It can be difficult for those looking to travel to Saudi Arabia due to all the recent changes to visas. In this post you will discover everything from what type of visa is required and the process for getting one approved using a port-of-entry form in contrast to needing to submit a type of form like sponsorships or getting guest status with their passport being valid while inside KSA borders, but not going beyond their borders.
Saudi Arabia Visa Types
1. Visa for Business and Commercial
The most popular and easiest way to travel to Saudi Arabia is through a business/commercial visa. This permits individuals to visit Saudi Arabia on behalf of their business or organization, provided they’ve been invited from a previous customer. Online applications are possible at any point prior to departure. However, you must meet certain requirements. Like having enough funds from one firm that will provide funds on the day you arrive in the kingdom.
A client who wants to bring their family for an occasion must first scan at the door. Then they will have to wait to be patient while the office conducts its business. It could take one month, other times three! All schedules have been vetted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offices in the city. Invitations will be made available with no delay or surprises. You will be at peace knowing that someone special will come to your home soon.
2. Visit Work
Take note that one of the main points about a business visa is that it will be paid by your US employer. You will not receive any direct compensation from Saudi hosts. If you think they may have made a mistake, please make sure that their application for visiting work authorization has been approved prior to getting it. However, keep in mind that this application is continuing to go through the same channels similar to other applications. So expect some changes in dealing with Embassy personnel.
3. Government Visa
A government-sponsored visa is the third most popular and simplest visa for working. This kind of permit can be obtained through meeting with different Saudi Arabian government institutions or their associated personnel at the Embassy when applying; however less documentation by the applicant will need to be provided when applying for this type of sponsorship. The application process is typically completed within one or two business days. It is absolutely free.
4. Family Visit Visa
Family Visit Visas are extremely difficult to obtain because they require documents to establish your relationship with the customer. For grandparents who are visiting You will require birth certificates or marriage licenses. However, it is much more crucial to establish a relationship between you and the customer.
5. Visa for Residence
The residence visa was designed for those who wish to reside or relocate to KSA. This kind of visa is only available through the Ministry of Interior and it’s tied directly to the Iqama card, which means you need an employment-based permit also. The invitation they send is yellow. Make sure you don’t wait too long before you go through the contents on its surface as there are crucial details regarding applicants that shouldn’t be lost.
6. Work Visa
Saudi Arabia has a difficult process to obtain a working visa. One of the most difficult visas is that you are hired by and will receive benefits from your employer. This could only be accomplished if they are able to offer one-time direct hire every year! It is necessary to apply to numerous recruiting firms before they are selected for employment with a company.
For more information, click saudi Arabia visa for us citizens