Saudi Arabia e-visa waivers for UK and Northern Ireland

In an era of evolving travel regulations, these newly introduced e-visa waivers stand as a significant step towards enhancing the ease and convenience of travel between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.

This initiative not only reflects the evolving landscape of international travel but also signifies the commitment of both nations to fostering stronger bonds and facilitating seamless journeys for visitors.

According to the latest news, Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs has implemented an electronic visa waiver for citizens of the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland. This new initiative aims to simplify and expedite the process of obtaining a visa for travelers from these regions, enhancing accessibility to the Kingdom.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the details of the new Saudi Arabia e-visa waivers for UK, including the eligibility criteria, the application process, and its significance in promoting tourism, business, education, and cultural exchange between the UK and Saudi Arabia.

Let’s get started!

What is the New Saudi Arabia E-Visa Introduced for the UK and Northern Ireland?

The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has embarked on a pioneering journey by introducing an electronic visa waiver for citizens of the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland. The news of this remarkable initiative is poised to redefine the travel experience for British and Irish nationals, ushering in a new era of accessibility to the Kingdom.

The e-visa waiver grants travelers the privilege of obtaining a single-entry e-visa, facilitating stays in Saudi Arabia for up to six months. Designed to cater to a spectrum of purposes including business, tourism, education, and medical treatment, this novel approach is set to reshape the way travelers embark on their Saudi Arabian journeys.

Do UK Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Saudi Arabia?

The news of the electronic visa waiver signifies a transformative shift in the entry requirements for UK citizens visiting Saudi Arabia. With the traditional prerequisites of acquiring a visit visa prior to travel being replaced by the e-visa waiver, the travel process has been significantly streamlined.

This historic step demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering international relations and promoting cultural exchange by facilitating smoother and more efficient access for British nationals.

How Much is the Saudi E-Visa from the UK?

The Saudi eVisa fee for UK citizens is US$80, plus travel insurance and processing fees. The travel insurance is mandatory and costs US$38. The processing fees vary depending on the service provider you use.

Note that the cost of the Saudi e-visa for UK citizens is subject to variations based on factors such as the purpose of the visit and the duration of stay. To ensure accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa fees, prospective travelers are advised to consult the official Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

What is the UK Electronic Visa Waiver?

The UK electronic visa waiver stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s unwavering dedication to simplifying the travel process for citizens of the UK. By embracing this innovative system, UK nationals can now navigate the intricate pathways of visa procurement without the need to approach Saudi embassies or consulates.

The electronic visa waiver transcends barriers, enabling travelers to effortlessly apply for their e-visas online.

Who is Eligible for an E-Visa Waiver in the UK?

The eligibility criteria for the e-visa waiver is expansive and inclusive, encapsulating diverse categories of travelers from the Gulf and beyond. Whether it’s a business venture, a leisurely exploration, an educational pursuit, or a medical sojourn, the e-visa waiver warmly welcomes British and Irish nationals to embark on their Saudi Arabian journeys.

Citizens of the following nations are eligible to apply for an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) or instant e-visa options to enter the United Kingdom:

• Nationals: Saudi Arabia
• Nationals: United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• Nationals: Qatar
• Nationals: Oman
• Nationals: Kuwait
• Nationals: Bahrain

To qualify for an EVW, you need to fulfill the subsequent criteria:

• Possess a valid passport that is biometric and has at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended travel date to the UK.
• Plan to travel to the UK for purposes of tourism, business, study, or medical treatment.
• Have not faced a UK visa rejection in the past year.
• Have not received a prison sentence exceeding 12 months within the last year.

For travelers from Qatar heading to the UK on or after 15 November 2023, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is required instead of an EVW. Applications for the ETA will be open from 25 October 2023.

Steps on How to Get an Electronic Visa Waiver

Securing an electronic visa waiver for your journey to Saudi Arabia is a streamlined process that involves a few simple yet crucial steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each step:

Step 1: Visit the Unified National Visa Platform

Initiate the process by visiting the official Unified National Visa Platform, which is accessible through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. This platform serves as the starting point for your visa application journey.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Once on the platform, carefully fill out the application form with accurate and up-to-date information. It’s vital to ensure that all details are correct to avoid any discrepancies during the processing phase.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

After meticulously filling out the form, submit it within the stipulated timeframe. This window usually ranges from 90 days to 48 hours before your scheduled travel date to Saudi Arabia. Submitting your application within this timeframe is crucial for a smooth processing experience.

Step 4: Await Approval

With your application submitted, the waiting game begins. Typically, the approval process takes around 24 hours. During this time, the Saudi authorities will review your application and verify the provided information.

Step 5: Print Your E-Visa

Upon receiving approval, which is often conveyed through email, it’s time to print your e-visa. This document will serve as your official authorization to enter Saudi Arabia. Make sure to have a physical copy of the e-visa with you during your travel.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can ensure a seamless process of obtaining an electronic visa waiver. This thoughtful approach not only simplifies the journey but also ensures that you’re well-prepared to embark on your Saudi Arabian adventure.

How to Check the Status of UK Visa Waiver?

Tracking the progress of your UK visa waiver application is a simple and streamlined process. All you have to do is log into the Unified National Visa Platform using your application details and you will be able to view the current status of your application.

This convenient online tool keeps you informed every step of the way, ensuring transparency and ease throughout the visa process.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Saudi Arabia E-Visa?

When it comes to Saudi Arabia e-visa processing, efficiency is the name of the game. Expect your visa application to be approved in a prompt manner, typically within 24 hours from the moment you submit your application.

List of Countries That Can Get an Electronic Visa Waiver for the UK

The UK Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) is available for nationals of specific countries, providing them with a streamlined process for entering the UK. If you hold citizenship in any of the following countries, you are eligible to apply for the EVW:

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• Qatar
• Oman
• Kuwait
• Bahrain

For citizens from countries not mentioned in the list above, alternative visa procedures apply. They might need to follow the traditional process of applying for a visa through the UK embassy.

Alternatively, some countries have the privilege of entering the UK without a visa for a period of up to six months, depending on the specific bilateral agreements in place. This diversity in entry requirements ensures that travelers from various nations can enjoy their visits to the UK in accordance with the respective regulations.

Electronic Visa Waiver UK Contact Number

For inquiries and assistance regarding the electronic visa waiver for the UK, you may contact the following help center numbers available on the official Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Help Center telephone:

• +966-12-6143211
• +966-12-6143201
• +966-12-6143842

Can UK Citizens Get a Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival?

While UK citizens can still opt for a Saudi Arabia visa on arrival, the new electronic visa waiver system showcases Saudi Arabia’s commitment to making travel more convenient and efficient. This move reflects the country’s efforts to embrace modern technology for smoother entry processes.

The electronic visa waiver not only simplifies procedures but also aligns with the global trend of digitizing travel documents for enhanced security and ease. In essence, this new system exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s progressive approach to modernizing immigration procedures and ensuring a hassle-free experience for travelers.

Summary – Saudi Arabia E-Visa Waivers for UK and Northern Ireland

In a landmark move, Saudi Arabia extends a warm invitation to UK and Northern Ireland citizens through the electronic visa waiver system. This forward-looking initiative not only redefines the realm of travel accessibility but also stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to fostering international relationships.

As the Kingdom embraces cutting-edge technology to streamline visa procedures, it paves the way for a new era of exploration and cultural exchange, promising unforgettable journeys for British and Irish nationals, and fosters openings for tourism beyond Umrah and Hajj.

We hope that this guide on Saudi Arabia e-visa waivers for UK was a valuable read for you. Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website for news, updates and more