As we know, the world is rapidly moving towards digitalization, reducing the need for physical processes and paperwork. With increasing internet access and the growing convenience of doing everything online, people are exploring new countries and global opportunities — whether for tourism or business. However, one of the significant challenges faced worldwide remains the visa application process.
To address this The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has launched its new KSA visa platform (a unified digital system for managing all visa-related services for visitors, citizens, and residents in Saudi Arabia) which majorly focuses to streamlined digital visa platform that simplifies access for travelers visiting relatives, attending events, exploring or for any religious activities like performing Umrah (outside Hajj season) in Saudi Arabia.
This modern visa system aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals under Vision 2030 to boost tourism, open to global visitors, and simplify travel for primary purposes like professions, businesses, etc.
History
This unified KSA Visa platform was launched on December 19, 2023. However, there have been other significant launches after this which is also the part of KSA Platform: the Nusuk Umrah Service Platform which was launched on August 21, 2025 by Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to allow international pilgrims to apply for Umrah visas and book services online and now the new e- visa platform which was launched on October 31, 2025 for tourism, family visits, and exploration etc.
Key Highlights
There is a new pilot version of the official KSA platform, which allows visitors to apply for an electronic visa to visit Saudi Arabia.
Types of visas: The new portal, developed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Saudi Arabia, offers both single-entry and multiple-entry e-visas.
- Single-entry visa: valid for 90 days, stay up to 90 days per visit
- Multiple-entry visa: valid for 1 year, permitting stays of up to 90 days per visit
- Fees: US $80 for the visa (refundable), plus US $10.50 digital visa service fee and US $10.50 digital insurance service fee (both non-refundable). Health insurance fees vary
Eligibility for Applying: Citizens of over 60+ countries can freely apply for the visa on this e-visa platform based on whether they are fulfilling the criteria mentioned in the form or not.
E visas are applicable to the following people:
- Citizens of eligible country
- Holders of valid Schengen, US, or UK visas
- Permanent resident of eligible countries or of GCC member states
Key Requirements: Here the major requirements include a passport valid for at least six months, valid health insurance, proof of sufficient funds, and compliance with Saudi laws and regulations.
Extensions: Currently, the e-visas cannot be extended. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and re-entry bans.
Verification Procedure: This visa application is issued instantly via the platform and sent directly to the applicant’s email. The applications can be processed in as little as one minute up to three business days, depending on verification, your application filings, and their purpose.
Why does this matter for travelers and businesses?
This new launch of e- visas will help people from across different countries in the following ways:
- It lowers the barrier for travel to Saudi Arabia—easier access means more opportunities for tourism, business visits, and cultural exchanges
- For service providers, tour operators, and travel agencies, this opens up new markets and potential for collaboration
- For those in compliance with immigration services or global mobility, this development means a shift toward fully digital workflows and faster turnaround times
Conclusion
This new development will significantly benefit individuals and businesses exploring opportunities in Saudi Arabia, offering smoother entry processes and better access to a thriving market.
Whether you are a professional, investor, or entrepreneur looking to expand in Saudi Arabia, our team of experts can guide you through every step — from visa applications to full business setup across the GCC region.
Book a free consultation today and let our professionals help you establish a successful presence across the GCC region.
Source: TOI