Saudi Arabia is rapidly transforming into a top-tier destination for European travelers, offering everything from the ancient Nabatean tombs of Hegra to the futuristic vision of NEOM. For citizens of Austria, visiting this fascinating Kingdom has never been easier. Gone are the days of lengthy embassy visits in Vienna; the Saudi Arabia eVisa now allows Austrian passport holders to secure their travel authorization completely online.

If you are planning a journey from the heart of Europe to the Arabian Peninsula, this comprehensive guide covers every detail you need to know about the Saudi Arabia eVisa for Austrian citizens—from eligibility and costs to the application process and Umrah rules.

Do Austrian Citizens Need a Visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Austrian citizens require a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia. However, Austria is listed among the eligible countries for the Group A visa category. This privileged status grants Austrians access to the fast-track online eVisa system, as well as the option to obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Saudi ports of entry.

Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Online Visa from Austria

To successfully apply for the Saudi eVisa, Austrian applicants must meet the following simple criteria:

• Citizenship: You must possess a valid Austrian passport.
• Age: The primary applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• Purpose: The visit must be for tourism, events, family visits, or Umrah. This visa is strictly not for paid employment, studying, or the Hajj pilgrimage.

Documents Required for Saudi Arabia eVisa Application

Before you sit down to apply, ensure you have the following Saudi Arabia Visa documents ready to avoid any timeouts or errors:

• Valid Austrian Passport: Your passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date into Saudi Arabia.
• Digital Photograph: A recent high-quality color photo with a white background. It should follow standard passport photo guidelines (no glasses, neutral expression).
• Email Address: A functional email address where the official visa PDF will be sent.
• Payment Method: A valid credit/debit card or digital wallet to pay the government and processing fees.
• Accommodation: You may need to provide the name and address of your hotel or host in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia Visa for Minors and Children

Traveling with family is common, but it is important to know the specific rules for children:

• No Independent Applications: Children under the age of 18 cannot apply for an eVisa on their own.
• Guardian Requirement: A parent or legal guardian (who is 18+) must apply on behalf of the minor.
• Application Process: When you create your own eVisa application, there is typically an option to “Add Minor” or include family members. You will need to upload their passport details and photo just like you did for yourself.
• Travel Rules: Minors should ideally travel with the guardian listed on their visa application to prevent issues at border control.

How to Apply for Saudi eVisa from Austria

The application process is designed to be user-friendly and can be completed in under 20 minutes:

1. Complete the Form: Enter your personal data exactly as it appears on your Austrian passport (Name, Birth Date, Passport Number).
2. Upload Files: Attach your digital photo and a scan of your passport’s bio page if requested.
3. Payment: Pay the visa fees using one of the secure online options.
4. Download: Once approved, the eVisa will be emailed to you. Print a copy and save a digital version on your smartphone.

If I upload a photo that is slightly blurry or has the wrong background, will I get rejected immediately?”

• Government Website: Yes, there is a high risk. The government system is automated and unforgiving. It does not warn you if your photo doesn’t meet the strict ISO standards. It simply accepts the file, charges your card, and then rejects the visa days later.
• saudi-arabia-evisas.com: No, we protect you. We manually inspect every pixel of your documents. If your photo has a shadow, bad lighting, or the wrong size, we fix it for you or ask for a new one before the government ever sees it.

Saudi Arabia eVisa Cost and Payment Methods

The cost for the Saudi eVisa is generally a bundle that includes the government fee, the electronic service fee, and mandatory medical insurance.

• Estimated Total Cost: Approximately depending on current exchange rates.
• Breakdown:
  • Government Fee: The base fee for the visa and insurance.
  • Processing Fee: Charged for application verification and 24/7 support.
  • Rush Fees: Additional costs apply if you select expedited processing.

Payment Methods

You can pay securely using methods familiar to Austrian users:

1. Credit & Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club.
2. Digital Wallets: PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay.
3. Security: All transactions are protected by SSL encryption and 3D Secure authentication.

How Long Does it Take?

Depending on how quickly you need your visa, you can choose from three processing tiers:

1. Normal Processing:
   • Timeframe: 1-2 Working Days.
   • Best For: Travelers with a scheduled itinerary who are applying in advance.
2. Rush Processing:
   • Timeframe: 6 – 12 Hours.
   • Best For: Travelers who need a quicker decision or have imminent travel plans.
3. Super Rush Processing:
   • Timeframe: Within 1 Hour or less.
   • Best For: Urgent situations where you need the visa immediately before a flight.

Can Austrians Get a Saudi Visa on Arrival?

Yes, Austrian citizens can obtain a Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Saudi international airports (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina).

• The Process: You use self-service kiosks at the airport to scan your passport and pay the fee.
• The Caveat: While convenient, VOA carries the risk of long queues or technical glitches at the airport.
• Recommendation: The eVisa is highly recommended as it guarantees your entry before you depart Vienna, ensuring a stress-free arrival.

Saudi Arabia Transit Visa for Austrian Travelers

If you are flying with Saudia or Flynas and have a layover in Saudi Arabia, you may be eligible for a Stopover/Transit Visa.

• Stay Duration: Valid for up to 96 hours (4 days).
• Cost: Often free (excluding administration/insurance fees) when booked alongside your flight ticket.
• Perks: Includes a complimentary one-night hotel stay in some packages. Perfect for a quick city break in Jeddah or Riyadh.
• Eligibility: You must have a confirmed onward ticket to a final destination outside of Saudi Arabia.

Performing Umrah on a Tourist eVisa

For Austrian Muslims, the tourist eVisa provides a simplified way to perform Umrah.

• Access: You can visit Makkah and Madinah and perform Umrah rituals.
• Nusuk App: You are advised to download the “Nusuk” app to book specific time slots for Umrah and for visiting the Rawdah in Madinah.
• Hajj: This visa cannot be used for the Hajj pilgrimage. Hajj requires a specific visa issued through specialized channels.

Cultural Etiquette for Austrians in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a welcoming country but has conservative roots.

• Dress Code: Modesty is key. Men should avoid shorts in public. Women are not required to wear an Abaya or headscarf (unless in holy sites) but should cover shoulders and knees.
• Alcohol: There is a strict ban on alcohol. Do not attempt to bring any into the country.
• Public Behavior: Avoid Public Displays of Affection (PDA) and photographing people without permission.

Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Austrian Tourists?

Saudi Arabia is considered one of the safest countries for tourists, with very low crime rates.

• Solo Travel: It is safe for solo female travelers.
• Environment: Be mindful of the desert climate. Stay hydrated and avoid direct sun during midday hours.
• Emergency: In case of emergency, dial 911 (general emergency) or 997 (ambulance).

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Q: Can I drive in Saudi Arabia with an Austrian license? 

A: You can generally rent a car using your Austrian license combined with an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Q: Do I need to print the eVisa? 

A: Yes, it is highly recommended to carry a printed copy (A4 size) in addition to the digital file on your mobile. Airlines often ask for the paper copy at check-in.

Q: Can unmarried Austrian couples share a hotel room? 

A: Yes, Saudi law now allows foreign tourists to share hotel rooms without providing a marriage certificate.

Q: What currency should I bring? 

A: The currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is good to have some cash for small local shops (souqs).

Conclusion

The Saudi Arabia eVisa for Austrian citizens has opened the door to a world of Arab heritage, modern architecture, and warm hospitality. Whether you are sipping coffee in the historic district of Al Balad or hiking the Edge of the World, the experience is now just a few clicks away. By following this guide and securing your eVisa online, you ensure your journey to the Kingdom is smooth, compliant, and unforgettable.

Ready to explore the Kingdom? Start your application today and prepare for an adventure unlike any other.