Saudi Visit Visa for GCC Residents: No Profession Rules
Saudi Arabia has scrapped profession-based restrictions for GCC residents applying for visit visas, easing travel for tourism and Umrah.
Expatriates seeking a Saudi visit visa for GCC residents can now enjoy easier access to the Kingdom following a major policy change. Saudi Arabia has officially removed profession-based requirements, meaning job titles will no longer act as a barrier for those looking to visit for tourism or religious purposes.
Confirmed on November 3, 2026, this decision significantly opens doors for Indian and other South Asian expatriates. Those holding valid residence permits in the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, or Oman can now apply for entry without being restricted by their specific job designation.
New Eligibility Requirements
While the profession restriction has been lifted, applicants must still meet several key criteria to qualify for the visa. To ensure a smooth application process, travelers should verify the following:
- Residence Permit: You must hold a valid residence permit from a GCC state, and it must have at least three months of validity remaining.
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months.
- General Compliance: Applicants must meet all standard nationality and age requirements set by the Kingdom.
How to Apply for the eVisa
The application process is designed to be digital and efficient. Travelers can apply through the official portals: visitsaudi.com or ksavisa.sa.
When applying, you should select the "GCC resident" route. You will be required to submit the following information:
- Passport details.
- Residence permit information.
- A recent photograph.
- The profession as listed on your official documents (note that while this must be provided, it no longer serves as a restriction).
The application fee is typically around SAR 300, though applicants should be prepared to pay additional costs for insurance and VAT. Once the eVisa is issued, travelers can enter the Kingdom within the specified validity period.
Planning an Umrah Pilgrimage?
For those intending to travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, the process remains streamlined but requires specific attention to religious travel regulations. It is highly recommended to check Nusuk.sa for available packages and specific entry rules. Notably, there is a recent 30-day entry window specifically for Umrah visas.
"This decision facilitates easier travel for family trips, business, or religious pilgrimages without requiring expats to return to their home countries for visa processing."
The Saudi Tourism Authority has welcomed the move, noting its benefits for the expatriate community. By removing these hurdles, the Kingdom aims to make travel more accessible for the millions of residents living across the GCC.
Important Travel Advice
To avoid any complications at the border, travelers are advised to maintain digital copies of their residence permits and passports. It is also wise to monitor processing times, especially during peak travel seasons when capacity limits may apply. As regulations are subject to updates, always verify the latest details on official government portals before making travel arrangements.