Introduction:
Saudi Arabia has introduced significant changes to its visa policies under the Vision 2030 initiative. One of the most popular options for travelers in 2026 is the Saudi Personal Visit Visa. This visa allows Saudi citizens to invite their non-relative friends and acquaintances to the Kingdom for tourism, Umrah, and social visits. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the latest rules, fees, and application process
What is the Saudi Personal Visit Visa
The Personal Visit Visa is a special entry permit issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Unlike the Family Visit Visa, which is strictly for blood relatives, the Personal Visit Visa allows Saudi nationals to sponsor friends from across the world
Key Benefits of the Visa
Umrah Access: Holders can perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah without needing a separate Umrah visa.
Duration: It is available in two types:
Single Entry: Valid for 90 days with a 90-day stay.
Multiple Entry: Valid for 1 year, allowing multiple stays of up to 90 days each
Travel Flexibility: You
can travel throughout the Kingdom, visit historic sites, and attend cultural events
Requirements for Saudi Personal Visit Visa 2026
To apply for this visa, the applicant must have the following documents ready:
Valid Passport: Must have at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry.
Recent Photograph: A passport-sized color photo with a white background.
Invitation from Host: The inviting Saudi citizen must have an active Absher and Nafath account to initiate the request.
Health Insurance: Mandatory medical insurance covered by a Saudi-approved provider
Step-by-Step Application Process
The process is 100% digital and transparent. Here is how it works:
Host Request: The Saudi citizen logs into the MOFA Visa Platform using their Unified National Access (Nafath).
Submit Application: They fill out the "Personal Visit Visa Request" form with the visitor's details.
Visa Document: Once approved, the host receives a 'Visa Document' number and sends it to the visitor.
VFS Tasheer/Embassy: The visitor then visits the local Saudi embassy or VFS Tasheer center in their home country (like India or Pakistan) for biometrics and visa stamping
Visa Fee and Processing Time
In 2026, the government fee for the visa is approximately SAR 200 to SAR 300 (excluding insurance and service charges). Most applications are processed within 3 to 5 working days
Important Tips for Visitors
Ensure you do not overstay your visa duration to avoid heavy fines and deportation.
While Umrah is allowed, a separate permit via the Nusuk App is still required to visit the Rawdah in Madinah.
Always check the latest travel advisories on the official MOFA website before booking your flight
Conclusion
The Saudi Personal Visit Visa 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for those who wish to explore the rich culture of Saudi Arabia or perform Umrah through a friend's invitation. Its easy online process makes it a top choice for international travelers
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