Saudi Arabia ETA for UK Passport Holders 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia now offers citizens of the United Kingdom an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The Council of British Hajjis reported that it was introduced on 1 July 2026. You apply online, it is valid for two years with multiple entries, and GOV.UK lists Umrah outside the Hajj season as one of the purposes it covers.

Last checked 29 September 2026 against GOV.UK's Saudi Arabia entry requirements (updated 20 September 2026) and the official KSA Visa ETA page. Rules can change, so check both before you apply.

This guide covers what the ETA is, what it costs, who can apply, what it covers and how to apply on the official platform. For every passport type, including non-British passports, see our Umrah entry requirements by passport.

What about the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)? The Council of British Hajjis describes the ETA as the EVW's replacement. GOV.UK still lists the visa waiver alongside the ETA and the tourist e-visa, so use whichever option the official platform offers you when you apply.

Saudi Arabia ETA: Key Facts at a Glance

• Who can apply: citizens of the United Kingdom, according to the official KSA Visa platform. GOV.UK's guidance is written for full British citizen passports, so if you hold another type of British passport, check the platform before you book.
• Visa fee: 50 Saudi riyals, non-refundable, as listed on the official platform. Check the final total at checkout before you pay.
• Processing time: 1 to 3 working days, as listed on the official platform
• Validity: 730 days (two years) from the date of issue
• Entries: multiple entries permitted
• Maximum stay: 180 days in total. GOV.UK says these 180 days are counted across the whole 730-day validity, not per year.
• Purposes covered: tourism, business, study, medical treatment and Umrah outside the Hajj season (GOV.UK)
• Not covered: Hajj and work, which need separate visas
• Medical insurance: not included, so arrange travel insurance separately
• Apply at: ksavisa.sa, the official KSA Visa platform

What the Saudi ETA Costs

The official KSA Visa platform lists a visa fee of 50 Saudi riyals, and says it is non-refundable. Check the final amount shown at checkout before you pay, as the platform may add a service or payment charge.

Worth knowing: some third-party websites offer to process the Saudi ETA for you, usually for a higher price. You do not need an agent: you can apply yourself on the official platform. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs also advises applicants to avoid unauthorised individuals or companies.

How to Apply for the Saudi Arabia ETA

The application is completed online, with no embassy visit. The exact questions can change, so follow the platform's instructions. In outline:

1. Go to ksavisa.sa and create an account or log in.
2. Choose the Electronic Travel Authorization from the visa options.
3. Enter your details exactly as they appear on your passport.
4. Upload the photo and passport scan the platform asks for, in the format and size it states.
5. Pay the fee by card.
6. Save your ETA confirmation and carry a copy when you travel.

Every traveller needs their own application, children included. Apply as soon as your passport details are final: the platform lists processing as 1 to 3 working days, but it is better not to leave it until the last week.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

• Passport validity: GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least six months after the day you arrive in Saudi Arabia.
• Name mismatch: enter your names exactly as they appear on your passport.
• Unclear uploads: make sure your passport scan is readable, uncropped and free of glare, and check the accepted file formats and size limits before you upload.
• Wrong purpose: the ETA cannot be used for Hajj or for work.

Planning Umrah With the Saudi Arabia ETA

With your ETA approved, two more things are needed before you travel for Umrah:

• Umrah permit: Umrah permits are booked through the Nusuk app or website, run by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. See how the Nusuk permit works.

Our free DIY Umrah Planner takes you through the rest in order:

• Makkah hotels and Madinah hotels, nearest to the Haram first
• Airport and intercity transfers between Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah
• eSIMs for Saudi Arabia, travel insurance and your final checks

Would you rather have some help? Contact us or message us on WhatsApp: we can advise, send a quote or make bookings for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I perform Umrah on the ETA?

Yes, outside the Hajj season. GOV.UK lists Umrah outside the Hajj season as a purpose of the ETA, so you do not need a separate Umrah visa. Hajj needs its own Hajj visa.

Does the ETA include medical insurance?

No. GOV.UK says the ETA does not include health insurance, so arrange your own travel insurance before you go. Visit our Travel Essentials page for options.

Do children need their own ETA?

Yes. The official platform says you must submit a separate application for each person, even children.

How long can I stay on the ETA?

Up to 180 days in total. The ETA is valid for 730 days with multiple entries, and GOV.UK says the 180 days are counted across the whole 730-day period.

I am not a UK citizen. Can I apply?

The ETA described here is for UK citizens. If you travel on another passport, your options depend on your nationality and sometimes your UK residence status. See our guide for other passports.