Planning a trip to Saudi Arabia? If you're a German citizen, understanding the Saudi visa process is essential before booking your flights. Saudi Arabia has significantly expanded its visa policies in recent years, making it more accessible for travelers from Europe, including Germany and Greece. Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, or religious purposes, here's everything you need to know about obtaining a Saudi visa for German citizens.
Do German Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Saudi Arabia?
Yes, German citizens must obtain a visa before entering Saudi Arabia. Fortunately, Saudi Arabia offers an eVisa system that simplifies the process for tourists. The eVisa allows German passport holders to travel to Saudi Arabia for short-term stays related to tourism, family visits, or religious tourism (excluding Hajj).
Types of Saudi Visas Available for German Citizens
When applying for a Saudi visa for German citizens, you can choose from various visa types based on your purpose of visit:
1. Tourist eVisa
The tourist eVisa is the most commonly used visa for German travelers. It's valid for one year from the date of issuance and allows multiple entries, each for up to 90 days.
Key Features:
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Valid for tourism and Umrah (not during Hajj season).
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Multiple entry visa.
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Available online through the Saudi eVisa portal.
2. Business Visa
If you’re visiting Saudi Arabia for business meetings, conferences, or corporate events, you’ll need to apply for a business visa. This requires an invitation letter from a Saudi company and may be a single or multiple-entry visa.
3. Work Visa
For employment in Saudi Arabia, a work visa is required. This involves sponsorship by a Saudi employer and a more detailed application process, including medical tests and attestation of documents.
4. Hajj Visa
While the tourist eVisa allows Umrah, pilgrims intending to perform Hajj must apply through specialized travel agencies approved by the Saudi government. Hajj visas are only issued once a year during the Hajj season.
How to Apply for a Saudi Visa as a German Citizen
Here is a step-by-step guide to apply for a Saudi visa for German citizens, especially the tourist eVisa:
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Visit the official Saudi eVisa portal: https://visa.visitsaudi.com
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Create an account using your email and personal details.
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Complete the application form, including passport details, travel itinerary, and purpose of visit.
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Upload the required documents:
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Valid German passport (with at least 6 months validity)
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Recent passport-size photograph
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Pay the visa fee using a credit/debit card (approx. SAR 535 or €130, subject to change).
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Wait for approval, which typically takes 24–72 hours.
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Receive the eVisa via email and carry a printed or digital copy when traveling.
Documents Required
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A valid German passport
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Passport-size photo (recent)
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Travel insurance (included in the eVisa fee)
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Credit/debit card for payment
Entry Requirements at the Saudi Border
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, German citizens must present:
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A valid eVisa (printed or on mobile device)
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Passport used for application
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Proof of accommodation (hotel booking)
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Return flight ticket
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Travel insurance (automatically issued with the eVisa)
Cost of Saudi Visa for German Citizens
The cost of the eVisa is approximately 535 Saudi Riyals (about €130). This includes the visa fee, travel insurance, and service charges.
Can German Citizens Extend Their Saudi Visa?
No, tourist eVisas cannot be extended. However, German citizens can leave the country and re-enter during the visa’s validity period, as long as each stay does not exceed 90 days.
What About the Saudi Visa for Greek Citizens?
The Saudi visa for Greek citizens follows the same process and requirements as for German nationals. Greece is among the eligible countries under the Saudi eVisa program. Greek passport holders can apply for the tourist eVisa online and enjoy multiple entries into Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days per visit.
The required documents, visa fees, and processing times are similar. The Saudi visa for Greek citizens, like the one for German citizens, allows travel for tourism and Umrah (except during Hajj).
Travel Tips for German Citizens Visiting Saudi Arabia
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Dress Modestly: Saudi Arabia has a conservative dress code. While women are no longer required to wear an abaya, modest clothing is still expected.
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No Alcohol: Alcohol is strictly prohibited in the Kingdom.
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Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially during prayer times and religious holidays.
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Friday Closures: Government offices and many businesses close on Fridays, the holy day in Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Saudi visa for German citizens is now easier than ever thanks to the eVisa system. Whether you're exploring the historical sites of Riyadh, the scenic Red Sea coast, or embarking on a spiritual journey to Mecca (for Umrah), Saudi Arabia welcomes German travelers with open arms.
Similarly, the Saudi visa for Greek citizens provides the same level of convenience and accessibility. Make sure you apply in advance, follow all entry guidelines, and respect the cultural norms of the country to enjoy a smooth and memorable visit to the Kingdom.
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