Saudi Arabia Visa & Policy Updates
Saudi Arabia has expanded tourist eVisa access to 66 countries and unified application processes through the KSA Visa portal. Key updates include a 4,000 SAR minimum spend for Package Visas, a 180-day cap for British visitors using the ETA system, and the opening of freehold property ownership for foreigners. Additionally, new firms face a five-visa limit on Qiwa instant work permits, while Russian citizens now benefit from a 90-day mutual visa waiver.
Saudi Arabia expands tourist eVisa to 66 countries with 90 day stay limit
Saudi Arabia has updated its digital portal to allow citizens from 66 countries to obtain tourist eVisas online. The visa supports multiple entries with a total stay of up to 90 days, covering tourism, family visits, and Umrah without requiring an embassy visit.
Saudi Arabia consolidates tourism and business filing into KSA Visa portal
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has approved a new national visa platform designed to unify and simplify application processes for visitors and residents. The system aims to reduce processing times and administrative hurdles for expats and travelers moving to or living in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia requires 4,000 SAR minimum spend for new Package Visa
Saudi Arabia has launched a Package Visa that integrates tourist visa processing with flight and hotel bookings through approved providers. The system aims to simplify entry for international visitors by offering a one-stop digital solution for travel logistics.
180 day cap applies as Saudi Arabia moves British visitors to ETA system
United Kingdom citizens will need an Electronic Travel Authorization to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, or short-term study. While the system simplifies entry for visits, it does not grant the right to work or establish long-term residency.
Saudi Arabia limits new firms to 5 Qiwa instant work visas
New regulations limit the number of work visas available to companies less than two years old in Saudi Arabia. This change restricts sponsorship opportunities for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs looking to join or launch early-stage ventures in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia opens Nusuk applications for 1448 AH Umrah season
Saudi Arabia has launched the electronic visa application process for the upcoming Umrah season via the Nusuk platform. International travelers can now secure entry and departure dates for religious visits to Makkah through early April 2027.
Russia and Saudi Arabia activate 90 day mutual visa waiver for tourists
Russian citizens can visit Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days per year without a visa for tourism or family visits. This change simplifies short-term stays for Russian digital nomads and travelers, though work and residency still require specific permits.
Saudi Arabia opens freehold property access for foreigners starting Jan. 22
The shift to freehold property ownership for foreigners allows expats to invest in and own real estate directly, fundamentally changing long-term residency and financial planning in the kingdom.
Saudi Arabia Updates Visa Enforcement and Overstay Penalties
Saudi Arabia has introduced revised visit visa validity periods and enhanced digital monitoring for all visitors. Travelers should note stricter penalties for overstaying and seasonal entry restrictions for certain nationalities during the Hajj period.