In a major travel development, Saudi nationals are on the path to gaining visa-free access to the European Union’s Schengen area, which includes 27 European countries.
According to the EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Christophe Farnaud, discussions are underway to completely exempt Saudi citizens from short-stay visa requirements.
While the final agreement is still in progress, this move could soon allow Saudi travellers to enter Schengen countries without a pre-entry visa, marking a significant milestone in Saudi-European relations.
Five-Year Multiple-Entry Schengen Visas
Even before the full visa waiver, substantial progress has already been made. As Ambassador Farnaud highlighted, new rules implemented in April 2024 have significantly eased travel between Saudi Arabia and the EU’s Schengen zone.
Saudi citizens, along with nationals from Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman, can now obtain a 5-year multi-entry visa valid for an impressive five years. This allows Saudi travellers to visit the EU multiple times for short stays, eliminating the hassle of repeated visa applications.
Quick Fact: The Schengen short-stay visa typically permits travel for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
A New Era of European Exploration for Saudi Citizens
Ambassador Farnaud emphasised that the initiative is more than just a bureaucratic reform; it’s a step toward deeper cultural, social, and economic ties. With Saudi Arabia opening its doors to international tourists, Europe is positioning itself as a strong travel and trade partner.
This visa development also supports people-to-people exchange, boosts tourism, and encourages mutual understanding between Europe and the Gulf region.
Current Visa Requirements for Saudi Citizens Travelling to the EU
Until visa-free access becomes official, here’s what Saudi nationals currently need to enter Schengen countries:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Short-stay Schengen Visa (Type C) |
| Validity | Up to 5 years (multiple-entry) |
| Duration of Stay | Maximum 90 days within a 180-day period |
| Application Points | Maximum 90 days within 180 days |
| Required Documents | Passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, itinerary, bank statements, and purpose of travel |
| Visa Fee | Around €80 (may vary slightly by country) |
For the latest and country-specific details, travelers should refer to the official EU Immigration Portal.
Visa-Free Travel Expected Soon
Though no specific timeline has been officially announced, the prospect of visa-free travel is expected to materialise soon, offering even greater travel freedom to Saudi citizens.
Once implemented, Saudi nationals will be able to enter any of the 27 Schengen countries without applying for a visa, streamlining business, leisure, and family travel across Europe.
A Game-Changer for Saudi Travellers
This visa policy shift opens new doors for frequent travellers, entrepreneurs, and tourists from Saudi Arabia. With the five-year visa already in effect and full visa exemption on the horizon, Europe is becoming more accessible than ever to Saudi citizens.
Travellers are advised to stay updated on EU announcements regarding full visa exemption, as it could dramatically simplify the process of planning a European getaway.
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