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What is the change? Saudi Arabia has made visas on arrival available to holders of valid U.S., U.K. and Schengen Area visas, regardless of their nationality.
What does the change mean? Holders of U.S., U.K. and Schengen visas may now travel to Saudi Arabia and obtain a visa on arrival at the airport, saving them the time it would normally take to apply for a visa at a Saudi Consulate.
Background: Saudi Arabia began issuing visas on arrival and tourist e-visas to nationals of 49 countries last September. The change allows visitors from these countries to obtain a multiple-entry visa valid for one year and stays of up to 90 days for the purpose of tourism.
Analysis & Comments: Last year’s visa policy change signaled Saudi Arabia’s desire to open the country to tourism, and the expansion of the visa-on-arrival policy is a further indication of this. To be eligible for a visa on arrival, foreign nationals holding valid visas from the U.S., U.K. and Schengen Area countries must have used the visa at least once and have a stamp from the issuing country in their passport. Travelers should note that the visa on arrival is valid only for tourist visits and cannot be used for business activities, work or performing umrah. While holders of U.S., U.K. and Schengen visas are now eligible for visas on arrival, they will not be eligible for Saudi Arabia’s electronic visa system.
Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.
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