Planning a layover in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia? Whether you wish to perform Umrah, visit historical landmarks in Jeddah or Riyadh, or rest at a hotel before your connecting flight, the Saudi Arabia Transit Visa (also known as the Stopover Visa) allows international travelers to enter the country legally during long layovers.

Before booking your trip, it is vital to check if your nationality qualifies by reviewing the list of Saudi Arabia e-Visa eligible countries to ensure seamless entry.

Key Highlights of the Saudi Transit Visa

Validity & Duration

Valid for up to 90 days from issuance, allowing a stay of up to 96 hours (4 days) in the Kingdom.

Permitted Activities

Explore cities, attend business meetings, or perform Umrah (must be registered via official apps).

Single Entry

Issued as a single-entry visa strictly linked to your confirmed onward flight itinerary.

Essential Transit Visa Requirements

To avoid delays, ensure you meet the mandatory entry conditions before submitting your documents. Review full criteria in the Saudi Arabia e-Visa requirements guide:

  • Valid Passport: Original passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended arrival.
  • Onward Flight Ticket: Confirmed booking to a third destination country.
  • Medical Insurance: Mandatory health coverage approved by Saudi authorities (included in processing).
  • Passport Photograph: Recent passport-sized digital photograph with a plain background.

How to Apply Online

Applying is straightforward when completed in advance online:

  1. Complete the digital form using the step-by-step Saudi e-Visa application form guide.
  2. Upload your passport copy and photograph.
  3. Submit payment online and receive your electronic visa via email.
Apply for Saudi Visa Now

Fees & Processing Timelines

While the transit visa base fee is minimal, mandatory medical insurance and digital administrative charges apply. Check total costs on the Saudi Arabia visa fee schedule.

Most applications are processed swiftly. For exact turnaround times, refer to Saudi visa processing time guidelines.

Check Visa Status

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, transit visa holders can perform Umrah during their 96-hour stay. However, you must schedule your Umrah slot through the official Nusuk app prior to entering holy sites.

Common reasons for rejection include passport discrepancies or incomplete travel documents. Read our detailed guide on Saudi e-Visa rejections and solutions to fix potential issues.

If your layover is under 12 hours and you remain strictly inside the international transit area without passing immigration, a transit visa is generally not required.