Is a Saudi Arabia tourist visa required for US citizens?

The visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. Americans can apply for an eVisa online via an official portal or approved site in a few simple steps.This page aims to guide US citizens through the process of applying for a visa to Saudi Arabia. You will find information on the types of visas available, including the eVisa, as well as the steps to follow to submit an application. The aim is to simplify the procedure by explaining documentary requirements, processing times and associated fees. You'll also discover tips on visa validity, renewal options, and common reasons for rejected visas, so you can best prepare for your trip to Saudi Arabia.

Do US citizens need a Saudi Arabia visa?

• Requirement: Yes, US citizens must obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, even for a tourist stay.
• eVisa: Americans can apply for an eVisa online, a quick and simple process.
• Price: the total cost of an eVisa is around 130 USD, including visa fees and required medical insurance.
• Processing time: eVisa processing usually takes between 24 hours and 5 days.
• Validity: the eVisa is valid for one year with multiple entries, for stays of up to 90 days per visit.

→ Saudi Arabia visa for US citizens ←

How do I apply for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia from the USA?

US citizens can apply for an eVisa for Saudi Arabia online, simplifying their access to the country for tourist travel. This fast-track procedure enables applicants to receive their visa directly by email, usually within a few days. The application must be made on the official website or on a website approved by the Saudi government.

Here is detailed information about the documents required and associated costs to apply for an eVisa as a US citizen.

Documents required by Americans to apply for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia

US citizens must gather several documents before submitting their eVisa application for Saudi Arabia. Here are the major requirements:

• Valid passport: your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you plan to enter Saudi Arabia.
• Recent passport photo: you must provide a recent color photo with a white background, respecting standards (2x2 inches) and showing a neutral expression without glasses or headgear, except for religious reasons.
• Details of your accommodation: you must indicate where you will be staying during your stay. This may include the address of a hotel, Airbnb accommodation or a relative.
• Required medical insurance: medical insurance approved by the Saudi authorities is required for all visitors. When you apply for an eVisa, you will be asked to choose from a range of coverage options, and this insurance will automatically be included in the visa fee.

No return ticket or proof of accommodation booking is required to finalize the application, but it is advisable to have a digital copy of your eVisa with you during your trip.

What is the eVisa price for Saudi Arabia for US citizens?

The total cost of the Saudi Arabia eVisa for US citizens is estimated at around 130 USD.

Additional fees may apply depending on the method of payment used (usually credit card). Please note that visa fees are non-refundable, even in the event of a rejected application.

In general, the process is relatively quick, and once approved, the eVisa is sent by email within 1 to 5 working days.

Saudi Arabia eVisa processing times for US citizens

The processing time for an eVisa to Saudi Arabia for US citizens is generally fast, enabling travelers to obtain their visa in just a few days. However, processing times vary according to circumstances, but here is some general information to be aware of:

• Standard lead time: once the application has been submitted online, eVisa processing takes between 24 hours and 5 working days on average. In most cases, applicants receive their eVisa within 48 hours of submission.
• Fast-track process: although there is no formal fast-track service for eVisa, many US citizens report extremely fast processing, sometimes in less than an hour after submitting the application.
• Additional delay: if additional documents or information are required for the application, this may result in a slight delay. It is advisable to submit your application at least one week before departure to anticipate any eventuality.

In the event of imminent travel, it is advisable to check your mailbox regularly to receive notification of eVisa approval. The approved document will be sent by email, but it is also possible to check the status of the application online using the confirmation number provided at the time of submission.

Visa duration and validity for US citizens

The tourist visa for Saudi Arabia obtained by US citizens offers considerable flexibility in terms of duration and validity. Here is the essential information concerning visa validity and authorized length of stay:

Number of entries into Saudi Arabia from the USA

The eVisa for Saudi Arabia is a multiple-entry visa. This means that US citizens can enter and leave the country as many times as they wish during the visa validity period.

How long can I stay in Saudi Arabia as a US citizen?

Each stay in Saudi Arabia with an eVisa is limited to a maximum of 90 consecutive days. However, US citizens may return multiple times, as long as the total length of stay does not exceed 90 days on each visit.

Renewing your visa for Saudi Arabia

The Saudi tourist visa for US citizens is valid for one year from the date of issue. It is not renewable beyond this period. Once expired, it is necessary to submit a new eVisa application if you wish to visit the country again.

If you have used up the 90 days of permitted stay before the visa expires, it is imperative to leave the country or apply for a new one.

Saudi Arabia visa rejected for US citizens

Although applying for an eVisa for Saudi Arabia is generally straightforward for US citizens, there are some cases in which a visa may be rejected. Here are the common reasons for rejection, as well as what to do in the event of a refusal.

Common reasons for rejection :

• Incorrect or incomplete information: submission of incorrect or incomplete documents, such as an expired passport or incorrect personal information, may result in an automatic refusal of the application.
• Unfavorable travel history: if an applicant has broken Saudi laws on a previous trip, or has overstayed the authorized length of stay, this may affect future visa applications.
• Non-compliance with visa requirements : non-compliance with specific conditions, such as passport validity of less than six months or lack of medical insurance, may also be grounds for rejection.

Procedure in the event of refusal :

In the event of a rejected application, the Saudi authorities usually send an explanation of the rejection by email. Unfortunately, visa fees are not refundable even if the application is rejected.

US citizens can submit a new application after correcting any errors identified, or if their situation changes. It is advisable to check documents carefully and ensure that all requirements are met before submitting a new application.

Is Saudi Arabia safe for US citizens?

Saudi Arabia is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, including US citizens, but it is important to follow some specific precautions to ensure a worry-free trip.

The Saudi government makes it a point of honor to ensure the safety of foreign visitors, particularly in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, which are well policed and host many expatriates and tourists. The infrastructure is modern, and the Saudi authorities take strict measures to maintain law and order.

However, travelers are advised to respect local laws, particularly with regard to the country's strict religious and social customs. Travel to specific areas, including the religious sites of Mecca and Medina, is prohibited for non-Muslims.

US citizens should also be aware of changing regional geopolitical conditions, and are advised to follow the US State Department's safety recommendations before traveling.