Saudi Arabia offers travelers a convenient option to explore its rich culture and heritage during short stays with the 4-day Stopover Visa, also known as the 96-hour Transit Visa. This visa is designed for travelers who are passing through Saudi Arabia and want to make the most of their layover or transit period. Importantly, this visa is available to those traveling on Saudi Arabian air carriers, specifically Saudia and Flynas. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding this visa, including its details, eligibility, requirements, procedures, and benefits.
What is the 4-Day Stopover Visa?
The 4-day Stopover Visa allows travelers to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours (4 days). It is available for various purposes, including tourism, visiting family, attending events, and even performing religious activities such as Umrah or visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. This visa can be obtained by travelers of most nationalities who are flying with Saudi Arabian airlines, specifically Saudia or Flynas, or those transiting through Saudi airports.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 4-day Stopover Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Nationality: The visa is available to travelers of almost all nationalities including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines.
2. Valid Passport: Applicants must hold a passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
3. Travel Itinerary: The applicant must have a confirmed flight itinerary showing transit through a Saudi airport with a layover period of fewer than 96 hours.
4. Purpose of Visit: The visa is intended for tourism, leisure, short business trips, and religious purposes such as Umrah and Ziyarah.
Required Documents
To apply for the 4-day Stopover Visa, the following documents are typically required:
1. Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
2. Flight Itinerary: A confirmed flight booking showing entry and exit from Saudi Arabia within the 96-hour period.
4. Visa Application Form: A completed visa application form, which can be submitted online at airline website while booking flight tickets.
4. Photograph: Recent passport-sized photograph, as specified in the visa guidelines.
How to Apply for the 4-Day Stopover Visa
Applying for the 4-day Stopover Visa is a quick and straightforward process. Here’s how you can obtain it:
1. Visit Airline Website: Go to the Saudia or Flynas website, where the visa application process is integrated with your flight booking.
2. Book Your Flight:
- Enter your departure city, destination, travel dates, and travel class.
- Select your stopover city and duration (up to a maximum of 96 hours).
- Choose your flight.
3. Apply for the Stopover Visa: On the next page, complete the stopover visa application by providing the required details.
4. Payment: Complete the payment for your flight ticket. The stopover visa itself is free, but there may be associated administrative and medical insurance fees.
- Application Fee: Approximately SAR 39.50
- Medical Insurance: Starting from approximately SAR 13
5. Receive Visa: After payment, your transit/stopover visa will be issued and sent to you via email almost instantly, along with insurance for your stay in Saudi Arabia.
Processing Time
The entire process of applying for and receiving the 4-day Stopover Visa takes just a few minutes. Once your flight is booked and paid for, the visa is processed almost instantly, allowing you to plan your trip without delays.
Benefits of the 4-Day Stopover Visa
The 4-day Stopover Visa offers several benefits:
1. Religious Travel: The visa allows you to perform Umrah or visit the Prophet’s Mosque during your stopover. However, travelers interested in these activities must schedule their Umrah or Ziyarah appointments through the Nusuk application.
2. Flexibility: It provides the flexibility to explore Saudi Arabia’s major cities and tourist attractions during a layover.
3. Quick Processing: The application process is fast, with the visa being issued almost instantly after flight booking.
4. Cost-Effective: The visa is free, with only minimal administrative and insurance fees.
5. Advance Planning: You can apply for the visa up to 90 days before your travel, giving you ample time to plan your trip.
Additional Information
- Nusuk for Religious Travelers: If you plan to perform Umrah or visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, you must schedule your appointments through the Nusuk app.
- Visa Extensions: The 4-day Stopover Visa cannot be extended. Travelers must leave the country within 96 hours.
- Hajj Travel: The transit/stopover visa may not be used for Hajj travel. Special visas are required for Hajj pilgrims.
Conclusion
The 4-day Stopover Visa for Saudi Arabia is an excellent option for travelers looking to explore the Kingdom during a short stay. Whether you’re transiting through the country or planning a brief visit, this visa offers a hassle-free way to experience Saudi Arabia’s cultural, historical, and religious sites. By following the guidelines and procedures outlined above, you can easily obtain your visa and enjoy your time in Saudi Arabia.