How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia Stopover or Transit Visa (2025)
- Jeddah Translation Office
- May 7
- 3 min read
Saudi Arabia has introduced convenient stopover and transit visa options, allowing travelers to explore the country during layovers. Whether you're stopping for 96 hours (4 days) for free or staying up to 30 days, this guide covers everything you need to know.
1. Types of Saudi Stopover & Transit Visas
A. Saudi Transit Visa (96-Hour / 4 Days) – FREE
Eligibility: Only for passengers flying with Saudia Airlines (SV) or Flynas (XY).
Duration: Up to 96 hours (4 days).
Cost: Free of charge.
Conditions:
Must enter and exit Saudi Arabia on Saudia or Flynas.
Minimum layover: 4 hours; maximum: 96 hours.
B. Saudi Stopover Visa (Up to 30 Days) – Paid
Eligibility: Open to all nationalities (with some exceptions).
Duration: Up to 30 days (single or multiple entries).
Cost: SAR 300 (≈ $80) + insurance.
Conditions:
Must book flights with Saudia or Flynas.
Can be used for tourism, business, or Umrah (except Hajj season).
2. How to Apply for the Saudi Transit Visa (96 Hours Free)
Step-by-Step Application Process
For Saudia Airlines Passengers
Book a flight with Saudia Airlines that includes a Saudi layover (Jeddah/Riyadh/Dammam).
Apply online via Saudia’s visa portal:
Visit: https://www.saudia.com/visa
Select "Transit Visa" and fill in your details.
Upload required documents:
Passport copy (valid for 6+ months).
Confirmed flight tickets (entering & exiting Saudi Arabia).
Receive e-Visa:
Approval usually takes a few hours.
Download and print the visa before travel.
For Flynas Airlines Passengers
Book a flight with Flynas that includes a Saudi stopover.
Apply online via Flynas’ website:
Visit: https://www.flynas.com/en
Go to the "Stopover Visa" section.
Submit documents:
Passport copy.
Flight itinerary.
Get visa approval via email (usually within 24 hours).
3. How to Apply for the Saudi Stopover Visa (30 Days Paid)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Book a flight with Saudia or Flynas (mandatory).
Apply online via the Saudi Tourism website:
Visit: https://visa.visitsaudi.com
Click "Apply for Stopover Visa".
Fill in details:
Passport information.
Flight details (must be Saudia/Flynas).
Upload required documents:
Passport scan (6+ months validity).
Passport-sized photo (white background).
Pay the visa fee:
SAR 300 (≈ $80) + mandatory insurance.
Receive e-Visa:
Processing time: 1-3 business days.
Print the visa before traveling.
4. Required Documents for Both Visas
Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Flight itinerary (showing entry & exit from Saudi Arabia).
Passport-sized photo (for 30-day visa).
Travel insurance (included in some visa applications).
5. Important Travel Tips
✔ Transit Visa (96h):
Free, but only for Saudia/Flynas passengers.
No tourism activities allowed (only transit).
✔ Stopover Visa (30d):
Allows tourism, business, and Umrah (except Hajj).
Must follow Saudi laws (no alcohol, modest dress code).
✔ Visa on Arrival?
Some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, but the Stopover Visa is recommended for smoother entry.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I leave the airport with a 96-hour transit visa?
✅ Yes! You can explore Saudi Arabia during your layover.
Q2: Can I apply for a transit visa if I’m not flying Saudia/Flynas?
❌ No, the free 96-hour visa is only for Saudia & Flynas passengers. Others must apply for a Tourist eVisa or Stopover Visa.
Q3: How long does it take to get the visa?
Transit Visa (96h): A few hours.
Stopover Visa (30d): 1-3 business days.
Q4: Can I perform Umrah with a Stopover Visa?
✅ Yes, but not during Hajj season.
Final Thoughts
Saudi Arabia’s Stopover and Transit Visas make it easier than ever to explore the country during a layover. Whether you’re stopping for 4 days for free or staying 30 days, follow this guide for a smooth application process.
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