Saudi Arabia entry requirements for India 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
Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia. There is no visa-on-arrival or eVisa option for Indian nationals, so you'll need to apply through the Saudi Embassy in New Delhi or the Consulate General in Mumbai. Start the process at least 3–4 weeks ahead of your trip, as approvals can take up to 15 working days.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia visaYou cannot get this visa online or on arrival — plan ahead and apply in person or via an authorized agent. Apply at an embassy or consulate | Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before travel. Saudi Arabia does not offer an eVisa for Indian nationals; you must apply through a Saudi embassy or consulate, or through an approved visa service provider. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport's expiry date — if it's close to 6 months away, renew it before applying for the visa. At least 6 months from arrival | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe immigration officer will stamp your passport on arrival — a blank page is mandatory. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. It is wise to have more than one blank page in case of additional stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketAirlines and immigration may ask to see your outbound flight — have it ready. Proof of departure | You must have a confirmed return or onward ticket showing you will leave Saudi Arabia before your visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsCarry bank statements or a credit card — it's not always checked, but better to be prepared. Sufficient for your stay | You may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Saudi Arabia. The amount is not fixed but should be enough for accommodation, food, and other costs. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any arrival form — just go through immigration. Not required | No arrival declaration is required for Indian passport holders entering Saudi Arabia. | Not required |
| eVisa applicationAny online eVisa application would be rejected — save time and go through the official embassy process. Not available for Indian passport holders | Indian nationals are not eligible for the Saudi eVisa. Do not attempt to apply online — you must use the embassy/consulate route. | Not required |
No eVisa or visa-on-arrival for Indians
Despite Saudi Arabia offering eVisa for many nationalities, Indian passport holders are not eligible. Do not attempt to use the eVisa portal — you'll be turned away. Apply only through the embassy or consulate.
Passport validity is critical
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Even if you have a valid visa, you'll be denied boarding if your passport doesn't meet this requirement.
Visa is not extendable
Once you enter Saudi Arabia, you cannot extend your stay. Overstaying your visa leads to fines and potential deportation. Plan your exit date carefully.
What happens at the border
1
Determine the correct visa type
Decide whether you need a tourist, business, or work visa. Tourist visas are for leisure; business visas require an invitation from a Saudi company; work visas need a sponsor. Contact the Saudi embassy in New Delhi or the consulate in Mumbai to confirm which one applies to you.
2
Gather your documents
Collect your passport, photos, accommodation proof, flight itinerary, bank statements, and any additional documents required for your visa type (e.g., business invitation letter). Make photocopies of everything.
3
Submit your application at the embassy or consulate
Visit the Saudi Embassy in New Delhi (Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri) or the Consulate General in Mumbai (Bandstand, Bandra West). Submit your completed form and documents in person. Some missions accept applications by mail — check their website first.
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the required fee at the time of submission. Fees are typically around ₹5,000–₹10,000 for a tourist visa, but can vary. Keep the receipt — you'll need it if you have to collect your passport later.
5
Wait for processing
Processing can take anywhere from 3 to 15 working days. You may be called for an interview if the embassy needs more information. Track your application status via the embassy's portal or by phone.
6
Collect your passport with the visa
Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the Saudi visa. Check the visa sticker for your name, dates, and validity. If anything looks wrong, notify the embassy immediately.
7
Travel to Saudi Arabia
At the airport in Saudi Arabia (e.g., King Khalid International in Riyadh or King Abdulaziz in Jeddah), present your passport with the visa. Immigration officers may ask for your accommodation details — have your hotel booking handy. You'll be fingerprinted and photographed on arrival.
Download Saudi Arabia Entry Checklist
PDF · India Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (multiple-entry)
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity1 year
Cost$135
Apply online via Visa Visit or at Saudi embassy; includes health insurance.
Business visa (multiple-entry)
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity1 year
Cost$135
Requires Saudi sponsor/invitation; can be extended.
Work visa (single-entry)
Max stayDuration of employment contract
Validity1 year (renewable)
Cost$200–$300
Requires employer sponsorship; includes Iqama (residency permit) after arrival.
work visa
Saudi Work Visa (Iqama)
Up to 2 years, renewable
Varies (employer-sponsored)
For those with a job offer from a Saudi employer. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from Ministry of Human Resources.
student visa
Saudi Student Visa
Duration of study program
Varies (institution-sponsored)
For students accepted at a Saudi educational institution. Requires proof of enrollment and financial support.
investor visa
Saudi Investor Visa
Up to 1 year, renewable
Varies (based on investment)
For individuals investing in Saudi businesses. Requires proof of investment and business registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single-entry, online via Visa Visit or at Saudi embassy)Includes health insurance; valid for 1 year, multiple entries, up to 90 days total stay. | $135 (approx. SAR 506) |
| Business visa (single-entry)Requires Saudi sponsor/invitation; valid for 1 year, multiple entries, up to 90 days per visit. | $135 (approx. SAR 506) |
| Work visa (single-entry)Requires Saudi employer sponsorship and Ministry of Human Resources approval. | $200–$300 (approx. SAR 750–1,125) |
| Visa extension (per month)Available for tourist/business visas; max 180 days per year. | $100 (approx. SAR 375) |
| Exit/re-entry visa (for residents)Required for expatriates leaving and re-entering; obtainable via Absher. | $27 (approx. SAR 100) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or expired documents30%
No return ticket25%
Insufficient funds20%
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
Indian passport holders require a transit visa to pass through Saudi Arabia, even if staying airside. Apply online via the Saudi Visa platform or at a Saudi embassy before travel.
Exceptions & conditions
- Passengers with a confirmed onward ticket and a stay in the international transit area of less than 12 hours may be eligible for a free transit visa, but this is not guaranteed and must be pre-approved.
- Holders of valid US, UK, Schengen, or other approved visas may be eligible for a visa-on-arrival, but Indian nationals are generally not included in this program.
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.
Meningococcal MeningitisRequired for pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah seasons.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)Low risk
Rare but serious; avoid contact with camels and raw camel milk.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled water and eat well-cooked food.
Heat-related illnessHigh risk
Extreme temperatures common; stay hydrated and avoid midday sun.
Malaria risk: low
Risk exists in rural areas of the southern 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 11187
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters.
Jeddah
Jeddah Passport Office
Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Road, Jeddah 22233
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Handles visa issues for pilgrims and tourists.
Practical information for IN 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. Indian 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 system does not include Indian nationals. You must apply through the Saudi Embassy in New Delhi or the Consulate General in Mumbai.
Processing typically takes 3 to 15 working days, but it can be longer during peak seasons or if additional checks are needed. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your planned departure.
The fee varies by visa type. Tourist visas are usually around ₹5,000–₹10,000, but business and work visas cost more. Check with the embassy for the exact fee for your visa category.
No, the Saudi visa for Indian nationals is not extendable. You must leave the country before your visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines and future entry bans.
For tourist visas, a hotel booking is usually sufficient. For business visas, you need an invitation from a Saudi company. For work visas, your employer in Saudi Arabia must sponsor you.
You'll receive a rejection notice from the embassy. The visa fee is non-refundable. You can reapply, but you'll need to address the reason for rejection — often missing documents or insufficient funds.
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.