Do US citizens need a visa for Saudi Arabia?

Is a Saudi Arabia visa necessary for US citizens?

Saudi Arabia, this jewel surrounded by sand and rich in ancestral culture, was once inaccessible to tourists. That all changed on 27 September 2019 when the country introduced an electronic visa system for international travellers.

US citizens wishing to travel to Saudi Arabia must obtain a visa. This document can be applied for online thanks to the eVisa created by the Saudi government. The process is simple: simply complete an online form and pay a fee based on the type of visa requested - tourist or business - to receive the eVisa within a few days.

It should be pointed out that this document does not grant total freedom of movement throughout Saudi Arabia. Certain areas remain off-limits to non-residents without special authorization. Furthermore, despite the ease of administrative procedures, all visitors must honour local traditions and strictly observe the country's strict laws to avoid any complications during their stay in the unique nation of Saudi Arabia.

How to apply for a Saudi Arabia visa from the USA

Types of visa available

Saudi Arabia offers a variety of visas to US citizens. The major ones are the tourist visa and the business visa. The former allows Americans to enjoy Saudi Arabia for holidays or cultural visits, while the latter is designed for those wishing to conduct business transactions or attend professional meetings.

Visa validity and maximum length of stay for US citizens

The duration and validity vary according to the type of visa. The Tourist Visa offers a maximum stay of 90 days per entry, valid for up to one year, while the Business Visa can be valid for several years, with each stay limited to 90 days per entry. An extension can be applied for at the Saudi General Passport Office if required.

However, it is important to note that overstaying could result in sanctions such as a future ban or financial penalty. It is therefore crucial to comply with Saudi immigration laws and leave the country before the visa expires.

Saudi Arabia visa processing times for US citizens

Obtaining a visa for Saudi Arabia involves a processing period that varies according to several factors. US citizens should generally allow approximately two weeks from the time they submit their application.

However, the time required can fluctuate. For example, during major events such as the Hajj and Umrah, processing time increases. Incomplete or incorrect applications can also cause delays.

Americans planning a trip to Saudi Arabia are advised to start the process early enough to avoid inconvenience. Patience and planning are crucial in this process.

This information is subject to change without notice depending on Saudi government policies regarding visas for foreigners. American visitors are advised to keep a close eye on official Saudi immigration updates to ensure a trouble-free trip.

Documents required by Americans for Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, while welcoming to visitors, has a strict policy regarding the documentation required to obtain a visa. For those who are US citizens and wish to discover this rich and intriguing nation, several key documents need to be in place.
The first requirement is a valid passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the planned date of entry into the country. It must also have at least two consecutive blank pages for affixing the visa.

• A valid US passport valid for at least six months.
• Two consecutive blank pages in the passport.
• A recent passport photo complying with ICAO standards.
• Proof of travel insurance covering the entire period of stay in Saudi Arabia.

A recent passport photo that meets ICAO standards must also be provided.

The Saudi authorities also require the presentation of valid travel insurance, which must cover the entire stay in Saudi Arabia.

It is important to note that these conditions may vary slightly depending on the specific category of visa requested (tourism, business or pilgrimage). US citizens planning a trip to Saudi Arabia are advised to check regularly with local embassies or consulates to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Is there a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia from the United States?

Have you ever wondered whether it is possible to obtain a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia for US citizens? The answer is no. The Saudi kingdom does not offer visas on arrival for US citizens. It is therefore essential to obtain this document before leaving.

It should be stressed that the country's migration policy requires rigorous advance planning before any trip to this destination. The local authorities are uncompromising when it comes to immigration, and any infringement or failure to comply with their visa laws will not be tolerated.

In this context, it is important to understand that failure to comply with the rules can result in severe penalties such as substantial fines, or even a permanent ban on entering the country. To avoid any complications when you arrive in Saudi Arabia, or even during your stay, you are strongly advised to adhere scrupulously to these guidelines.

That said, although the process of obtaining a visa may seem arduous and complex at first glance, with the right plan and the right documents as outlined in the previous section, it becomes much simpler and less anxiety-provoking. It should always be borne in mind that these requirements are in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and the host country.

What is the Saudi Arabia visa price for US citizens?

Having established whether a visa is required for US citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia and what documents are required, it is essential to consider the question of fees. The cost of a visa for Saudi Arabia varies according to the type of visa requested.

For a tourist visa (eVisa) valid for 1 year, the amount to be paid is generally around 100 - 110 US dollars. It is crucial to stress that this rate may vary slightly according to currency fluctuations.

The cost of a business visa varies according to the duration of the visa and the number of times you wish to enter the country. For a single entry valid for up to three months, you should expect to pay around 133 US dollars, while a multiple-entry visa valid for up to two years could cost almost 400 dollars.

It should be borne in mind that this information is subject to change, and American travellers planning a trip to Saudi Arabia are advised to check regularly for price updates with the relevant authorities or on their official consular website to avoid any unexpected surprises during the visa application process.

Saudi Arabia visa rejected for US citizens

Despite the general relaxation of visa requirements for Saudi Arabia, US citizens are not immune from being rejected. There are several reasons for this. One is failure to provide the required documents, including a valid passport, a recent photograph and a correctly completed application form.

Another important factor is failure to comply with the country's strict cultural and religious rules. For example, the consumption of alcohol in Saudi Arabia is prohibited and the dress code must be observed.

Certain professions may also result in a visa being rejected. Saudi Arabia has a specific list of professions eligible for a professional or business visa; if your profession is not on this list, you may be refused.

In conclusion, although rarely used, the Saudi authorities reserve the right to reject any applicant without a clearly defined reason. This applies particularly to individuals who have behaved in a way that the local authorities consider inappropriate in the past.

Which visa is required to attend Umrah as an US citizen?

Saudi Arabia, the country of spirituality and pilgrimage, welcomes millions of Muslim worshippers every year for the Hajj and Umrah. American citizens wishing to make an Umrah must obtain a special visa.

The visa for Umrah is different from the tourist visa. The latter does not entitle the holder to perform the religious rites associated with this type of pilgrimage. This is a special visa that must be acquired before departure through a travel agency accredited by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj.

The purpose of these administrative requirements is not only to regulate the influx of visitors, but also to guarantee their safety during their stay in Saudi Arabia. Once they arrive, they are accompanied by a local organisation dedicated to pilgrims who have come to perform their religious rituals.

It is important to note that applications for an Umrah visa cannot be made individually; they must be made through a recognised travel agency. This type of visa is only valid in conjunction with the dates scheduled for the religious event and is associated with the specific place where the Umrah is to be performed.

US citizens wishing to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia are required to obtain a specific visa through an authorized agency, while complying with the conditions imposed by the Saudi authorities in order to perform this pilgrimage in the best possible conditions.

Cultural tourism in Saudi Arabia

Popular tourist sites in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, with its rich history and culture, attracts travellers from all over the world thanks to a multitude of attractions. US citizens have the opportunity to discover unique places such as Mount Uhud, famous for the historic battle fought there during the time of the Prophet Muhammad. The ancient city of Diriyah offers a striking glimpse of Saudi architectural heritage, while Madain Salih captivates with its ancient rock-cut tombs.

• The Masjid Al Haram mosque in Mecca
• The Nabawi Mosque in Medina
• The futuristic, modern city centre of Riyadh
• The sheer cliffs of Abha in Asir province
• The Fakieh Aquarium in Jeddah

Local rules for US citizens

It is essential for American visitors to Saudi Arabia to be aware of local laws and customs in order to avoid any confusion or incidents. Dress codes are strict: women must wear an abaya (long dress) when in public, while men should not wear shorts or tight-fitting clothes. It is also strictly forbidden to take photographs without prior authorization.

Practical advice for American travellers

Organising a trip to Saudi Arabia requires a certain amount of preparation. It is advisable to familiarise yourself with the rules of the road on arrival, such as following the one-way streets and the need for an international driving licence. American citizens should also be aware that alcohol is strictly prohibited in this country. International health insurance is highly recommended, given the high cost of medical care in the country.

Is Saudi Arabia safe for US citizens?

The safety of US citizens in Saudi Arabia is a legitimate concern. In general, the kingdom is perceived as safe for international travellers, including those from the United States. The protection of expatriates and tourists visiting their territory is a priority for the Saudi authorities.

However, as with any country in the world, there are certain dangers and obstacles that visitors may face. The US State Department advises its citizens to remain alert to the potential risk of terrorism and extremist violence. Saudi Arabia has been subject to terrorist attacks in the past, although such incidents are relatively rare.

It should be noted that Saudi Arabia has a very different legal system to that of the United States. Behaviour that is considered normal or acceptable in the United States may be illegal in Saudi Arabia, particularly with regard to the consumption of alcohol, drugs and certain forms of dress or public conduct.

Although the country is generally safe for American citizens, it is advisable to be informed about the local laws and culture before travelling to avoid any incidents during your stay in the kingdom.

Adeline HARMANT
As a web writer and globetrotter with a passion for travel and tourism, I have acquired in-depth knowledge of the procedures that are essential for travellers. I help travellers to complete all the formalities required for a successful trip, particularly when it comes to obtaining a visa online. With several years' experience in this field, I'd like to offer you some valuable advice to help you discover the world with complete peace of mind.