Understanding the New Package Visa
Saudi Arabia has introduced a 'Package Visa' to streamline travel for tourists from several countries, including India. Launched in July 2026, this initiative is part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 plan to boost tourism. The core idea is to bundle your
electronic tourist visa, flights, and hotel accommodation into a single, integrated booking. Instead of applying for a visa separately, the application is embedded within the process of purchasing a travel package from an approved provider. This simplifies planning, especially for first-time visitors, by reducing administrative steps and ensuring you are dealing with accredited travel partners offering customer support.
Who is Eligible and What's Included?
Currently, the Package Visa is available to citizens of seven countries, with India being one of them. The package must include a confirmed round-trip flight and accommodation at a Ministry of Tourism-licensed hotel rated four stars or above. The visa issued is a single-entry tourist visa valid for three months, allowing a stay of up to 88 days. It is important to note that while this visa allows you to travel throughout the Kingdom, it does not include specific arrangements for Umrah, though you are permitted to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
How to Check General Visa Eligibility
Beyond the new Package Visa, Saudi Arabia offers several other visa types. General eligibility often depends on your nationality and current documentation. The official Saudi eVisa portal, visa.visitsaudi.com, is the primary resource for checking your eligibility for a standard tourist e-visa. Indian passport holders who hold a valid and previously used visa from the US, UK, or Schengen area may also be eligible for a visa on arrival. Always verify the specific requirements for your situation on the official portal, as rules can change. This includes having a passport with at least six months of validity and a minimum of two empty pages.
Checking Your Visa Status Online
Once you have applied for any Saudi visa, you can track its status online. The primary method is through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) visa services portal. You will typically need your application number and passport number to retrieve the status of your application. This system allows you to see in real-time whether your visa has been approved, is still processing, or has been rejected, helping you plan accordingly and avoid travel disruptions. For residents checking the status of an exit/re-entry visa, the Muqeem portal is the designated platform.
Crucial Information on Cancellation
Understanding cancellation rules is critical, particularly for the new Package Visa. The visa is directly tied to your travel booking. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Package Visa cannot be cancelled separately after it has been issued. If you decide to cancel your entire travel package, the associated visa will be automatically revoked at the same time. This integrated nature means you cannot retain the visa if the trip is cancelled. For other visa types, cancellation policies can vary. It is essential to read the terms and conditions provided by the visa service or travel agency at the time of application to understand any potential penalties or procedures for cancellation and to avoid overstaying, which can result in significant penalties.
