Saudi Arabia Visa for Irish Citizens – How It Works

Saudi Arabia, once a destination shrouded in mystery and accessible mainly for religious pilgrimage or business, has thrown open its doors to the world. For Irish citizens, exploring the ancient wonders of AlUla, the vibrant streets of Riyadh, or the pristine Red Sea coast has never been easier.

If you are planning a trip from Dublin, Cork, or anywhere in the Emerald Isle to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), navigating the visa process is your first step. Gone are the days of lengthy embassy visits. Today, the Saudi Arabia eVisa for Irish citizens streamlines the entire process into a few clicks. In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything you need to know—from costs and requirements to cultural tips and troubleshooting—based on real user queries and the latest 2025 travel regulations.

Do Irish Citizens Need a Visa for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Irish citizens require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. However, Ireland is among the select group of countries eligible for the online Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa. This initiative, launched to boost tourism under Saudi Vision 2030, allows Irish passport holders to obtain their travel authorization digitally without sending their physical passport to an embassy.

Whether you are traveling for tourism, visiting family, attending an event, or performing Umrah, the eVisa is the most convenient option.

What Is the Saudi Arabia eVisa for Irish Citizens?

The Saudi eVisa is an electronic travel authorization linked specifically to your passport. It is designed for short-term stays and covers tourism-related activities.

• Visa Type: Tourist / Event / Family Visit / Umrah
• Format: Digital (PDF sent via email)
• Key Benefit: Eliminates the need for in-person interviews or physical paperwork.

Saudi eVisa Application: Official Site vs. Agency FAQ Comparison

This table compares the two primary ways to get a Saudi eVisa by answering the most common questions searched by applicants.

1. Official Saudi eVisa Cost vs. Agency Price?

Feature	Official Saudi Portal	Private Visa Agency (saudi-arabia-evisas.com)
Total Cost	Lowest. Pay only the mandatory government visa and insurance fees.	Higher. Pay government fees PLUS a non-refundable service charge for assistance.
Value Provided	Digital submission only.	Personalized support, pre-check of documents, and error correction.

2. Is Agency or Official Application Faster?

Feature	Official Saudi Portal	Private Visa Agency (saudi-arabia-evisas.com)
Approval Time	24-72 Hours. The final decision is set by the government, regardless of the application source.	24-72 Hours. The final decision is the same as the government’s.
Processing Speed Advantage	Speed depends entirely on the applicant correctly filling out the form the first time.	Services often include Expedited Submission tiers, ensuring your fully pre-checked application is submitted instantly.

3. Does Using an eVisa Agency Reduce Rejection Risk?

Feature	Official Saudi Portal	Private Visa Agency (saudi-arabia-evisas.com)
Risk of Rejection	High risk due to user error. If you make a mistake (e.g., photo specification, typo, wrong passport number), the application is instantly rejected, and you lose all fees.	Low risk. A dedicated agent reviews all documents and data before submission, minimizing costly mistakes and ensuring compliance.
Support for Errors	None. Requires starting a new application and paying fees again.	Full Guidance. Agents handle form correction and resubmission logistics if issues are found before payment.

What Are the Requirements for an Irish Citizen to Get a Saudi eVisa?

Before you start your application, ensure you have the following. This list is curated based on common “checklist” searches by Irish travelers:

1. Valid Irish Passport: Must have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
2. Email Address: A functional email to receive the approved visa.
3. Passport-Style Photo: A digital copy of a recent photo (white background).
4. Payment Method: A credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) to pay the fees.
5. Accommodation Details: You may be asked for a Saudi address (hotel booking or relative’s address), though this is sometimes optional during the initial form fill.

Note for Dual Citizens: You must use the same passport to apply and to enter. If you hold an Irish passport, apply using that specifically.

How Much Does the Saudi eVisa Cost for Irish Citizens?

The total Saudi Arabia eVisa cost for Irish citizens is divided into two main components:

Total Fee = Government Fee + Mandatory Insurance + Processing Fee (+ Optional Rush Processing)

1. Government Fee (Visa Cost)

This is the fixed fee charged by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism for issuing the eVisa. It includes:

• Visa issuance
• Security clearance
• Entry permissions for tourism activities

2. Mandatory Travel Insurance Fee

Saudi Arabia requires all international travelers—including Irish citizens—to have government-approved travel health insurance. This insurance is automatically included in the eVisa cost and covers:

• Medical emergencies
• COVID-19 treatment
• Accident-related care

3. Processing Fee (Service Fee)

This fee is charged by the visa platform/agency for:

• Reviewing your application
• Document verification
• Submitting your form error-free
• Providing 24/7 support during the process

4. Optional Rush / Super Rush Processing

If you need your eVisa faster, you can choose:

• Rush Processing – quicker turnaround
• Super Rush Processing – fastest delivery (often within hours)

How Can Irish Citizens Apply for the Saudi eVisa Step-by-Step?

Applying is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Fill the Application Form: Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your Irish passport.
2. Upload Photo: Upload your digital photo (ensure it meets the specs).
3. Pay the Fee: Complete the payment using your bank card.
4. Wait for Approval: Once approved, the visa is emailed to you.
5. Print It: While digital copies are often accepted, it is highly recommended to carry a printed copy when flying from Irish airports to avoid check-in delays.

How Long Does It Take to Process the Saudi eVisa for Irish Applicants?

When you apply online for your Saudi eVisa, you have a few options to match your travel timeline. Here’s a look at how fast you can expect your visa to be approved:

1. Normal Processing (The Standard Route)

If you’re planning ahead and not in a huge rush, the Normal Processing option is perfect.

• Timeline: You can typically expect your approved Saudi eVisa within 1–2 working days.
• Why choose this? It’s the standard, most reasonable option when you have a normal timeframe before your departure.

2. Rush Processing (Need It Quicker?)

Got a flight booked a bit sooner? The Rush option puts your application into the fast lane, significantly shortening your wait.

• Timeline: Irish citizens usually receive their approved eVisa within 6–12 hours.
• Why choose this? This is a great balance if you need it faster than the standard time but don’t require instant approval.

3. Super Rush Processing (For Absolute Urgency)

If you needed your eVisa yesterday, the Super Rush option is your best bet. Your application is prioritized immediately to give you the fastest approval possible.

• Timeline: Your Saudi eVisa can be processed and approved in 1 hour or even sooner.
• Why choose this? This is the quickest option for any urgent or last-minute travel plans.

Remember, these timelines are estimated, but they give you a clear idea of what to expect based on the fee you choose. Let me know if you need help with any other steps of the application!

How Long Can Irish Citizens Stay in Saudi Arabia with an eVisa?

The Saudi eVisa is generous compared to many other tourist visas.

• Validity Period: The visa is valid for 1 year (365 days) from the date of issuance.
• Entry Type: Multiple Entry. You can enter and leave as many times as you want within that year.
• Duration of Stay: You can stay up to 90 days per visit.
• Total Stay: The combined stay cannot exceed 90 days within the valid year.

Can Irish Citizens Perform Umrah on a Tourist eVisa?

You can perform Umrah on a standard tourist eVisa. You do not need a specific “Umrah Visa” unless you are traveling during the Hajj season.

• Allowed: Tourism, Family Visits, Umrah.
• Not Allowed: Hajj (requires a specific Hajj visa), Paid Work, Study.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, travel medical insurance is mandatory. However, you do not need to buy this separately before applying. The Saudi government has integrated insurance into the eVisa application process. When you pay your visa fee, a policy is automatically generated for you by a Saudi-approved insurance provider. This policy covers emergency medical cases, including COVID-19 treatment, during your stay.

Which Is Better for Irish Travelers: Visa on Arrival or eVisa?

Ireland is on the “Visa on Arrival” eligible list. However, relying on this can be risky.

• Visa on Arrival: You apply at kiosks upon landing in Riyadh or Jeddah. It costs roughly the same but carries the risk of long queues or technical issues at the airport.
• eVisa (Recommended): You arrive with your visa already approved. This guarantees entry before you even board your flight in Dublin.

Verdict: Always choose the eVisa for peace of mind.

What Are the Photo Requirements for the Saudi eVisa Application?

Don’t get your application rejected due to a bad photo.

• Format: JPG/JPEG.
• Size: Between 5KB and 100KB.
• Background: Pure white.
• Expression: Neutral, no glasses, face clearly visible.
• Dimensions: 200×200 pixels (square) is usually preferred by the system.

Why Might a Saudi eVisa Application Be Rejected for Irish Citizens?

Even though the approval rate is high, rejections happen. Common reasons include:

• Typo in Passport Number: Double-check your digits.
• Name Mismatch: Ensure your name matches the machine-readable zone (MRZ) at the bottom of your passport page.
• Poor Photo Quality: Blurry or dark photos.
• Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least 6 months remaining.
• Background: Past criminal record or previous overstay in KSA.

When Is the Best Time for Irish Tourists to Visit Saudi Arabia?

Coming from the cool, rainy climate of Ireland, the Saudi heat can be a shock.

• Best Time: November to March. The weather is pleasant (15°C – 25°C), perfect for desert camping and city walking.
• Shoulder Season: April and October.
• Avoid: June to August. Temperatures can exceed 45°C, making outdoor activities nearly impossible during the day.

What Is the Expected Dress Code and Etiquette for Irish Tourists?

Saudi Arabia has relaxed its dress codes significantly, but modesty is still key.

• For Men: Shorts are generally okay in casual settings but trousers are better. Avoid sleeveless shirts.
• For Women: You do not need to wear a headscarf (hijab) or the black robe (abaya) unless you are visiting a mosque or religious site. However, dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting linen trousers and long shirts are perfect for the heat and the culture.
• PDA: Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

What Alcohol and Legal Restrictions Should Irish Travelers Be Aware Of?

This is crucial for Irish tourists accustomed to a pub culture.

• Alcohol: There is zero tolerance for alcohol in Saudi Arabia. Do not bring duty-free alcohol from Dublin airport; it will be confiscated, and you could face legal trouble. Alcohol is not served in hotels or restaurants.
• Drugs: Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties.
• Profanity: Avoid swearing or making rude gestures in public, as this can be considered a legal offense.

Can Irish Citizens Drive in Saudi Arabia with Their Home License?

Planning a road trip to the Edge of the World?

• Car Rental: Most major agencies (Hertz, Budget) accept a full Irish Driving License for short-term tourist rentals.
• IDP: It is highly recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your Irish license to avoid any confusion with local police or smaller rental agencies.
• Driving Side: Drive on the right side of the road (opposite to Ireland).

Conclusion

The Saudi Arabia eVisa for Irish citizens is a gateway to a land of contrast—where ancient history meets futuristic vision. By securing your eVisa online, respecting local customs, and travelling during the cooler months, you are set for an unforgettable adventure.