The Key Update: Easier Access for More Indians
The biggest news for Indian travellers is the streamlined access for those holding certain international visas. While India is not yet on the list of 66 countries eligible for a standard e-visa based on nationality alone, a significant pathway has been
opened. Indian passport holders who have a valid, used tourist or business visa for the United States, United Kingdom, or any Schengen country can now apply for a Saudi tourist e-visa online. This move is part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a national strategy to boost tourism and welcome millions of international visitors. This conditional eligibility simplifies what was once a more complex consular process for many.
Who Is Eligible for the Simplified Visa?
There are two main routes for Indian travellers leveraging this update. The first is the online e-visa. To qualify, you must hold a valid tourist or business visa from the US, UK, or a Schengen country. Crucially, this visa must have been used at least once to enter the issuing country or region. Permanent residents of the US, UK, or EU are also eligible for the e-visa. The second option is the visa on arrival. The conditions are similar: you must possess a valid, used US, UK, or Schengen visa. However, to use the visa-on-arrival facility, you must fly on one of Saudi Arabia's national carriers, such as Saudia, Flynas, or Flyadeal. For those who do not meet these specific criteria, the traditional route of applying for a sticker visa through VFS Tasheer centres in India remains available.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to the E-Visa
For eligible Indians, applying for the e-visa is a straightforward online process. You can begin your application on the official Saudi e-visa portal, visa.visitsaudi.com. The process generally involves creating an account, filling out the application form with your personal and passport details, and uploading required documents. Key documents include a passport with at least six months of validity, a recent passport-sized photograph with a white background, and proof of your qualifying US, UK, or Schengen visa. You will also need to provide proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia, such as a hotel booking. After completing the form, you pay the visa fee online, which includes mandatory medical insurance. The e-visa is typically processed and emailed to you within a few days, often within 24 to 48 hours.
Visa Validity, Stay, and Costs
The tourist visa issued through these simplified routes is generous. It is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for one year from the date of issue. This allows you to enter Saudi Arabia multiple times during that period. For each visit, you can stay for a maximum of 90 days. This visa covers tourism-related activities, attending events, visiting family, and performing Umrah (outside of the Hajj season). The cost for the e-visa is approximately SAR 535, which includes the visa fee, mandatory health insurance, and processing charges. This amount can fluctuate slightly. The visa on arrival costs a total of SAR 480, which is paid at the airport. It's always wise to check the official portal for the most current fees before you apply.
Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
A trip to Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of ancient history and futuristic cities. First-time visitors should be mindful of local customs and laws. While the dress code for tourists has been relaxed, modest attire is recommended in public places. The country has a rich cultural heritage, from the bustling markets of Jeddah's Al-Balad district to the rock-carved wonders of AlUla. Major cities like Riyadh are now entertainment hubs, hosting international music festivals and sporting events. For religious travellers, the tourist visa allows you to perform Umrah, but you will need to use the 'Nusuk' app to book your prayer slots for the holy sites in Makkah and Medina. Remember that the Hajj pilgrimage requires a separate, dedicated visa.
