Saudi Arabia entry requirements for Argentina passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Argentine passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia. There is no visa-on-arrival or eVisa option for Argentine citizens, so you'll need to apply through a Saudi embassy or consulate. Given that processing can take several weeks, it's essential to start your application well in advance of your planned travel dates.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia visaYou cannot get a visa on arrival; plan ahead and apply at an embassy or consulate. Visa required | Argentine citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia. Apply at the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate; an eVisa is not available for Argentine passport holders. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date well before you travel. At least 6 months | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesMake sure there is a clean page for immigration to stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight itinerary ready to show at check-in or immigration. Proof of departure | You may be asked to show a return or onward ticket proving you will leave Saudi Arabia before your visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsCarry bank statements or a credit card in case you need to show you can support yourself. Sufficient financial means | Immigration may request evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Saudi Arabia. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any arrival form. Not required | No arrival declaration is required for Argentine citizens entering Saudi Arabia. | Not required |
| eVisa applicationDo not attempt to apply online; go through the official embassy process. Not eligible | Argentine passport holders are not eligible for the Saudi eVisa. You must apply through an embassy or consulate. | Not required |
No eVisa or visa-on-arrival for Argentine citizens
Even though Saudi Arabia offers eVisa for many nationalities, Argentine passport holders are not eligible. Do not rely on online eVisa portals — you must apply through an embassy or consulate.
Plan ahead — processing can be slow
Visa processing times are unpredictable. Start your application at least 6 weeks before your trip. Avoid booking non-refundable flights or hotels until your visa is stamped in your passport.
What happens at the border
1
Contact the Saudi embassy or consulate
Identify the Saudi diplomatic mission responsible for your jurisdiction (e.g., the Embassy in Buenos Aires). Check their official website or call to confirm the exact visa requirements, fee amount, and whether you need to apply in person or can submit by mail.
2
Prepare your documents
Gather all required documents: passport, photos, completed application form, accommodation proof, flight itinerary, bank statements, insurance policy, and fee payment. Make photocopies of everything for your records.
3
Submit your application
Submit your complete application package to the embassy or consulate. This may involve scheduling an in-person appointment for biometrics (fingerprints and photo) or mailing your documents. Pay the visa fee at this time.
4
Wait for processing
Processing times can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the visa type and the embassy's workload. If the embassy offers tracking, use it to monitor your application's status. Do not book non-refundable flights or hotels until your visa is approved.
5
Receive your visa and travel
Once approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker or stamp. Verify the visa details (dates, number of entries) for accuracy. At Saudi immigration, present your passport and any requested documents. Keep your accommodation and return ticket details readily available.
Download Saudi Arabia Entry Checklist
PDF · Argentina Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity1 year, multiple entry
Cost$135 (approx. SAR 510)
Requires an invitation letter from a Saudi sponsor or company.
Work visa
Max stayDuration of employment contract
Validity1 year, renewable
CostVaries (approx. $200–$500)
Requires a Saudi employer to sponsor and process the visa.
Residence visa (Iqama)
Max stay1 year, renewable
Validity1 year
CostVaries (approx. $200–$400)
For those with a Saudi sponsor (family, work, or investor).
work visa
Saudi Arabia Work Visa
Up to 2 years, renewable
Varies by employer; typically SAR 2,000 (~$533 USD) for processing
Requires a job offer from a Saudi employer and sponsorship. Allows long-term residence and work.
student visa
Saudi Arabia Student Visa
Duration of study program, renewable annually
Varies; typically SAR 1,000 (~$267 USD) for processing
For enrolled students at recognized Saudi institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Saudi Arabia Investor Visa
Up to 1 year, renewable
SAR 2,000 (~$533 USD) plus investment minimum
For individuals investing in Saudi businesses or real estate. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry, processed online via Saudi eVisa portal or at embassy)Includes medical insurance; valid for 1 year from issue, multiple entries, stay up to 90 days per visit. | $135 (approx. SAR 510) |
| Visa extension (for tourist visa)Extension of up to 90 days per request, subject to approval. | $40 (approx. SAR 150) |
| Exit fee (if overstaying)Overstay fines are charged at exit. | SAR 100 per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete visa application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Saudi Arabia
Transit visa required
All foreign nationals, including Argentines, require a transit visa to enter Saudi Arabia, even for airside transit. The Saudi transit visa is free and valid for 96 hours, allowing a stay of up to 4 days.
Exceptions & conditions
- Passengers with confirmed onward tickets and a layover of less than 12 hours may be allowed to remain in the international transit area without a visa, but this is at the discretion of the airline and Saudi authorities.
Transit hubsKing Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) · King Khalid International Airport (RUH) · King Fahd International Airport (DMM)
Health & vaccines for Saudi Arabia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Meningococcal MeningitisRequired for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims; recommended for all travellers.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, influenza)Essential
Health risks
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)Low risk
Rare but serious; avoid contact with camels and raw camel products.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled water and eat well-cooked food.
Heat-related illnessHigh risk
Extreme temperatures can cause heatstroke; stay hydrated and avoid midday sun.
Malaria risk: low
Risk exists in rural areas of the southwestern region (Jazan, Asir). Prophylaxis not routinely recommended for urban travel.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Riyadh
General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat)
King Fahd Road, Riyadh 11134
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Main office for visa extension and residency matters.
Jeddah
Jawazat Jeddah Office
Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Road, Jeddah 22233
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Handles visa extensions for visitors in the western region.
Practical information for AR travellers
Country basics
CapitalRiyadh
LanguageArabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license not valid. IDP required.
Money
CurrencySaudi Riyal (SAR)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 3.75 SAR
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h (EST) / +7h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+11h (PST) / +10h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage220V / 60Hz
Plug types
A,B,GType G — UK-style plug. US plugs do not fit. Bring a UK/universal adapter.
✓ No adapter needed for US plugs
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Use bottled water. Tap water is desalinated but bottled is standard.
Emergency numbers
Getting to Saudi Arabia
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to Saudi Arabia — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No. Argentine citizens are not eligible for visa-on-arrival or the Saudi eVisa. You must obtain a visa from a Saudi embassy or consulate before you travel.
Processing times vary. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. It's best to apply at least 4-6 weeks before your planned departure to allow for any delays.
The fee depends on the visa type and the embassy's current fee schedule. Contact the Saudi Embassy in Buenos Aires or the consulate handling your region for the exact amount. Fees are non-refundable.
It depends on the embassy's rules. Some missions require an in-person appointment for biometrics, while others accept applications by mail. Check with the specific embassy or consulate.
Your visa application will likely be rejected, and you'll be denied entry. Renew your passport before applying.
No, the visa is not extendable. You must leave before your authorized stay expires. Overstaying can result in fines and deportation.
Yes, Saudi Arabia requires all visitors to have valid health insurance covering their stay. You may be asked to show proof at the embassy and at immigration. Make sure your policy meets the minimum coverage.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 7, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.