Saudi Arabia entry requirements for Colombia 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
Colombian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia. There is no visa-on-arrival or eVisa option for Colombian citizens, so you'll need to apply through a Saudi embassy or consulate. The process involves paperwork and processing time, so start early.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia visaYou cannot get a visa on arrival or use an eVisa; you must get it stamped in your passport before you fly. Apply at an embassy/consulate | A visa is required for Colombian citizens. You must apply for a visa at a Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate before travel. The eVisa program is not available for Colombian passport holders. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 6 months beyond arrival | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Saudi Arabia. Check your passport's expiry date before booking. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesSaudi immigration needs a clean page to stamp your visa and entry. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the visa stamp and entry/exit stamps. Ensure the page is free of any markings. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketImmigration may ask to see your exit plans to ensure you won't overstay. Proof of departure | You must have a confirmed return or onward ticket showing you will leave Saudi Arabia before your visa expires. Keep a printed or digital copy ready. | Required |
| Proof of fundsNot always asked, but having proof avoids problems if an officer requests it. Sufficient financial means | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay, such as recent bank statements or a credit card. The amount is not fixed but should cover accommodation and expenses. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any arrival form before landing. Not required | No arrival declaration or health form is required for Saudi Arabia based on current regulations. | Not required |
No eVisa or visa-on-arrival for Colombians
Do not fall for websites offering Saudi eVisa services for Colombian citizens—they are not legitimate. The only way to get a visa is through a Saudi embassy or consulate. Applying through unofficial channels can cost you money and get your passport flagged.
Plan ahead—processing takes time
Saudi visa processing can take weeks. Start the process at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date. Don't book non-refundable flights or hotels until your visa is approved.
What happens at the border
1
Contact the Saudi embassy or consulate
Find the Saudi embassy or consulate responsible for your jurisdiction (e.g., in Bogotá or the nearest one that handles Colombian applicants). Call or email to confirm the exact application procedure, required documents, and fee. Some embassies require an appointment.
2
Prepare your application package
Gather all required documents: passport, photos, application form, accommodation proof, flight itinerary, bank statements, and fee payment. Make copies of everything. Double-check that your passport has at least 6 months validity and 1 blank page.
3
Submit your application
Submit the complete application in person or by mail, depending on the embassy's rules. If applying in person, expect a short interview. If by mail, use a trackable courier service. Keep a copy of your submission receipt.
4
Wait for processing
Processing can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The embassy may contact you for additional information. Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved.
5
Collect your passport with visa
Once approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker. Check the visa details—dates, number of entries, and validity—for accuracy. If anything is wrong, contact the embassy immediately.
6
Travel to Saudi Arabia
At the airport in Saudi Arabia, go to the immigration counter. Present your passport with the visa. Have your accommodation details and return ticket handy in case they ask. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through.
Download Saudi Arabia Entry Checklist
PDF · Colombia 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 company and proof of business purpose.
Work visa
Max stayValid for employment contract duration
Validity1-2 years, multiple entry
Cost$200 (approx. SAR 750) plus employer sponsorship fees
Must be sponsored by a Saudi employer; requires medical exam and criminal background check.
Resident visa (Iqama)
Max stayValid for residency period
Validity1-2 years, renewable
Cost$267 (approx. SAR 1,000) plus medical and insurance fees
For those with family sponsorship or long-term residency; requires a Saudi sponsor.
work visa
Saudi Arabia Work Visa
Up to 2 years, renewable
Varies by employer, typically SAR 2,000–5,000 (~$533–$1,333 USD)
For foreign workers with a Saudi sponsor. Requires job offer and employer to process. Allows long-term stay and residency.
student visa
Saudi Arabia Student Visa
Duration of study program, renewable
Varies, often free for scholarship students
For international students enrolled at Saudi universities. Requires admission letter and financial proof.
investor visa
Saudi Arabia Investor Visa
Up to 1 year, renewable
SAR 2,000 (~$533 USD) plus investment requirements
For foreign investors with a business in Saudi Arabia. Requires minimum investment and sponsor.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single-entry, visa required)Fee includes health insurance; apply via Saudi embassy or authorized visa service. | $135 (approx. SAR 510) |
| Visa extension (per month)Extensions are at the discretion of Saudi authorities; must apply before current visa expires. | $80 (approx. SAR 300) |
| Exit fee (if overstaying)Levied at departure for overstaying your visa validity. | $27 (approx. SAR 100) per day of overstay |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete visa documents20%
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
Colombian passport holders must obtain a transit visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia, even for airside transit. Apply at a Saudi embassy or consulate before departure.
Exceptions & conditions
- Passengers with a confirmed onward ticket and a layover of less than 12 hours may be allowed to remain in the international transit area without a visa, but this is not guaranteed and is subject to airline and Saudi border control discretion.
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 risk, including Colombia.
Meningococcal MeningitisRequired for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims; recommended for all travelers.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialCOVID-19Essential
Health risks
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)Low risk
Rare but serious respiratory illness; avoid contact with camels and raw camel milk.
Heat-related illnessHigh risk
Extreme temperatures in summer can cause heatstroke; stay hydrated and avoid midday sun.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled water and eat well-cooked food.
Malaria risk: low
Malaria risk is low in most areas, but exists in some rural regions of the southwest (Jizan, Asir). Prophylaxis not routinely recommended for urban travelers.
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
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters.
Jeddah
Jeddah Passport Office
Al-Madinah Road, Jeddah
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Handles visa extensions for visitors in the western region.
Practical information for CO 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. Colombian passport holders are not eligible for visa-on-arrival in Saudi Arabia. You must obtain a visa from a Saudi embassy or consulate before you travel.
No. The Saudi eVisa program does not include Colombian citizens. You cannot apply online—you must go through the embassy or consulate process.
Processing times vary by embassy. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Contact the Saudi embassy or consulate handling your application for a current estimate. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
The visa fee varies by embassy and visa type. You'll need to check with the specific Saudi embassy or consulate where you apply. Fees are typically paid by bank draft or money order and are non-refundable.
No. The visa is not extendable. You must leave Saudi Arabia before your visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines and deportation.
For most visa types, yes. If you're visiting friends or family, you'll need a notarized invitation from your Saudi host. For tourism, a hotel booking may suffice. Check with the embassy for your specific visa category.
Your visa application will be rejected, and even if you somehow got a visa, Saudi immigration would deny you entry. Renew your passport before applying.
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.