A visa to Saudi Arabia is required for citizens of all countries, including Poland. The Saudi Arabian tourist visa is one of the most popular types of visas. It can be obtained online, which allows travelers to apply quickly and conveniently over the internet. Submitting a visa application online is currently the easiest and safest way to obtain entry permission.
The process of applying for a Saudi Arabian tourist visa is relatively simple and can be completed entirely online. The tourist visa allows visitors to stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days, with validity counted from the date of issue. Thanks to simplified procedures, you can enter Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, or religious purposes using modern online systems.
Information about the Saudi Arabian visa
A visa to Saudi Arabia is required for most foreign citizens, including Poles. Since the process can take some time, it is recommended to apply well in advance of the planned trip. The visa can be issued in a traditional form or as an e-visa (electronic visa). The e-visa is particularly convenient because it allows multiple entries into Saudi Arabia for up to one year from the date of issue.
To obtain a visa, certain conditions must be met, and a complete application must be submitted. Polish citizens can apply for a Saudi visa both online and through the embassy.
Types of visas
There are different types of Saudi Arabian visas, including tourist, business, and work visas — the correct type depends on the purpose of your trip.
The tourist visa is the most common and allows a stay in Saudi Arabia for up to one year. However, it cannot be used for signing business contracts or earning income. Holders of a tourist e-visa may attend business meetings, provided they do not sign contracts or receive payment. The tourist e-visa also allows travel to Mecca for the Umrah pilgrimage.
The business visa is intended for those who plan to conduct business activities in Saudi Arabia and requires additional documentation.
Tourist visas – requirements and features
A tourist visa can be obtained by travelers visiting Saudi Arabia for sightseeing, leisure, or cultural exploration.
The visa is valid for up to 90 days and allows free movement within the country. To obtain it, you must have a valid passport, fill out a visa application, and pay the required fee.
Applications can be submitted online, which speeds up the process considerably.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of planned entry, and all data must be accurate.
The tourist visa does not allow any paid work or business activities.
How to apply for a visa
You can apply for a Saudi visa online or through the embassy. It is best to submit the application at least two weeks before your planned departure. When completing the form, make sure your passport details are correct, as they are essential for processing your application.
The applicant must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry, with at least two blank pages. Required documents include a scan of your passport, a photo, and an ID card — preferably in English or Arabic.
If you experience difficulties or are unsure about the required documents, it’s worth consulting a visa specialist.
The number of online applications continues to grow due to the convenience of the process.
Tourist visa application – step by step
- Fill out the online visa form on the official Saudi government website or through an authorized intermediary.
- Pay the visa fee using an accepted method, such as a credit card.
- Attach the required documents (passport scan and recent photo).
- Wait for processing — usually a few hours to several working days.
- Once approved, you’ll receive your e-visa by email, which you can print and carry during your trip.
Required documents
To apply for a Saudi Arabian visa, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, with at least 2 blank pages)
- A recent passport photo
- A national ID card
- Flight reservation confirmation
For business or work visas, additional documents are required, such as an invitation letter and employment contract certified by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
If documents are not in English or Arabic, they must be officially translated by a sworn translator.
Although travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for your safety.
Online visa application
Applying online is the fastest and easiest way to get permission to enter Saudi Arabia.
To do this, visit the official website of the Saudi embassy or the government platform, fill out the form, attach the required documents, and pay the fee.
Once submitted, you will be notified of the decision by email, and the electronic visa can be downloaded and printed directly from the system.
E-visa
- The e-visa is an electronic visa that allows travelers to apply fully online. It is valid for up to one year.
- It can be obtained through the official Saudi government platform or the embassy website. Applications should be submitted at least two weeks before travel.
- Upon approval, travelers must present the e-visa at the airport upon arrival.
- The e-visa allows travel for tourism, business, or short-term work-related visits, subject to specific restrictions.
Visa fees
Visa costs include application fees, translation fees, and administrative charges.
Typical fees:
- Tourist visa: around 500 SAR (≈530 PLN)
- Document translation: around 100 SAR (≈100 PLN)
If you wish to extend your stay, an additional daily fee is charged for each day beyond your visa’s validity. To avoid extra costs, handle extensions in advance.
Extending your stay in Saudi Arabia
If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension online through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. The request must be submitted before your visa expires, along with the required documents and a justification for the extension.
The extension may be granted for up to 90 days, depending on individual circumstances and official approval.
Frequently asked questions
Is a visa required for all nationalities?
Yes, all foreign citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
What is the cost of a Saudi visa?
Approximately 500 SAR (around 530 PLN).
Can the visa be obtained online?
Yes, you can apply online through the official Saudi embassy website.
What should I pay attention to during application?
Make sure your passport is valid, all information is correct, and you submit your application on time to avoid rejection.
Does having a UK visa make it easier to get a Saudi visa?
In some cases, holding a valid UK visa may simplify the process, especially for visas on arrival.
Entry rules for Saudi Arabia
- Travelers must have a valid visa and passport (at least 2 blank pages).
- Visa validity is counted from the issue date and applies each time you enter the Kingdom.
- Applicants must meet visa requirements, including submitting all necessary documents, which may be checked at the airport.
- Visa fees must be paid online or via the embassy before travel.