Saudi Arabia has rapidly transformed into one of the world’s most intriguing travel destinations. From the ancient Nabataean tombs of AlUla to the futuristic metropolis of NEOM and the spiritual heart of Mecca, the Kingdom is opening its doors wider than ever before. For citizens of Belgium, visiting this diverse land has become remarkably simple thanks to the Saudi Arabia eVisa.

Gone are the days of complex embassy visits and physical paperwork. If you are a Belgian passport holder planning a trip for tourism, business, or Umrah, the online visa system is your gateway. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Saudi Arabia eVisa for Belgium citizens, including processing times, costs, requirements, and expert travel tips.

Do Belgian Citizens Need a Visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Belgian citizens are required to hold a valid visa to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Belgium is one of the 66+ countries eligible for the streamlined eVisa program, which was launched to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to boost tourism. While Belgians are also eligible for a Visa on Arrival, the eVisa is widely considered the superior option. It offers peace of mind by securing your entry authorization before you board your flight, allowing you to skip potential queues at immigration counters upon arrival in Riyadh or Jeddah.

What is the Saudi Arabia eVisa for Belgians?

The Saudi eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization that allows foreign nationals, including Belgians, to enter the country for short-term stays. It is linked electronically to your passport, eliminating the need for physical stickers or stamps. Permitted Activities with the Saudi eVisa:

• Tourism: Exploring historical sites, deserts, beaches, and cities.
• Umrah: Performing the minor pilgrimage to Mecca (permitted anytime except during the Hajj season).
• Family & Friends: Visiting relatives residing in the Kingdom.
• Events: Attending festivals, concerts, or sporting events (like the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix).
• Business: Attending meetings, conferences, or trade shows (restrictions apply; actual employment is not permitted).

Note: This visa strictly prohibits paid employment or residency.

Saudi Arabia eVisa Requirements for Belgian Nationals

The requirements for Belgian citizens are straightforward and minimal. To ensure a successful application, you will need to have the following Saudi Arabia Visa documents ready:

• Valid Belgian Passport: Your passport must have a validity of at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
• Digital Photograph: A recent color photograph with a white background. The photo must clearly show your full face without sunglasses or headwear (unless for religious reasons).
• Email Address: A valid email address where the approved eVisa PDF will be sent.
• Payment Method: A working Credit or Debit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) or a digital wallet to pay the government and processing fees.
• Accommodation Details: While not always mandatory at the first step, you may be asked to provide the name of your hotel or a residential address in Saudi Arabia.

How to Apply for Saudi eVisa from Belgium

Applying for the Saudi eVisa is a fully digital process that can be completed from the comfort of your home in Brussels, Antwerp, or anywhere else.

1. Complete the Application Form: You will need to enter personal details exactly as they appear on your passport (Name, Nationality, Date of Birth, Passport Number).
2. Upload Documents: Upload the digital scan of your passport’s bio page and your passport-style photo. Ensure the files are clear and within the size limits (usually under 1MB).
3. Select Processing Time: Choose how quickly you need the visa (Normal, Rush, or Super Rush).
4. Pay the Fees: Securely pay the total visa cost using your card or digital wallet.
5. Receive Your Visa: Once approved, the eVisa will be sent to your email. It is highly recommended to print a physical copy to carry with you, alongside the digital version on your phone.

Saudi Arabia eVisa Processing Time: How Long Does it Take?

One of the most common questions from travelers is, “How long will I wait for my visa?” The system is designed to be fast, but options exist for those in a hurry. Based on current processing standards, you can choose from three tiers:

• Normal Processing: This is the standard option for travelers who have planned their trip in advance. It generally takes 1-2 Working Days to receive a decision on the eVisa application.
• Rush Processing: Designed for travelers who require faster processing, perhaps due to a last-minute business trip or sudden travel plan. It typically takes 6 – 12 Hours to receive a decision.
• Super Rush Processing: The fastest available option. This ensures expedited processing, with applicants usually receiving a decision within 1 Hour or even less. This is ideal for emergency travel or airport situations.

Saudi Arabia eVisa Cost and Fees for Belgians

When budgeting for your trip, it is important to understand the Saudi Arabia eVisa fee structure. The total cost generally breaks down into two parts:

1. Government Fee (Visa Cost): This is the mandatory fee collected by the Saudi government. It includes the visa issuance fee and the mandatory medical insurance fee (approx. SAR 300 + insurance).
2. Processing Fee (Service Fee): If you apply through a simplified visa agency portal to ensure your documents are correct and to access 24/7 support, a service fee is charged.

• Rush & Super Rush Fees: Naturally, opting for the faster “Rush” or “Super Rush” processing times will incur an additional surcharge on top of the standard fees.

Payment Security: You can pay securely online using modern methods such as Credit & Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club) or Digital Wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay).

If my travel plans change or I want to cancel, is my fee gone forever?”

• Government Website: Yes. Non-refundable. The moment you pay, the government keeps the money, regardless of whether you travel, cancel, or get rejected.
• saudi-arabia-evisas.com: No. We offer refunds. If you decide to cancel your application before we submit it to the immigration system, we will refund your service fees. We believe in fair business.

Will I be left alone if the website crashes or I don’t understand a question?”

• Government Website: Yes, you are on your own. Government support is notoriously difficult to reach. There is no live chat, and email responses can take days—time you might not have if your flight is coming up.
• saudi-arabia-evisas.com: No, we are with you 24/7. You can WhatsApp, chat, or email us at any hour. We answer questions in plain English (and other languages), explaining exactly what is needed so you never feel lost.

Validity and Duration of Stay: How Long Can You Stay?

The Saudi eVisa is quite generous compared to many other tourist visas:

• Validity Period: The visa is valid for one year (365 days) from the date of issuance.
• Multiple Entries: It is a multiple-entry visa, meaning you can fly in and out of Saudi Arabia as many times as you like while the visa is valid.
• Duration of Stay: You are permitted to stay for up to 90 days per visit.

Important Rule: While you can enter multiple times, be careful not to overstay the 90-day limit on any single trip to avoid fines or deportation.

Can Belgian Citizens Perform Umrah on an eVisa?

Yes, absolutely. This is a major benefit for Muslim travelers from Belgium. The standard tourist eVisa allows you to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

• No Separate Visa Needed: You do not need a specific “Umrah Visa” unless you are traveling during the Hajj season.
• Nusuk App: While the eVisa grants you entry to the country, you may need to download the Nusuk or Tawakkalna apps to book specific time slots for performing Umrah or visiting the Rawdah to manage crowd control.
• Hajj Restriction: The eVisa is not valid for Hajj. Hajj requires a specific visa obtained through the official Ministry of Hajj channels.

Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival vs. eVisa for Belgians

Belgians are among the select nationalities eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA). However, comparing the two options reveals why the eVisa is preferred:

Feature	eVisa (Recommended)	Visa on Arrival (VoA)
Application	Online, before travel.	At the airport kiosk/counter.
Wait Time	Zero wait at airport.	Potential long queues at landing.
Certainty	Approved before departure.	Risk of rejection at the border.
Airline Checks	Airlines know you are approved.	Some airlines may question VoA eligibility.

Expert Tip: After a long flight from Brussels, the last thing you want is to stand in line at a kiosk or face a declined credit card at the border. The eVisa is the safer, smoother choice.

Travel Insurance Requirements for Saudi Visitors

When you apply for the Saudi eVisa, medical insurance is mandatory.

• Automatic Inclusion: You do not need to shop around for a policy. The Saudi government automatically assigns a local insurance provider to your visa application, and the cost is included in the government fee.
• Coverage: This insurance generally covers emergency medical treatment and hospitalization (including COVID-19 related issues) at thousands of hospitals across the Kingdom.
• Proof: Your insurance policy number is usually linked to your visa. Carrying a printed copy of the visa often suffices as proof of insurance.

Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia from Belgium

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate, while Saudi Arabia is a desert climate. Timing your visit is crucial for comfort.

• Winter (November to March): This is the best time to visit. Temperatures are pleasant (averaging 20°C – 30°C during the day and cooler at night). It is perfect for Riyadh, the desert of AlUla, and the coastal city of Jeddah.
• Summer (June to September): Temperatures can soar above 45°C. If you travel during these months, stick to indoor luxury malls, night-time activities, or visit the mountainous region of Abha, which remains cool and green year-round.
• Ramadan: Visiting during the holy month of Ramadan offers a unique cultural experience, but be aware that restaurants are closed during daylight hours, and the pace of life slows down until sunset.

Entry Points for eVisa Holders in Saudi Arabia

With your eVisa, you can enter Saudi Arabia through all major ports:

• International Airports:
  • King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – Riyadh
  • King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – Jeddah
  • King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam
  • Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – Medina
• Land Borders: The King Fahd Causeway (connecting to Bahrain) and borders with UAE, Jordan, and Kuwait.
• Seaports: Including the Jeddah Islamic Port, often used by cruise passengers.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I extend my Saudi eVisa if I want to stay longer than 90 days? A: Generally, the tourist eVisa cannot be extended from within the country. Since it is a multiple-entry visa, you would typically need to leave and re-enter if you wish to reset your stay, provided your visa is still valid. Q: Is the Saudi eVisa fee refundable if rejected? A: No, the government application fees are typically non-refundable once the application has been processed. Q: Can I drive in Saudi Arabia with a Belgian license? A: You can rent a car using your valid Belgian driving license, though carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and sometimes required by rental agencies. Q: Do children and infants need a visa? A: Yes, every individual, regardless of age, requires their own visa. Parents can complete the application on behalf of their children.

Conclusion

For Belgian citizens, the Saudi Arabia eVisa is the key to unlocking a travel experience unlike any other. Whether you are seeking the spiritual tranquility of Umrah, the ancient wonders of Hegra, or the bustling modernity of Riyadh, the process is fast, secure, and user-friendly. By choosing the right processing speed—Normal, Rush, or Super Rush—you can tailor the application to your timeline. Ensure your documents are ready, respect the local customs, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the Kingdom.