Key Points
- Pakistani nationals need a Saudi visit visa for tourism, family visits, or business, processed through Etimad centers.
- A new policy, effective February 1, 2025, limits visas to single-entry, valid for 30 days with a 30-day stay.
- The Saudi visa price is likely SAR 338 (around PKR 25313), though fees may vary slightly.
- Biometrics are mandatory, and applications require documents like a valid passport and an invitation letter.
- Flight disruptions due to Pakistan-India airspace closure may increase travel costs and times as this blog is written on 1st May, 2025.
- Expert help from firms like Wayena Zafar Immigration Law firm can simplify complex applications.
Visa Overview
If you’re a Pakistani planning to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, family, or business, you’ll need a Saudi visit visa. The process is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Applications are handled through Etimad visa centers in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. The visa fee is approximately SAR 338 (PKR 25,313), and processing takes about 5-7 days. You’ll need a passport valid for six months, photos, and documents like an invitation letter for a Saudi family visit visa. Recent flight news indicates that Pakistan-India airspace closures may affect travel routes, so check with airlines for updates.
Moreover, If you’re interested in obtaining a visit visa for Canada, Thailand, or Iran—or pursuing a study visa for Germany—Wayena Zafar can assist you with expert guidance and support throughout the process.
How to Apply
- Choose Visa Type: Select tourist, Saudi family visit visa, or business visa.
- Gather Documents: Include passport, photos, financial proof, and invitation letter if needed.
- Visit Etimad Center: Submit your application and biometrics at an Etimad center, or Wayena Zafar, immigration consultant, will guide you.
- Pay Fee: Pay SAR 338, possibly with additional service fees.
- Track Application: Use Etimad’s Saudi visa check online tool to monitor status.
Travel Tips
- Respect Cultural Norms: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
- Stay Legal: Follow visa terms to avoid fines or deportation.
- Know the Laws: Avoid prohibited activities like alcohol consumption.
For complex cases, Wayena Zafar Immigration Law firm can provide expert guidance to ensure a smooth process.
Introduction
For Pakistani nationals, obtaining a Saudi visit visa is essential for traveling to Saudi Arabia for tourism, family reunions, or business purposes. With over a million Pakistani expatriates in Saudi Arabia, the visa process is well-established, but recent policy changes effective February 1, 2025, have introduced new restrictions. The Saudi government now limits Pakistani nationals to single-entry visas valid for 30 days with a maximum stay of 30 days per visit, aiming to regulate travel and prevent unauthorized Hajj participation.
Additionally, ongoing flight disruptions due to the Pakistan-India airspace closure until at least May 23, 2025, may impact travel plans, potentially increasing costs and flight durations. This guide provides a detailed overview of the application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, and travel tips, ensuring Pakistani travelers are well-prepared. For expert assistance, Wayena Zafar Immigration Law firm offers specialized support to navigate these changes effectively.
What is a Saudi Visit Visa for Pakistanis?
A Saudi visit visa is an official document issued by the Saudi government, allowing Pakistani citizens to enter KSA for non-work purposes such as tourism, family visits, business activities, or Umrah purposes. It ensures compliance with immigration laws and facilitates legal entry. The revised policy, effective February 1, 2025, restricts Pakistani nationals to single-entry visas valid for 30 days, with a maximum stay of 30 days per visit, as reported by The Express Tribune. This change aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which is to promote tourism while managing immigration.
Benefits of a Saudi Visit Visa:
- Tourism: Visit cultural landmarks like Al Rajhi Grand Mosque or Al Masmak Fortress.
- Family Visits: Reconnect with relatives via a Saudi family visit visa.
- Business: Engage in meetings or trade events in a dynamic economy.
Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Visit Visa
To apply for a Saudi visit visa, Pakistani nationals must meet the following criteria:
- Passport Validity: A passport valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay with two blank pages.
- Age: Applicants must be 18 or older; minors require a parent or guardian.
- Financial Stability: Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements, may be required.
- Health Requirements: Health insurance or a medical certificate may be needed, especially for Saudi family visit visas.
- Criminal Record: A clean record is preferred; serious offenses may lead to rejection. Make sure to apply for a Police certificate.
Eligibility varies slightly by visa type. For example, Saudi family visit visas require proof of relationship with a Saudi resident. Consulting with Wayena Zafar, an Immigration Law firm, can clarify specific requirements for complex cases.
Required Documents for Saudi Visit Visa
The documents needed depend on the visa type. Below is a comprehensive list:
Document | Details | Applies To |
Valid Passport | 6 months validity, 2 blank pages | All visa types |
Visa Application Form | Completed and signed | All visa types |
Photographs | 2 recent passport-sized, white background | All visa types |
Invitation Letter | From the Saudi host, detailing the purpose and duration | Family, Business |
Proof of Accommodation | Hotel booking or the host’s address | All visa types |
Financial Proof | Bank statements or a sponsor’s letter | All visa types |
Return Ticket | Confirmed flight itinerary | All visa types |
Health Insurance | If required by visa type | Varies |
Sponsor’s Iqama | Copy of residence permit | Saudi Family Visit Visa |
Proof of Relationship | Marriage or birth certificate | Saudi Family Visit Visa |
Company Invitation Letter | From a Saudi company | Business Visit |
Business Registration | Copy of Pakistani company registration | Business Visit |
Vaccinations | Polio & MMR vaccination card | All visa types |
Additional Notes:
- Documents must be original or notarized copies.
- Non-English or non-Arabic documents may require translation.
- For Saudi family visit visas in Islamabad, marriage certificates and B-forms need Foreign Office attestation.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Saudi Visit Visa
Follow these steps to apply for a Saudi visit visa:
- Select Visa Type: Choose tourist, Saudi family visit visa, or business visa. It depends on you what you choose.
- Collect Documents: Gather all required documents, ensuring accuracy.
- Visit Etimad Center: Submit applications at Etimad centers in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, or Quetta.
- Schedule Appointment: Book via Tasheer or walk in if available. It depends on the visa you select. For a visit Visa, you do not need so.
- Submit Application: Provide documents and biometrics at the center.
- Pay Fee: The Saudi visa price is SAR 338 (PKR 25,313), which is payable through Etimad.
- Track Application: Use Etimad’s Saudi visa check online tool, Etimad Tracker. The second option is that you can also check your email for a status update.
- Collect Passport: Retrieve your passport with the visa sticker upon approval.
Tips:
- Apply two weeks in advance to avoid delays.
- Verify Enjaz registration form details, completed by Etimad staff.
- For complex cases, Wayena Zafar Immigration Law firm can assist.
Saudi Visit Visa Types for Pakistani Nationals
As of 2025, Pakistani nationals can apply for:
- Tourist Visa: For leisure; single-entry, 30-day validity.
- Saudi Family Visit Visa: For family visits, single-entry, 30-day validity.
- Business Visit Visa: For business; single-entry, 30-day validity.
Advantages:
- Tourist Visa: Explore sites like Al Madinah (open to all) or Makkah (Muslims only).
- Saudi Family Visit Visa: Facilitates family reunions with sponsorship.
- Business Visit Visa: Supports trade and networking.
Visa Fees and Processing Time for Saudi Visit Visa
Aspect | Details |
Saudi Arabia Visa Fee | SAR 338 (PKR 25313 approx.) |
Processing Time | 5-7 business days |
Note: Fees may include additional service charges. Confirm with Etimad for updates.
Flight News Impacting Travel
Recent tensions have led to a mutual airspace closure between Pakistan and India until at least May 23, 2025, affecting Pakistan-Saudi Arabia flight news. Pakistani airlines, like Pakistan International Airlines, may face longer routes, increasing travel times, and costs. This could impact flights to Saudi Arabia, so travelers should check with airlines for updated schedules and fares, Reuters.
Common Issues Faced by Pakistani Nationals
Applicants may face:
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing documents, like invitation letters, if you select a family visit visa.
- Incorrect Information: Errors in forms or Enjaz registration.
- Processing Delays: High application volumes.
Solutions:
- Double-check documents before submission.
- Contact Etimad, Lahore at +92 329 8330528 for issues.
- Seek help from Wayena Zafar Immigration Law firm for complex cases.
How to Track Your Saudi Visit Visa Application
- Saudi Visa Check Online: Use Etimad’s tracker with your application number.
- Contact Etimad: Call for updates if delays occur.
- Embassy Inquiry: Contact the Saudi Arabian embassy in Pakistan for complex issues or otherwise, Wayena Zafar.
Tip by Wayena Zafar: Keep your application reference number handy.
Saudi Visit Visa Extension for Pakistani Nationals
To extend a Saudi visit visa:
- Visit a Jawazat office in Saudi Arabia.
- Submit your passport, visa, and extension reason.
- Pay the extension fee (varies).
Note: Extensions are not guaranteed. Plan to avoid overstaying.
Visa Rejection: Common Reasons and Solutions
Reasons for Rejection:
- Insufficient Funds: Lack of financial proof.
- Incomplete Application: Missing or incorrect documents.
- Immigration History: Past visa violations.
Solutions:
- Provide clear financial proof.
- Ensure document accuracy.
- Consult Wayena Zafar, Immigration Law firm, for reapplication guidance.
Note: Rejections are final, but you can reapply after corrections.
Tips for Traveling to Saudi Arabia on a Visit Visa
Before traveling to Saudi Arabia, consider these tips:
- Respect Cultural Norms: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to respect local customs, Saudi Visa Office.
- Stay Within Legal Boundaries: Adhere to visa terms to avoid fines or deportation.
- Know the Laws: Avoid prohibited activities like alcohol consumption or public displays of affection.
By understanding the Saudi visit visa process, Pakistani nationals can plan their trip effectively. Wayena Zafar Immigration Law firm offers dedicated support for a seamless experience.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Saudi visit visa as a Pakistani national is straightforward with proper preparation. The new single-entry policy, effective February 1, 2025, limits stays to 30 days, requiring applications through Etimad centers. Despite potential flight disruptions due to airspace closures, careful planning ensures a smooth journey. Respect Saudi Arabia’s cultural and legal norms to enjoy your visit. For expert guidance, Wayena Zafar Immigration Law firm can assist at every step. Visit Saudi or Etimad for the latest updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question | Answer |
How long does it take to get a Saudi visit visa? | 5-7 business days, but may vary. |
Can I extend my Saudi visit visa? | Yes, apply at Jawazat with documents. |
What is the Saudi visa price? | SAR 338 (PKR 12,500 approx.). |
How long is the visa valid? | Single-entry, 30-day validity, 30-day stay. |
Can I apply with a criminal record? | Minor offenses may be overlooked; serious crimes may lead to rejection. |
What if my application is denied? | Correct issues and reapply; no appeals. |
Is expedited processing available? | Check with Etimad for additional fees. |
Key Citations
- Saudi Arabia Announces New Visa Policy for 14 Countries, Including Pakistan
- Saudi Arabia Visa Requirements – Visit the Saudi Official Website
- Saudi Visa Requirements for Pakistanis – Saudi Visa Office
- Saudi Arabia Visa From Pakistan – 2025 Visa Requirements
- Experts of Wayena Zafar Immigration Law Firm, Lahore