It can be difficult for those wanting to travel to Saudi Arabia due to all the recent changes to visas. In this post you will learn everything from what type of visa is required and how to obtain it by entering through a port-of entry in contrast to going through some other procedure like obtaining sponsorships or on guest status with their passports being valid only for travel within KSA borders, but not going beyond their borders.
Saudi Arabia Visa Types
1. Visa for Business/Commercial Use
The visa for business or commercial is the most common and easiest type of visitor visa for Saudi Arabia. This permits individuals to travel to Saudi Arabia on behalf of their business or company, provided that they’ve been invited from a previous customer. Online applications can be made anytime prior to departure. But, you must satisfy certain conditions. Like having enough funds from one firm which will transfer funds upon the day you arrive in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
If a customer wants to bring their family and friends along for an event they have to check into the office at the entrance and then patiently wait while that particular office goes about its business. Sometimes it can take up to three months. All schedules have been vetted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offices located in town. Invitations will be sent out with no delay or surprises. You can just feel happy that someone special will arrive soon.
2. Visit Work
Take note that one of the most important benefits of a visa for business is that it will be paid by your US employer. You will not receive any compensation directly from Saudi hosts. If they think this could be an issue, be sure their application for visiting worker authorization has been completed. But , remember that it’s still being processed through the same procedures as other applications , so expect some slight changes when dealing with Embassy staff.
3. Visa for Government
A government-sponsored program is the easiest and third most popular visa. This kind of permit can be obtained by meeting with the various Saudi Arabian government institutions or their staff at the Embassy in the course of the application and, in addition, less documents from the person who is applying for the sponsorship will be required in order to be eligible for this type of sponsorship. It is usually processed within 1-2 business day and is free.
4. Family Visit Visa
It is difficult to get the family visa since it requires documents that prove your relationship with the individual. For visiting grandparents the requirements are birth certificates or marriage licenses. However, it is even more important to establish a relationship between you and the customer.
5. Visa for Residence
The Residence Visa is available to people who are looking to relocate or establish themselves in KSA. This kind of immigration document is only issued by the Ministry of Interior and it’s tied directly to your Iqama card, meaning that you require an employment-based visa as well. The invitation furnished by them will be yellow but make sure you don’t wait for too long before examining what’s on the surface since there are essential details about applicants that must not be lost.
6. Work Visa
It is difficult to obtain a Saudi Arabia work visa. The most complex visa requires the hiring of your employer , and you receive benefits. This is only possible in the event that the company provides direct hiring. A majority of applicants must undergo several recruitment firms before they are selected as a candidate for employment.
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