Saudi Arabia has become one of the most visited destinations in the Middle East, attracting tourists from Europe for its culture, history, business opportunities, and religious travel. With the introduction of the Saudi Arabian eVisa program, European citizens can now apply online without visiting an embassy, making the process simple, fast, and completely digital.
This guide covers everything European travelers need to know to apply for the Saudi eVisa in 2025, including eligibility, documents, application steps, fees, processing time, and travel rules.
The Saudi Arabia eVisa is an online travel authorization that allows citizens of approved countries, including all EU and EEA nations, to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism, leisure, family visits, and Umrah (non-Hajj season). It is a convenient alternative to the traditional embassy visa.
European countries that can apply for the Saudi eVisa include:
And all other Schengen/EEA countries, all these citizens can apply fully online without an interview or embassy visit.
Applying for a Saudi Arabia eVisa has become extremely simple for travelers across Europe. Whether you are visiting for tourism, holidays, business events, or performing Umrah, the eVisa gives you quick approval and flexible travel options. This guide explains the requirements, fees, steps, rules, and important travel advice for European citizens planning a trip to Saudi Arabia.
To apply for the Saudi eVisa, European travelers need only a few basic documents. A copy of your passport and a passport-size photo are required. Make sure your passport is clear and readable so that the application process goes smoothly. These simple requirements make the process fast and accessible for everyone.
The application process is fully online and can be completed in just a few minutes. After filling out your personal and travel details, you will be asked to upload your passport copy and photo.
Once the form is complete, you can pay the visa fee using common payment methods such as a credit card, debit card, or international payment gateway. The payment system is secure and supports applicants from all European Union countries.
The processing time is usually very fast. Standard approval takes around 24 to 48 hours, although many travelers receive their eVisa within minutes. Once approved, the eVisa PDF is sent directly to your email. It is recommended to keep both a digital copy on your phone and a printed copy for your trip.
The cost of the Saudi eVisa generally includes the visa fee, mandatory travel health insurance, and processing charges. On average, European travelers pay around USD 140, although the exact price may vary slightly depending on the country. The fee is almost the same across all European nations, making it predictable and easy to plan for.
Most applications are approved between 24 to 48 hours. In urgent cases, approvals can be granted in less than 30 minutes. To avoid delays, make sure your passport information is accurate and your uploaded documents are clear and readable.
It is ideal to apply at least one week before your travel date. However, because the approval is very fast, many European travelers comfortably apply just two to three days before departure. Still, applying early prevents any unexpected issues.
Your passport must have at least six months of validity from the day you enter Saudi Arabia. Applications with passports expiring soon may be rejected.
The Saudi eVisa is designed for tourism, leisure, events, and Umrah. It does not permit employment, study, or long-term residency. Travelers must follow the purpose stated on the visa.
Saudi Arabia has strict cultural norms and legal guidelines. Travelers should dress modestly, follow public behavior rules, and avoid actions that are restricted in the country. Being aware of local customs ensures a safe and enjoyable trip.
European travelers can perform Umrah using the standard tourist eVisa, except during the Hajj season. There is no need to apply for a separate Umrah visa. Women may travel without a male guardian (Mahram), and children can apply together with their parents, making the eVisa highly flexible for families.
Saudi Arabia offers multiple international airports and border crossings for eVisa holders. Major airports include Riyadh (King Khalid International Airport), Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport), Dammam (King Fahd International Airport), and Medina (Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport).
Travelers may also enter through land borders such as the UAE–Saudi route, the Bahrain–Saudi causeway, and Jordan–Saudi crossings. Seaports like Jeddah Islamic Port and Dammam Port are also open to eVisa visitors.
The tourist eVisa is popular because it provides quick online application, no need to visit an embassy, and multiple entry benefits. It offers high flexibility for both tourism and Umrah. The one-year validity period allows travelers to visit multiple times within the year, making it especially useful for frequent visitors.
To ensure a seamless approval process, double-check your passport details and expiry date, upload clear scans of your documents, and use a valid email address. Applying ahead of time is helpful, and keeping a printed copy of your eVisa during your trip can save time at immigration.
The best weather is from October to March, when temperatures are cooler and ideal for exploring major cities and historical sites.
Top travel spots include Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, AlUla, Abha, and the Red Sea coastline. These locations offer cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and modern attractions.
Visitors should keep in mind that alcohol is prohibited, public displays of affection are restricted, and modest clothing is expected in public areas. Fridays are considered a weekly holiday, and many businesses remain closed during prayer times.
The Saudi Arabia eVisa offers European travelers a fast, simple, and convenient way to visit the Kingdom for tourism, Umrah (non-Hajj), leisure, or short family trips. With 1-year validity, multiple entries, and online processing, it is the most efficient travel authorization available. European citizens from all EU and EEA countries can apply fully online and receive approval within hours. The eVisa system continues to make Saudi Arabia more accessible, welcoming millions of visitors from across Europe each year.