A Complete Overview of Visa Requirements, Application Process, and Travel Tips for Visiting Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has rapidly transformed from a destination focused primarily on religious tourism to a vibrant and modern country that welcomes travelers from across the globe. As part of its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to tourists, business professionals, and spiritual pilgrims alike through an easy-to-use eVisa system.

Among the many eligible nationalities, Swedish and Swiss citizens can now take advantage of this simplified process to explore the Kingdom’s rich culture, history, and economic opportunities. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about obtaining aSaudi visa for Swedish citizens and a Saudi visa for Swiss citizens, including visa types, how to apply, and key travel tips.



Why Visit Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is home to an incredible blend of tradition, religion, and innovation. With projects like NEOM and The Red Sea Project, alongside spiritual sites such as Mecca and Medina, the Kingdom is an exciting destination for many types of travelers:

Religious tourism (Umrah and Hajj for Muslims)





Cultural exploration at UNESCO World Heritage Sites





Adventure travel across deserts, mountains, and coastlines





Business and investment opportunities in a growing market





Luxury travel experiences in futuristic developments





Thanks to the eVisa program, entering the Kingdom has never been easier for travelers from Sweden and Switzerland.



Saudi Visa for Swedish Citizens

Are Swedish Citizens Eligible?

Yes. Swedish citizens are eligible for the Saudi eVisa, a quick and efficient online visa system introduced in 2019. The visa allows for tourism and religious visits (Umrah), as well as some family or leisure travel.

Types of Saudi Visas for Swedish Citizens

Tourist eVisa





Valid for 1 year





Allows multiple entries





Maximum 90-day stay per visit





Covers tourism, leisure, and Umrah (not Hajj)





Business Visa





Requires an invitation from a Saudi company





Ideal for conferences, business meetings, or market research





Umrah Visa





Though Umrah can now be performed on a tourist visa, Muslims may also apply through authorized religious travel agencies





Hajj Visa





Must be arranged through approved Hajj operators in Sweden during the Hajj season





Work Visa





Requires a job offer and sponsorship from a Saudi employer





Application Process for Swedish Citizens

To apply for a Saudi visa for Swedish citizens, follow these steps:

Visit the official website: https://visa.visitsaudi.com





Complete the online application form





Upload a passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport





Pay the visa fee (around USD 120, including health insurance)





Receive your eVisa via email within 1 to 3 business days





Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Saudi Arabia.



Saudi Visa for Swiss Citizens

Are Swiss Citizens Eligible?

Yes. Swiss citizens are also eligible for the Saudi eVisa, which offers the same privileges as it does to Swedish applicants. The process is digital, fast, and ideal for both tourists and religious visitors.

Types of Saudi Visas for Swiss Citizens

Tourist eVisa





Valid for 1 year





Multiple entries allowed





Up to 90 days per visit





Includes permission for Umrah outside the Hajj season





Business Visa





Requires a letter of invitation from a Saudi-based company or organization





Religious Visa (Umrah or Hajj)





Umrah: Can be performed using the tourist eVisa





Hajj: Requires a separate application through authorized Swiss Hajj operators





Employment Visa





For Swiss citizens with a confirmed job offer from a Saudi company





Includes medical and background checks





Application Process for Swiss Citizens

Here’s how to apply for a Saudi visa for Swiss citizens:

Go to the official eVisa platform





Fill out the visa application with accurate personal and passport details





Upload the required documentation





Pay the applicable fees securely online





Wait for visa approval (generally 24–72 hours)





Ensure your passport is valid for six months and free of any travel restrictions.



General Requirements for Both Citizens

Whether you're applying from Sweden or Switzerland, the following criteria apply:

A valid passport (minimum six months validity)





A digital passport photo (white background)





A credit or debit card for online payment





Mandatory travel insurance (included in the eVisa package)





No past violations of Saudi immigration or entry laws







Important Travel Tips for Swedish and Swiss Visitors

Dress Modestly

Both men and women should wear modest clothing. Women are not required to wear abayas but should dress conservatively in public spaces.





Cultural Etiquette

Respect prayer times, avoid public displays of affection, and refrain from discussing sensitive topics such as religion or politics.





Alcohol and Drugs

Possession or consumption of alcohol and illegal substances is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.





Currency and Payments

The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s helpful to carry cash for smaller vendors or remote locations.





Transportation

Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are widely used. Taxis are also available, and public transport is improving in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.





Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to travel is between October and March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities.







Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia is becoming one of the most exciting travel and business destinations in the Middle East. With a simplified eVisa system and increasing international accessibility, obtaining a Saudi visa for Swedish citizens or a Saudi visa for Swiss citizens is quick, straightforward, and entirely online.

Whether you're drawn to the country for its spiritual significance, modern development, or business prospects, the Kingdom is ready to welcome you with open arms. Start planning your journey today and be part of Saudi Arabia’s evolving story.

<p data-start="0" data-end="293"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">Great breakdown! This post does a solid job of cutting through the noise and explaining the Saudi visa process for Swedish and Swiss travelers in a way that actually makes sense. It's clear, practical, and focused on what people really want to know before planning a trip&mdash;no unnecessary fluff.</span></span>

<p data-start="295" data-end="732"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">That said, even with a helpful guide like this, visa rules can still feel a bit overwhelming, especially when requirements change or small details get overlooked. That's where having an experienced hand really helps. GovAssist (https://govassist.com/) has become a go-to expert for travelers who want smooth, stress-free travel documentation. They know the process inside out, stay on top of updates, and help avoid the common mistakes that can slow things down.</span></span>

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<p data-start="734" data-end="998" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">Overall, this is a great starting point for anyone considering Saudi Arabia as their next destination. Pairing information like this with guidance from seasoned professionals makes the whole journey&mdash;from paperwork to takeoff&mdash;far more confident and straightforward.</span></span>