Guide summary: Saudia passengers on an eligible international itinerary can request a Saudi electronic stopover visa through the airline’s booking journey. The permitted stay is up to 96 hours. Eligibility, charges, insurance and route availability are shown during the live application and should be checked before payment.
What the stopover visa is
The stopover eVisa is issued by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for an eligible connection in the Kingdom. It is not the same as remaining airside for a short transfer: it is the document used when a traveller intends to pass immigration and enter Saudi Arabia during the stopover. Saudia’s official information describes a stay of up to 96 hours and a single entry.
The application is connected to an eligible Saudia booking. Do not assume that every flight, passport or connection qualifies. The booking flow and Ministry portal decide whether the option is available. If your itinerary does not display it, check another lawful visa category rather than trying to submit through an unofficial website.
Check these points before booking
- Your passport should meet the validity requirement displayed by Saudia and the Ministry portal. Saudia currently states at least six months, subject to applicable bilateral arrangements.
- You need a confirmed onward journey and permission to enter your final destination, where a visa or residence permit is required.
- Your planned time in Saudi Arabia must fit both the flight connection and the visa period.
- Travellers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult under Saudia’s published conditions.
- Medical insurance is arranged from an approved provider as part of the application route.
Visa rules can change independently of an airline ticket. Check the name, passport number, nationality, date of birth and itinerary carefully. A spelling mismatch can prevent travel even when the booking itself is valid.
How to request the visa with Saudia
- Search for an international journey on the official Saudia website or app and select an itinerary included in the stopover programme.
- Choose a connection whose length fits the visit you intend to make. Allow realistic time for immigration, travel from the airport and your return for the onward flight.
- Complete the flight booking. On the confirmation page, use the apply for transit visa option if it appears.
- Select the passengers who require an eVisa. You will be directed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs system to provide the requested personal, passport and travel information.
- Review the conditions, insurance and complete price shown at checkout. These are live, variable details; this guide deliberately does not quote a fixed fee.
- Keep the issued eVisa with your passport and booking. Recheck the flight and entry requirements shortly before departure.
Planning the stopover safely
A 96-hour permission is a maximum, not extra time added to a flight. Follow the dates and times printed on the visa and leave before it expires. A return journey involving another Saudi stop may require a separate application. Do not book non-refundable accommodation or activities until the visa has actually been issued.
Also check whether your trip involves Umrah or another regulated activity. A stopover visa does not remove any separate permit or booking requirement. Carry evidence for the final destination and follow airline baggage and check-in rules for your particular ticket.
When to get help
Contact Saudia if the stopover option is missing, the booking has changed or the visa details do not match the ticket. For an application referred for further checks, follow the Ministry portal’s instructions or contact the nearest Saudi embassy. UK2KSA provides general information only and cannot determine eligibility, issue a visa or guarantee entry.