Saudi Arabia is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for travelers worldwide, thanks to its mix of rich culture, religious significance, and growing business opportunities. Citizens of Portugal and Turkey now find it easier than ever to visit the Kingdom, especially with Saudi Arabia’s expanded eVisa program. Whether you are traveling for tourism, business, or religious reasons, understanding the visa process is crucial. Here’s a full guide for Portuguese and Turkish citizens planning their Saudi trip.

1. Saudi Visa for Portuguese Citizens

Types of Visas Available

Portuguese citizens can apply for several types of Saudi visas:

• Tourist Visa (most common)
• Business Visa
• Religious Visa (Umrah, outside of Hajj season)
• Work Visa
• Family Visit Visa

Saudi eVisa for Portuguese Citizens

The Saudi eVisa is the easiest and most popular way for Portuguese nationals to enter Saudi Arabia for tourism or short visits. The eVisa is:

• Valid for multiple entries
• Valid for one year
• Allows stays up to 90 days per visit

Documents Required:

• Valid Portuguese passport (minimum six months validity)
• Passport-style photo
• Completed eVisa application form
• Payment of visa and insurance fees
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking)
• Return flight ticket (recommended)

Application Process:

1. Visit the official Saudi eVisa portal.
2. Fill out the online form.
3. Upload required documents.
4. Pay the visa fee (around €120, including health insurance).
5. Receive the visa by email within minutes to a few hours.

Portuguese citizens using the eVisa can also perform Umrah (small pilgrimage) outside of the Hajj season.

Other Visa Types

For business or work purposes, Portuguese citizens must apply through the Saudi embassy, providing:

• Business invitation letters
• Employment contracts (for work visas)
• Medical checkup reports (for long-term visas)

2. Saudi Visa for Turkish Citizens

Types of Visas Available

Turkish citizens can apply for:

• Tourist Visa
• Business Visa
• Religious Visa (Umrah and Hajj with special conditions)
• Work Visa
• Family Visit Visa

Saudi eVisa for Turkish Citizens

Turkey is among the eligible countries for the Saudi eVisa system. This option is available mainly for tourism, including sightseeing, events, and limited religious visits.

eVisa Features:

• Valid for multiple entries
• One-year validity
• Each stay limited to up to 90 days

Documents Required:

• Turkish passport (valid for six months)
• Recent photograph
• Online application form
• Payment of visa and mandatory insurance fees
• Accommodation and travel plans (recommended but not always required)

Application Process:

1. Visit the Saudi eVisa website.
2. Complete the application form.
3. Submit documents.
4. Pay online.
5. Receive the approved visa via email, often within 24 hours.

Just like Portuguese citizens, Turkish citizens can perform Umrah using the tourist eVisa but cannot perform Hajj without a specialized Hajj visa.

Other Visa Types

For business or work travel:

• A business invitation from a Saudi company is required.
• Work visas need a confirmed employment offer.
• Student visas require admission into a Saudi university.

Applications for these visa types must go through the Saudi embassy or an accredited visa office.

3. Important Notes for Both Citizens

• Compliance with Laws: Visitors must respect Saudi Arabia’s traditions, including dress codes, behavior in public, and religious site restrictions.
• Insurance Requirement: Travel medical insurance is included in the visa fee and is mandatory.
• COVID-19 Policies: While most restrictions have been lifted, it is wise to verify vaccination or testing requirements before traveling.
• Religious Restrictions: Non-Muslims are not allowed into the holy cities of Mecca and parts of Medina.

4. Conclusion

Saudi Arabia welcomes Portuguese and Turkish citizens with a straightforward visa process, especially through the eVisa platform. Whether you plan to explore Riyadh’s modern skyline, discover ancient ruins in AlUla, or undertake a spiritual journey, getting your visa is easier than ever. Always ensure that your travel documents are updated, and consult official Saudi visa services for the latest rules before you fly.

Saudi Arabia is ready to share its wonders — and the world is now closer to its gates than ever!