Streamlined Guidelines for Successful Saudi Visa Applications for Italian and Japanese Travelers
For Italian and Japanese travellers planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, the visa application process has been made more convenient and efficient. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Visa Types & Eligibility
Both Italians and Japanese are generally eligible for the Saudi tourist eVisa, which launched in 2019, allowing easy online application without needing prior sponsorship. For business purposes, a Saudi business visa is also available but might require different documentation and longer processing times.
Key Documents for Tourist Visa
The essential documents for a Saudi tourist visa include a valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining and typically 2 blank pages, a passport-style photograph as per specifications, visa fee payment online if applying for eVisa, travel insurance or health insurance, and supporting documents such as return flight tickets and proof of sufficient funds may be requested at entry.
For citizens holding valid Schengen, US, or UK visas who have already used them (i.e., have entry stamps), some visa-on-arrival options might exist. Italians with Schengen visas and Japanese as Schengen visa-exempt might fall under different criteria.
For Business Visa (if applicable)
Proof of residence in the applying country, proof of employment, bank statements, and a flight itinerary including return tickets are required for a Saudi business visa.
Key Insider Tips
- Apply for the tourist eVisa online to speed up processing; it typically takes minutes to a couple of hours. Embassy application may take weeks.
- For Italians holding a Schengen visa, ensure it is valid and used (entry stamp recorded) before attempting visa-on-arrival.
- Women (including solo female travellers) can now visit Saudi Arabia without a male guardian, and tourist visas are available equally to them.
- Modest dress codes and cultural respect are important for visitors.
- Keep your passport and visa details handy as immigration checks are strict.
- If travelling for work, Saudi Arabia implemented a new skill-based visa system from July 2025 affecting work permits; this mainly applies to long-term work visas, not tourists.
Ensuring Accuracy in Your Application Forms
Accuracy is crucial in the Saudi visa application process. Double-checking all information, such as passport details, dates, names, and contact information, can help prevent delays or rejections. Ensuring all details are correct can expedite the visa process and avoid unnecessary complications.
Conclusion
By understanding the specific requirements for each nationality, gathering all necessary documents in advance, utilising insider tips to expedite the process, taking advantage of electronic services, and ensuring all information in the application forms is accurate, Italians and Japanese citizens can streamline their Saudi visa applications for a smoother experience, reducing processing times and increasing chances of obtaining the visa efficiently and hassle-free.
Despite the convenience of the Saudi tourist eVisa, travelers may also consider a Saudi business visa for business purposes, as it requires different documentation and might take longer to process. Interestingly, Italians and Japanese can incorporate their valid Schengen, US, or UK visas into their travel lifestyle, potentially enabling visa-on-arrival options or alternative requirements, making travel more flexible and efficient.
