Stepping into the Kingdom: Understanding Saudi Visa for Lithuanian Citizens and Saudi Visa for British Citizens

Saudi Arabia, a nation undergoing a monumental transformation, is increasingly opening its doors to the world, inviting tourists, business professionals, and pilgrims to discover its rich heritage and modern ambitions.¹ For citizens of European nations, particularly from Lithuania and the United Kingdom, understanding the Saudi visa application process is key to a smooth and successful visit. This article will provide a detailed guide on obtaining a Saudi visa for Lithuanian citizens and a Saudi visa for British citizens, highlighting the most convenient and common pathways available.

Unlocking the Kingdom: Saudi Visa for Lithuanian Citizens

Latvian citizens are among the fortunate nationalities included in Saudi Arabia’s Electronic Visa (e-Visa) program.² This online system has revolutionized visa applications, offering a significantly simplified and efficient way for Lithuanian passport holders to secure their entry permits without the need for a physical visit to an embassy or consulate.³ The e-Visa is the most recommended option for short-term stays, including tourism, performing Umrah (outside the Hajj season), visiting family and friends, or attending various events and conferences.

Key aspects of the Saudi e-Visa for Lithuanian citizens:

• Validity: The e-Visa is typically valid for one year from the date of issue.
• Entries: It generally permits multiple entries into Saudi Arabia within its validity period.⁴
• Duration of Stay: Each individual visit allows for a maximum stay of up to 90 days.⁵ This flexibility is particularly beneficial for tourists who might wish to explore different facets of the Kingdom over several trips within a year.
• Application Process: The entire application is completed online via the official Saudi e-Visa portal:⁶
  1. Access the Portal: Navigate to the official Saudi e-Visa website (visa.visitsaudi.com).
  2. Complete the Form: Accurately fill out the online application form with personal details, passport information, and travel plans.⁷ It is crucial that all provided information precisely matches the details in your Lithuanian passport to prevent any processing delays or potential rejection.
  3. Upload Documents: You will be required to upload clear digital copies of:
     • Passport Biographical Page: A scanned copy of the page in your passport containing your photograph and personal data.⁸ Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia and should have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.⁹
     • Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: A digital photograph that adheres to specific requirements (typically 2×2 inches or 51×51 mm, with a plain white background, full face, front view, eyes open, and a neutral expression.¹⁰ No shadows on the face or background, and no accessories that obscure facial features, unless worn for religious reasons).¹¹
  4. Pay the Fee: The required visa fee is paid securely online using a credit or debit card.¹² This fee typically includes mandatory travel health insurance, which covers medical emergencies during your stay in the Kingdom.¹³ The e-Visa cost for Lithuanian citizens is often around EUR 109.32, including service fees and insurance.¹⁴
  5. Receive Approval: The e-Visa is generally processed within 1 to 5 business days. Once approved, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be sent to your registered email address.¹⁵ It is essential to print this document and carry it with your passport when traveling to Saudi Arabia.

Alternative Visa Options for Lithuanian Citizens:

While the e-Visa is the most convenient, Lithuanian citizens also have other avenues:

• Visa on Arrival (VOA): Lithuanian citizens are generally eligible for a Visa on Arrival at designated Saudi entry points, particularly international airports.¹⁶ This can be a convenient option for spontaneous travelers. However, applying for an e-Visa in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smoother and faster immigration process upon arrival and to avoid potential queues or unforeseen issues. Payment for VOA is typically by credit card only.
• Regular Visa (Consulate Visa): For purposes not covered by the e-Visa (e.g., long-term work, study, residency, or stays exceeding 90 days), Lithuanian citizens must apply for a traditional visa. As there is no Saudi Arabian diplomatic mission in Lithuania, applicants would typically need to contact the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Helsinki, Finland, or another nearby Saudi embassy. This process involves submitting a physical application form, original passport, photos, and specific supporting documents relevant to the visa’s purpose. Processing times for regular visas can be longer and vary.

Seamless Access: Saudi Visa for British Citizens

British citizens, alongside their Lithuanian counterparts, are also prominent beneficiaries of Saudi Arabia’s efficient e-Visa program.¹⁷ The United Kingdom was one of the first countries whose citizens became eligible for the e-Visa, streamlining travel for tourism, Umrah (outside Hajj season), short business trips, and visiting family and friends.

Key features of the Saudi e-Visa for British citizens:

• Validity: The e-Visa for British citizens is typically valid for one year from its date of issue.¹⁸
• Entries: It allows for multiple entries into Saudi Arabia within its validity period.¹⁹
• Duration of Stay: Each visit permits a maximum stay of up to 90 days.²⁰ This offers considerable flexibility for British travelers planning diverse or multiple trips to Saudi Arabia throughout the year.
• Application Process: The online application mirrors that for Lithuanian citizens:
  1. Official Portal Access: Navigate to the official Saudi e-Visa website (visa.visitsaudi.com).
  2. Complete Online Form: Fill in all required personal information, passport details, and travel plans accurately.²¹
  3. Upload Documents: Upload a scanned copy of your British passport’s biographical page and a recent digital passport-sized photograph that meets the stipulated requirements (white background, clear and front-facing, neutral expression, no accessories that obscure the face unless for religious reasons).
  4. Pay Fees: Securely pay the e-Visa fee online using a credit or debit card.²² The fee usually includes the cost of mandatory health insurance.
  5. Receive Confirmation: Upon approval (usually within 1-3 business days, sometimes up to 72 hours or even 24 hours with rush processing), the e-Visa confirmation will be sent to your email.²³ Print this out and carry it with your passport.

Alternative Visa Options for British Citizens:

British citizens also have alternative visa avenues:

• Visa on Arrival (VOA: British citizens are eligible for a Visa on Arrival at Saudi international airports and other designated entry points.²⁴ While convenient, pre-applying for the e-Visa is generally recommended for a smoother and faster immigration process upon arrival.
• Regular Visa (Embassy/Consulate Visa): For purposes not covered by the e-Visa (e.g., long-term employment, study, or family residency exceeding 90 days), British citizens would need to apply for a traditional visa through the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in London, UK. This entails a physical application, submission of original documents, and potentially an interview, with processing times varying depending on the visa category.

General Requirements and Important Recommendations for All Applicants

For both Saudi visa for Lithuanian citizens and Saudi visa for British citizens, several general requirements and recommendations are paramount for a successful application and smooth travel:

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia. It should also have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
• Accuracy is Key: Double-check all information provided in your e-Visa application. Even minor discrepancies between your application and passport details can lead to delays or rejection.²⁵
• Photo Requirements: Adhere strictly to the passport photo specifications: a recent (within 6 months) color photo, typically 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) or equivalent digital size, with a plain white background, full face, front view, eyes open, and a neutral expression.²⁶ Ensure there are no shadows on the face or background.
• Purpose of Visit: Ensure the type of visa you apply for accurately aligns with your actual purpose of visit. Misrepresentation can lead to serious consequences.
• Application Timing: While e-Visas are processed quickly, it is always advisable to apply a few days or even a week before your intended travel date, especially during peak seasons or holidays.²⁷
• Official Channels: Always use the official Saudi e-Visa portal (https://visa.visitsaudi.com/) or the official embassy/consulate websites for applications to avoid scams or fraudulent services.
• Cultural Awareness: Visitors are strongly encouraged to be aware of and respect Saudi Arabian customs, traditions, and laws, particularly regarding dress code and public behavior.²⁸

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing visitor experiences is clearly reflected in its streamlined e-Visa processes. For both Lithuanian and British citizens, the e-Visa offers an incredibly convenient and efficient pathway to explore the Kingdom’s rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and burgeoning tourism sector.²⁹ By carefully adhering to the clear requirements, travelers can look forward to a welcoming and memorable journey.