Saudi Personal Visa Request Now Open for Applications in July 2025 after Revised Policies. This is truly a landmark moment for anyone who has dreamt of experiencing the rich culture and vibrant landscapes of Saudi Arabia, not just as a tourist, but as a cherished guest. The Kingdom has rolled out revised policies, effective July 2025, making it significantly easier for Saudi citizens to invite friends, acquaintances, and even international colleagues for personal visits. This isn’t just about streamlining processes; it’s about fostering global connections and sharing the warmth of Saudi hospitality.
For years, visiting Saudi Arabia often revolved around business or family ties. But as the nation continues its ambitious Vision 2030, a new chapter is unfolding – one that champions cultural exchange and personal connections. I’ve seen firsthand how these evolving policies are transforming lives, enabling people to forge deeper bonds and experience the Kingdom in a truly authentic way. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully navigate the Saudi Personal Visa process.
The Dawn of a New Era: Understanding the Revised Personal Visa Policy
The most significant change in the revised Saudi Personal Visa policy, effective July 2025, is the broadened scope of who can be invited. Previously, the criteria for inviting non-family members were quite stringent, often requiring a strong business relationship or official purpose. Now, Saudi citizens can extend an invitation to any foreign national, even if there’s no familial or formal business tie. This means inviting a long-time friend you met on your travels, a former university peer, or an international colleague with whom you’ve built a strong rapport is now genuinely possible.
This shift empowers every Saudi citizen to become a cultural ambassador, opening their homes and their nation to the world. It’s a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global engagement and its desire to showcase its true essence – one of generosity, deep-rooted history, remarkable innovation, and undeniable warmth.
What’s New and Empowering in July 2025?
| Key Fact | Detail/Statistic |
| Eligibility | Saudi citizens can invite any foreign national, regardless of familial or business ties, purely on a personal connection basis. |
| Processing Time | The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) aims for a 3-business-day processing time for most personal visa applications. |
| Application Method | The process is primarily digital, initiated by the Saudi host through the MOFA website. |
| Visa Validity | Personal Visit Visas can be issued as single or multiple-entry, valid for up to one year, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days per visit (extendable for single-entry). |
The opportunity to apply for a Saudi Personal Visa in July 2025 is a game-changer for anyone wishing to visit the Kingdom on a personal invitation. The revised policies demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s commitment to openness and its desire to connect with the global community on a deeper, more personal level. With a streamlined digital application process and a commitment to quick processing, your dream of experiencing Saudi hospitality firsthand is now closer than ever.
Don’t let the opportunity pass you by. Start preparing your documents, communicate with your Saudi host, and get ready to embark on a memorable journey of discovery and connection. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is ready to welcome you.
Who Can Benefit from the Saudi Personal Visa?
This revised policy opens doors for a wide array of individuals. You might be eligible if you are:
- A friend of a Saudi citizen: This is the most direct beneficiary, allowing long-standing friendships to translate into real-world visits.
- A long-distance acquaintance or academic peer: If you’ve connected with a Saudi national through shared interests, professional networks, or educational pursuits, this visa facilitates a personal meeting.
- An international guest attending personal events: Imagine being invited to a Saudi wedding, a special family celebration, or a cultural festival by a Saudi host.
- A cultural explorer: If you’re genuinely interested in delving into Saudi traditions, exploring its historical sites, and engaging with its people beyond a typical tourist itinerary, this visa offers a unique pathway.
The Application Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process for applying for a Saudi Personal Visa is designed to be streamlined and efficient, with the Saudi host playing a crucial role.
For the Saudi Host (Inviter)
The journey begins with the Saudi citizen, who will initiate the invitation process through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) portal.
- Access the MOFA Platform: The Saudi citizen logs into the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website or their designated visa services platform.
- Navigate to Personal Visit Visa Application: They will typically find this under “Individuals” or “Citizen” sections, selecting “Personal Visit Visa Application.”
- Fill the Invitation Form: The host will then complete an online form. Crucially, while the form is generally in Arabic, provision is made for entering non-Arabic names as they appear on foreign passports. This form will require details about the invited individual.
- Submit and Await Approval: Once the form is filled, it is submitted online. MOFA will review the invitation and typically issue an approval or a reference number within a few business days.
For the International Guest (Applicant)
Once the Saudi host has received the MOFA approval, the international guest can proceed with their visa application.
- Access the Online Application: Using the MOFA reference number provided by their Saudi host, the applicant will access the online visa application portal (often the same MOFA portal or the Enjaz system).
- Complete the Visa Application Form: This form will require personal information, passport details, and travel itinerary. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly to avoid delays.
- Upload Required Documents:
- Valid Passport: Your original passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date, with at least two blank visa pages.
- Passport-sized Photographs: Recent, color photographs against a white background, typically 2×2 inches, with a clear image and neutral expression.
- MOFA Invitation Approval: A printed copy of the visa approval letter or the reference slip from the Saudi MOFA, confirming your host’s successful invitation.
- Host’s ID/Residency Proof: A copy of the Saudi host’s national ID card (for citizens) or Iqama (residence permit for expatriate residents).
- Proof of Accommodation: This could be a hotel reservation, or if staying with your host, their confirmed address.
- Travel Insurance: It is mandatory for visitors to purchase approved health insurance during the online application process to cover any medical emergencies in Saudi Arabia.
- Proof of Onward/Return Travel: A confirmed return flight ticket helps assure authorities of your departure.
- Financial Means (Optional but Recommended): While not always explicitly required for a personal visa, having proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay is always a good practice.
- Pay the Visa Fees: The visa fee, along with the medical insurance cost, will be calculated. Payment is typically made online using a credit or debit card.
- Submit Application: Review all details carefully before submitting your application.
- Await Visa Issuance: Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a transaction number to track your application. The visa will typically be processed within a few business days, though individual cases may take longer.
Important Considerations
- Language: While the general MOFA portal might be in Arabic, there are often English language options for specific services. For non-Arabic names, ensure they are entered as they appear on your passport.
- Accuracy is Key: Any discrepancies between your application details and your passport or other documents can lead to delays or even rejection.
- No Employment: A personal visit visa does not permit any form of employment, paid or unpaid. If your intention is to work in Saudi Arabia, you must apply for a proper work visa.
Why This Matters: Connecting Cultures, Fostering Understanding?
The reopening of the Saudi Personal Visa applications in July 2025 under these revised policies signifies a monumental step in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify its economy and enhance its global standing, with tourism and cultural exchange at its heart. This updated policy sends a clear message: “You no longer need to be family – just be welcome.”
This isn’t just about facilitating travel; it’s about breaking down barriers, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and building genuine relationships between people. Imagine the stories that will be shared, the perspectives that will be broadened, and the friendships that will be cemented as a result of this initiative.
FAQ
Q1: What is the primary difference between a Saudi Personal Visa and a Tourist Visa?
A: The key distinction lies in the sponsorship. A Saudi Personal Visa requires an invitation from a Saudi citizen, emphasizing a personal connection for the visit. A Tourist Visa, on the other hand, is generally applied for independently and is designed for general sightseeing and leisure, without the need for a specific personal invitation. Both can offer similar durations of stay, but the Personal Visa is tailored for those visiting based on an invitation from a Saudi resident.
Q2: How long does it take to process a Saudi Personal Visa application?
A: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) aims to process most Personal Visa applications within 3 business days from the time of submission by the Saudi host. However, processing times can vary depending on individual circumstances, the completeness of the application, and the volume of applications at a given time.
Q3: Can I extend my stay on a Saudi Personal Visa?
A: Yes, a Saudi Personal Visa issued as a single-entry visa valid for 90 days can typically be extended. For multiple-entry personal visas, while the visa itself may be valid for up to one year, each stay is generally limited to 90 days and is non-extendable per visit. It’s crucial to check the specific terms and conditions on your visa and consult official sources or your host for extension procedures if needed.
Q4: Is travel insurance mandatory for the Saudi Personal Visa?
A: Yes, purchasing approved health insurance is a mandatory requirement during the online application process for the Saudi Personal Visa. This insurance is intended to cover any medical emergencies you might encounter during your stay in Saudi Arabia.
