Ethiopia passport → Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia visa for citizens of Ethiopia

Embassy / VFSWork Visa · Long Term

Citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for Saudi Arabia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Work Visa · Long Term
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	365 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	10–20 days
Government fee	SAR 600
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Proof of funds	5000 SAR equivalent

How to apply

1
Gather required documents
Collect all documents listed above, including attested employment contract and police clearance.
2
Fill out visa application form
Complete the official Saudi visa application form (available online at embassy website).
3
Schedule an appointment
Book an appointment via the Saudi Embassy in Addis Ababa (or phone).
4
Attend appointment at embassy
Submit original documents, photographs, and pay fee. Provide biometrics (fingerprints/photo).
5
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 10-20 working days.
6
Collect passport with visa
Either in person or via authorized courier (if arranged).

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Must have two blank pages.
Copy of passport info page
Clear photocopy.
Travel itinerary (flight bookings)
Optional
Not mandatory but recommended.

Financial

Bank statements (last 6 months)
Showing sufficient funds for stay.

Employment

Employment contract from Saudi employer
Must be authenticated by Saudi Chamber of Commerce and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Letter from Ethiopian employer/sponsor
Stating purpose and duration of stay.
Job offer letter from Saudi employer
Optional
If contract not yet issued.

Supporting

Completed visa application form
Available from Saudi embassy website.
Passport-sized photographs (2x white background)
Taken within last 6 months.
Educational certificates and professional qualifications
Attested copies.
Police clearance certificate
From Ethiopian police, issued within last 6 months.
Medical examination report
Includes tests for HIV, hepatitis, etc.
Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia
e.g., rental agreement or employer-provided housing letter.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: 5000 SAR equivalent

bank statements

Statement must show consistent income and sufficient funds for initial stay.

Good to know

Ensure employment contract is attested by Saudi authorities before submission.
Incomplete or incorrect documents may cause delays or rejection.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient or fraudulent documentation

Provide only genuine documents and ensure all required attestations are present.

Health issues (e.g., positive for communicable diseases)

Complete the medical examination at an approved centre and ensure all results are negative.

Criminal record

Obtain police clearance certificate and disclose any previous convictions honestly.

FAQ

Do citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for Saudi Arabia?

Citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for Saudi Arabia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Work Visa · Long Term.

How long can citizens of Ethiopia stay in Saudi Arabia?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Saudi Arabia visa cost for citizens of Ethiopia?

Government fee: SAR 600.

How long does Saudi Arabia visa processing take?

Typically 10–20 days.

What documents do citizens of Ethiopia need for Saudi Arabia?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity); Completed visa application form; Passport-sized photographs (2x white background); Employment contract from Saudi employer; Letter from Ethiopian employer/sponsor; Educational certificates and professional qualifications; and 7 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Saudi Arabia?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to Saudi Arabia

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