal Process

As per the regulations, visit visa holders can apply for the Saudi visit visa renewal process seven days before the expiry date. Saudi tourist visa renewal is also possible as it falls under the visit visa category.

• Step 1: Visit the Absher Portalon your browser.
• Step 2:Log in to the portal by keying in your credentials.
• Step 3: Under the E-services tab, choose “passport services.”
• Step 4: Select the “visit visa extension”.
• Step 5: Fill out the necessary information on the portal and attach the documents as required.
• Step 6: Pay the visa extension fees and apply.

Saudi Work Visa Renewal in India

Work visas can also be extended or renewed by following the process for Saudi work visa renewal in India. A visa can be extended for a maximum period of 180 days. Here are the steps to follow for visa renewal:

• Step 1: Check the visa expiry and begin the renewal process in time.
• Step 2:Working visa holders can seek assistance from their employers for visa renewal.
• Step 3: Submit all the necessary documents, such as passport, iqama (residency permit), photo, etc.
• Step 4: Depending on the visa type, you may have to undergo a medical test
• Step 5: Your employer will complete the formalities using the Absher Aamal or Absher Muqeem portal.
• Step 6:Once the process is complete, you will receive a renewed copy of your visa and Iqama.

Common Reasons for Saudi Visa Rejection for Indians and Tips to Avoid Them

Incomplete Application Form

One of the primary reasons for Saudi visa application rejections is submitting an incomplete application form or one with misinformation.

Tip: One must ensure that the form is filled out accurately and no sections are left blank. It is also essential to check that you provide the correct spelling of your name, residential address, and other information.

Financial Insufficiency

Saudi visa requirements for Indians include a sufficient bank balance as proof of finances. However, if your bank account has insufficient funds, the authorities may reject the application.

Tip: Before submitting the visa application, ensure that your bank account has sufficient balance. In the case of a student visa, one must submit a letter from the parents or guardians stating that they will sponsor the student’s expenses. Thus, their accounts must also reflect sufficient funds.

Invalid Passport

When you submit your passport for visa application, it must be valid for at least 6 months. An invalid passport will result in the application being rejected.

Tip: Check the expiration date of your passport beforehand, and if necessary, you must renew it.

Visa Overstay

If you have overstayed on your previous visa to Saudi Arabia, there is a chance that the Embassy may reject your application, anticipating that you may overstay this time, too.

Tip: Foreign nationals must exit the country they are visiting within the stipulated duration to avoid future visa rejections.

Incomplete Travel Itinerary

A Saudi visa application requires you to submit the complete itinerary details, including proof of hotel reservation. If you fail to provide proof of the same, the visa may be rejected.

Tip: Understand the document requirements for a Saudi visa thoroughly so you may not miss out on submitting any essential documents.

Applying for Incorrect Visa

If you apply for a visa category that does not match the purpose of your travel, the Embassy may reject your application.

Tip: Be aware of the different types of visas offered by Saudi Arabia and apply for the right type of visa. For instance, if you wish to travel for tourism purposes, you must apply for a visit visa.

Other Reasons

A Saudi e-visa rejection for Indians occurs when you apply for an e-visa to Saudi Arabia while not being eligible for it.

Tip: You must apply for an e-visa only if you are a GCC resident, have a Schengen, US, or UK visit visa or have a residency visa with a 3-month validity period.

Travel Tips For Saudi Arabia From India

• Since Saudi Arabia is a desert country with hot and harsh weather most of the year. July is the hottest month, and January is the coldest. If you are headed for sightseeing and tourism purposes, plan your trip during a pleasant month.
• Saudi Arabia is a Muslimcountry, it is recommended to dress modestly. It is essential to know Saudi tourist information for Indians so you do not face any unpleasant situations during your

While in the country, women may consider wearing loose pants, skirts, or long-sleeve t-shirts. Men must avoid wearing shorts and opt for regular pants and t-shirts.

• Since there is no VoA for Saudi Arabia, apply for a Saudi visa for Indians beforehand.
• You can get all the visa information from the official KSAwebsite, including Saudi visit visa information. You can find out the visa price, the process, eligibility, processing time and so on.

Best Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it mandatory to have travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?

  Yes, Saudi visa insurance is part of the visa application process, which the Saudi government issues. The insurance fees are charged along with the visa fees. However, one can opt for an added insurance plan for added coverage by purchasing a separate travel insurance online in Saudi Arabia.

• What activities can I do under a visit visa?

  Suppose you have a visit visa for Saudi Arabia from India. In that case, you can engage in tourism activities, meet family and friends, undergo medical treatment, undertake business activities, and perform Umrah.

• Is it necessary to fulfilall the Saudi Arabia visa requirements for Indian citizens?

  Yes, the authorities require all applicants to fulfil all the visa requirements when applying for a visa. If one or more of the requirements are not fulfilled, the visa can be rejected.

• Are there any item restrictions in Saudi Arabia?

  Yes, the KSA has strict rules concerning alcohol and pork. Indians travelling to Saudi Arabia must avoid taking these items. One must also avoid taking drugs, weapons, amulets, taweez, unprescribed medicines, etc.

• When should I apply for a Saudi visa?

  To ensure timely visa issuance, you may apply for a Saudi visa a maximum of two months in advance and a minimum of 10 days prior to your date of departure from India.

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