Indian citizens can apply for a Saudi Arabia tourist visa. If they hold a valid and used US, UK, or Schengen visa, they qualify for an online e-visa or Visa on Arrival costing SAR 480 (approx. ₹10,600). Other Indian passport holders must apply for a physical tourist visa through VFS Tasheer centers in India, costing around ₹12,000.
Saudi Arabia Tourist Entry Routes for Indians
Under the Kingdom's tourism expansion plans, Saudi Arabia offers various ways for Indian tourists to visit, explore tourist attractions, and perform Umrah. Depending on your current visa holdings, you can choose from three primary pathways.
Comparison of Saudi Tourist Visa Options
| Visa Option | Eligibility Condition | Stay Limit | Approx. Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Tourist Visa (VFS Tasheer) | All Indian passport holders | 90 Days (Multiple Entry) | ₹12,000 - ₹13,500 |
| Instant e-Visa / Visa on Arrival | Must hold valid & used US, UK, or Schengen visa/residency | 90 Days (Multiple Entry) | SAR 480 (₹10,600) |
| 96-Hour Stopover/Transit Visa | Booking tickets on Saudia or Flynas airlines | 96 Hours (Single Entry) | Free (Visa fee waived) |
Requirements for Saudi VFS Tasheer Sticker Visa
If you do not hold a supporting western visa, you must schedule an appointment at a VFS Tasheer center and present:
- Passport: Original passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages.
- Photos: Two recent photographs (2x2 inches, white background).
- Financials: Bank statements for the last 6 months showing a healthy balance.
- Flight and Stay: Confirmed return flight tickets and hotel bookings.
- Vaccination: Mandatory meningitis vaccination card.
Step-by-Step VFS Tasheer Process
- Visit the official VFS Tasheer website for India and book a biometric appointment.
- Select the nearest center (e.g. Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore).
- Fill out the application form and pay the visa and booking fees.
- Attend the appointment with all documents and complete facial and fingerprint biometrics.
- Receive your passport with the stamped tourist visa sticker within 3 to 5 business days.
The 96-Hour Stopover Visa Hack
If you want to perform Umrah or visit Saudi Arabia quickly en route to Europe, the UK, or the US, you can book your flights via Saudia Airlines or Flynas. During flight booking, you can add a 96-Hour Transit Visa. The visa is issued instantly for free along with your air tickets, allowing you to enter the country and perform Umrah without buying a full-cost visa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I perform Umrah on a Saudi tourist visa?
Yes. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah permits all tourist visa holders (including standard tourist visa, e-visa, and stopover visa) to perform Umrah. However, you must schedule your Umrah booking slot using the Nusuk application.
Can women perform Umrah on a Saudi tourist visa without a Mahram?
Yes. Under the naye rules, women of all ages are allowed to enter Saudi Arabia and perform Umrah without a Mahram (male guardian).
How much does the VFS Tasheer visa cost for Indians?
The total cost, including the Saudi government visa fee, mandatory medical insurance, and VFS Tasheer service charges, is approximately ₹12,000 to ₹13,500 depending on biometric options.
Is a yellow fever vaccination certificate needed for Saudi Arabia?
Only if you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country in Africa or South America.
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