Saudi Arabia Expands Business Visit Visa for Investors

Effective immediately, Saudi Arabia has expanded the Business Visit Visa for investors to all nationals, removing the previous limitation to nationals of nearly 60 countries. The new visa offers a convenient online application process for eligible individuals.

Eligible individuals include those who have a valid tourist or business visa from the United Kingdom, United States, or any Schengen Area country, and have used it at least once. Additionally, individuals with permanent residency in the United Kingdom, the United States, or any country in the European Union, or a valid Gulf Cooperation Council country residence permit for at least three months, are also eligible.

The new online platform for visa applications allows eligible individuals to submit their applications without the need for a sponsor. The application process is entirely online, providing a streamlined and efficient experience.

Holders of the Business Visit Visa for investors are permitted to engage in various activities in Saudi Arabia. These include reviewing investment opportunities, attending meetings related to investment, and opening a bank account. The specific details of the visa, such as fees, single- or multiple-entry rights, and validity length, may vary based on the applicant’s nationality. Visa validity can range from 180 to 3,650 days, while the allowable duration of stay can vary between 14, 30, or 90 days for single-entry visas, and up to 90 days for multiple-entry visas.

It is important to note that business travelers seeking to enter Saudi Arabia for purposes unrelated to investment must obtain a traditional Business Visit Visa through the appropriate channels. This requires obtaining an invitation from a Saudi local company and attending an in-person appointment at a Saudi consular post.