Saudi Arabia Launches New Instant e-Visa Platform: Eligibility, Ap
News THE ECONOMIC TIMES, livelaw.in, LAW, LAWYERS NEAR ME, LAWYERS NEAR BY ME, LIVE LAW, THE TIMES OF INDIA, HINDUSTAN TIMES, the indian express, LIVE LAW .INKingdom Introduces Seamless e-Visa System to Boost Tourism and Simplify Entry for Indian and Global Travelers
Riyadh, November 10, 2025, Monday
Saudi Arabia has officially launched a new instant e-Visa platform, marking a major leap in its ongoing effort to streamline travel procedures and attract global tourists under the Vision 2030 initiative. The digital system allows eligible visitors from select countries — including India — to obtain entry visas online within minutes, eliminating the need for embassy visits or physical documentation.
A Major Step in Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Vision 2030
The new platform reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global tourism hub, diversifying its economy beyond oil. The Ministry of Tourism confirmed that the e-Visa service now covers citizens from over 70 countries, with plans to expand further in 2026.
The e-Visa will be valid for multiple entries and can be used for tourism, business visits, events, and Umrah (excluding Hajj). It offers up to 90 days of stay per visit, with a total validity of one year from the date of issuance.
Officials stated that the new system integrates with airlines, hotels, and border agencies, enabling automated identity verification and faster clearance at airports.
Eligibility Criteria
As per the announcement, the instant e-Visa applies to:
- Nationals of 70 approved countries including India, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and all Schengen-zone nations.
- Individuals holding valid US, UK, or Schengen visas (irrespective of nationality).
- GCC residents with valid employment or residency status.
- Tourists traveling on Umrah visits outside the Hajj season.
Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months, a digital photo, and proof of accommodation or return ticket.
Application Process: Fully Digital
The application process takes less than 10 minutes via the official Saudi e-Visa portal. Steps include:
- Visit the official Saudi e-Visa platform.
- Create an account and select the purpose of travel — tourism, business, or Umrah.
- Upload documents: passport scan, photo, and travel details.
- Pay the visa fee securely online using credit or debit card.
- Receive the approved visa via email within minutes.
The platform uses automated risk assessment algorithms to review eligibility, with a minimal need for manual verification in most cases.
Fees and Validity Details
The standard e-Visa fee is SAR 300 (approximately ₹6,700), plus SAR 180 for health insurance and electronic service charges. The total cost comes to around SAR 480–500 (roughly ₹11,000).
Each visa allows:
- Multiple entries into Saudi Arabia.
- Stay duration: up to 90 days per visit.
- Total validity: one year from issuance.
- Usage: tourism, family visits, business events, and Umrah.
Children under 18 must apply under a parent or guardian’s e-Visa profile.
Streamlined Travel for Indians and Expats
For Indian citizens, the e-Visa initiative is a game-changer. Previously, applicants faced long waits and complex documentation for tourism or religious travel. Now, with instant processing, visitors can secure authorization in less than five minutes.
The Saudi Tourism Authority has confirmed that Indians with valid Schengen, US, or UK visas can apply directly, bypassing embassy channels entirely. Additionally, major airlines such as Saudia, IndiGo, and Air India Express have integrated e-Visa validation into their check-in systems to ensure seamless boarding.
Integration with National Tourism Infrastructure
The instant e-Visa aligns with broader developments like the Riyadh Air launch, the expansion of NEOM, and new hospitality projects across Jeddah and AlUla. The government aims to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030, making Saudi Arabia one of the fastest-growing tourism markets globally.
Digital kiosks are also being installed at major airports — Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Medina — where visitors can scan their passports, print e-Visa receipts, and clear immigration in under 60 seconds.
Key Takeaways
- Instant approval: Most applications processed within minutes.
- Multiple-entry visa: Valid for one year, stay up to 90 days each visit.
- Eligibility expanded: Covers 70+ countries, including India and GCC residents.
- Online process: Fully digital with minimal documentation.
- Supports Vision 2030: Strengthens Saudi Arabia’s push toward global tourism leadership.
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