Saudi Arabia Visa Fees for Indians: Everything You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian travelers—whether for business, religious pilgrimages (Hajj or Umrah), tourism, or employment. If you’re planning a trip, one of your primary concerns will likely be the visa fees. In this blog post, we’ll cover the various Saudi Arabia visa types available to Indian citizens, outline the standard fees, and share other essential application insights.

Saudi Arabia Visa Types

Before diving into the fee structures, it’s useful to understand the main categories of Saudi visas typically sought by Indian nationals:

Tourist Visa (eVisa)

○        For leisure or tourism purposes, including short family visits.

○        Introduced as an eVisa in 2019, making the application process more convenient.

Business Visa

○        For professionals visiting Saudi Arabia to attend meetings, conferences, or business discussions.

○        Usually requires an invitation from a Saudi-based sponsor or company.

Work Visa (Employment Visa)

○        For those who have secured employment in Saudi Arabia.

○        Typically requires sponsorship from a Saudi employer.

Hajj/Umrah Visa

○        Specifically for religious pilgrimages.

○        Hajj visas are issued for specific periods corresponding to Hajj. Umrah visas are more flexible throughout the year (excluding the Hajj season for some categories).

Visit Visa (Family Visit/Personal Visit)

○        For Indian nationals visiting family or friends residing in Saudi Arabia.

○        Often requires an invitation letter from the sponsor (family member or friend).

Each visa category has distinct eligibility criteria, validity periods, and fee structures.

Standard Visa Fees for Indian Citizens

Saudi Arabia visa fees can vary based on factors such as:

●       Type of visa (single-entry, multiple-entry)

●       Length of stay

●       Purpose (tourism, business, work, pilgrimage)

●       Insurance requirements (since all travelers are required to have mandatory insurance such as medical and travel insurance)

Below are some approximate fee ranges to give you a ballpark figure. Note that these fees may fluctuate based on the exchange rate (Saudi Riyal to Indian Rupee) and any updates to Saudi immigration policies. Always check the most recent fees with the official Saudi Arabia visa portal or a trusted visa service provider.

Tourist eVisa (Single or Multiple Entry)

●       Approximate Cost: SAR 300–480 (Saudi Riyals) + Mandatory Insurance Fee

●       In INR (approx.): ₹6,500–₹10,000 (depending on currency exchange rates and insurance costs)

●       Validity: Up to 1 year (with multiple entry allowed, each stay typically up to 90 days)

●       Processing Time: Often quick (as it’s an eVisa, results can come within a few days)

2.2 Business Visa

●       Single-Entry Visa Fee:

○        Around SAR 2,000 (including visa fee and insurance)

○        In INR: Approx. ₹40,000–₹44,000

●       Multiple-Entry Visa Fee:

○        Around SAR 3,000–5,000 (depending on duration and insurance coverage)

○        In INR: Approx. ₹60,000–₹1,00,000

●       Validity: Can range from 30 days to 1 year, depending on approval and the sponsor’s invitation.

Work (Employment) Visa

●       Work visas often have higher fees due to additional requirements such as medical tests, attestation, and employer sponsorship.

●       Approximate Cost: SAR 2,000–3,000 (depending on employer, contract type, and insurance)

●       In INR: About ₹40,000–₹60,000 or more.

●       Note: Employers typically cover visa processing fees for sponsored employees, but confirm the details with your Saudi employer.

Hajj and Umrah Visas

●       Hajj Visa:

○        Typically free, but there are administrative fees and mandatory insurance that can range from SAR 300–400. Pilgrims often pay additional charges through their Hajj travel agencies for packages.

●       Umrah Visa:

○        Can vary between SAR 300–500 (plus insurance).

○        Travel agencies usually bundle visa fees, hotel costs, and transportation into a comprehensive package.

Family Visit Visa

●       Single-Entry Fee:

○        Around SAR 300–500 + insurance costs

○        In INR: Approx. ₹6,500–₹10,500

●       Multiple-Entry Fee:

○        Can be in the range of SAR 600–1,000 + insurance

○        In INR: Approx. ₹13,000–₹22,000

●       Validity: Single-entry visas are often valid for a one-time visit up to 30 days or 90 days. Multiple-entry visas may allow several entries over a longer validity period (up to a year), with each stay usually limited to 90 days.

3. Important Factors Affecting Visa Fees

1.      Currency Exchange Rates: Visa fees are set in Saudi Riyals (SAR). Fluctuating rates between the SAR and INR can affect the amount you pay in Indian Rupees.

2.      Insurance: Saudi Arabia mandates that all visitors hold valid travel or medical insurance that is often bundled into the visa fee. The cost can vary by age, health conditions, and length of stay.

3.      Service Charges: If you opt for a visa service agency, they might add processing fees, courier charges, or other administrative costs on top of the official visa fee.

4.      Multiple-Entry vs. Single-Entry: Multiple-entry visas are typically more expensive than single-entry visas. However, if you plan to travel to Saudi Arabia several times within a year, a multiple-entry visa might be more cost-effective.

How to Apply

eVisa Portal (Tourist Visas)

○        If you’re applying for a Tourist eVisa, visit the official Saudi eVisa portal.

○        Fill out the application form, upload required documents, and pay fees online.

○        You’ll receive your eVisa via email once processed.

Saudi Embassy or Consulate

○        For business, work, or family visit visas, you’ll often need an invitation letter from a Saudi sponsor.

○        After receiving the invitation, you can proceed with the visa application through the Saudi Embassy/Consulate in India or via an authorized visa agent.

Approved Travel Agencies

○        For Hajj or Umrah, the application is usually submitted through approved travel agencies specializing in pilgrimage services. They will handle visa documentation and packages on your behalf.

Required Documents

Although the exact requirements vary by visa type, here are common documents needed:

●       Valid Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity and empty pages)

●       Recent Passport-Size Photographs (as per Saudi visa photo specifications)

●       Flight Bookings or Itinerary

●       Hotel Reservations (or proof of accommodation)

●       Invitation Letter (for business, work, or family visits)

●       Medical Insurance (often integrated into the visa application)

●       Proof of Sufficient Funds (bank statements, if required)

Tips for a Smooth Visa Experience

Check Official Sources

○        Visa regulations and fees can change without much notice. Always consult the official Saudi eVisa portal or the Saudi Embassy website in India for the most accurate, up-to-date information.

Plan Ahead

○        Some visa categories can take time for processing (especially work visas). Start the process at least a few weeks before your intended travel date to avoid last-minute issues.

Stay Aware of Peak Seasons

○        Hajj and Ramadan periods see a surge in visa applications. Expect longer processing times if you apply during these peak seasons.

Use Reputable Agencies

○        If you choose to go through a visa agency, ensure that it’s an authorized and reputable service provider. Avoid intermediaries who promise “shortcuts” or “guaranteed” approvals.

Comply with Saudi Rules & Regulations

○        Respect Saudi laws, culture, and traditions. Overstaying or violating visa terms can lead to severe penalties and complications for future travel.

Conclusion

If you have specific concerns—be it regarding your eligibility, supporting documents, or the visa application itself—don’t hesitate to consult the Saudi Embassy, Consulate, or a certified visa service provider. With the right preparation, you’ll be on your way to experiencing all that Saudi Arabia has to offer—be it for business, pilgrimage, or leisure travel.