How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia Business Visa from the UK: Step-by-Step Guide
Saudi Arabia now offers substantial opportunities for UK-based entrepreneurs and corporations to do business in the country. Securing a business visa to enter the Kingdom is a crucial first step for British professionals seeking to explore these commercial prospects.
The time you are applying for a Saudi Arabian business visa from the UK, you may feel confused. If you feel the same then read this post to the end.
How You Can Be Eligible To Get a Saudi Arabia Business Visa
You must have the following documents:
Valid Passport
Prior to clicking the apply button, confirm that your passport has at least 6 months' remaining validity. Additionally, your passport should contain at least 2 blank pages for the visa stamp.
Invitation Letter
When you are applying for a business Saudi visa, make sure you have an invitation letter from the Saudi company. The business invitation letter you got from the Arabian company, needs to be approved from either the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Saudi Chamber of Commerce.
Application Form
To apply for your business application, you will need to have the complete business visa application form.
Passport Photos
Have two copies of passport-sized photos with a white background.
Proof of Employment
You will need to confirm your employment and the purpose of your business travel by having a letter from your UK employer.
Medical Insurance
Medical insurance is essential to live in Saudi Arabia.
Biometrics Data
You might need to submit your biometric details at the Saudi embassy. These requirements depend on the current requirements.
Supporting Documents for Frequent Travelers
Along with the main requirements, you will also need to submit the below-mentioned supporting documents:
Flight Reservation
You will need to submit copies of your flight reservation.
Chamber of Commerce Certification
Your employment letter might need to be certified by the British Chamber of Commerce, depending on the requirements.
Application Process To Get A Saudi Business Visa
To apply for your Saudi Arabia business visa UK, follow these simple steps:
Completing Application Form
You can access your application form through the official Saudi Visa Services Portal. You will need to fill in each field with careful attention, particularly for your personal information, passport details, and business-related sections.
Give Documents You Are Asked For
Submit the documents supporting your application form.
Fees and Payment Process
Pay with a debit/credit card.
Track Your Application Online
After submitting your application, you can track that online or by contacting the Saudi Arabian embassy.
You will need to use your reference number from your application along with your last name.
Receive Your Approved e-Visa
After you pay the fees for your application, your application will go through the process of approval.
You will get your business visa directly in your email if the authority approves your visa. Then you can download that and print it to show at the airport.
This is for your travel records and carry it with you when you are traveling to Saudi Arabia.
In-person Application at the Saudi Embassy or Visa Centres
You can also visit the embassy or visa centre. To submit your application at the visa centre the key steps involved:
Gather All the Documents
Collect all the documents you will need to submit to support your application including your passport, photograph, and proof of funds.
Book an Appointment
Before visiting the visa application centre, make an appointment online through phone. This is to avoid long wait times.
Visit the Embassy
Arrive at your designated time at your nearest visa application centre with all your original documents and copies.
Submit Your Application and Fees
Submit all of your documents to the officials with the application form and pay for the visa through debit and credit card. Cash payment is not allowed.
Biometric Data
Depending on what is needed, you might have to submit your biometric details, such as fingerprints, at the visa application center.
Processing Time
After submitting your application, the officials at the embassy will review it and decide on your visa application.
Get Your Visa
If your visa application gets approved, you will receive that by your email.
Visa Processing Times and Urgent Requests
Generally, from the day you have applied for your business visa, the processing time takes around 15 business days. But, the time for processing can vary. This will depend on individual circumstances.
Factors Affecting Business Visa Processing Time
There are some points that will definitely influence the processing time of a business visa:
Missing/wrong documentation: This can lead to visa delay or rejection.
Documentation concerns: If the Saudi Arabian Immigration has any concerns about the authenticity of documents, your processing time may increase
Prior visa rejection/overstays: If you have any before immigration issues, it may delay the visa decision
Interviews: There might be some added time in the processing time if you are called for an interview at the visa application centre.
Duration and Validity of the Business Visa
For UK citizens, a Saudi business visa can be valid for up to one with multiple entries. It can allow for a maximum of 90 days per visit.
Short-term validity of the Saudi Business Visa
A British national may be eligible for a short-term, single-entry visa valid for 3 months, permitting a maximum stay of 30 days. This type is suitable for short business trips like conferences or meetings.
Long-term Validity of the Saudi Business Visa
You can also avail of the multiple-entry, valid for 6 months to 5 years with a stay of 90 days per entry. If you need to visit Saudi very frequently then this visa is for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I extend my Saudi business visa after arrival?
Yes, your Saudi business visa can be extended after arrival by applying through the portal. Your Saudi sponsor must initiate this process, and extensions are granted based on business necessity and compliance with local regulations.
What to do if my business visa application is rejected?
By addressing the reason cited in the rejection letter, you can re-apply for your business
Is it legal if I move from the UK to Saudi Arabia for business purposes?
Yes, being a UK Citizen you can move to Saudi Arabia. Permanently moving to that country will make you go through a long process based on your purpose of visit.
Get Ready For Your Business Meeting in Saudi
The process of getting a Saudi Arabia business visa for a UK citizen needs careful preparation and attention to detail. Gather all the documents that will be uploaded with the application. This will work as proof of your purpose of travel. Being a UK professional you can successfully secure your Saudi business visa to Saudi Arabia.
Check your eligibility for Saudi e-Visa and apply for Online Saudi Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. South African citizens, Slovak citizens, British Citizens, Singaporean Citizens and Turkish citizens can apply online for Online Saudi Visa.