Saudi visa for GCC residents

The Ultimate Guide to Saudi Visa for GCC Residents

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To get a Saudi visa as a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) resident, a thorough understanding of the visa process is key. 

The good news?

The application for a Saudi visa for GCC residents is now easier, thanks to the introduction of the eVisa.

This eVisa not only lets you explore Saudi Arabia but also allows you to do Umrah, with options for multiple or single entries.

This is a big change from before when eVisas were limited to GCC residents with specific jobs- AL ARABIYA

This guide is here to help you navigate the Saudi visa requirements, explaining the application process for a Saudi visa for GCC residents.

Saudi Visa for GCC Residents – An Overview

A Saudi visa for GCC residents serves as a travel document granting access to Saudi Arabia for residents of GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. 

Whether for tourism, business, or family visits, this visa opens doors to explore the richness of Saudi Arabia.

How eVisa differs from a regular visa?

An eVisa, a type of visa that you can apply for through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website and receive online, comes with additional assistance.

MOFA supports you in various ways, such as checking the status of a family visa.

Saudi Arabia now recommends tourists to opt for an eVisa instead of the traditional visa because it’s easier and takes less time. 

Unlike the regular visa, which involves filling out forms, attaching documents, and waiting for up to a month, the eVisa process is much simpler. 

Just go to the e-Visa website, fill out the online form, provide a copy of your passport and ID card, pay the fee, and then wait for your e-Visa to arrive in your email within five business days.

Also read my other blog post (where I’ve shared my personal experience) on “Get your Saudi Visit Visa stamped from Manama, Bahrain.“

Visa Requirements

To qualify for a Saudi visa as a GCC resident, certain criteria must be met:

  • Minimum 3 months validity of the GCC Resident Card.
  • 6 months validity of the Passport.
  • Pay the eVisa fee using a valid credit or debit card.
  • Age must be over 18.
  • Each family member needs their own Saudi visa for GCC residents.
  • Recent passport-sized photographs.
  • Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia.
  • A completed visa application form.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for a Saudi visa:

  • First register on Saudi MOFA by visiting its website.
  • Go to “Services for Citizens and Residents” section on the Home Screen.
  • Choose “GCC Resident” and proceed by clicking the “Apply” button for the “Family Visit Visa Application for GCC Residents.”
  • Click on “Register” to initiate the account creation process.
  • Fill in your email address, create a password, and enter the provided image code.
  • Click the “Register” button to complete the registration.
  • Check your email inbox for a message from MOFA and follow the provided link to activate your account.
  • Open the activation email and click on the “Activate” link to confirm your account activation.
  • You are now successfully registered and can log in to the MOFA portal using your credentials.
create an account to apply for Saudi visa for GCC residents
  • Now click “Add a New Application” and agree to all terms and conditions.
add a new application for Saudi visa for GCC residents
  • Provide visa and personal information, including Visa Type (Tourism Visit), Transport Mode (Open), Saudi Mission (Main city of your GCC country), and enter your name in both Arabic and English.
visa and personal information
  • Scroll down further to enter details regarding your GCC residency.
  • Then enter Saudi entry details, including Port of entry, expected date of entry, number of entries, visa validity, duration of stay, and details about whether you want to perform Umrah.
  • Provide information about the countries you have visited in the last 5 years.
Saudi entry details
  • On the next page, furnish details to apply for travel insurance.
  • Pay Saudi visit visa fee as a GCC resident.
  • After approval, your Saudi eVisa will be sent to you via email.

Also check: Discover Affordable Health Insurance Options | Tameeni Insurance.

Also note:

  • Visa fees are non-refundable in the event of rejection.
  • It is not possible to perform Umrah on an eVisa during Hajj.

Also check: How to Apply for a Saudi Temporary Work Visa?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How much is the visa for Saudi Arabia GCC residents?

    For a Saudi visa as a GCC resident:
    Application Fees – 10.50$
    Visa Fees – 81.00 $
    Medical Insurance Service Fees – 10.50$ plus additional fees based on your selection (8$ to 70$).
    Total: 110$ to 180$ (Approx. SAR 300 to SAR 650).

  2. How long does it take to get Saudi visa for GCC residents?

    It may take 1 to 2 days depending on the embassy.

  3. How long is the Saudi eVisa valid for GCC residents?

    The Saudi eVisa for GCC residents is good for one year, allowing multiple entries and a maximum stay of 90 days.

  4. When did Saudi Arabia open the eVisa application to GCC residents?

    In September 2022, Saudi Arabia opened the eVisa application to all residents of GCC countries.

  5. Which profession is eligible for the Saudi eVisa application among GCC residents?

    All residents of GCC countries are eligible to apply for the Saudi eVisa online, irrespective of their profession.

Final Thoughts

So, with this ultimate guide, you can confidently navigate the Saudi visa application process, making your journey from GCC countries to Saudi Arabia a smooth and enjoyable experience.

I hope this blog post provides valuable insights and guidance to GCC residents who have Saudi Arabia on their bucket list.

Safe travels!

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