Saudi Arabia: E-Visas for Tourism Expanded to Additional Nationalities

Effective immediately, Saudi Arabia expanded the eligibility of the Electronic Visa (e-visa) for tourism to nationals of the following eight countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, the Maldives, South Africa, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The e-visa can be used for tourism-related activities, visiting with friends and relatives, and performing Umrah. Eligible individuals can apply for the e-visa for tourism through the official e-visa portal and the visa is issued in as little as 30 minutes. The e-visa is multiple-entry and permits stays of up to 90 cumulative days per year. The cost of the e-visa will vary depending on nationality. These foreign nationals can also apply for a visa-on-arrival for tourism at a port of entry; however, they are advised to apply for the e-visa in advance as the visa-on-arrival can involve a lengthy process on arrival.  This expansion of the e-visa for tourism follows an announcement earlier this year expanding the eligibility of the e-visa for tourism to certain United Kingdom, United States, European Union and Schengen Visa holders and permanent residents.