Required documents for tourist visa to Saudi Arabia from India
In order to apply for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia from India, the Indian citizens should be aware of the list of documents they need for the application. Generally, it includes a valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of at least 6 months from the date of application, permit to return, travel insurance, visa fee payment receipt, valid residential proof from India, proof of round trip flight tickets, accommodation details, and a sponsor letter. Spicejet provides its valuable customers a visa sponsorship letter along with the ticket which can be substantiated as valid proof of sponsorship.
Important steps to be followed
The applicants need to follow certain important steps while applying for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia from India. Initially, the candidate should undertake an online application procedure for the visa. Subsequently, the applicants should make sure to provide documents including the above listed ones along with the online application. Next, the applicants need to pay the visa fees by an authentic means. Furthermore, the candidate should enter the required security information and enter the verification code sent to the registered email address. Lastly, the applicant should submit the application.
Need to Indicate destination
Applicants should make sure to indicate their destination in the application, as they will be requested to indicate the same in the immigration authorities upon their arrival in the destination airport. It is essential not to forget this, as the applicant might have to face a penalty otherwise.
Manner of submission of application
Traditionally, the application for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia from India may be submitted physically or online. Physical application should be pushed forward with extra precautionary measures in order to avoid delays. Online application, on the other hand, is a much easier and faster option. Opting for an online application has multiple advantages such as recurring and quick processing.
Time taken for processing the application
The processing time of an application for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia from India may vary depending on the kind of application; online applications are processed faster compared to the traditional physical applications. As per the estimates of the Ministry of Home Affairs, India, an application might take 6 to 8 weeks for processing. Therefore, the applicants should keep a track of the timelines to avoid any inconveniences.
Visa Issuing Process
If the application is approved, the visa issuing process will begin. Generally, the applicants receive an email with the approved visa granting the authorization to travel. Additionally, they can collect the same from the selected embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia. In certain cases, the applicants may be asked to appear for an interview.
Itinerary plans for tourist visa
Tourists who have a tourist visa issued for Saudi Arabia from India should present their itinerary plans on the day of their arrival. These plans should include travel details of the airports, hotels, and visiting destinations.
Requirements for exiting visa
Once the tourists have booked their tickets to return back to the home country, they are required to apply for an exit visa. In order to do that, they need to provide identification documents such as passport, resident card, tickets, and to register at the airport they are booking for their return. If the exit visa is approved, the applicant is allowed to leave the country.
Process of visa extension
If a tourist wishes to extend his/her visa, the applicant needs to apply for a visa extension at the Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia. The application has to be submitted fifteen days or before the initial visa expires, with the appropriate and relevant documents. The tourists should bear in mind that the application would be accepted or rejected at the discretion of the Ministry.
Consequence of overstay
Indian citizens visiting Saudi Arabia on a tourist visa should ensure that the validity of the visa is active as of the date of their departure. If an applicant overstays their visa and thus, departs after, the applicant should bear in mind that they might have to face certain penalties, arrests from the authorities. Therefore, it is advised to adhere to the visa rules and leave the country on time.
Necessity of guardian and sponsor
It is necessary for the applicant to provide a sponsor and a guardian to the Ministry of Interior in Saudi Arabia for approval of the visa. Generally, the parent or the spouse of the applicant are considered as sponsors and guardians; however, in certain cases, organizations or companies are also considered as guardians and sponsors.
Professional and expert advice
Considering the complexities and restrictions surrounding the process of obtaining a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia from India, it is advised to seek professional and expert advice from a reliable source. Many travel agencies provide assistance in this regard and are available to provide relevant information and details regarding visas.
Role of Saudi Visit
Saudi Visit is one such travel agency that plays an important role in helping people with their visa and travel needs. The travel agency takes total responsibility and handles the entire visa uncertainties and complexities in an efficient and professional manner. The visitors can rely on the travel agency for having a brilliantly curated plan for their travel.
Awareness among travelers
An increased awareness among travelers has been noticed with regards to the visa requirement for tourist visa to Saudi Arabia from India, with the help of social media and frequent press releases from various sources. This has gained more attraction and popularity among the tourists. The tourists are advised to keep all of the required documents ready to avoid any delays in the application procedure.