Saudi Arabia entry requirements for Pakistan 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
Pakistani passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Saudi Arabia. There is no visa-on-arrival or eVisa option for Pakistani nationals. Applications must be submitted through the Saudi embassy or consulate in Pakistan, or via an authorised travel agent. Plan ahead and ensure all documents are in order to avoid delays.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia visaYou cannot get a visa on arrival or use the Saudi eVisa system; you must obtain a visa in advance from an official Saudi diplomatic mission. Apply at an embassy or consulate | A visa is required for Pakistani passport holders. You must apply for a visa at a Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate before travel. The eVisa program is not available for Pakistani nationals. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 6 months beyond your intended stay | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Saudi Arabia. Ensure your passport does not expire before this period. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesSaudi immigration will stamp your passport on arrival; without a blank page, you may be refused entry. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. It is advisable to have more than one blank page to avoid issues. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketYou need to show that you will leave Saudi Arabia before your visa expires. Proof of departure from Saudi Arabia | You must have a confirmed return or onward ticket showing your departure from Saudi Arabia. This is typically checked at check-in and by immigration. | Required |
| Proof of fundsCarry bank statements or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself. Sufficient money 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 do not need to fill out any arrival form before landing. Not required | No arrival declaration is required for Saudi Arabia for Pakistani passport holders. | Not required |
| eVisa applicationOnly certain nationalities can use the Saudi eVisa; Pakistan is not one of them. Not available for Pakistani nationals | The Saudi eVisa program is not available for Pakistani passport holders. Do not attempt to apply for an eVisa; instead, apply for a visa at a Saudi embassy or consulate. | Not required |
No eVisa or visa-on-arrival for Pakistani passport holders
Despite Saudi Arabia offering eVisa to many nationalities, Pakistani citizens are not on the eligible list. Don't fall for online scams claiming to offer Saudi eVisa for Pakistanis — use only official embassy channels.
Plan for the Hajj and Umrah seasons
During Ramadan and Hajj, visa processing times can double or triple. If you're travelling for religious purposes, start your application at least 2 months in advance and expect higher demand.
Overstaying is serious
Saudi Arabia imposes heavy fines for overstaying your visa — up to SAR 50,000 (approx. PKR 3.7 million) and possible deportation with a re-entry ban. Keep track of your visa expiry date and leave on time.
What happens at the border
1
Determine your visa type
Identify the correct visa category — tourist, business, work, or family visit. Each has different requirements and processing times. For most Pakistani travellers, the family visit visa is common if you have relatives in Saudi Arabia.
2
Prepare your documents
Gather all required documents: passport, photos, application form, accommodation proof, flight itinerary, bank statements, and insurance. Make sure everything is current and matches your application details exactly.
3
Submit your application
Apply at the Saudi embassy or consulate in Pakistan (Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore). You'll need to book an appointment, pay the visa fee, and submit your documents in person. Some visa types can be processed through authorised travel agents.
4
Wait for processing
Processing times vary — typically 5 to 15 working days, but can take longer during peak seasons. Track your application status online if the embassy provides that service, or follow up by phone/email.
5
Receive your visa and travel
Once approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport or issued electronically. Check the visa validity dates and entry conditions. At Saudi immigration, present your passport and any supporting documents when asked.
Download Saudi Arabia Entry Checklist
PDF · Pakistan Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (single-entry)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
Cost$150–$200 (approx. 560–750 SAR)
Requires a Saudi sponsor or invitation letter; can be extended.
Work visa (employment)
Max stay1 year (renewable)
Validity1 year
Cost$200–$300 (approx. 750–1125 SAR)
Sponsored by Saudi employer; requires medical exam and Iqama (residence permit).
Family visit visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months
Cost$130–$180 (approx. 490–675 SAR)
For visiting relatives in Saudi Arabia; requires sponsor in KSA.
work visa
Saudi Arabia Work Visa
Up to 2 years, renewable
Varies (employer-sponsored)
For foreign workers with a job offer from a Saudi employer. Requires sponsorship and contract. Allows long-term stay and family sponsorship.
student visa
Saudi Arabia Student Visa
Duration of study program, renewable
Varies (institution-sponsored)
For international students accepted at Saudi universities. Requires admission letter and proof of funds. Allows part-time work.
investor visa
Saudi Arabia Investor Visa
Up to 5 years, renewable
Varies (based on investment amount)
For foreign investors establishing a business in Saudi Arabia. Requires minimum investment and approval from Ministry of Investment.
premium residency
Saudi Premium Residency
1 year or 5 years, renewable
SAR 100,000 (~$26,667 USD) for 1 year, SAR 400,000 (~$106,667 USD) for 5 years
Long-term residency program for wealthy individuals. No sponsor required. Allows work, business, and family sponsorship.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee (single-entry, 30 days)Standard fee for Pakistani nationals; payable online or at Saudi embassy. | $120 (approx. 450 SAR) |
| Visa processing fee (if using a Saudi embassy/consulate)Varies by location; some embassies charge a service fee. | $20–$50 (approx. 75–190 SAR) |
| Visa extension fee (per 30 days)Extensions are possible for certain visa types; subject to approval. | $100 (approx. 375 SAR) |
| Exit fee (if overstaying)Penalty for overstaying visa; must be paid before leaving. | $133 (approx. 500 SAR) per day of overstay |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or expired documents30%
Insufficient funds25%
No return ticket20%
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
Pakistani nationals require a transit visa to pass through Saudi Arabia, even if staying airside. The visa is valid for up to 72 hours and must be obtained before travel.
Exceptions & conditions
- Passengers with confirmed onward tickets and a valid visa for the next destination may be allowed to transit without a visa if they do not leave the international zone and their layover is less than 12 hours — but this is at the discretion of the airline and Saudi authorities. It is strongly advised to obtain a transit visa in advance.
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.
Meningococcal MeningitisRequired for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims; recommended for others.
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.
Heat-related illnessHigh risk
Extreme temperatures can cause heatstroke; stay hydrated and avoid midday sun.
Foodborne illnessModerate risk
Common from contaminated food or water; practice good hygiene.
Malaria risk: low
Risk exists in rural areas of the southwest (Jazan, Asir). Prophylaxis recommended for those areas.
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 11461
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Main office for visa extensions and re-entry permits.
Jeddah
Jeddah Passport Office
Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Road, Jeddah 22233
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:30
Handles visa services for western region.
Practical information for PK 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
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to Saudi Arabia — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No. Pakistani passport holders are not eligible for visa-on-arrival or the Saudi eVisa. You must obtain a visa from a Saudi embassy or consulate before travelling.
Processing typically takes 5 to 15 working days, but it can take longer during peak seasons (like Ramadan or Hajj). Apply well in advance — at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date.
Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa. A family visit visa can cost around SAR 2,000 (approx. PKR 150,000), while business or work visas may cost more. Check with the Saudi embassy or your travel agent for the exact current fee.
No, the visa is not extendable. You must leave Saudi Arabia before your visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines and future visa bans.
For family visit visas, yes — you need a Saudi national or resident (with a valid Iqama) to sponsor you. For business visas, your Saudi business partner acts as the sponsor. Tourist visas may not require a sponsor, but Pakistani nationals currently don't have a straightforward tourist visa option.
Your visa application will be rejected, and even if you somehow get a visa, you'll be denied entry at the Saudi border. Renew your passport before applying.
No. Pakistani passport holders are not eligible for the Saudi eVisa system. You must apply through the Saudi embassy or consulate in Pakistan, or via an authorised travel agency.
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.