Saudi Visa Guidelines for French and German Candidates

Saudi Visa Guidelines for French and German Candidates

Traveling to Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide for French and German Citizens

If you're planning a trip to Saudi Arabia from France or Germany, here's a handy guide to help you navigate the visa requirements, application process, and other essential tips.

Visa Requirements

Both French and German citizens are eligible for a Saudi Arabia eVisa or visa on arrival for tourism and short stays, valid for up to 90 days. Temporary Work Visas (TWVs) have been paused recently, affecting work-related travel but not tourism or business visits.

Application Process

To apply for a Saudi eVisa, travelers must create an account on the Saudi eVisa portal, complete the visa application form, and upload required documents such as passport scans and travel insurance. After submission, the visa is typically processed electronically.

Required Documents

Typical documents for the eVisa include a valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry, recent passport-size photo, proof of travel insurance covering Saudi Arabia, confirmed travel itinerary (flight bookings), proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter), and sometimes proof of financial means.

Fees and Processing Times

The Saudi eVisa fee generally ranges but is often around SAR 440 (roughly $117 USD), which includes the visa issuance and processing fees. Processing times for eVisa applications are usually within a few days to 1 week.

Additional Notes

A grace period has been in effect until August 25, 2025, for foreigners in Saudi Arabia with expired visit visas, allowing them to regularize status via the Ministry of Interior’s Absher platform.

Preparing for Your Visit

Familiarizing yourself with local customs and laws is crucial for a smooth and respectful visit to Saudi Arabia. Language barriers may be encountered, so learning basic Arabic phrases can help during your visit. It is recommended to book accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

Tailored Information

The cost of a Saudi visa for French nationals can vary depending on the type of visa required for the trip. The processing times for a Saudi visa for German citizens can range from a few days to several weeks.

Enjoyable Experience

Proper preparation and knowledge of Saudi visa requirements can lead to a memorable and enjoyable experience in Saudi Arabia for French and German citizens.

Experiencing the unique lifestyle and breathtaking travel destinations in Saudi Arabia is within reach for both French and German travelers with the availability of eVisa or visa on arrival. To ensure a hassle-free journey, French travelers should be aware that visa costs can vary based on the type of visa, while German applicants may have processing times ranging from a few days to several weeks.

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