UK citizens can apply for the Saudi eVisa entirely online, with most approvals granted within minutes. The eVisa is valid for 1 year, allows multiple entries, and permits stays of up to 90 days per visit for tourism, business, and Umrah. A valid British passport with at least 6 months‘ remaining validity and a compliant digital photo are mandatory.
Last reviewed: September 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or visa advice. Always verify requirements on the Saudi eVisa portal at before applying. For UK-specific travel advice, see the FCDO page at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/saudi-arabia.
Who Is Eligible for the Saudi eVisa as a UK Citizen?
British Citizen passport holders are eligible for the Saudi eVisa. The United Kingdom is among the 66 eligible countries classified under Europe on the Saudi eVisa portal. The Saudi eVisa permits tourism, business visits, and Umrah (excluding Hajj), but is not valid for employment or long-term residence.
| Passport Type | Eligible for eVisa? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| British Citizen | Yes | Full eligibility |
| British National (Overseas) – BN(O) | Verify on portal | Not confirmed as standard |
| British Overseas Citizen (BOC) | Verify on portal | Not confirmed as standard |
| British Protected Person (BPP) | Verify on portal | Not confirmed as standard |
| British Subject | Verify on portal | Not confirmed as standard |
Holders of non-standard British passports should confirm their status on the Saudi eVisa portal before applying, as the Saudi eVisa for UK citizens is primarily designed for British Citizen passport holders.
Key eVisa Details: Validity, Stay Limits, and Entry Type
The Saudi eVisa is valid for 1 year from date of issue, allows multiple entries, and permits a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. If your Saudi eVisa is issued on 1 March 2026, it is valid until 1 March 2027. Each stay can last up to 90 days, after which you must leave before re-entering. The Saudi eVisa covers tourism, business visits, and Umrah (excluding Hajj).
Required Documents for the Saudi eVisa Application from the UK
UK applicants need a passport valid for 6+ months, a compliant digital photo, a passport scan, and a valid payment card.
- Valid UK passport: at least 6 months from date of intended arrival in Saudi Arabia, not from the application date.
- Digital passport photograph: JPG or PNG format, white or light grey background, face occupying 70-80% of the frame.
- Passport data page scan: clear, colour copy of the biometric page.
- Flight itinerary: proof of return or onward travel.
- Accommodation details: hotel booking confirmation or host’s address in Saudi Arabia.
- Active email address: to receive the approved Saudi eVisa.
- Payment card: Visa or Mastercard (debit or credit) for the non-refundable Saudi eVisa fee.
Digital Photo Specifications
The Saudi eVisa photo must be JPG or PNG, taken against a white or light grey background, with the face occupying 70-80% of the frame. A non-compliant photo is a primary reason for Saudi eVisa rejection.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| File format | JPG or PNG |
| Background | White or light grey |
| Face proportion | 70-80% of frame |
| Head coverings | Religious only, face fully visible |
| Sunglasses | Not permitted |
| Recency | Within 6 months |
Passport Validity: The 6-Month Rule for the Saudi eVisa
The UK passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the intended arrival date in Saudi Arabia, not from the application date. The Saudi eVisa portal checks passport validity against your declared arrival date. Non-compliance results in application rejection or denial of entry at the border. If your passport is expiring soon, renew before applying for the Saudi eVisa. UK passport renewal typically takes 10 weeks by post, with faster options via 1-week Fast Track or Online Premium service.
How to Apply for Your Saudi eVisa: Step-by-Step Process
The Saudi eVisa application involves three main stages: fill the application, pay the combined fee, and receive the approved eVisa by email.
Start New Application
Visit the Saudi eVisa portal and click “Start New Application”. The portal supports English and Turkish interfaces.
Enter Personal Details
Enter personal details exactly as shown on your passport (name, date of birth, passport number, email, phone).
Upload Documents
Upload a colour scan of your passport data page and a compliant digital photo (JPG or PNG, white background).
Select Purpose & Arrival Date
Select from three permitted purposes: Tourism, Business, or Umrah (excluding Hajj). Enter your exact intended arrival date. Passport validity will be checked against this date, not the application date.
Verify Accuracy
Check name spelling, passport number, date of birth, and email address for accuracy.
Pay Combined Fee
Pay the combined visa processing fee and mandatory health insurance fee using a Visa or Mastercard. The exact amount is displayed in SAR on the portal. Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
Submit & Receive Confirmation
Submit and receive a confirmation email with your reference number.
Download & Print eVisa
Download and print the approved Saudi eVisa once it arrives by email.
Saudi eVisa Fees for UK Citizens: Full Cost Breakdown
The Saudi eVisa total fee combines a visa processing charge and mandatory health insurance, payable by Visa or Mastercard in a single transaction. The exact amount is displayed in SAR on the portal at time of application and varies by nationality. Saudi eVisa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
| Fee Component | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa processing fee | As displayed on portal | Non-refundable |
| Health insurance | Included in total | Coverage up to 100,000 SAR |
| Total | Combined single payment | Visa or Mastercard only |
Tip: use a card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges when paying for your Saudi eVisa.
Mandatory Health Insurance Included with the Saudi eVisa
Every Saudi eVisa includes mandatory health insurance covering up to 100,000 SAR for medical emergencies during the stay. The Saudi eVisa bundles this insurance directly into the visa fee.
Covered: emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation.
Not covered: pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, dental treatment, repatriation to the UK.
Recommendation: purchase separate comprehensive travel insurance before departure. The Saudi eVisa insurance activates automatically upon entry to Saudi Arabia.
Processing Time: How Long Does the Saudi eVisa Take?
Most Saudi eVisa applications from UK citizens are approved within minutes to a few hours. Allow up to 48 hours for processing in case of additional verification. Apply at least 5-7 days before your intended travel date. Factors that can delay processing include high application volumes during Ramadan, Hajj season, and peak travel periods. If no response arrives within 48 hours, check your spam folder.
Entry Rules and Permitted Ports of Entry for eVisa Holders
The Saudi eVisa is accepted at all major international airports, select land border crossings, and sea ports. Travellers must carry a printed copy of the approved Saudi eVisa alongside the passport used during application. Multiple entries are permitted within the 1-year validity, provided each stay does not exceed 90 days.
Where Can You Enter Saudi Arabia with an eVisa?
| Entry Point | Type | eVisa Accepted |
|---|---|---|
| King Khalid Int. Airport (RUH) | Air | Yes |
| King Abdulaziz Int. Airport (JED) | Air | Yes |
| King Fahd Int. Airport (DMM) | Air | Yes |
| Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Int. Airport (MED) | Air | Yes |
| Al Batha | Land (UAE) | Yes |
| King Fahd Causeway | Land (Bahrain) | Yes |
| Jeddah Islamic Port | Sea | Yes |
Umrah on Your Tourist eVisa
The Saudi eVisa permits Umrah (excluding Hajj) at any time of year outside Hajj season. British pilgrims can book Umrah and Rawdah visit appointments through the Nusuk platform after receiving their approved Saudi eVisa. Hajj requires a separate visa and cannot be performed on a tourist eVisa. Umrah should be completed within the 90-day stay limit. The Council for British Hajjis (CBHUK) provides support for British pilgrims.
Avoiding Rejection: Common Saudi eVisa Mistakes for UK Applicants
The most frequent Saudi eVisa rejections for UK applicants stem from avoidable errors:
- Passport expiring within 6 months: check before applying
- Blurry or non-compliant photo: wrong background, glasses, wrong dimensions
- Mismatched information between passport and application form
- Incorrect passport number entry
- Using a non-eligible British passport type: verify eligibility first
- Payment failure: ensure card is international-transaction enabled
- Not checking email spam folder for the approved Saudi eVisa
- Forgetting to print the Saudi eVisa before travel
Rejected applications do not receive a refund.
Saudi eVisa Rules for Minors: Applying for Under-18 British Travellers
Each child under 18 requires their own individual Saudi eVisa, submitted by a parent or legal guardian. The Saudi eVisa portal requires applicants to be at least 18 years old to use the service. The same passport validity and photo requirements apply to minors. A family of four (2 adults, 2 children) requires 4 separate Saudi eVisa applications. When travelling with one parent only, a notarised consent letter from the other parent is recommended.
Overstaying Your Saudi eVisa: Penalties and Immigration Consequences
Overstaying the 90-day Saudi eVisa limit incurs a fine of SAR 100 per day and may result in a future entry ban. Contact Saudi immigration via the Absher platform or visit a local passport office before the 90 days expire. Set a calendar reminder 5-7 days before your limit.
Using Multiple Entries
The 90-day counter resets each time a traveller exits Saudi Arabia, allowing another full stay upon re-entry within the 1-year Saudi eVisa validity. No mandatory minimum absence period applies between entries. Example: “30 days in, 2 weeks out, 30 days in” is fully compliant.
Saudi eVisa vs Visa on Arrival for UK Citizens
The Saudi eVisa offers pre-approved entry, allowing British passport holders to bypass immigration queues. The Saudi eVisa bundles mandatory health insurance into a single upfront payment displayed in SAR on the portal, whereas visa on arrival may require separate insurance arrangements at the airport, potentially increasing total cost. Both routes are valid for tourism, Umrah (excluding Hajj), and short business visits. Apply for the Saudi eVisa in advance for a smoother experience, especially during peak travel periods.
Saudi Visa Policy Updates for UK Citizens in 2026
Saudi Arabia introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in June 2026 as a streamlined alternative to the standard tourist Saudi eVisa. The ETA targets eligible British passport holders seeking a lighter authorisation process for short visits. Both the Saudi eVisa and the ETA cover tourism, Umrah (excluding Hajj), and business meetings. Check the Saudi eVisa portal at within 48 hours of planned travel for any updates before submitting any application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do UK citizens need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia in 2026?
Yes. UK passport holders must obtain a valid visa. The Saudi eVisa is the most convenient option for tourism, business, and Umrah (excluding Hajj). It is obtained entirely online and typically approved within minutes.
How much does the Saudi eVisa cost for British passport holders?
The total cost includes a visa processing fee and a mandatory health insurance fee, combined into a single payment during the online application. The exact amount is displayed in SAR on the portal. Fees are non-refundable.
How long does it take to get a Saudi eVisa from the UK?
Most applications are approved within minutes to a few hours. Allow up to 48 hours for processing. Apply at least 5-7 days before your intended travel date.
Can I use the Saudi eVisa for Umrah?
Yes. The tourist eVisa allows Umrah at any time except during Hajj season. Hajj requires a separate visa. Book Umrah and Rawdah visit appointments through the Nusuk platform after receiving your Saudi eVisa.
What happens if I overstay my 90-day limit?
Overstaying incurs daily fines of SAR 100 per day and may lead to an entry ban. Contact Saudi immigration via the Absher platform or visit a local passport office before the 90 days expire.
Can I apply for a Saudi eVisa for my child?
Yes. Each child under 18 requires their own individual Saudi eVisa. A parent or guardian who is at least 18 years old must complete the application using the child’s own valid passport and compliant digital photo.
What documents do I need for the Saudi eVisa?
A valid UK passport with at least 6 months validity from the intended arrival date, a compliant digital photo in JPG or PNG format, a passport data page scan, accommodation details, a return flight itinerary, and a valid Visa or Mastercard for payment.
Is the Saudi eVisa a multiple-entry visa?
Yes. The Saudi eVisa is valid for 1 year from the date of issue and allows multiple entries. You can make unlimited entries within the validity period, provided that each individual stay does not exceed the 90-day limit.
Which British passport types are eligible?
British Citizen passport holders are eligible. Holders of other types (BN(O), BOC, BPP, British Subject) should verify eligibility on the Saudi eVisa portal before applying.
Do I need to print my Saudi eVisa?
Yes. Carry a printed copy along with your passport. Immigration officers may request to see the printed Saudi eVisa upon arrival.
