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Saudi Arabia Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghan citizens require a visa to Saudi Arabia; apply through the official MOFA online portal visa.mofa.gov.sa or via the Saudi embassy/consulate; fees and processing times vary by visa type and route.

Guide last updated September 5, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia, and have at least two blank visa pages.
  • Specific forms: If applying online via the MOFA eVisa portal (visa.mofa.gov.sa) use the online form; if applying through the Saudi embassy/consulate in Afghanistan, use the embassy’s visa application form and supporting documents as instructed by the mission.
  • Financial proof: There is no fixed minimum publicly published amount, but you may be asked to demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay. Bring the latest bank statements for the last 3 months and a letter from your sponsor or employer if applicable.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: Provide proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from host) and a return/onward flight ticket or itinerary.
  • Photo spec: If submitting a photo with a sponsor/embassy form, use a recent color passport photo (35x45 mm or 2x2 inches) with a plain white background; ensure full face visibility and no headwear unless for religious reasons.
  • Biometrics: Biometrics are typically required for sticker visa applications and collected at the visa application center or embassy; check your mission’s instructions. For eVisa, biometric collection may not be required.
  • Travel health insurance: Travel medical insurance is required for the eVisa route; if applying via embassy, it is recommended to carry proof of health coverage or purchase Saudi health insurance as advised by the mission.

Visa types

  • Tourist visa (official name varies by mission): typically valid up to 1 year with multiple entries; maximum stay per visit around 90 days; approximate fee varies by consulate and route; check MOFA portal for current fee.
  • Business visa (official name): typically valid up to 1 year with multiple entries; maximum stay per visit around 90 days; approximate fee varies; confirm with the mission.
  • Family visit visa (official name): typically valid up to 1 year with multiple entries; maximum stay per visit around 90 days; approximate fee varies.
  • Work visa (official name): usually issued with a work contract and sponsor; validity often 1-2 years with single or multiple entries depending on contract; the fee varies widely by case.
  • Student visa (official name): issued for study in Saudi institutions; validity usually aligned with academic program duration; fees vary by route and institution.
  • Other categories: Transit/mission-specific visas may be available per MOFA guidance; exact availability and terms depend on the mission.

How to apply

  • Sticker visa → How to apply: contact the Saudi embassy in Kabul or the Saudi mission in your region to start the visa process; prepare documents and submit to the mission or its authorized service provider (if available).
  • Documentation checklist: valid passport, completed visa application form, recent passport photos, invitation letter or sponsorship from Saudi host, proof of funds, travel itinerary, hotel reservation or host address, return flight ticket; sponsor letter if employed or sponsored.
  • Payment method: visa fee paid at the embassy or through the service provider; accepted methods vary (cash in local currency or bank card); service fees may apply if using a third-party service.
  • Processing time: standard processing typically 5-15 working days; express/priority options may be available at additional cost depending on the mission.
  • Interview: an interview may be required as part of the visa process; you will be notified by the embassy if needed.
  • Where to submit: Saudi Embassy Kabul or corresponding Saudi consulate; if the mission is closed, contact MOFA via the official portal for guidance and possible alternatives.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: The exact amount is determined by the Saudi mission and visa type; consult visa.mofa.gov.sa and the Saudi embassy in Afghanistan for the current fee in SAR and the USD equivalent.
  • VFS/BLS or other service fees: If you use an authorized service center, service fees may apply in addition to the visa fee; check with the service provider.
  • Total cost estimate: Varies by visa type and service path; plan for visa fee plus any service charges and insurance where applicable.
  • Standard processing time: 5-15 working days for sticker visas; eVisa processing times (if eligible) are typically 1-3 business days after application; express options vary by mission.
  • Express/priority option: Some missions offer expedited processing at higher fees; confirm availability with the embassy.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Plan well in advance: start the visa process at least 8-12 weeks before travel, to accommodate any delays or interviews.
  • Common rejection reasons for Afghan travelers: incomplete dossier, inconsistent travel plans or sponsorship, insufficient funds or ties to home country, security/vetting concerns; ensure all documents are consistent and legitimate.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy: check with the Saudi embassy in Afghanistan or the MOFA portal for preferred application route; some missions use local service centers; some routes are online only via eVisa for eligible applicants.
  • Travel advisories: review current travel advisories from your government and Saudi authorities; confirm entry requirements related to health, vaccination, and travel restrictions, especially for Afghanistan passport holders.
  • Extension options: visa extensions (for stay duration) depend on visa type and MOFA approval; extensions are not guaranteed and must be arranged through the issuing embassy or MOFA portal before visa expiry.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.