Saudi Arabia may seem like an off-the-beaten-path destination for Australian citizens, but in reality, it is the perfect up-and-coming country for the intrepid traveler.
This fascinating Middle Eastern country has something for everyone, whether it’s scuba diving in the Red Sea; exploring historical sites like the tombs of Mada’in Saleh, or trekking through the snow-covered mountains of Tabuk.
However, before you travel to Saudi Arabia, it is mandatory to obtain a visa. Australian citizens are eligible to request online for a travel authorization which can be obtained quickly and conveniently before traveling to the Middle East.
This page explains the process of applying for a Saudi Arabia electronic visa (eVisa) for tourists. It covers all the key entry requirements, essential documents and must-know information that Australians should have ready before registering.
Documents Required to Apply for a Saudi Arabian Visa From Australia
Every Australian citizen needs to have a visa before they can legally enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. There is an assortment of visas available to visitors, which includes but is not limited to, business visas, employment visas, student visas, and more.
The simplest visa to obtain is the electronic visa for tourism (also known as a Saudi Arabia eVisa). This authorization was implemented in September 2019 for citizens of over 45 countries in an effort to attract more visitors to Saudi Arabia for tourism.
It is valid for 1 year from the date of approval and can be used for multiple visits to the country of up to 90 days at a time. It involves no queues, no face-to-face interviews, and no traveling long distances to the nearest embassy. It can all be done online.
Before applying for a visa to Saudi Arabia, it is crucial to have the proper paperwork ready. In order to have the smoothest experience possible, applicants should collect the following information before starting the visa application process:
- There must be at least 2 back-to-back blank visa pages in your Australian passport
- Your Australian passport must have at least 6 months validity from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia
- One (1) recent passport size color photograph with a white background Photograph(s) must be full-face shots in which the applicant is facing the camera directly
- A credit or debit card to pay the visa fees
The applicant must also provide all of the required information, which includes but is not limited to:
- Personal information (full name, address, date of birth, etc.)
- Passport details (number, expiration date, nationality, etc.)
- Proof of travel (dates, accommodation, etc.)
- Health information
How to Apply For a Saudi Arabian Visa For Australian Citizens
The process of obtaining a visa to Saudi Arabia for Australian citizens is simple and uncomplicated. Applicants can fill out the online form from the comfort of their own home.
To start, candidates should research the Saudi Arabia online application form and find out the relevant information that will be requested. The Saudi visa application form only takes a few minutes to complete.
This must be done correctly and completely following the main requirements listed above. Failure to do so could delay the processing of the visa or lead to rejection.
After completing the form and submitting payment, travelers must wait for their eVisa to be approved. This normally takes between 24 to 72 hours after the authorities have received the application, but the wait may be slightly longer due to demand and other circumstances. Once processed, the eVisa will be sent to the traveler to their email inbox.
When the traveler has arrived in Saudi Arabia, they must present their passport along with a copy of the eVisa in order to be granted access into the country.
After entering Saudi Arabia, the traveler must adhere to the laws of the country. This includes the rules and limitations of their visa, such as not overstaying the stated duration.
FAQ Saudi Arabia eVisa for Australian Citizens
Yes, Saudi Arabia is safe for Australian travelers. Saudi Arabia has a very low violent crime rate and most tourists never encounter any troubles during their stay in the kingdom.
Nevertheless, it is always a good idea to stay mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and to remain up to date with the news —just as you would while visiting any other major city in the world.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very conservative and deeply religious, therefore, it is advisable to be respectful of Saudi Arabian customs during your stay.
If you would like to go more in-depth on the subject, check out our guide: Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Although visas to Saudi Arabia were limited to Islamic pilgrimage until recently, the kingdom has opened its doors to Australian tourists in September 2019 by launching the Saudi Arabia eVisa.
The eVisa for Saudi Arabia is easy to obtain and can be requested online from the comfort of your home or office. Since the application for the Saudi Arabia eVisa is entirely electronic, there is no need to visit a Saudi mission in Australia. Applicants receive their eVisa at their email address within 24 to 72 hours.
The eVisa for Saudi Arabia price includes not only government fees, processing costs and expert revision to ensure an error-free application, but also a Mandatory Medical Insurance.
The expert revision of your application will save you time and hassle to guarantee that your Saudi Arabia eVisa request goes through.
On the other hand, the insurance policy is taken out by the Saudi Arabian government on behalf of Australian travelers once their eVisa is approved. Furthermore, the cost of health insurance to cover applicants during their entire stay is included in the Saudi Arabia eVisa fee.