Guide to Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival in 2025
Traveling to Saudi Arabia in 2025 offers a wealth of opportunities to explore its rich cultural heritage, modern cities, and stunning landscapes. The Kingdom has made significant strides in simplifying its visa processes, including the Visa On Arrival (VOA), which allows eligible travelers to obtain a visa upon entering the country. However, the eVisa remains a more efficient alternative. This guide provides a detailed overview of the Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival, including eligibility, application process, requirements, differences with the eVisa, and key considerations for 2025, such as Hajj season restrictions.
Why Visit Saudi Arabia in 2025?
Saudi Arabia is a vibrant destination, blending cultural heritage with modern innovation. From the bustling streets of Riyadh to the ancient ruins of Al-Ula and the serene Red Sea coast, the Kingdom attracts travelers for tourism, family visits, and spiritual journeys like Umrah. The introduction of the eVisa and Visa On Arrival has made Saudi Arabia more accessible, while projects like the Red Sea Project and NEOM enhance its appeal as a global tourism hub. This guide focuses on the Visa On Arrival, helping you navigate the process for a seamless visit.
What is the Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival?
reThe Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival (VOA) is a travel authorization that eligible travelers can apply for upon arriving at a Saudi port of entry, such as airports or seaports. It allows visitors to engage in tourism, visit family and friends, or perform Umrah (excluding Hajj). The process involves submitting an application at an immigration checkpoint, but it can be time-consuming, with no guarantee of approval, as Saudi immigration officers have the final say. For a faster and more reliable option, the Saudi eVisa, applied online via Visit Saudi, is recommended to avoid border delays.
Who Can Apply for the Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival?
As of 2025, the Visa On Arrival is available to a wide range of travelers, though restrictions apply for certain nationalities during the Hajj season. Below is a detailed breakdown of eligibility:
Eligible Nationalities
Citizens of over 60 countries can apply for a Visa On Arrival. The list includes:
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| North America | Canada, United States |
| Europe | Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine |
| Asia | Azerbaijan, Brunei, Japan, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Maldives, Singapore, Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkey, Uzbekistan |
| Africa | Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa |
| Oceania | Australia, New Zealand |
| Other | Panama, Saint Kitts and Nevis |
Additional Eligibility
- Holders of Valid Visas: Travelers with valid Schengen, US, or UK visas are eligible for a Visa On Arrival, provided they have used the visa at least once and are traveling with one of Saudi Arabia’s national airlines (Saudia, Flynas, or Flyadeal).
- GCC Residents: Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE) with a valid occupation and residency of at least three months can apply.
- Special Cases: Nationals of North African countries (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia) may be eligible for a Visa On Arrival for Hajj 2025, but this must be confirmed with the airline. Otherwise, they are limited to single-entry visas valid for 30 days.
2025 Restrictions
- 14 Countries Affected: Since February 1, 2025, nationals of 14 countries (e.g., Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Pakistan) are restricted to single-entry visas valid for up to 30 days, with one-year multiple-entry visas suspended.
- Hajj Season Suspension: From April 13, 2025, short-term visas for these 14 countries are temporarily suspended to manage the Hajj season. Travelers must exit by April 29, 2025, or face a fine of SAR 100,000.
For the latest eligibility details, check Visit Saudi.
How to Get the Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival?
The Visa On Arrival is processed at any Saudi port of entry, including airports and seaports. The process is straightforward but can involve delays. Here’s how it works:
- Arrive at a Saudi Port of Entry:
- Proceed to the immigration checkpoint upon arrival at an airport or seaport.
- Request the Application Form:
- Ask immigration officials for the Visa On Arrival application form.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill out the form with accurate personal and travel details, including your purpose of visit and accommodation information.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Present your passport (valid for at least six months or with a valid Schengen/US/UK visa) and any additional documents requested, such as proof of onward travel or accommodation.
- Pay the Visa Fee:
- Pay the fee (SAR 300, approximately USD 80, plus SAR 95 for medical insurance) using a credit card at self-service kiosks or immigration desks.
- Wait for Processing:
- Immigration officers will review your application and documents. Processing times vary, and approval is not guaranteed.
- Receive the Visa:
- If approved, the visa is issued immediately, allowing entry for tourism, family visits, or Umrah.
Note: To avoid potential delays or denial, consider applying for an eVisa online before travel via Visit Saudi.
Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival Requirements
To obtain a Visa On Arrival, travelers must meet the following requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Must be from an eligible country and valid for at least six months beyond entry date (U.S. citizens are exempt from the six-month rule). Alternatively, a passport with a valid Schengen, US, or UK visa is acceptable. |
| Application Form | Complete the Visa On Arrival form provided at the immigration checkpoint. |
| Payment Method | Credit card required for payment at kiosks or immigration desks. |
| Additional Documents | May include proof of onward travel, accommodation, or other documents as requested by immigration officers. |
| Health Requirements | For Hajj 2025, a Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination is mandatory, administered at least 10 days and no more than three years before arrival. Check for additional health protocols, especially during COVID-19. |
Tip: Always verify the latest requirements on Visit Saudi or with your airline before traveling.
Difference Between Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival and eVisa
The Visa On Arrival and eVisa serve similar purposes but differ significantly in application, processing, and reliability. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Aspect | Visa On Arrival | eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | In-person at immigration upon arrival | Fully online via Visit Saudi |
| Processing Time | Can be lengthy, with waits at the border | Processed in a few days, faster during non-peak seasons |
| Guarantee of Approval | Not guaranteed; depends on immigration officers | Guaranteed once approved, with email confirmation |
| Convenience | Saves time before travel but risks delays at entry | Eliminates border delays, applied from anywhere |
| Cost | SAR 300 (USD 80) + SAR 95 (USD 25.33) for insurance | Varies, typically around €93 (excluding intermediary fees) |
| Risk | Risk of denial at the border | No risk of denial once approved |
Why Choose the eVisa?
- Ease of Application: The eVisa is applied online, requiring only a mobile device and internet connection. The process takes minutes, with minimal personal information needed.
- Faster Processing: Approval is typically received within days, and travelers are notified via email, ensuring certainty before departure.
- Zero Risk: Unlike the VOA, the eVisa guarantees entry once approved, avoiding the uncertainty of border processing.
- Avoid Border Delays: The eVisa allows travelers to skip lengthy immigration lines, making entry smoother.
For more details on the eVisa, visit Visit Saudi.
Why Travelers Love Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, modern innovation, and natural beauty. Travelers are drawn to:
- Cultural Heritage: Explore historic sites like Al-Ula and the Al Rajhi Grand Mosque.
- Modern Marvels: Experience the futuristic vision of NEOM and the luxury of the Red Sea Project.
- Spiritual Journeys: Perform Umrah or visit sacred sites (note Hajj restrictions in 2025).
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the tranquil Red Sea coast and the vast Empty Quarter.
The eVisa and Visa On Arrival have made these experiences more accessible, welcoming travelers for tourism, family visits, and more.
Saudi Arabia for Future Travelers
Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding its tourism infrastructure, with initiatives like the Red Sea Project and NEOM positioning it as a global hub for leisure, business, and spirituality. The eVisa and Visa On Arrival systems have simplified entry, making the Kingdom an attractive destination for international visitors. Whether you’re visiting family, exploring cultural sites, or attending events, Saudi Arabia promises unforgettable memories.
Important Considerations for 2025
- Hajj Season Restrictions:
- From April 13, 2025, short-term visas for nationals of 14 countries (e.g., Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Pakistan) are suspended to manage the Hajj season. Travelers must exit by April 29, 2025, or face a SAR 100,000 fine.
- Umrah visas issued in 2025 are valid until April 13, 2025, with a mandatory exit by April 29, 2025.
- Hajj pilgrims must enter between May 31 and June 2, 2025, and depart by July 6, 2025, with visa applications processed between April 14 and May 23, 2025.
- Visa Restrictions:
- Since February 1, 2025, nationals of 14 countries are limited to single-entry visas valid for 30 days, with multiple-entry visas suspended.
- Health Requirements:
- For Hajj 2025, a Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination is mandatory, administered at least 10 days and no more than three years before arrival.
- Check for additional health protocols, especially during COVID-19, on Visit Saudi.
- GCC Nationals:
- Citizens of GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE) can enter Saudi Arabia visa-free with a passport or national ID.
The Saudi Arabia Visa On Arrival in 2025 offers a convenient option for eligible travelers, but the eVisa is generally recommended for its speed, reliability, and ease of application. By understanding eligibility, preparing required documents, and planning around 2025 restrictions, you can ensure a smooth entry into the Kingdom. Whether visiting family, exploring cultural sites, or performing Umrah, Saudi Arabia welcomes you with open doors and unforgettable experiences.