• The new visa will be valid for 2 years

Rashid Hassan 

RIYADH: Instant e-visa options for the UK will begin on Feb. 1, enabling Saudi citizens to visit the country for up to two years.

British Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Neil Crompton said during an interview with Al-Arabiya: “The UK is developing a new system that will enable Saudis to obtain a visa within hours, valid for a period of two years. Visitors can start applying for the visa from the beginning of February.”

The online process was “quick, very straightforward (and) not expensive,” the envoy added, saying the new initiative would help deepen economic and diplomatic links.

“This is a wonderful moment which will strengthen ties between the two countries,” he told Arab News.

“It’s a big improvement in our service, which is consistent with the desire of both our governments to improve the bilateral relationship and in particular to increase the people-to-people links between our two countries. It’s very exciting news, and we look forward to seeing more Saudis in the UK.”

The e-visa waiver scheme for Saudi citizens was started by the UK in June 2022. British nationals can also enter Saudi Arabia for up to six months on a single entry under the new e-visa waiver. The Kingdom’s Foreign Ministry announced last August that the new scheme allowed UK citizens to visit for tourism, business, study or medical treatment purposes.

UK travelers can apply through the ministry’s visa portal at visa.mofa.gov.sa from 90 days to 48 hours before their trip. Approvals will be emailed back within 24 hours of the application.