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Embassy of India, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

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Embassy of India Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

• Home ›   Consular ›   Visa Services

Visa to visit India - General Information

1. E-Visas :

(i) With effect from 17.06.2019 E-Visa facility has been extended to Saudi nationals also.

(ii) E-Visas are admissible only for the following categories - eTourist Visa, eBusiness Visa, eConference Visa, eMedical Visa and eMedical Attendent Visa.

(iii) Applicants may go to the link https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html and apply in 4 easy steps -

(a) Apply online and Upload photo and passport page,

(b) Pay eVisa fees online using credit / debit card /payment wallet,

(c) Receive Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online (ETA will be sent to the Email).

(d) Fly to India - Print ETA and present at Immigration Check Post where eVisa will be stamped on Passport.

(iv) Application and payment of fees is required to be made a minimum of 4 days in advance from the date of travel and wait for approval.

(v) Contact 24X7 Helpdesk at +91 11 24300666 (Tel) and indiatvoa[at]gov.in (E-mail) for assistance on eVisa process.

2. Regular/Paper Visas : The present system of obtaining regular/Paper visa continues to be available.The Embassy of India, Riyadh has outsourced the visa services (submission of visa applications and delivery of serviced passports) to M/s VFS GCC LLC. The outsourcing of consular services covers areas of Central and Eastern regions falling under the jurisdiction of Embassy of India, Riyadh and areas of Western, Northern and Southern regions falling under the jurisdiction of Consulate General of India, Jeddah.

3. Click here for the Visa Application Centres of M/s VFS.

For Regular/Paper Visa Services

1. Those intending to visit India may visit the website at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/indianVisaReg.jsp to fill up the application form online. 2. A print out of the filled in application form duly signed is required to be submitted along with fee, two recent passport size photographs, photocopy of ID card/Iqama, proof of confirmation of hotel accommodation, airlines booking and passport-valid for at least six months beyond the applicable visa period- be submitted at any of the Visa application centre of M/s VFS GCC LLC between 08.30 hrs to 15.00 hrs on all working days. (i.e. Sunday to Thursday). 3. (i) Visas applied at Jeddah and Riyadh will normally be issued on the 3rd working day except in cases which require detailed procedural formalities and clearances.

(ii) Visas applied at other centres may take a little longer.

(iii) In case of any difficulty the visa applicants may contact Attache(Visa) at visa[dot]riyadh[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in or 011-4884144 Ext 205.

4. The details of different types of visas alongwith the Visa fees can be accessed here .

5. Capture of Biometrics is mandatory except for the following categories:

(i) Diplomatic and Official passport holders;

(ii) Senior citizens (above 70 years) and minors (below 12 years);

(iii) Those who have given their biometrics previously are exempted for 5 years. This is reflected in the online visa application form as exempted till dd/mm/yyyy.

[Note: In case of medical exigencies, Attache(Visa) may be contacted at visa[dot]riyadh[at]mea[dot]gov[dot]in or 011-4884144 Ext 205 alongwith medical reports for exemption.]

Additional Information

1. Applicants visiting India are advised to abide by the law of the land and not to misuse status of their respective visa granted by the Mission. Indulgence in any unlawful or undesirable practice will be dealt with strictly.

2. Satellite telephones services are not permitted in India. Under the law, people including tourists found to be making unauthorised use of satellite telephone services will be prosecuted and all the sets found in possession of any individual will be seized.

3. Any person seeking a visa to India for purpose of entering into a surrogacy arrangement must ascertain beforehand whether the law of that country permits surrogacy and will provide appropriate travel documents to the child for accompanying the surrogate parents. Entering into surrogacy arrangement under any other visa not sought for surrogacy is punishable under the Indian law.

4. Foreign Nationals visiting India on a short visit or for tourist purposes are allowed to carry a maximum of Rs. 25000 in Indian currency of any denomination. It is also advised that such currency should be procured from authorized agents with receipt or other authorized sources only as instances of counterfeit currency have come to notice of the authorities. Travellers found in possession of such currencies may face prosecurition as per relevant provisions of the Indian law.

5.For foreigners who do not hold a valid resident permit for Saudi Arabia, a reference will be made to the Indian Mission in their country of residence and would require additional processing time and fee of SR.100 (Saudi Riyals One hundred).

6. For other closed holidays for the Embassy, please check List of Holidays .

7. Validity of the visa

(i) The period of valdity of visa begins from the date of issue of visa.

(ii) The Embassy reserves the right to refuse visa without assigning any reason.

(iii) Visa fee is charged regardless of whether visa is issued or not.

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Visitors: 13596108  |  Page last updated on: 24-04-2024

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• Nationality
• Document Required
• Technical Info for e-Visa
• Payment Related
• Authorized Immigration checkposts through which eVisa holders can travel.

Payment Helpdesk

SBI ePay: +91-22-2753-5773 (24 x 7)                Axis Bank : +91 1800-419-0073 (24 x 7)

Toll free Numbers from:

• USA : 1855 205 5577
• Uk : 0808 178 5040
• Singapore : 800 1206 355
• Australia : 1800 153 861
• UAE : 8000 3570 3218
• Saudi Arabia : 800 850 0000
• Qatar : 00 800 100 348
• Bahrain : 800 11 300

Select option no. 6 on IVR to connect to agents.

From rest of the countries none toll free number to India + 91-40-6717-4100 (Paid Number).

• eVisa Helpdesk (Due to maintenance activity IVRS services are unavailable.)
• eVisa Helpdesk

E-VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

Apply online

Upload Photo and Passport Page

Pay eVisa fee online

Using Credit / Debit card / Payment Wallet

Receive ETA Online

Electronic Travel Authorization/ETA Will be sent to your e-mail

Fly To India

Print ETA and present at Immigration Check Post where eVisa will be stamped on passport.

Government of India makes no provision of charging of any emergency fees or additional fees for grant of any emergency / express e-visa. Those travelling to India are also advised to go through instructions available on the website of Bureau of Immigration at https://boi.gov.in .

eVisa is admissable only under the following categories:

E-tourist visa, e-business visa, e-conference visa, e-medical visa, e-medical attendent visa, e-ayush visa, e-ayush attendent visa.

• e-Emergency X-Misc Visa

1. One Month e-Tourist Visa

One Month (30 Days).

Double Entry, non-extendable and non-convertible

2. One year e-Tourist Visa

One year (365 Days) from the date of grant of ETA.

3. Five years e-Tourist Visa

Five years from the date of grant of ETA.

Maximum stay in India during one Calender Year should not exceed 180 days for 1 year and 5 year Tourist Visa.

One year (365 days) from the date of grant of ETA.

Continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days. If the intension is to stay for more then 180 days, shall get registered with FRRO/FRO concerned within two weeks after the expiry of 180 days.

Thirty days (30 days) from the date of arrival into India.

Organizers to upload all details & documentation on the MHA website (conference.mha.gov.in)

Sixty days (60 days) from the date of arrival into India.

If the applicant is unable to complete his e-visa application form, he may save the application and may return to complete the application form by clicking the tab at the bottom of page: After your eVisa applications is submitted, the same shall be scrutinized and if any Document/Image is not appropriate, you may be advised on your given e-mail to re-upload the same. To re-upload use the tab at the bottom of the page. Applicant should normally receive this mail within 24 hours.

• Useful Web Links
• Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. Of India.
• Ministry of External Affairs, Govt Of India
• Ministry of Tourism, Govt Of India
• Bureau of Immigration, Govt Of India
• Incredible India, Govt Of India

Eligibility

• International travellers whose sole objective for visiting India is recreation, sight seeing,casual visit to meet friends and relatives, attending a short term yoga programme,Short term courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine etc. which should not be a formal or structured course/programme (courses not exceeding 6 months duration and not issued with a qualifying certificate/ diploma etc),Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or consideration of any kind in return), medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine, business purpose, as attendant to e-Medical visa holder, attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop organized by a Ministry or Department of the Government of India, State Governments or UT Administrations etc. & their subordinate/ attached organizations & PSUs and private conferences organized by private persons/companies/organizations.
• Applicant's passport should have at least six months validity at the time of making application for grant of e-Visa.
• International Travellers should have return ticket or onward journey ticket,with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.
• International Travellers having Pakistani Passport or Pakistani origin may please apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission.
• Not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer travel document holders.
• Not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.
• Not available to International Travel Document Holders other than Passport.

If you are a national of any following countries, you are eligible for eVisa.

• Afghanistan
• Antigua & Barbuda
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Cameroon Union Republic
• Cayman Island
• Cook Islands
• Cote d'lvoire
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Niger Republic
• Niue Island
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Republic of Korea
• Saint Christopher and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent & the Grenadines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Turks & Caicos Island
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City-Holy See
• Zambia and Zimbabwe

Documents Requirement & Visa Categories

• General Instructions
• Advisory for Canadian Nationals
• e-Visa has 5 sub-categories viz. e-Tourist Visa(for 30 days/01 year/ 05 years) ,e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa. A foreigner (other than those applying for e-Conference Visa) will be allowed to club activities permitted under these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club the activities permitted under e-Tourist visa only (validity co-terminus with e-Conference Visa only i.e. 30 days). Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e- Medical Visa.
• For e-Tourist and e-Business visa, Applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival.
• For e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, Applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 120 days. Example: If you are applying on 1st Sept then applicant can select arrival date from 5th Sept to 2nd Jan
• Sample eVisa application form is available on the tab near the bottom of eVisa main page.
• Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatorily by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear / as per specification.
• e-Visa fee is country/Territory specific. Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged additionally on applicable e-Visa fees. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel otherwise application will not be processed. To know the fee applicable on your Country/Territory please Click here (for e-Tourist Visa) and for other e-Visa Click here .
• e-Visa fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
• Applicant should carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) along with him/her at the time of travel. Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as 'GRANTED' on this website prior to commencement of your journey. Applicants can track the status of their application online by clicking VisaStatus
• Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India.
• e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas. If you intend to visit Protected/Restricted/Cantonment areas, you would require prior permission from the Civil Authority please visit here.
• The e-Visa fee payment status updation may take up to 2 hours due to technical reasons/network delays. Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 2 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. In cases, where e-Visa fee has been deducted but status is not updated, the applicants are advised to verify their payment status by clicking on 'Verify Payment/Pay Visa Fee' tab or by clicking on the link Verify Payment.
• Nationals of Yellow Fever affected countries or travellers arriving from these countries must carry YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CARD at the time of arrival in India, otherwise they may be quarantined for 6 days upon arrival in India. Please visit our Ministry Of Health & Family Welfare latest guidelines regarding yellow fever countries here.
• You must travel on the Passport which you have applied for eVisa. Entry will be allowed into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport, however in such cases a traveler must carry the old passport on which ETA was issued

The documents required for completing the eVisa application is indicated against each type of eVisa. Please keep all these documents ready at hand before beginning to fill your eVisa application. All documents including Business cards, Invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which the application would be liable for rejection. The entire process may take 10 to 15 minutes to complete the application and make the payment.

Applicants must be fill eVisa application himself/herself and give correct information in each column and take responsibility for the correctness of information provided.

Documents Required: All documents uploaded by the applicant including business cards, invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which e-Visa application would be liable for rejection.

The documents required for e-visa are :.

• Scanned Bio Page of the passport showing the Photograph and Details *
• For short term courses, copy of letter from the institute/organization/hospital etc. concerned on its letter-head *
• For voluntary work of short duration, copy of letter from the organization concerned on its letter-head *
• Copy of Letter from the Hospital concerned in India on its letterhead which including the date / tentative date which admission have been suggested .
• Copy of Business Card
• Any letter of invitation if applicable from indian parties which wish you conduct the business (optional).
• Copy of Passport page containing personal particulars *
• Approval of the Government of India in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (Department of Sports)
• Invitation Letter to foreign sports teams and sports persons to visit India by the concerned Sports Federation/Association in India.
• If the applicant had participated in any commercial sports event during his/her previous visit to India, then documents regarding Tax compliance for the said visit are to be furnished
• If the sports event entails visit to Restricted or Protected Areas in India, below mentioned additional documents are also to be submitted (a) Clearance for holding the event from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. (b) Political Clearance for holding the event from the Ministry of external Affairs, Government of India. (c) Requisite clearance from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
• Invitation of the host institute to the foreign faculty
• Copy of the sanction order under GIAN issued by the National Coordinating Institute viz. IIT Kharagpur
• Copy of the synopsis of the courses to be taken up by the faculty
• Invitation from organizer, which applicant may seek from this organiser.
• Political clearance from Ministry of External Affairs
• Event clearance from Ministry of Home Affairs

The digital photograph to be uploaded along with the Visa application should meet the following requirements:

• Format - JPEG
• Minimum 10 KB
• Maximum 1 MB
• The height and width of the Photo must be equal.
• Photo should present full face, front view, eyes open and without spectacles
• Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin
• Background should be plain light colored or white background.
• No shadows on the face or on the background.
• Without borders.
• Format -PDF
• Size : Minimum 10 KB ,Maximum 300 KB

The applicant has choice of using two option for payment.

• SBI-FAQS-Payment Related
• AXIS-FAQS-Payment Related

SBIePay is the Payment Aggregator service of State Bank of India – India’s Largest Bank and amongst top 50 Banks in the world, which provides bouquet of multiple payment options on a single page for the convenience of the customers.

SBIePay has facilitated the following channels on e-Visa platform:

• Payment Gateway: It seamlessly processes Credit card and Debit Card transactions for all the cards issued internationally by Visa & MasterCard. SBIePay Payment gateway is enabled with BIN identifier which recognises the BIN online when a customer enters the no., which drastically improves the success percentage and reduces customer friction.
• Paypal: SBIePay also facilitates e-Visa customers to make payment through widely popular and accepted Paypal channel.

SBIePay is certified with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) ver 3.2, which is the latest version, and which further reinforces our promise of security and safety. The payment system fully supports 3DSecure - Verified by Visa and MasterCard Secure Code, wherever it is applicable. Further, SBIePay is secured using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption which ensures that payment information that travels over the Internet is always encrypted and cannot be viewed by unauthorised individuals.

Yes, SBIePay has enabled international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D Secure authentication.

The applicant enters necessary details on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ , and clicks on 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to SBIePay payment page and is presented with payment options of either entering Card details (Payment Gateway) or Paypal .Applicant enters his card details and clicks ‘Proceed’. Now, either of the below mentioned 2 scenarios will occur:

• 3 D Secure page of the Card Issuerwill be displayed, where applicant must enter 3D Secure Password/OTP.
• Transaction is processed without 3D Secure page. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

If an applicant is presented with a 3D Secure page prompting to enter a password/OTP, this means the Card issuing Bank participates in 3D Secure transaction. If the applicant’s transaction is processed without directing to 3D secure page, he/she should contact the card issuing Bank for support.

In an ideal scenario, once the transaction is processed, the applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with a reference number.

In some rare scenarios it may happen where the application is not shown Payment successful page post completion of transaction, which may be due to a drop in connectivity leading to non-receipt of success response. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund shall be initiated after due reconciliation process to the applicants’ card account.

In rare case of transaction status unknown to the applicant, which is when the applicant has not received success response due to time out or connectivity issue and the account has been debited, we advise the customer not to attempt another transaction immediately and rather provide their Order no. on the e-Visa site after 30 minutes to check the status of the transaction. If the transaction status is showing ‘failed’, then customer may attempt another transaction. Also, the debited amount shall be refunded to the applicants’ card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction.

The banking charges for:

• Payment Gateway Card transactions (both Debit or Credit Card): 2.5%* of the applicable e-Visa fee.
• Paypal: 3.5%* of the applicable e-Visa fee.

*The charges are inclusive of any applicable taxes.

The breakup of transaction charges will be displayed on the Payment page for applicants’ knowledge and to maintain transparency.

At State Bank of India, we are committed to provide best customer services to our customers. Customers can email us at sbiepay[at]sbi[dot]co[dot]in for any queries related to their transaction. Alternatively, SBIePay provides 24*7*365 customer support to all the e-Visa applicants. Applicants can also call us on the below mentioned number(s):

Contact No: +91-22-2753-5773

An applicant can perform multiple times transactions for a single application ID, with a gap of minimum 25 minutes between each transaction. It is advisable that applicant may check the status of the transaction at e-Visa portal before attempting another transaction.

An applicant shall be charged for only once for any successful transaction against an application ID. Any further debits shall be refunded back to the customer after due reconciliation, within seven (7) days of transactions.

Axis Bank is an Internet Payment Gateway Solution allows you to make payments on a 24 X 7 basis from around the world. It accepts all Visa, MasterCard and Maestro cards.

Axis Bank Payment Gateway services facilitates online payments w.r.t. all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.

Axis Bank Payment gateway services is compliant with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) standards. All transactions initiated at Axis Bank Payment Gateway services come with 128 bit security and two factor authentication via MasterCard Secure Code and Verified-by-Visa authentication is enabled.

Axis Bank Payment gateway accepts all international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D secure authentication.

The applicant after filling details on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to Axis Bank payment gateway page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Cardholder enters his card number, expiry date, Name and CVV value and clicks 'Pay Now'. Incase cardholder Bank is enabled for 3D secure, then a page will appear for the cardholder to entire either his/her OTP/3D secure password. Else transaction would be processed. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

Incase Bank is participating for 3D Secure transaction during transaction a 3D secure page would appear and cardholders have to enter his/her password /OTP.

The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund will have to be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicant's card account.

If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount will have to be refunded to the applicant's card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction. In some cases, If the fund still lies with the card issuing Bank, kindly get in touch with your Bank for such case.

The banking charges are subject to maximum of 2.5% plus applicable taxes on the applicable e-Visa fees. These charges are charged to the applicant at the time of making online e visa fee payment.

Axis Bank provides technical support for all payment related transactions at ecom[at]axisbank[dot]com

Our endeavour is to provide you with a seamless experience on our platform. Please ensure following, before initiating the card payment.

• Using a non-expired card
• Have sufficient balance in your account
• Have sufficient credit card limit on the card being used
• Card is not reported as “lost or stolen”
• Entering the correct OTP. Have access to device for accessing OTP or Static password
• Card supports transactions in INR and USD
• Amount has not exceeded the daily maximum allowed amount by your issuer
• Number of transactions have not exceeded the daily maximum allowed count by your issuer
• Issuer and card not enrolled for 3DS
• Timeout occurred while receiving the OTP from issuer or while entering OTP on the payment page

SBI e-Pay Payment Gateway :-

• SBIePay is the Payment Aggregator service of State Bank of India which provides multiple payment options on a single payment page for the convenience of applicants. SBIePay has enabled Debit and Credit issued by MasterCard and VISA.
• SBIePay facilitates online payments all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.
• SBIePay is certified with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) ver 2.0 certified, which reinforces our promise of security. The payment system fully supports 3DSecure - Verified by Visa and MasterCard Secure Code, wherever it is applicable. Further SBIePay is secured using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption which ensures that payment information never sent over the Internet unencrypted and cannot be viewed by unauthorised individuals.
• SBIePay has enabled international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D Secure authentication.
• The applicant after filling details on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ and clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to SBIePay payment page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Applicant enters his card details and clicks “Proceed”. Then the applicant may see one of the two options: i. 3 D Secure page of the Card issuing page for inputing 3D Secure password/OTP ii. Transaction is processed without 3D Secure page. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.
• The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund shall be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicants card account.
• If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount shall be refunded to the applicants card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction.
• The banking charges are 2.5% on the applicable e-Visa fees. These charges are charged to the applicant at the time of making online e-visa fee payment.
• SBIePay provides technical support for all payment related transactions at +91-22-2753-5773 is (24 x 7).
• An applicant can perform maximum of three transactions for a single application ID.
• If the applicant cannot succeed in three attempts, a new application is required to be filled and transaction has to be carried out with new application ID.
• An applicant shall be charged for only once against an application ID. Any double/triple debit shall be refunded after due reconciliation within seven (7) days of transactions.

Ans- The following are the eligibility conditions for availing e-Visa services-   i. Nationals of countries listed on the e-Visa website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ are eligible to apply for e-Visa Services.   ii. Foreigners whose sole objective for visiting India is     (a) Recreation and sightseeing     (b) Casual visit to meet friends and relatives     (c) Attending short term yoga programme or short term courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine etc. which should not be a formal or structured course/programme      (courses not exceeding 6 months duration and not issuing a qualifying certificate/diploma etc. to the participants)     (d) Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or consideration of any kind in return)     (e) Medical treatment, including treatment under Indian systems of medicine     (f) As attendant to e-Medical visa holder     (g) Business purpose     (h) Attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop.   iii. Passport should have at least six months validity at the time of making application for grant of e-Visa and a re-entry permit, if that is required under the law of the country of nationality of the applicant.    The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer.   iv. The foreigner should have return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.   v. Foreigners of Pakistani origin or having Pakistani Passport are not eligible for e-Visa. Foreigners who are not Pakistani nationals, but whose parents or grandparents (either paternal or maternal) was born    in, or was permanently resident in Pakistan, are also not eligible for e-Visa. They may apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission.   vi. Not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer/ international travel document holders.   vii. Not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.

Ans- For details regarding procedure for applying, please visit our website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/

Ans- No, https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ is only the official website to apply for the e-Visa Services.    Note - Services of e-Visa are completely online and no facilitation is required by any intermediary / travel agents etc. It is advised not to believe or fall in trap of any such unscrupulous elements who claim    speedy/express grant of e-Visa and charge money for it.    Do not share your personal information with any unauthorized website as it may lead to leakage of your personal data. Only visit the official website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ for e-Visa    service.    For any clarification, you may write us on our email id ' indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in ' or contact us on +91 11 24300666 .

Ans- No, there is no fee other than the processing fee for e-Visa application and it is non-refundable. Please visit our website to know the fee applicable for your country as it is country-specific.

Ans- (i) For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance    of the date of arrival. Such application can be made 120 days in advance from proposed date of travel.    (ii) For e-Tourist Visa (30 days) , applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. Such application can be made 30 days in advance from    proposed date of travel.

Ans- Yes. Immediately after you submit your e-Visa application and make the payment, you will receive a confirmation of submission of your application on the email id provided by you while filling up your    application form.

Ans- Your e-Visa application may take 72 hours or more for processing. You will be intimated about your Visa status (Granted or Rejected) on your email id provided by you in the e-Visa application.

Ans- Yes, you may check the status of your e-Visa application by visiting our website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ and clicking on 'Check your Visa Status' Tab provided on the website.

Ans- The validity of e-Visa would be according to the e-Visa service you have requested in the application form as -    For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years) , the validity would be 365 days / 05 years from the date of grant of ETA with Multiple entries and Maximum stay in India during one Calender Year should not exceed 180 days.    For e-Tourist Visa (30 days) , the validity would be 30 days from the date of your first arrival in India. Double entries will be granted within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport. Your first    arrival must be between the date of issue and expiry of ETA.    For e-Business Visa , the validity would be 365 days from the date of grant of ETA with Multiple entries and continuous stay during each visit which shall not exceed 180 days and no registration would be    required if stay is for a period of less than 180 days. However, if the intention is to stay for more than 180 days, then the foreigner shall get himself/herself registered with the FRRO/FRO concerned     (https://indianfrro.gov.in) within two weeks after the expiry of 180 days of his/her arrival in India.    For e-Conference Visa , the validity would be 30 days from the date of arrival in India with Single entry.    For e-Medical Visa , the validity would be 60 days from the date of first arrival in India and triple entry will be allowed within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport.    For e-Medical Attendant Visa , the validity would be 60 days from the date of first arrival in India and triple entry will be allowed within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport.

Ans- No, e-Visa is non-extendable and non-convertible.

Ans- You may arrive at 31 designated Airports i.e. Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneshwar, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Cochin, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa(Dabolim), Goa(Mopa), Guwahati, Hyderabad,Indore    Jaipur,Kannur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Port Blair, Pune, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum, Varanasi & Visakhapatnam, and 5 designated seaports (i.e. Cochin, Goa, Mangalore,    Chennai and Mumbai seaports). You may depart from any of the Indian Immigration Check Posts (ICPs).

Ans- Your e-Visa application may take upto 72 hours for processing. For more enquiries on your e-Visa application, you can contact us at +91 11 24300666 or e-mail at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in    The applicants are advised to beware of unscrupulous elements/ travel agents/ intermediaries in this regard. In cases where applicants have been asked for correct details or additional information    where application is incomplete, the same must be sent immediately. If such information is not provided within 72 hours, the application is liable to be rejected.

Ans- Yes, ensure that your child’s passport is valid at-least for next 06 (six) months from the date of arrival in India.

Ans- e-Visa processing fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Ans- No. You have already paid the required processing fee online. The applicants are advised to beware of unscrupulous elements/ travel agents/ intermediaries demanding extra payment.

Ans- This pertains to customs department.

Ans- Make sure you delete the browser history and cookies before trying to make payment. Also try to change the browser if the problem persists.    In case you have already tried more than thrice, then you may have to re-submit the entire application form once again.    Payment Support helpline :-     Axis Bank Technical support. Email address: ecom[at]axisbank[dot]com    Contact No Toll free Numbers from:    USA : 18552055577 UK : 0808178 5040 Singapore : 8001206355 Australia : 1800153861 UAE : 8000 3570 3218 Saudi Arabia : 8008500000 Qatar : 00800 100348 Bahrain : 80011300    For rest of the countries: + 91-40-6717-4100     SBI ePay payment support provides technical support for all payment related transactions at +91-22-2753-5773 (24 x 7).

Ans- Please visit our website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ and click on 'Verify Payment/ Pay e-Visa fee'.

Ans - You have to upload the business card along with the details of Indian Firm/Company (which you intend to associate yourself with) for business activities. For Sports Related Activity under e-Business Visa, please refer Instructions for applicant page for the list of documents required.

Ans- Business card means 'a card provided to you by the company you are working for' OR you can also upload 'an invitation letter from the company in India including company's information, address and    phone number in India'.

Ans - A Copy of Letter from the Hospital concerned in India on its letterhead which includes the tentative date of admission/treatment in the hospital mentioning the name, nationality and Passport number of    the patient/ e-Medical Visa applicant.

Ans- For e-Conference Visa, following are the required documents:    (i) Invitation from organizer (mandatory)    (ii) Political clearance from Ministry of External Affairs, Govt of India (mandatory)    (iii) Event clearance from Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt of India (optional)

Ans- You may be allowed entry into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport with the condition that you must carry the new Passport and old passport on which ETA was    issued.

Ans- No, You can only enter through the designated airports/seaports which are listed on the e-Visa website.

Ans- You have to put the Previous visa details in the application form as it is mandatory. You can write NA or Not Available or Not Applicable or any other suitable phrase according to you in the application    form if you do not remember your earlier Visa number/details.

Ans- The Visa on Arrival facility is only for the nationals of Japan, South Korea and UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India). For the nationals of all other    countries eligible for e-Visa, the e-visa application have to be filled online and the applicant must wait till the confirmation/Grant of ETA for travelling to India.

Ans- e-Visa processing fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either grant or Rejection of the Application.

Ans- Entry by cruise ship is allowed with the ETA through 5 designated seaports namely Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Goa and Mangalore seaports.

Ans- 'Visible identification mark' generally means moles, birthmarks, permanent scars etc. which are visible and can be shown if askd for by the Indian Immigration Authority.

Ans- All the foreigners arriving in India within 6 days of departure from any yellow fever endemic country are required to possess (in original) a valid yellow fever certificate of vaccination.    List of Yellow fever vaccination countries-     https://mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/Updated%20List%20of%20Yellow%20Fever%20Endemic%20Countries%20by%20WHO_0.pdf

Ans- The applicant must check all the details including Name, Nationality, Passport Number and Date of Birth, photograph/self image etc before final submission of e-Visa application. The applicant would be    responsible for any discrepancy irrespective of grant/rejection of e-Visa application. However, if any discrepancy found on ETA, e-Visa Support Centre may be contacted at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in or     +91 11 24300666 for assistance at least 24 hours before the journey date.

Ans- e-Visa is not allowed for employment. You may apply for a Regular Visa.

Ans- e-Visa is not allowed for NGO activities and journalism purposes. However, Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or    consideration of any kind in return) are allowed.

Ans- Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa (patient).

Authorized Immigration Checkposts

Entry points.

Persons holding eVisa will be allowed to enter into India only through the designated international airports (31) namely :

• Thiruvananthapuram
• Goa(Dabolim)
• Visakhapatnam
• Bhubaneswar

eVisa facility is also been provided for entry at 5 major Indian seaport for cruise tourists:

• New Mangalore

Exit Points

• Bhubaneshwar
• Tiruchirapalli
• Vishakhapatnam
• Attari Road
• Changrabandha
• Gauriphanta
• Kailashahar
• Lalgolaghat
• Srimantapur
• Kawarpuchia
• Bedi Bunder
• Mormagoa Harbour
• Mumbai Seaport
• Nagapattinum
• Nhava Sheva
• Vishakapatnam
• Agati and Minicoy Island Lakshdwip UT
• Vallarpadam
• Krishnapatnam
• Munabao Rail Check Post
• Attari Rail Check Post
• Gede Rail and Road Check Post
• Haridaspur Rail Check Post
• Chitpur Rail Checkpost

Technical information for e-visa: This site is best viewed in Mozilla Firefox,Google Chrome,Internet Explorer (Windows) version 9.0 and above.The applicant must also have Adobe Acrobat Reader version 7.0 or higher installed on your PC in order to download and print the completed application form. This website is compatible with Android and IOS devices.

Family Visit Request   //

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  Service Description

  service beneficiaries,   conditions and requirements.

• Complete the online form via  Visa services platform ​  and stamp it electronically and authenticate it from the Chamber of Commerce or from the employer.
• Enter all the data in Arabic except if​ the visitors are not from Arab nationalities, in that case their names should match their passports.
• For residents, they should have valid for residents.
• The visitors should be of first degree relatives
• Rresidents should have a work Iqamah not relative Iqamah.

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Saudi Arabia E-Visa for Indians: Online Visa Requirements & Fees

Last Updated : 26 Apr 2024

Last Updated : 26 Apr 2024 at

30-Seconds Summary

Indian nationals travelling to Saudi Arabia must apply for the Saudi Arabia e-visa, which allows Indians to visit for tourism.

A Saudi Arabia visa is an e-visa that allows you to apply online

It does not require you to submit your passport and visit any Embassy for interviews.

Apply on Atlys and get a full refund if your visa is rejected.

Important Information

— Visa type

— Saudi Arabia e-visa cost

— Saudi Arabia e-visa processing time

— Saudi Arabia e-visa validity

— Length of stay

Do Indians need a visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Arabia e-visa is for tourism only; you can’t engage in work or business activities.

Saudi Arabia e-visa is a convenient option that allows applicants to complete the application online. Indian nationals can apply for an e-visa through Atlys or the government portal.

Can Indians get a Saudi Arabia visa on arrival?

Indians are not eligible for a Visa On Arrival (VOA) in Saudi Arabia. While some nationalities can obtain visas upon arrival, India is not currently included in that list.

Indian nationals must apply for an e-visa before their travel. Applying for an e-visa is a straightforward online process that can be done through A tlys or the government website.

Saudi Arabia e-visa requirements for Indians

To apply for a Saudi Arabia e-visa, you need to meet certain requirements and submit specific documents, such as:

Valid passport : ​A scanned copy of your valid passport information page showing your photo and personal details. Your current passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival and have at least 2 blank pages.

Valid photo : When applying for a Saudi visa, you must provide a recent digital passport-size photograph . These photographs must meet specific requirements, such as being in colour, with a plain white background, and showing your full face with no headwear (unless for religious purposes).

Use Atlys to apply easily and upload necessary documents with your smartphone or laptop camera.

Saudi Arabia e-visa fees for Indians

The Saudi Arabia visa price for Indians is ₹ 9,980.

* The Saudi Arabia visa cost for Indians will be charged as per the exchange rate on the day of the application.

Saudi Arabia visa application process for Indians

We always want to ensure that our readers know exactly how to apply and their options. For the Saudi Arabian tourist visa for Indians, you can apply through Atlys or handle the application yourself. We'll help you understand both processes to make it simpler for you.

How to apply through Atlys

To get your visa on time, here's a quick overview of what to expect when applying online through Atlys.

Start application: Begin your Saudi Arabia e-visa application journey by visiting Atlys .

Upload or take your photo: You can upload or take a new photo directly through the portal using your smartphone or laptop.

Provide your details: F ill in the required personal and travel information accurately.

Finalise and pay: Review your application, checkout, and pay the applicable visa fees.

Receive your visa on time : Atlys will process your visa within 6 days of submitting your application.

Why Choose Atlys

Saudi Arabia visa approval times are uncertain and can take up to 7 business days. A tlys guarantees your visa in 2 days.

Atlys has tie-ups and public relations officers at Saudi Arabia Immigration to ensure that visas come on time.

You can apply for your entire family on Atlys in one go.

How to apply through the government website

To apply for a Saudi Arabia visa for Indians, you can follow these streamlined steps:

Start visa application: Start by visiting the KSAVISA portal and selecting the appropriate e-visa option based on your eligibility.

Fill in personal information: Provide your personal details as required by the application form.

Enter passport information : Input your passport details, ensuring all data is current and valid.

Provide residency information : Detail your residency status, especially if you are a US, UK, or Schengen visa holder, UK, US, and EU resident, or a GCC visa holder.

Agree to terms & conditions: Read and accept the terms and conditions of the e-visa application process.

Review application : Double-check the information you entered for accuracy before submission.

Confirm medical insurance : Purchase one of the medical insurance provided during this step, which is valid for your stay in Saudi Arabia.

Make application payment : Use the provided payment methods to pay the e-visa application fee. A 5% surcharge will apply for most international cards for USD transactions. You can avoid this by using Atlys .

Additional documents to be submitted:

For Indian nationals applying for a Saudi e-visa on the government website, you must meet one of the following criteria:

For US, UK, or Schengen visa holders: To qualify for the e-visa, you must have a business or tourist visa with at least one entry stamp from the issuing country (note that digital entry stamps are not accepted).

For UK, US, and EU residents: You must possess a permanent residence permit from the UK, US, or EU.

For GCC residents: You must hold a GCC residency visa with at least three months remaining validity after entering Saudi Arabia.

Tips To Apply

Double-check all the documents required for your e-visa application, including your passport and photograph.

Carefully fill out your application form with accurate information that matches your travel documents.

Submit your e-visa application well before your intended travel date to allow ample time to rectify any issues and ensure you receive your visa on time.

After submitting, regularly check your e-visa application's status online to address any follow-up requirements or corrections promptly.

Receive your approved Saudi Arabia visa for Indians

After submitting your application, processing your Saudi Arabia visa takes 7 business days through the government website.

Through Atlys:

After your visa is approved, Atlys will notify you. You can then download the visa in PDF from the app and print it to take with you when you travel to Saudi Arabia.

Through the government:

You will receive an email notification regarding the e-visa approval. Once the e-visa is approved, you can download and print the visa.

How the approved Saudi Arabia visa looks:

Saudi Arabia visa information for Indians

How to check my saudi arabia visa status.

Check your visa status on the government website:

After applying, you can check your e-visa result by following these steps on the Government website:

Select the “Track your application” option.

Enter the "Application/Visa number" and "ID number".

The current status of your visa application will be displayed.

Check your visa status on Atlys:

Atlys provides real-time status updates to keep you informed.

1. Download the Atlys app .

2. Select “Profile” and then “My Documents”.

3. Inside "My Documents," find your Saudi Arabia visa.

4. Click on the visa to access the status.

Processing time for Saudi Arabia visa

The Saudi Arabia e-visa processing through the government website is 7 business days. However, by using Atlys, you can receive your approved e-visa within 2 days.

Saudi Arabia visa validity & length of stay

The Saudi Arabia e-visa is valid for 365 days from the date of issue, which will be mentioned on your e-visa. This visa permits multiple entries into the country, with a total stay not exceeding 90 days.

Our Commitment To Visa Accuracy

At Atlys, our focus is on delivering current and precise visa application details, with information gathered from dependable government sources, such as:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Visa Platform

KSAVISA Portal

Please note that Saudi Arabia visa fees and rules can vary over time. We recommend checking the official website for the most recent information before starting your application. This step will help you access the latest data for a hassle-free visa application process.

We’re here to answer all your questions

After your visa has been approved, you will receive it via email. Then, you can print it and finally travel to Saudi Arabia within the validity period of your visa.

Yes. Indians can extend their Saudi Arabia visa by visiting the embassy.

When you make your online application, you may run into some issues like:

The website is not working.

The e-visa fee payment issues.

Documents are not uploading.

Yes, you must print out your e-visa before travelling to Saudi Arabia, as you must have a physical copy when you land at the airport.

Indian citizens must be at least 18 to apply for a visa independently. Travellers under 18 must have a parent apply for an e-visa first.

Applying for a Saudi visa from India can come with certain challenges. Here's what to keep in mind:

Verify your eligibility for the specific visa type you're applying for.

Finding a registered travel agent can be difficult; Atlys is a recommended alternative.

Ensure your passport photo meets the required specifications.

A criminal record in India could result in visa rejection.

Previous denial of entry into Saudi Arabia may affect your application.

Proof of sufficient funds for your stay is essential.

Complete and accurately fill in the visa application form.

Gather and submit all required documentation.

Be clear about the purpose of your visit when communicating with the Saudi embassy.

When travelling with a minor, ensure you have the appropriate documents.

Previous travel to Israel could complicate your application.

An Israeli stamp on your passport might also pose issues.

There are many reasons why your visa application might get rejected, like:

Not having all the right documents or having fake ones.

Filling out the visa application form incorrectly.

Not having enough money.

Having a criminal record.

Getting denied a visa before.

Having an Israeli stamp on your passport.

Not being clear about why you want to visit.

Your original passport should meet the following Saudi Arabia entry requirements when applying for a Saudi visit visa for Indians:

The passport must have 6 months validity from the time of visa application.

There are a minimum of two blank pages in your passport.

At Atlys , you will receive a 100% refund of your visa fees (up to ₹8,000) , excluding the service fees.

If your visa gets rejected, you will be notified of the reason for rejection. By fixing these rejection reasons, you can reapply for your visa. You will lose the funds when applying through the government or visa portals.

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Visa Guaranteed on

020-49027000 / 020-25550000

[email protected], saudi arabia tourist visa.

• Saudi Arabia Visa
• Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa

What is the Saudi Tourist Visa?

How to apply for saudi arabia tourist visa, eligibility for saudi tourist visa, documents required for saudi arabia tourist visa, photo specification for saudi arabia tourist visa, processing time for saudi arabia tourist visa, saudi arabia tourist visa fees, after submission, how to check visa status, when you have this visa, saudi arabia tourist visa for indians - definitive guide.

Tourism in Saudi Arabia until early 2019 has been majorly religious based. However, with the introduction of the Saudi Arabia tourist visa , this is set to change. With its amazing historical sites, red sea diving, museums, and much more, this country is waiting to be explored. Although the Saudi tourist visa is available as an e-visa and visa on arrival for 49 countries, the Saudi Arabia tourist visa for Indians is in the offline form.

The tourist permit is an endorsement that lets people enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to engage in tourism activities. The visa is issued as a multiple-entry time and will be valid for 1 year with a maximum stay duration of 90 days. The Saudi Arabia tourist visa from India has to be made through an embassy or consulate. However, in the following years, the Saudi tourist visa from India may even be issued as an e-visa or visa on arrival.

The application for the tourist permit is done in a unique way. You will not be able to apply for it directly at the embassy or consulate. Although, currently 49 nationalities can simply use an online portal and apply for an e-visa. Before starting an application for the Saudi tourist visa for Indian citizens, you must ensure that you are eligible to travel on the tourist permit.  You can then apply as per the following - 

• Visit one of the Saudi embassy authorized agency. 
• Fill in the application form for the tourist permit. 
• Submit your documents to the agency.
• The agency will then forward your application to the Saudi embassy/consulate in India.

Note:- You cannot directly approach the embassy for your application.  

To be able to apply for the tourist permit, you must be eligible for it. In order to do so, you must meet the following conditions - 

• You must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry in Saudi.
• You must possess sufficient funds to cover your expenses in the country.
• You must be at least 18 years of age. If you are below it, you must be accompanied by a legal guardian. 
• Your sole purpose of the visit must be tourism.

As per the Saudi Arabia tourist visa requirements from India , you must need the following documents for your applications - 

• A valid passport
• 2 photos as per the specifications
• Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia
• Round trip flight tickets
• If employed, an employee letter from the Indian company
• Bank statement of the last three months
• Complete travel itinerary

As per the Saudi Arabia tourist visa photo requirements , the following are the photo specifications required - 

• Recently taken
• Coloured, with a white background
• Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
• Face should cover 80% of the photo
• Facial expression - neutral
• Head in a central location
• Eyeglasses are not permitted
• Headwear - permitted in case of religious reasons

The time for processing the application usually depends on the volume of applications at the embassy. Normally, Saudi permits are processed fast. As a result, in most cases, you can receive the processed visa within 2 working days after the submission. Therefore, ensure that you apply at least a week in advance.

The Saudi tourist visa fees for Indian citizens include the application fee as well as the insurance charges that vary according to the age. Apart from this, there may be service charges for the authorized agencies as well as any additional delivery charges, etc. As a result, check the exact amount before starting the application. 

Once you have submitted the application at the authorized agencies, they will then forward them to the embassy/consulate for processing. In the meanwhile, you will not be able to withdraw or modify the application. As a result, ensure that you provide correct information and the right documents. Providing fake information or false documentation can lead to visa rejection. 

Since the mode of application is offline, it is generally not possible to track the visa status. Also, the processing time being short has also made it unnecessary to check the status. In case you require any additional help or if you need more information, you can contact the travel agency you applied through.

Note:- In case of e-visa applications from outside India, you may track it online through the portal. 

Once you have received your tourist permit, you must keep in mind the following key points to ensure that you have a safe and sound trip- 

Before travelling

• You must note the validity, stay duration, and the number of entries provided. Your trip must be in accordance with these.
• Carry all your travel documents without fail. 

At the border 

• You will have to show the documents to the border control officers at your port of entry.
• Possessing the visa will not directly allow you entry. Your entry will be decided by the border patrol officers.

In the country

• While you are in the country, you must not take part in any kind of work. 
• You must carry a copy of your passport and visa while you are travelling within the country.
• The tourist permit does not grant entry to non-muslims into the holy cities of Mecca and Medinah. 
• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strict laws regarding dress codes, public behaviour, alcohol, etc. You must strictly abide by the laws and customs during your stay. Failure to do so will lead to deportation and judicial action.
• You must leave the country on or before your expiry date or at the end of your permitted stay duration, whichever comes first. Staying back in the country after this will attract hefty fines. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i extend my saudi arabia tourist permit.

It is not possible to extend the Saudi tourist permit. The country is strict on rules regarding the visas. As a result, you must leave the country without attempting to extend. This applies for the e-visa as well. Although, other long term categories may be extended in certain conditions. 

What is the Medical Test for Saudi Tourist permit?

There is no medical test requirements for the Saudi tourist permit. The medical tests are only mandatory for work permits and other categories. However, in order to keep the citizens in the country as well as yourself safe, it is highly recommended that you get a medical check-up done before travelling. 

Can I Convert My tourist visa for Saudi into a Work Visa?

No, it is strictly not permitted or possible to convert the tourist permit into a work permit. Also, you are not allowed to work while you are on this category. In case you require to work, you must apply for the work permit once you are back in your home country. 

How Much Bank Balance is required to get a Saudi Arabia tourism permit?

As per the regulations, there is no mandatory requirements regarding the number of funds needed. The embassy requires that you possess enough funds to sustain your stay in the country. The bank statements also need to show steady transactions. Ensure that you do not have any unusual funds flowing in.

How many months before the trip should I apply for a Saudi Tourist visa?

The Saudi tourist category is issued within a few days itself. In extreme cases, it may take slightly longer. As a result, if you apply for it a week or two in advance, you will most likely receive the visa in time for your flight. 

Does Saudi Arabia grant a tourist visa to Muslims to visit Mecca and Medina?

Yes, the tourist visa can be used to enter the cities of Mecca and Medina for travellers belonging to the Muslim religion. However, the cities are restricted to people from other categories. If you are visiting the country for Hajj or Umrah, you must apply for the Hajj visa or Umrah visa instead of the regular tourist visa 

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New schengen visa rules for india, saudi arabia, oman, bahrain, the new system offers substantial advantages, allowing travellers access to long-term, multi-entry entry permit.

Ajanta Paul

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Travelling to Europe has become much more convenient for GCC and Indian visitors. The European Commission has approved new regulations for the issuance of Schengen visas to citizens of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman and India who live in their home countries.

Under the new system, Saudi, Bahraini and Omanis will now have access to multiple-entry visas, allowing them to travel to 29 European countries using the same visa within five years.

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This implementation has significantly simplified the process of obtaining a Schengen visa, making it much more convenient for eligible applicants, even first-time applicants. They can now look forward to receiving a multiple-entry visa that remains valid for up to five years, relieving them of the stress of frequent visa applications.

"The European Commission has adopted new rules for the issuance of Schengen visas for Saudi, Bahraini and Omani nationals residing in their home country. It is an important step promoting people-to-people contacts and facilitating exchanges between the EU and GCC citizens," the delegation of the European Union in GCC posted on X.

Kuwaitis can be issued with long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for five years. UAE nationals enjoy visa-free travel to the Schengen nations, permitting stays of up to three months at a time. However, a Schengen visa is a must for UAE residents.

Additionally, the European Commission adopted specific rules on issuing multiple entry visas to Indians. Under the new regulations, Indian travellers are now eligible to obtain a two-year Schengen visa, a significant enhancement compared to the shorter validity periods previously offered.

To qualify for this extended visa, applicants must have obtained and used two Schengen visas within the last three years in accordance with the regulations. Upon successfully utilising the two-year visa, travellers can typically anticipate eligibility for a five-year Schengen visa, subject to the maintenance of sufficient passport validity.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with the facilitation of people-to-people contacts being a key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU.

These changes ease the visa application process and facilitate smoother travel experiences.

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

ajanta @ khaleejtimes . com

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Saudi Arabia changes Umrah visa rule; to remain valid for 3 months from issuance date

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , SAUDI ARABIA / Updated : Apr 17, 2024, 16:39 IST

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Under the new Umrah visa rule, the three-month validity of the visa begins from the day of issuance. For someone with an Umrah visa, it will be possible to enter the country and perform the Umrah pilgrimage.

Under the new Umrah visa rule, the three-month validity of the visa begins from the day of issuance. For someone with an Umrah visa, it will be possible to enter the country and perform the Umrah pilgrimage. Read less

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Under the new Umrah visa rule, the three-month validity of the visa begins from the day of issuance. For someone with an Umrah visa, it will be possible to enter the country and perform the Umrah pilg...

Major Schengen visa update for Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia and India

Under the new arrangement, nationals of Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain will be eligible for five-year multiple-entry Schengen visas

Passport holders from Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia, are set to benefit from extended travel privileges as the European Union (EU) announced the issuance of five-year multiple-entry Schengen visas.

The announcement was made by Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, during the High-Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation held in Luxembourg.

He said, “I would like to welcome the adoption by the [European] Commission this morning of decisions that will allow to harmonise the rules on the issuing of multiple-entry visas for GCC countries.”

Borrell expressed the EU’s commitment to strengthening relations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries by harmonising visa rules.

The European Commission has adopted new rules for the issuance of Schengen visas for Saudi, Bahraini and Omani nationals residing in their home country. It is an important step promoting people-to-people contacts and facilitating exchanges between the EU and GCC citizens👇 pic.twitter.com/gV87IyhITx — EU in the GCC (@EUintheGCC) April 23, 2024

Schengen visa changes

Under the new arrangement, nationals of Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain will be eligible for five-year multiple-entry Schengen visas, allowing them to make multiple visits to Schengen Area countries within a calendar year.

However, travellers must adhere to the 90/180-day rule, limiting stays to a maximum of three months within any six-month period.

While specific details are yet to be officially released by EU authorities, it is anticipated that first-time applicants and eligible passport holders from the mentioned countries will benefit from the extended visa validity as well.

Notably, citizens of the UAE are currently the only GCC nationals who enjoy a visa-free entry to the Schengen Area, while discussions are ongoing between other GCC nations and the EU to further ease visa requirements.

Read: Visa-free travel to Schengen countries soon? GCC-EU talks see progress

Earlier this year, talks saw EU countries consider the lifting of visa requirements for nationals of Kuwait and Qatar based on several key criteria, as revealed in a recent report:

• Irregular migration
• Public policy and security
• Economic benefits
• EU relations with the countries

The European Union Commission’s assessment concluded that both Kuwait and Qatar present a low risk in terms of irregular immigration.

Should the European visa requirements for these GCC countries be lifted, travellers would be eligible for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

Indian nationals benefit from new Schengen visa rule change

In addition to the visa changes for Gulf citizens, the EU has also adopted more favorable Schengen visa rules for Indian nationals.

Eligible Indian travellers with an established travel history and prior Schengen visa usage will now be granted multiple-entry visas with extended validity, starting from two years and potentially extending to five years, subject to passport validity.

Previously, the standard rules of the Visa Code applied.

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Saudi citizens granted 5-year visas in eu-schengen rule update.

https://arab.news/nqcdf

• New relaxed code to allow Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia nationals to be eligible for multiple-entry visas

LONDON: The EU announced on Monday the relaxation of visa rules for citizens of Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain.

The European Commission has adopted three implementing decisions updating the rules on issuing multi-entry visas for the three Gulf countries.

The announcement was made at the EU-GCC High-Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation in Luxembourg, where the Kingdom’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan is heading the Saudi delegation, which also includes ambassador to the EU Haifa Al-Jedea and the foreign ministry’s adviser Manal Radwan.

The meeting discussed enhancing security and strategic cooperation between the Gulf states and the EU, and touched upon developments in the Gaza Strip and its surrounding area and  the importance of reaching an immediate ceasefire.

Under the new visa rules, nationals living in Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia will be eligible for multiple-entry visas, allowing them to visit the EU multiple times over a period of five years with the same visa.

The updated visa code is part of a concept known as the “cascade,” a “harmonized approach” to issuing multiple-entry visas with long validity for all eligible applicants, including first-time travelers.

During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This update aims to standardize visa regulations for all GCC countries whose citizens require visas to access the Schengen Area.

The implementation of the five-year visa rule marks a significant step forward in strengthening people-to-people relations between the EU and the GCC.

It also comes in the context of the EU’s Joint Communication on a “Strategic Partnership with the Gulf,” which also covers EU relations with the Kingdom, Oman and Bahrain.

Experts also view it as a preliminary move toward a Schengen waiver.

The Schengen Area, which includes 29 European countries and is the largest free-travel zone globally, expanded last February to include Bulgaria and Romania, eliminating all air and maritime border controls. A decision on the removal of land controls will be made later.

In November, Gulf countries announced plans for a unified tourist visa similar to Schengen, aiming to streamline logistical efforts for both residents and tourists.

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How the hospitality industry in saudi arabia is embracing environmental sustainability.

• From the Red Sea coast to Al-Ahsa Oasis, new eco-friendly hotels and resorts are opening across the Kingdom
• Industry leaders are boosting sustainability by cutting emissions, protecting habitats, and creating jobs locally

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is emerging as a hotspot for international investment. Its latest hook? Sustainable hospitality.

The Kingdom led the Middle East and Africa’s hotel-building activity in 2023, with 42,033 hotel rooms constructed. This accounted for 35.1 percent of the 119,505 built in the region over the year, according to data from hotel monitoring firm STR. 

Saudi Arabia’s hotel segment is projected to generate $2.51 billion in revenue this year and is expected to reach $3.02 billion by 2027, according to Statista.

One of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals is to champion sustainability across all sectors, and in turn, hotels and plazas across the country have been working to implement more environmental and eco-friendly practices in their facilities. 

From 2010 to 2019, Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry has contributed an average of 6.4 percent to the country’s gross domestic product, while recording a decline in greenhouse gas emissions. 

In contrast, the global GDP average for travel and tourism over the same period rose 4.3 percent, and emissions by 2.5 percent.

Several of Red Sea Global’s developments are already up and running along the Kingdom’s northwestern coastline, including the Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea and St. Regis Red Sea Resort. 

The company recently announced further projects pillared by environmental sustainability. 

The Four Seasons luxury wellness resort, Amaala, Triple Bay, is branded with regeneration and wellness at its core, and is set to feature a one-of-a-kind Corallium marine life institute. 

Progress is also being made on a sustainability-focused staff village that will provide housing for those who work at the resort. RSG says that five international operator brands, including Six Senses and Clinique La Prairie, are expected to be confirmed in the coming months.

“Our mission to develop new destinations as beacons of responsible tourism, showcasing the best in sustainable and regenerative development, gains unprecedented urgency as our planet continues to face challenges in relation to the climate crisis and biodiversity loss,” John Pagano, RSG’s group CEO, said in a statement.

The economic zone NEOM recently unveiled three new sustainable hotels in its Leyja oasis, including three flagship Habitas properties, as well as Zardun, a sanctuary resort designed to harmonize with the surrounding ecosystem. 

NEOM’s Hotel Development division has also sponsored Hotelschool The Hague to bring about the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge, bolstering a new generation of innovation in the industry.

Many of the resorts across Saudi Arabia are built to blend in with the surrounding environment. Take AlUla’s Habitas, for example, which boasts the city’s serene desert landscape that immerses guests in its untouched backdrop.

The luxury resort brand demonstrates its sustainable ethos, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, through the offsetting of carbon emissions, waste management and a single-use plastic free policy.

“The AlUla Sustainability Charter is at the core of every hospitality project we develop within the destination,” Phillip Jones, chief tourism officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, told Arab News.

“From the foundational design and materials of construction to the infrastructure, and the ongoing operations, as we only work with international operators that have a proven track record in sustainability, AlUla’s hotels and resorts each contribute toward delivering on our goals, such as achieving net carbon neutrality for local emissions by 2035.”

As the Arab region demonstrates overall lower environmental sustainability due to water scarcity, harsh climate and biodiversity threats, industry leaders are redefining the buzz term to fit local standards.

There are a number of grassroots projects that examine the existing traces of environmental sustainability awareness throughout the Arab region’s history. The Kingdom’s forefathers exhibited community-centered lifestyles, for example, while Islam advises its followers to conserve food and water consumption. 

Chris Nader, CEO and co-founder of luxury ecolodge brand and management company ENVI Lodges, told Arab News: “Sustainability comes from a basis of trying to minimize our negative impacts on the environment. It’s not only nature, or animals — it’s also people.” 

ENVI Laguna Bay, a sustainable project developed by Al-Rasim Hotels and Resorts, will occupy a prime Red Sea coast beachfront destination in King Abdullah Economic City, surrounded by mangroves. 

“KAEC will host the first eco-friendly coastal resort in the distinguished and captivating laguna area,” Aiad Mushaikh, CEO of Al-Rasim Hotels and Resorts, said in a statement.

The project strongly aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Its road map for tourism sector growth includes respecting the land, protecting wildlife, supporting local communities, sourcing mindfully, in-house food production, engaging guests and designing a sense of place. These pillars have been built into the technical guidelines of building the lodge. 

One common belief is that building necessitates the destruction of land. But through its design principles, ENVI demonstrates different approaches that can be taken to minimize its presence within the natural landscape. The company builds low-impact lodges that blend into the environment. 

“We don’t do excavations,” said Nader. “We put our unit on stilts or decks, and we don’t build the units completely on the site so the amount of people and trucks on the site that have to come and go is very limited.”

An important element is also selecting materials from the environment, whether they be wood, rocks or mud, and sourcing materials and products that will maintain durability and integrity over time. 

This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)

The company also champions sourcing a percentage of the ingredients used in its kitchens from in-house gardens, developing programs for wildlife protection and hiring staff from local communities, all of which are tailor-made programs for each lodge.

The whole concept is to assume the project is temporary, aiming to leave the landscape more or less in the same state it was found in. The walkways are not poured concrete, and the native species are planted to cross-pollinate.

Another way to stitch sustainable practices within the fabric of the community is to engage guests in the initiative.

“Today, guests don’t want to be spectators,” said Nader. “They don’t want to be told that the lodge is planting mangroves. They want to plant themselves. Guests want to clean the beach, or the lodges, to remove any litter and plastic and all of that. They want to be involved in saving wildlife and caring.”

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund recently launched Dan Company, which specializes in agritourism and ecotourism. Architecture and design practice LWK + Partners is working on a project with Dan Co. that aims to invigorate the agriculture industry in Al-Ahsa through hospitality, serving as a benchmark for future projects.

erem Cengiz, MENA managing director at LWK + Partners, told Arab News: “Sustainability isn’t just about the reduction of energy; sustainability is also about the way we create places that are harmoniously designed to make the way we interact with them sustainable. 

“We look at sustainability as a holistic offering, rather than a series of tick boxes that we need to achieve.

“It really is important that when we design, we don’t have a pattern book; it still saddens me that we’ve seen many buildings going up that are just glass towers. They express a certain language and vision, but are they desirable in the context of the challenges that we’re facing environmentally?”

He added that the key to bridging these sustainable values into the future of the industry is to focus on a fundamental understanding of technology and innovation. How do you put in sensors that turn off the AC when guests leave the room, for example?

Saudi Arabia is leading the way in many development practices, said Cengiz. The Holiday Inn Tabuk is utilizing solar energy as an alternative power source in some locations, while the InterContinental Jubail carries out voluntary campaigns to clean its beaches.

Like Nader, Cengiz said that private and public developers should move towards sourcing materials that are locally or regionally available. This adds great value not only economically, but also sustainably, by cutting down on products imported from overseas, simultaneously reducing carbon emissions.

He added: “Now, Saudi is developing its own market and its own product lines. I think that, in itself, has a massive impact and I would love to see more attention on that type of thing.

“I think we’re way past the 2030 Vision now. I mean, we’re evolving it much further into something significantly more impactful.”  

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Saudi coffee co. and bieder & maier blend two coffee cultures.

• Viennese coffee-maker collaborates with local brand to buy Arabica beans from Jazan

RIYADH: The Kingdom and Austria recently celebrated the world premiere of the “Premium Saudi Blend” by Viennese coffee manufacturer Bieder & Maier and the Saudi Coffee Company.

The launch of the product brings Saudi and Austrian coffee culture together. During the presentations in Vienna and Riyadh, guests tasted the new coffee roast, catering for espresso to filter and cold brewing.  

“The coffee is an embodiment of our culture and identity,” CEO of Saudi Coffee Company Khalid AbuTheeb told Arab News. “With the objective of enhancing the local coffee industry and promoting our coffee tradition, we have collaborated with Bieder & Maier, a Vienna-based coffee powerhouse.”

AbuTheeb said that the collaboration was facilitated by the Saudi Ministry of Investment. “Through this collaboration ... the Saudi Coffee Company will bring forth unique coffee blends utilizing Saudi coffee beans in a mix with international beans to the Saudi and Austrian markets,” he said.

HIGH LIGHTS

• In 2011, Viennese coffee house culture was declared an intangible world heritage, followed by Arabic coffee in 2015 and Saudi Khawlani Arabica beans in 2022.

• They have all been declared intangible world heritage by UNESCO in recognition of their respective traditions and cultural significance.

• Starting during fall this year, a number of coffee houses will be opened in Saudi Arabia, with Cenomi Retail as franchise partner.

According to AbuTheeb, they will supply the finest Saudi coffee beans directly from the Jazan region.

“As we explore roasting capabilities here in the Kingdom, we are not just content with embracing tradition; we are striving to shape the future of coffee, where innovation intersects with heritage on a global scale,” he said.

Dr. Margarete Schramboeck, the former minister of economy and digital affairs of Austria, and current Aramco digital board member, expressed her growing interest in Saudi coffee culture since she moved to the Kingdom.

“It was the year 2022 when I first came to the Kingdom and learned about the Year of Saudi coffee and the amazing culture of growing coffee in Jazan,” Schramboeck told Arab News. “Therefore, I was passionate about bringing this idea of a special Saudi blend to life. An exceptional partnership with the support of the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia has been initiated. I want to thank Minister Khalid Al-Falih and team for the support.”

Recalling her visit to Jazan and its coffee-growing families, Schramboeck said: “The quality and tradition of coffee has deeply impressed me.”

Rudi Kobza, founder and CEO of Bieder & Maier Vienna, stressed the importance of the collaboration. “The Saudi heritage is unique and the ambition of the Saudi Coffee Company is impressive. The Premium Saudi Blend brings this philosophy in an authentical way alive. This can be experienced soon in our first Bieder & Maier cafe in Saudi Arabia, which we will operate with our partner Cenomi, as well as in Vienna.”

“Austrians share a common passion for coffee. Therefore, I was passionate about developing this project. When Saudi Arabia meets Vienna, the home of the Arabica coffee bean combines with the home of traditional coffee house culture to create a particularly enjoyable coffee project.”

In 2011, Viennese coffee house culture was declared an intangible world heritage, followed by Arabic coffee in 2015 and Saudi Khawlani Arabica beans in 2022. They have all been declared intangible world heritage by UNESCO in recognition of their respective traditions and cultural significance.

Starting during fall this year, a number of coffee houses will be opened in Saudi Arabia, with Cenomi Retail as franchise partner.

Traditional Saudi coffee culture kept alive in Kingdom

Saudi Coffee Academy to empower farmers & entrepreneurs

Excavators held for violating water system.

• The discovery was made during field tours carried out by the water department

TUBARJAL: The Al-Jouf branch of the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has apprehended three excavators who were found to be violating the water system in Tubarjal. The discovery was made during field tours carried out by the water department, in cooperation with the competent authorities in the governorate. Separately, authorities in Addayer in the Jazan region have arrested seven Ethiopians for smuggling 105 kg of hashish. Legal procedures have been completed against the offenders who were handed over, along with the seized items, to the competent authority. Border guard patrols in the Al-Harth area of Jazan have also foiled an attempt to smuggle 71 kg of hashish, with initial legal procedures completed and the find handed over to the competent authority. Security authorities have reiterated their appeal for citizens and residents to report any information regarding drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, and 999 in the rest of the Kingdom’s regions. Those with information may also contact the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or at [email protected] .

NEOM launches ENOWA to ensure sustainable energy and water systems

Saudi water bottler Al-Jouf expects up to 20% demand growth in Q3: CEO

48th saudi relief plane for palestinians.

• The plane carried shelter materials to be transported to the conflict-affected Palestinians in the Gaza Strip

AL-ARISH: The 48th Saudi relief plane for Palestinians in Gaza arrived on Friday at Al-Arish International Airport, Egypt.

It was operated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, in coordination with the Saudi Ministry of Defense.

The plane carried shelter materials to be transported to the conflict-affected Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The provision of aid is ongoing from the Kingdom, which has stood firm with the Palestinians amid crises and tribulations.

15th Saudi aid plane for Ukrainians arrives in Poland

Saudi aid convoys arrive at Nile River and Northern states in Sudan

Direct ksa to iraq flight routes announced.

• These flights, along with flights to Baghdad and Irbil, will commence from June 1.

RIYADH: The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation announced the launch of direct flights from Dammam to Najaf, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday. The decision is in line with the Kingdom’s national aviation sector strategy, aimed at doubling capacity to accommodate over 330 million passengers annually, and extending services to more than 250 global destinations. These flights, along with flights to Baghdad and Irbil, will commence from June 1.

Saudi air cargo volumes witness 7% rise: GACA

GACA reiterates commitment to boost Saudi aviation sector connectivity to over 250 destinations 

Latest updates, syrian woman is jailed for life over istanbul killer blast; over 20 others also get prison sentences.

Stellantis eyes expanding product range in Saudi Arabia, CEO says

‘Ballistic’ Bairstow stars as Punjab pull off record T20 chase in IPL win over Kolkata Knight Riders

Egyptian startups secure funding to boost expansion to Saudi Arabia following a period of stagnation 

Kozuma shoots 63 to grab lead; Torque top team leaderboard

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European Union | Schengen visa rules updated

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The European Commission adopted updated rules on Schengen visas for nationals of Bahrain, India, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Key Points:

• The standard rules of the EU visa code have been updated for Indian nationals who reside in India and who have already obtained and lawfully used two Schengen visas within the preceding three years. These individuals are now eligible for a multiple-entry, two-year Schengen visa.
• Additionally, Indian nationals who have held that multiple-entry, two-year visa can now apply for a multiple-entry, five-year Schengen visa with a valid passport.
• It was also announced that nationals from Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia can now apply for a multiple-entry, five-year Schengen visa as well.

Background: The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (25 EU states), and Schengen visas allow for free travel within the area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.

BAL Analysis: The updated visa code should provide easier access for nationals with an established travel history and the ability to obtain multi-year validity during which holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

Copyright © 2024 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.

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