Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians - New Rules, Types, Prices & Process

Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian travellers, whether for work, tourism, business, or pilgrimage. With updated regulations, varied visa types, and streamlined procedures, obtaining a Saudi visa has become more accessible than ever for Indians. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the new rules, visa types, associated costs, and step-by-step procedures to apply for a Saudi visa as an Indian citizen.Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian travellers, whether for work, tourism, business, or pilgrimage. With updated regulations, varied visa types, and streamlined procedures, obtaining a Saudi visa has become more accessible than ever for Indians. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the new rules, visa types, associated costs, and step-by-step procedures to apply for a Saudi visa as an Indian citizen.

New Visa Rules for Saudi Arabia

The following recent changes in Saudi Arabia’s visa policies aim to encourage more tourism and simplify the visa process:

• E-visa Options: Saudi Arabia now offers e-visas for tourists, making it easier for travellers to apply for and receive their visas online. This feature is especially helpful for Indian travellers who previously had to wait in long queues or apply in person.
• Longer Validity Periods: The Kingdom now offers visas with extended validity, allowing travellers to stay longer within the country based on their visa type and purpose.
• Simplified Umrah Visas: For those travelling for Umrah (pilgrimage), the visa process has been relaxed. There are now specific Umrah visas separate from the Hajj, allowing Muslims from India to visit Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage with fewer restrictions and a faster application process.
• Multiple-Entry Visas for Business: For business travellers, Saudi Arabia now offers multiple-entry visas that allow travellers to enter and exit the country several times within a stipulated period, catering to those with frequent travel requirements.

These updated rules regarding Saudi Arabia visa for Indians offer more flexibility and accessibility, making the country a much more attractive travel destination.

Types of Saudi Arabia Visas for Indians

Saudi Arabia issues several visa types based on the purpose of travel, and each type has its own cost, validity, and document requirements.

• Tourist Visa: This visa allows Indian citizens to explore Saudi Arabia for leisure, cultural, or religious tourism (excluding Hajj). Typically valid for 1 year with multiple entries, each stay can last up to 90 days. Documents required include a valid passport, visa application, travel online insurance, and proof of financial resources.
• Business Visa: Issued for official work, meetings, trade shows, or business conferences. Business visas can be single or multiple-entry, with validity ranging from 3 months to 1 year. Supporting documents usually include a letter of invitation from a Saudi company, passport copies, and visa application forms.
• Visit Visa: Intended for Indians visiting family or friends residing in Saudi Arabia. These can be single or multiple-entry visas, usually valid for 3 months, with an option to extend under certain conditions. Proof of relationship, such as family certificates or sponsorship letters from Saudi residents, is mandatory.
• Work Visa: Issued to Indian citizens who have secured employment in Saudi Arabia. This visa requires a confirmed job offer and employer sponsorship. The validity matches the employment contract, generally 1–2 years, and can be extended. Additional requirements include medical clearance and attested educational or professional documents.
• Hajj and Umrah Visa: Specifically for religious purposes, these visas are only valid during the pilgrimage period and cannot be used for other travel. Applicants need a confirmed Hajj/Umrah package, passport, and vaccination certificates.
• Student Visa: Issued to Indians enrolling in Saudi educational institutions. Validity depends on the duration of the course and enrollment status. Students must provide an admission letter, visa application, and passport.
• Residence Visa (Iqama): This visa is for Indians intending to stay long-term in Saudi Arabia, usually for work or family reunification. After entering Saudi Arabia, the resident must obtain an Iqama, which serves as the legal residence permit.

What is the processing time of Saudi Arabia visa from India?

 Processing time varies by visa type. Generally:

• Tourist and visit visas: 4–7 working days.
• Work and residence visas: 2–3 weeks due to additional approvals, medical tests, and document attestation.
• Hajj/Umrah visas: Can take longer depending on the season and quota availability.

It is advisable to apply well in advance to avoid delays, especially during peak travel seasons such as Hajj, Ramadan, or major business events. Delays can occur if the application is incomplete or documents are missing.

Top Reasons Your Saudi Arabia Visa Can Get Rejected

Even minor mistakes can result in visa denial. Common reasons include:

• Incomplete Application Form: Leaving sections blank or providing incorrect details can lead to instant rejection.
• Incorrect or Missing Documents: Expired passports, missing invitation letters, or improperly attested documents are frequent causes of denial.
• Passport Issues: Passports with less than six months’ validity or physical damage, like torn pages, often result in rejection.
• Previous Visa Violations: If you overstayed a previous visa or violated visa regulations in Saudi Arabia, the new application may be denied.
• Medical Test Failures: Required for work or residence visas, failure in mandatory medical exams can block visa issuance.
• Security Concerns: Applications may be rejected if your name matches restricted lists or if there are concerns regarding your criminal background.
• Financial Insufficiency: Failing to provide proof of sufficient funds, especially for tourist or visit visas, can result in rejection.
• Mismatch in Purpose of Travel: Using a tourist visa for work or other unauthorised purposes is a common reason for denial.

Ensuring that every form, document, and requirement is correctly submitted significantly increases the chances of approval.

Saudi Arabia Visa Fees for Indians

The cost of a Saudi Arabia visa for Indians varies based on the type and duration:

• Tourist Visa: Approximately ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 for a single-entry e-visa, while a multiple-entry tourist visa can range from ₹14,000 to ₹20,000.
• Work Visa: Costs vary widely and can range from ₹20,000 to ₹35,000 depending on the specific work requirements and length of employment.
• Business Visa: Fees generally range between ₹15,000 and ₹25,000, depending on whether it’s a single or multiple-entry visa.
• Umrah Visa: While the visa itself may be free, travellers are typically responsible for the service and processing fees, which can amount to ₹5,000 to ₹10,000.
• Family Visit Visa: Fees for family visit visas range from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 based on entry type and duration of stay.

Process for Applying for a Saudi Visa as an Indian Citizen

Identify the Right Visa Type

Choose the visa category that best suits your travel purpose. The Saudi embassy provides detailed descriptions of each visa type, allowing applicants to select the appropriate option.

Gather Necessary Documentation

The required documents typically include:

• A valid passport with at least six months' validity.
• Recent passport-sized photos.
• Completed visa application form.
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements) for travel.
• Confirmation of travel itinerary and accommodation details.
• Invitation letters for business, work, or family visit visas.
  
   

Additional documents may be required based on the visa type and purpose.

Submit Application

• For e-Visas: Apply directly on the official Saudi e-visa portal, where you can fill out the application form, upload documents, and pay the visa fee online.
   
• For Other Visa Types: Visit the Saudi consulate or a visa processing center. Submit your documents, complete biometric requirements, and make payments as instructed.

Wait for Approval

Processing times vary based on the visa type:

• E-visas: Processed within 2-3 business days.
• Work and Business visas: Typically take 1-2 weeks.
• Umrah visas: Usually processed within 5-7 days, particularly outside the peak season.

Receive and Verify Visa

Once approved, you will receive your visa electronically or on your passport, depending on the application type. Double-check all details, including name, entry type, validity, and permitted length of stay.

Read More: Saudi Arabia Visa: How To Check Saudi Arabia Visa Status Online

Important Tips for Saudi Arabia Visa Application

• Plan Ahead: Saudi visa processing times can vary, so apply at least a few weeks before your intended travel date.
• Double-check Documentation: Ensure all documents are accurate and complete.
• Check Validity of Visa and Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Final Thoughts

Travelling to a foreign country, especially one with unique regulations like Saudi Arabia, requires careful planning and preparation. A robust travel insurance plan is essential to ensure your trip is smooth and free from financial risks. Travel insurance protects you against unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or lost luggage.

For Indian travellers heading to Saudi Arabia, securing a comprehensive travel insurance plan, such as those offered by Niva Bupa, is recommended. With Niva Bupa’s travel insurance, you can enjoy your journey with peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered for a wide range of incidents that could potentially disrupt your trip. Consider Niva Bupa for reliable travel insurance that supports your safety and convenience on your Saudi Arabia adventure.

1. What is the new visa policy of Saudi Arabia?

Effective February 1, 2025, Saudi Arabia implemented significant changes to its visa regulations:

• Single-Entry Visas: The Kingdom now issues only single-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits, each valid for a maximum stay of 30 days.
• Suspension of Multiple-Entry Visas: Previously available one-year multiple-entry visas have been suspended indefinitely. This change affects travellers from 14 countries, including India.

2. Is the Saudi visit visa open now?

Yes, Saudi Arabia continues to issue visit visas under the new guidelines. Travellers can apply for single-entry visas with a validity of 30 days. It's advisable to apply well in advance to accommodate processing times. ​

3. Who is eligible for a family visit visa in Saudi Arabia?

Family visit visas are intended for immediate family members of expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia. Eligible relatives include:

• Spouse (Wife/Husband)
• Parents (Father/Mother)
• Parents-in-law (Father-in-law/Mother-in-law)
• Children

Distant relatives such as cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and grandparents are generally not eligible for family visit visas.

4. Is Saudi issuing a family visit visa now?

Yes, Saudi Arabia is currently issuing family visit visas under the revised policies. Applicants should note the shift to single-entry visas with a 30-day validity. The application process involves online submission, sponsor approval, and may require authentication by the local Chamber of Commerce. ​

5.What is the price of a visa for Saudi Arabia?

The Saudi Arabia visa price for Indian citizens usually starts from SAR 300 to SAR 500, which is roughly ₹6,500 to ₹11,000, depending on the exchange rate at the time of application. Multiple factors, including the type of visa, duration of stay, and purpose of travel influence the cost. For example, a tourist visa might be on the lower end of this range, while a business or multiple-entry visa could be more expensive. Additional charges may apply for insurance, which is mandatory for certain visa categories, and processing fees if you apply through a visa agency. It is also worth noting that the Saudi government occasionally revises visa fees, so the price may vary slightly from one year to another. Insurance charges often cover medical emergencies during your stay in Saudi Arabia, and some travel agencies may include a service fee for handling the visa paperwork, which should be factored into your total expenditure.

6.What is the price of a 3 months visit visa for Saudi Arabia?

The 3-month visit visa for Indian citizens is generally priced around SAR 300 to SAR 500, similar to standard tourist visas. However, the price can fluctuate depending on whether it is a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. Single-entry visas are typically less expensive and are suitable for those visiting family or friends just once during the visa period. Multiple-entry visas cost more but allow the holder to enter and exit Saudi Arabia several times within the visa validity, which is beneficial for business travellers or individuals attending multiple events. For instance, if someone plans to visit family and also attend a short business seminar within the same three months, a multiple-entry visa would be more practical. These visit visas require supporting documents such as an invitation letter from the Saudi resident you plan to visit, a copy of their residency permit, and sometimes proof of relationship if visiting family members.

7.How much is the Saudi Arabia visa price for Indian citizens for 1 month?

For a 1-month stay, the Saudi Arabia visa price usually ranges from SAR 300 to SAR 400, or approximately ₹6,500 to ₹9,000. This type of visa is generally a single-entry visa, ideal for tourists or individuals with a short-term purpose of travel, such as attending a conference, visiting relatives, or exploring major cities like Riyadh or Jeddah. Single-entry visas are straightforward, as they allow only one entry and are easier to process than multiple-entry visas. For example, if you plan a 30-day sightseeing trip to Saudi Arabia, applying for a single-entry tourist visa is both cost-effective and practical. These visas also usually come with a requirement to show proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay.

8.What is the cost of a multiple-entry visa for Saudi Arabia from India?

A multiple-entry visa for Saudi Arabia from India generally costs between SAR 800 to SAR 1,000, which is approximately ₹17,000 to ₹22,000. This visa type is significantly more expensive than single-entry visas because it allows multiple entries during the validity period. Multiple-entry visas are typically valid for six months to one year, and each entry may allow a stay of up to 90 days. These visas are particularly useful for Indian citizens who travel frequently for business purposes, attend events, or have family in Saudi Arabia that they visit regularly. For instance, an entrepreneur attending multiple trade fairs in Riyadh within a year would benefit from a multiple-entry visa to avoid reapplying each time. Apart from the visa fee, applicants may also need to pay for insurance, processing, and, in some cases, documentation attestation charges.

9.How much are the Saudi Arabia work visa fees for Indian citizens?

The fees for a Saudi Arabia work visa for Indian citizens are considerably higher than tourist or visit visas, generally ranging between SAR 2,000 to SAR 3,000, which is roughly ₹44,000 to ₹66,000. This cost does not include additional charges such as medical examinations, attestation of educational and professional documents, and sometimes government processing fees, which can add several thousand rupees to the total. Work visas require sponsorship from a Saudi employer and are usually issued for the duration of the employment contract. For example, if you secure a 2-year job contract with a company in Riyadh, the work visa will typically be valid for that period and can often be renewed. Work visa applicants must also undergo mandatory medical tests, including screenings for infectious diseases, to ensure they meet the health requirements of the Kingdom.

10.What is the validity of the Saudi Arabia visa for Indians?

 The validity of a Saudi visa depends entirely on the type of visa issued. Tourist and visit visas are generally valid from three months up to one year, allowing Indian citizens to plan their travel within this period. For tourist visas, multiple-entry visas often have a longer validity of one year, allowing multiple short-term visits. Work visas, however, align with employment contracts and are typically valid for one to two years, with a possibility of extension if the employment continues. Hajj and Umrah visas are valid only for the pilgrimage period and cannot be used for general tourism. Student visas depend on the duration of the course and often require periodic renewal as long as the student remains enrolled in a Saudi educational institution. Residence visas (Iqama) are linked to employment or family sponsorship and are valid as long as the sponsoring contract or relationship is active.

11.What happens if I want to extend my Saudi Arabia visa?

If you wish to extend your Saudi visa, the application must be submitted through the Saudi immigration portal before the current visa expires. Under the new Saudi visa rules, extensions are possible, depending on the visa type. For instance, tourist and visit visas may be extended once or twice for a limited period, subject to additional charges. Work visa holders typically extend their visas through employer sponsorship, and the extension aligns with the employment contract. Overstaying a visa without extension can lead to penalties, including fines, deportation, or even temporary or permanent bans on entering Saudi Arabia in the future. It is advisable to initiate the extension process at least a week before the visa expires to allow sufficient time for processing and avoid any complications.