Saudi Arabia passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Saudi Arabia

Embassy / VFSB1/B2 Visitor Visa

Citizens of Saudi Arabia need a visa for the United States 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 · B1/B2 Visitor Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	3650 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	3–21 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements or pay slips showing sufficient funds for the trip

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 form online
Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form at ceac.state.gov and print the confirmation page.
2
Pay the visa application fee
Pay the $185 MRV fee via the designated payment system (e.g., bank transfer or online).
3
Schedule visa interview appointment
Log in to the US Visa Appointment System (ais.usvisa-info.com) and book a slot at the nearest embassy/consulate.
4
Gather required documents
Collect all supporting documents as per the checklist.
5
Attend the visa interview
Arrive at the embassy/consulate on time with all documents; biometrics (fingerprints) will be taken.
6
Wait for visa processing
After interview, the visa is processed; you may be asked for additional documents.
7
Collect passport with visa
If approved, your passport will be returned via courier or pickup; check status online.
8
Review visa details
Check the visa sticker for correct validity, entry type, and personal information.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
Must have at least two blank visa pages.
Passport-style photo (5x5 cm, white background)
Must meet US visa photo requirements.
Birth certificate (for minors)
Optional
Required for children under 18.

Travel

Travel itinerary (flight and hotel reservations)
Optional
Not mandatory but recommended to show purpose.
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
Optional
If staying with friends/family, provide their details.
Return flight booking
Optional
Shows intent to return.

Financial

Fee payment receipt (MRV fee)
Pay the $185 non-refundable application fee.
Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Show sufficient funds to cover travel expenses.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties to Saudi Arabia
Letter stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

DS-160 confirmation page
Complete online form and print barcode confirmation.
Appointment confirmation letter
Printed from the visa appointment system.
Previous US visas (if any)
Optional
Include copies of any expired US visas.
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For accompanying spouse.
Criminal record certificate (if requested)
Optional
May be asked for certain applicants.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $5,000 or more

Bank statements
Pay slips
Tax returns
Sponsorship letter

Must demonstrate ability to cover all travel costs without working in the US.

Good to know

Do not book non-refundable flights until visa is approved.
Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision at US port of entry.
Overstaying can lead to visa cancellation and future bans.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country

Provide strong evidence of employment, family, and property in Saudi Arabia.

Incomplete or incorrect application

Double-check DS-160 entries and ensure all documents are accurate.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Be honest about past travel history; provide explanation if needed.

Inadequate financial proof

Submit recent bank statements and proof of income showing sufficient funds.

FAQ

Do citizens of Saudi Arabia need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Saudi Arabia need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

How long can citizens of Saudi Arabia stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 3–21 days.

What documents do citizens of Saudi Arabia need for the United States?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay); DS-160 confirmation page; Passport-style photo (5x5 cm, white background); Appointment confirmation letter; Fee payment receipt (MRV fee); Bank statements (last 3-6 months); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-sa

Sources

ais.usvisa-info.com

Plan your trip to the United States

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for United States.

Plan the trip in Nowah All visa guides