Saudi Visa Simplified: A Step-by-Step Guide for UAE Expatriates

For those planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, a convenient new option for visa applications has been introduced. Saudi Arabia recently announced the launch of a unified visa platform, allowing visitors to apply for their visas through the website ksavisa.sa.

Previously, applicants used the online platform of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) at visa.mofa.gov.sa. However, the new system offers a user-friendly experience through ksavisa.sa, currently in its beta or trial version.

As a UAE resident, applying for your Saudi eVisa is now simplified with this platform. The visa permits a 90-day stay, and travelers have the flexibility to perform Umrah during their visit, excluding the Hajj season.

For a seamless visa application process, explore the features of the new unified visa platform and enjoy a hassle-free journey to Saudi Arabia.

Requirements and Application Process for Saudi eVisa for UAE Expatriates

Requirements:

• Residency document valid for at least three months.
• Passport with a minimum validity of six months.
• Minimum age of 18 for those traveling without parents.

Documents to Provide:

• Passport photo with a white background.
• Copy of the passport.
• Copy of the UAE residence visa page.

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Application Process:

Step 1: Visit ksavisa.sa and Select Visa Type

1. Go to ksavisa.sa and choose the ‘Visit’ category.
2. Select ‘tourism’ as the purpose of the visit.
3. Enter your nationality.
4. Choose ‘Valid residence in the GCC countries (No less than three months)’ from the drop-down menu.
5. Click ‘Show Eligible Visas’ and choose the Electronic Visa (e-visa) option.
6. Click ‘Apply Now’ under the eVisa option.

Step 2: Enter Travel Details:

1. Based on previous selections, your nationality, visa type, duration, and validity will be automatically filled.
2. Enter the expected date of arrival in Saudi Arabia.
3. Enter the country of residence.
4. Choose the nearest embassy – Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
5. Optional: Enter transport mode and port of entry.
6. Click ‘Next.’

Step 3: Enter Personal Information and Upload Passport Photo:

1. Enter your full name as per your passport.
2. Provide your mobile number and address.
3. Specify gender and marital status.
4. Optional: Enter occupation or select ‘I do not work at the moment.’
5. Mandatory: Enter occupation title. If not working, no entry is required.
6. Enter your date of birth.
7. Optional: Answer the question about plans during your stay (Umrah, leisure, visit friends/family).
8. Upload a recent passport-sized photo following specified requirements (size, background, facial expression).
   • Photo size: 35x45mm
   • Use a plain background.
   • Face the camera directly with a neutral expression.
   • No smiling, mouth closed.
   • Ensure proper lighting and appropriate dress.
   • Upload in PNG or JPEG format, maximum file size: 5MB.

Complete the form and submit the application. Monitor the status of your application on the ksavisa.sa platform.

Step 4: Enter Passport Details and Upload Passport Copy:

• Upload scanned passport copy.
• Select passport type.
• Enter passport number.
• Select country of issuance.
• Enter place of birth.
• Provide passport issue and expiry date.
• Click ‘Next.’

Step 5: Enter UAE Residency Visa Details:

• Upload UAE residency visa.
• Enter visa number.
• Specify UAE residence visa expiry date.
• Enter the emirate of residence and address.

Step 6: Agree to Terms, Review Application Details:

• Agree to terms and conditions.
• Review application details.
• Click ‘Next.’

Step 7: Select Medical Insurance:

• Answer medical insurance questions.
• Choose ‘yes’ or ‘no.’
• Click ‘Next’ to select a medical insurance provider in Saudi Arabia.
• View the cost of each provider.

Step 8: Pay for Saudi eVisa Application:

• Review the visa application cost, including insurance.
• Click ‘Pay Now’ and complete online payment using credit or debit card.

After payment confirmation, receive a transaction number for tracking. To track the application, visit ksavisa.sa, select ‘Track Application,’ and enter the transaction or passport number. For inquiries, contact the ksavisa.sa call center at +966 920011114.

Cost Breakdown:

• Visa fees: $81 (Dh297.48)
• Application fees: $10.50 (Dh38.5)

Additional Medical Insurance Fee:

• Medical coverage ranges from $7.50 (Dh27.54) to $252.04 (Dh925.65).

Saudi eVisa Issuance:

• GCC residents generally receive the visa instantly.
• The issuance can take up to three working days in general.
• Once accepted, the eVisa is sent via email.

For further information and updates, refer to ksavisa.sa.