Brown & Brown Financ Group

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a global tourism destination, a key pillar of its transformative Vision 2030.1 This ambitious national plan aims to diversify the Kingdom's economy, foster cultural exchange, and significantly increase international visitor numbers.2 A crucial part of this opening has been the reform of its visa application process, particularly the introduction of the electronic visa (eVisa) system. For citizens of Slovakia and Slovenia, both members of the European Union and the Schengen Area, the journey to experiencing Saudi Arabia's ancient heritage, vibrant modern cities, and diverse landscapes is now remarkably accessible through the convenient eVisa and visa on arrival options.3

Saudi Visa for Slovak Citizens: eVisa and Visa on Arrival Accessibility

Slovak citizens are among the nationalities explicitly eligible to apply for a Saudi Arabia eVisa.4 This digital visa system, launched in September 2019, has revolutionized travel to the Kingdom for tourism and various short-term purposes, offering a significantly faster and more convenient alternative to traditional embassy applications.5

Key features of the Saudi eVisa for Slovak citizens:

• Purpose of Travel: The eVisa is primarily for tourism.6 It also covers visiting family and friends, attending events, and performing Umrah (the lesser pilgrimage to Mecca), except during the designated Hajj season, which requires a separate Hajj visa.7 It is crucial to understand that the eVisa is not valid for work or long-term study in Saudi Arabia.8 For other purposes like business visits, employment, or family visits exceeding tourism scope, a traditional visa from the Saudi embassy in Vienna (which handles consular affairs for Slovakia) might be required.

• Validity and Stay Duration: The Saudi eVisa is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for one year from the date of issue.9 This allows for numerous trips within that year, with each individual stay not exceeding 90 days.10 The total cumulative stay within the one-year validity period must also not exceed 90 days. This offers considerable flexibility for travelers who wish to explore different regions of the Kingdom over time.

• Application Process: The entire application is conducted online through the official Saudi eVisa portal (visa.visitsaudi.com) or other authorized platforms. This digital approach allows Slovak applicants to complete the process from anywhere with an internet connection.11

• Processing Time: Most eVisa applications for Slovak citizens are processed quickly, often within 24 to 72 hours. While this is generally fast, it is always advisable to apply at least 3-5 business days before your intended travel date to account for any unforeseen minor delays or to resolve any potential issues. Expedited processing options (often termed "Rush" or "Super Rush") may be available for an additional fee, potentially reducing processing time.12

• Visa on Arrival: Importantly, Slovak citizens eligible for the eVisa are also eligible to obtain a visa on arrival at Saudi Arabia's international airports. This can be processed at self-service kiosks or passport control. However, applying for the eVisa in advance is strongly recommended. This helps avoid potential queues at the airport immigration counters, ensures pre-approval, and contributes to a smoother and less stressful entry experience upon arrival.13

Required documents for the Saudi eVisa (Slovak citizens):

To complete the online application, Slovak citizens will generally need:

1. A valid Slovak passport with at least six months' validity remaining from your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia. The passport should also have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.

2. A recent digital passport-sized photograph against a plain white background. This photo must meet specific Saudi visa photo requirements (clear, in focus, showing the full face, neutral expression, both ears visible, and no eyeglasses or headwear unless for religious reasons).

3. Accurate personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality, gender, etc.) as they appear precisely on your passport.

4. A valid email address where the eVisa approval can be sent.

5. Accommodation information for your stay in Saudi Arabia (e.g., confirmed hotel reservations or the address of your host).

6. Mandatory travel insurance, which is typically included in the eVisa fee (around SAR 340-395, including insurance) and automatically provided upon visa issuance.

7. A credit or debit card for the secure online payment of the visa fee.14

Saudi Visa for Slovenian Citizens: Streamlined eVisa Access

Slovenian citizens are also among the nationalities fully eligible for the Saudi Arabia eVisa.15 This provides a straightforward and highly efficient method for them to enter the Kingdom for various short-term purposes, making travel for leisure, cultural exploration, and other permitted activities seamless.

Key features of the Saudi eVisa for Slovenian citizens:

• Purpose of Travel: The eVisa covers tourism, visiting family and friends, attending events, and performing Umrah (outside Hajj season).16 It is not suitable for employment or long-term academic pursuits.

• Validity and Stay Duration: The Saudi eVisa issued to Slovenian citizens is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for one year from the date of issuance.17 It permits a maximum stay of 90 days per visit, with the total time spent in Saudi Arabia not exceeding 90 days within the one-year validity period.18

• Application Process: The application is exclusively online via the official Saudi eVisa portal (visa.visitsaudi.com) or accredited platforms.

• Processing Time: Applications are generally processed rapidly, often within 24-72 hours.19 Expedited processing options (Rush and Super Rush) may be available for an additional fee, potentially reducing processing time.20 It is recommended to apply several business days prior to your intended travel date.

• Visa on Arrival: Slovenian citizens who are eligible for the eVisa also have the option to obtain a visa on arrival at Saudi Arabia's international airports. Similar to Slovak citizens, pre-applying for the eVisa is highly advisable for a smoother and quicker entry, especially during peak travel times.

Required documents for the Saudi eVisa (Slovenian citizens):

• A valid Slovenian passport with at least six months' validity remaining from your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia.21

• A recent digital passport-sized photograph that meets Saudi visa photo requirements.22

• Personal and contact details as they appear on your passport.

• A valid email address for receiving the eVisa confirmation.23

• Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel reservation or host's address).24

• Mandatory travel insurance, which is integrated into the eVisa application fee and automatically provided.25

• A credit or debit card for the online payment of the visa fee (approx. SAR 340-395).

Important notes for Slovenian citizens:

For purposes beyond the scope of the tourist eVisa, such as employment, extensive business activities, or long-term study, a traditional visa obtained through a Saudi embassy or consulate (such as the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Vienna, Austria, which handles consular affairs for Slovenia) will be necessary. Always double-check that all information provided in the online application precisely matches your passport to prevent any processing issues.

General Advice for All Travelers to Saudi Arabia

Regardless of your nationality, when applying for a Saudi visa or an eVisa, always ensure:

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended arrival date in Saudi Arabia.

• Accuracy: All information on your application form must precisely match your passport. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.26

• Modest Dress: Saudi Arabia adheres to conservative cultural norms.27 Visitors are expected to dress modestly in public, particularly women, who should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.28

• Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with the Kingdom's local laws and customs to ensure a respectful and trouble-free visit. Adherence to rules regarding alcohol, public displays of affection, and photography in certain areas is important.

• Official Sources: Always apply through the official Saudi government eVisa portal (visa.visitsaudi.com) or highly reputable and authorized visa service providers. Beware of unofficial websites that may charge excessive fees or provide inaccurate information.

• Health Requirements: While basic travel insurance is included with the eVisa, it's often limited. Consider purchasing additional comprehensive travel insurance for broader coverage, including trip cancellations, higher medical emergencies, and baggage loss.

By understanding these specific Saudi visa requirements and diligently utilizing the streamlined online application processes, both Slovak citizens and Slovenian citizens can confidently embark on their journeys to explore the dynamic and welcoming Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.