Planning a journey from New Zealand to Saudi Arabia? Whether your purpose is tourism, Umrah pilgrimage, business, or a family visit, New Zealand citizens now enjoy an easier and faster visa process thanks to Saudi Arabia’s eVisa program. This in-depth 2025 guide outlines everything you need to know about obtaining a SAUDI VISA FOR NEW ZEALAND CITIZENS passport holders, including requirements, application steps, visa types, fees, and entry regulations.
Do New Zealand Citizens Need a Visa for Saudi Arabia?
Yes. New Zealand passport holders require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Fortunately, they are eligible for the Saudi electronic visa (eVisa), which allows for multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days per visit within a 12-month period.
The eVisa covers:
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Tourism
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Umrah (for Muslims, outside Hajj season)
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Visiting friends and family
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Leisure travel and attending events
Types of Saudi Visas Available for New Zealand Citizens
1. Tourist eVisa (Most Common)
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Validity: 1 year from date of issue
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Entries: Multiple
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Stay duration: Up to 90 days per visit
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Use for: Tourism, Umrah (non-Hajj), leisure travel
2. Business Visa
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For: Trade, meetings, conferences
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Application: Through a Saudi embassy or licensed agent
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Requirement: Invitation letter from a registered Saudi company
3. Family Visit Visa
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For: Visiting immediate family in Saudi Arabia
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Requires: Sponsorship from a Saudi resident/citizen
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Application: Submitted through the Saudi MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) portal
4. Umrah Visa
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For Muslims performing Umrah during specific religious periods
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Alternative: Umrah is permitted on the tourist eVisa except during Hajj season
Saudi eVisa Requirements for New Zealand Citizens
To apply for the Saudi eVisa, New Zealand applicants must have:
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A valid New Zealand passport (with at least 6 months validity)
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A recent passport-sized photo
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An email address to receive the visa
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A credit or debit card for payment
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Willingness to accept the mandatory travel insurance bundled into the visa
No invitation letter or embassy visit is required for the eVisa.
How to Apply for Saudi eVisa from New Zealand
Applying for the Saudi eVisa is quick and straightforward:
✅ Step 1: Go to the Official eVisa Website
Visit SAUDI VISA FOR MALAYSIAN
✅ Step 2: Create an Account
Sign up with your email and create a password to access the portal.
✅ Step 3: Fill Out the Application
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Enter personal, passport, and travel information
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Select Tourist Visa
✅ Step 4: Upload Documents
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Upload a passport bio page scan
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Upload a passport-sized photo
✅ Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Use a credit or debit card to pay online.
✅ Step 6: Receive Your Visa by Email
Most visas are issued within 24 to 72 hours. Print it and carry it with your passport when traveling.
Saudi Visa Fees for New Zealand Citizens
| Visa Type | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa | SAR 535 (≈ NZD 230) |
| Business Visa | Varies depending on entry type |
| Family Visit Visa | SAR 300 – 500+ |
The tourist eVisa fee includes mandatory travel health insurance.
Saudi Arabia Entry Ports for eVisa Holders
With a valid Saudi eVisa, New Zealand travelers can enter the Kingdom via:
✈️ Airports
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King Khalid International Airport – Riyadh
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King Abdulaziz International Airport – Jeddah
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King Fahd International Airport – Dammam
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Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport – Medina
🚗 Land Borders
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With UAE, Jordan, Bahrain
🚢 Seaports
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Authorized entry for cruise travelers and marine visitors
Overstaying Penalties & Visa Extension Rules
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Tourist eVisas are non-extendable
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Overstaying leads to:
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Fines of SAR 100 (≈ NZD 42) per day
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Potential deportation
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Restrictions on future entry
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Can New Zealand Citizens Perform Umrah on a Tourist eVisa?
Yes. Muslims holding a New Zealand passport can use their tourist eVisa to perform Umrah as long as it is outside the Hajj period.
Hajj requires a separate, specific Hajj visa, issued through licensed agents during the official Hajj season.
Important Travel Guidelines for Kiwi Visitors
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Language: Arabic is the official language; English is commonly spoken in cities.
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Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
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Dress Code: Modest attire is encouraged; women are not required to wear abayas but should dress respectfully.
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Prohibited Items: Alcohol, pork products, drugs, religious texts not related to Islam
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Cultural Respect: Avoid public displays of affection, especially during Ramadan
Top Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia (For New Zealand Tourists)
Saudi Arabia offers world-class attractions and UNESCO sites. Popular destinations include:
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AlUla – The breathtaking tombs of Hegra
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Riyadh – Edge of the World, historical Diriyah
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Jeddah – Al-Balad (Old Town), Red Sea diving spots
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Medina – Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (Muslims only)
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Mecca – Kaaba and Masjid al-Haram (Muslims only)
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Abha & Asir Region – Mountain towns and cooler weather
FAQs – Saudi Visa for New Zealand Passport Holders
❓ Can I get a Saudi visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia?
No. New Zealanders must apply for the eVisa before traveling.
❓ How long can I stay in Saudi Arabia on the tourist eVisa?
You can stay up to 90 days per visit within the 1-year visa validity.
❓ Is the Saudi eVisa multiple entry?
Yes. You can enter and exit Saudi Arabia multiple times within the visa’s validity.
❓ Do children require their own visa?
Yes. Each traveler, regardless of age, needs a separate eVisa.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s modernized visa system makes it easier than ever for New Zealand citizens to explore the Kingdom. Whether you’re planning an adventure, a religious journey, or a business trip, applying for the Saudi eVisa is quick, convenient, and completely online. With rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality awaiting, your Saudi experience begins with a simple click.