As Saudi Arabia drives economic growth under Vision 2030, international businesses are increasingly drawn to its market. This guide explains the types of Saudi business visas, who needs them, how to apply, and how our immigration team at Hudson McKenzie can support you every step of the way.

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Types of Business Visas for Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers several visa options depending on your purpose of travel, duration of stay, and business engagement level. Here are the main types:

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1. Commercial Visit Visa

Ideal for short-term visits such as:

• Business meetings
• Attending conferences
• Signing contracts or deals

Duration: Single or multiple entry, typically valid for 30 to 90 days
Who it's for: Foreign nationals visiting Saudi companies

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2. Business Visit Visa

Used by professionals visiting for technical, commercial, or investment purposes.

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Duration: Often valid for 90 days with single or multiple entries
Purpose: Sales meetings, business development, training, etc.

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3. Investor Visa

For foreign nationals investing in Saudi businesses or starting ventures.

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Validity: Long-term, can lead to residency (Iqama)
Requires: Proof of substantial investment, commercial registration, and sponsorship

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4. Work Visit Visa (Limited Business Activities)

Granted to individuals temporarily working or providing services under contract without being employed in Saudi Arabia.

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Note: Does not permit long-term employment or residency.

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Eligibility Criteria & Required Documents

Obtaining a Saudi business visa requires a well-prepared application that meets the Kingdom’s evolving immigration standards.

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Who is Eligible?

You may apply if you:

• Are invited by a Saudi-based company or government entity
• Are traveling for non-remunerative business purposes (e.g. meetings, conferences, site visits)
• Have no criminal record and meet health & security checks
• Are a UK passport holder, or from another approved country

Note: Business visas do not permit salaried employment or long-term stays unless stated.

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Required Documents (Typical)

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Recent passport-sized photos
• Visa application form (can be filled online or via an agency)
• Letter of Invitation from a Saudi sponsor/company – approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Company registration documents of the inviting company
• Travel insurance (with COVID-19 coverage if applicable)
• Flight bookings and accommodation details

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Visa Validity & Duration

• Single-entry visas: Valid for 30–90 days
• Multiple-entry visas: Valid for 6–12 months (stays up to 90 days per visit)
• Processing time typically takes 3–7 business days, depending on embassy and document readiness.

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How to Apply for a Saudi Business Visa (UK Process)

Applying for a Saudi business visa from the UK involves a few structured steps. It’s strongly advised to apply through a trusted immigration consultancy or a visa agency experienced in Saudi documentation.

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Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Get a Visa Invitation Letter (LOI): Your Saudi sponsor must apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Saudi Arabia. Once approved, they will provide you with a digital Invitation Number.
2. Complete the Visa Application (Enjazit Platform):
   • Register and fill out the visa form on the Enjazit website.
   • Input your MOFA Invitation Number and other personal/travel details.
3. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Gather passport, photos, company letter, and supporting paperwork.
   • Documents may need to be attested (especially for multiple-entry applications).
4. Submit at Saudi Visa Application Centre (VFS Global):
   • Visit the nearest VFS Global centre with all your documents.
   • Biometric data may be required depending on your application type.
5. Track & Collect Visa:
   • Processing usually takes 3–7 working days.
   • You’ll be notified once the visa is ready for collection or delivery.

For urgent travel, express processing is available at additional cost.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using an outdated invitation letter
• Incorrect MOFA reference number
• Submitting passport with less than 6 months’ validity
• Incomplete visa forms

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Understanding Saudi Business Visa Types & Validity

Saudi Arabia issues different categories of business visas depending on your purpose, duration of stay, and level of business involvement. Choosing the right type is critical to staying compliant with Saudi immigration laws.

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Single-Entry Business Visa

• Ideal for: First-time visitors, short-term travel, one-off meetings.
• Validity: Usually 30 to 90 days.
• Stays permitted: Up to 30 consecutive days.
• Entry: One-time only — must reapply after exit.

Multiple-Entry Business Visa

• Ideal for: Frequent travellers, recurring meetings or partnerships.
• Validity: 6 months to 1 year.
• Stays permitted: Up to 90 days per visit.
• Entry: Unlimited within validity period.

This is the most common visa type for UK business travellers to Saudi Arabia.

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Commercial Visit Visa

• For those attending trade events, exhibitions, contract signings, or exploring business opportunities.

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Work Visit Visa (Short-Term)

• Not to be confused with an employment visa or Iqama. This allows foreign professionals to perform temporary services or consulting work under a local sponsor.
• Note: Not suitable for long-term paid employment in Saudi Arabia.

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Iqama (Residency Permit) – Long-Term Business/Work

• If your role involves ongoing presence or paid employment, your Saudi sponsor/employer must apply for a work visa and Iqama (residency permit).
• This process is longer and subject to strict labour and visa rules.

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Important Reminder: Holding the wrong visa type (e.g. using a business visa for employment) can lead to entry denial, fines, or deportation. Always ensure your visa reflects the nature of your activities.

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How Hudson McKenzie Can Help with Your Saudi Business Visa

Applying for a Saudi Arabia business visa can be complex — especially when navigating MOFA procedures, invitation requirements, and legal compliance. At Hudson McKenzie, we simplify this process for individuals and businesses alike.

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Why Work With Us?

• UK-based expertise with Middle East reach: We’ve supported dozens of professionals and companies in securing Saudi visas for business, investment, and expansion.
• End-to-end visa support: From securing the invitation letter to preparing your visa application and documentation, our immigration specialists guide you at every step.
• Speed & compliance: We help you avoid delays, ensure accuracy, and manage embassy submissions — all while complying with Saudi regulations.
• Support beyond visas: We assist with long-term migration, investor pathways, and corporate immigration planning.

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Contact and Disclaimer

Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by email at gccinfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.

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For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

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The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

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