Waiting for your Saudi visa approval? I totally get it – the waiting game is nerve-wracking! If you need to know how to check Saudi visa status, you’re in the right place. I’ll show you every simple way to track your application so you can stop worrying and start planning your trip.
Trust me, checking your visa status is way easier than you think. Whether you applied online, through an embassy, or used an agent, there’s always a way to see what’s happening with your application.
Why You Need to Track Your Visa
Let’s be honest – visa applications can be stressful. One day you’re excited about your Saudi trip, the next day you’re wondering if something went wrong. I’ve been there, and tracking your status helps you:
Stay calm and know exactly what’s happening. Plan your travel dates with confidence. Catch any problems early before they become bigger issues. Know when to contact support if something seems stuck.
The good news? Saudi Arabia has made tracking much easier in recent years. Most applications now have real-time updates, so you’re never left guessing.
Method 1: Online eVisa Status Check
This is the easiest way if you applied through the official Saudi eVisa website. Here’s exactly what to do:
Go to ksavisa.com and look for “Check Application Status” or “Track Your Application.” You’ll need your application reference number (it looks like EVS followed by numbers) and your passport number.
Type in both numbers exactly as they appear – no spaces, no dashes unless they’re supposed to be there. Click submit and wait a few seconds.
You’ll see one of these status updates:
- Under Review: They’re checking your documents
- Additional Documents Required: You need to upload more papers
- Approved: Congratulations, your visa is ready!
- Rejected: There was a problem with your application
The system updates every few hours, so don’t panic if nothing changes immediately. I usually check once in the morning and once at night – that’s plenty.
Method 2: Embassy Application Tracking
Applied through a Saudi embassy or consulate? The process is a bit different but still simple. Most embassies give you a receipt with a tracking number when you submit your application.
Call or email the embassy where you applied. Have your tracking number, passport number, and full name ready. The staff will tell you your current status and expected completion date.
Some embassies have online portals too. Check their website for a “Track Application” section. If you can’t find it, don’t worry – a phone call always works.
Here’s a pro tip: embassy staff are usually most helpful in the morning when they’re not too busy. Avoid calling right before closing time.
Method 3: Agent-Assisted Applications
Used a visa service or travel agent? Lucky you – this is actually the easiest option. Your agent should be tracking everything for you and sending regular updates.
If you haven’t heard anything in 3-4 days, send them a message. Good agents check status daily and keep you informed. If your agent isn’t communicating well, that’s a red flag.
Most professional agents have direct contacts with embassies and can get faster updates than you can on your own. That’s part of what you pay for.
What Each Status Actually Means
Let me break down the common status messages so you know what’s really going on:
“Application Received” means they got your paperwork and it’s in the queue. This usually lasts 1-2 days for online applications.
“Under Review” is when they’re actually looking at your documents. This takes 1-5 days depending on visa type and how busy they are.
“Additional Information Required” means you need to submit more documents. Act fast here – you usually have 7-10 days to respond.
“Approved” is the best news! Your visa is ready and should be in your email within hours.
“Rejected” isn’t the end of the world. Read the reason carefully and you can usually reapply after fixing the problem.
“Processing Delayed” sometimes appears during busy seasons like Hajj or holidays. Just be patient – it doesn’t mean anything’s wrong.
Tracking Different Visa Types
Different visas have different processing times, so here’s what to expect:
Tourist Visas
Usually approved in 1-3 days. The online system updates quickly and you’ll get email notifications at each stage.
Business Visas
Take 2-5 days typically. These need more document checks, so “Under Review” status lasts longer.
Work Visas
The slowest at 1-3 weeks. Lots of back-and-forth with employers and document verification. Don’t worry if it seems stuck for several days.
Umrah Visas
Super fast at 1-2 days during normal seasons. During busy times like Ramadan, add 2-3 extra days.
Hajj Visas
These are special and only processed during Hajj season. Expect 2-4 weeks since they have strict quotas and require more checks.
Common Status Check Problems
Sometimes the tracking system acts up. Here’s how to handle the most common issues:
“Application Not Found” usually means you typed something wrong. Double-check your reference number and passport number. Make sure you’re using the right website.
System shows old information can happen when updates are delayed. Wait 24 hours and check again before panicking.
Status hasn’t changed in a week might mean your application needs attention. Contact the embassy or your agent for a manual check.
Website is down occasionally happens during maintenance. Try again in a few hours or use phone support.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
Don’t panic if your status shows a problem. Here’s your action plan:
If it says “Additional Documents Required,” read the message carefully and upload exactly what they’re asking for. Don’t send extra stuff they didn’t request.
For “Application Rejected,” check the reason code and fix that specific issue. Common problems are expired passports, wrong photo sizes, or missing insurance.
If your status hasn’t been updated in over a week, contact support. Something might be stuck in the system.
Keep all your original documents and confirmation emails. You’ll need them if you have to reapply or escalate an issue.
Special Considerations for Different Travelers
Hajj Pilgrims: Your visa is tied to your specific Hajj package and dates. Status updates might be slower because they coordinate with your tour operator.
Frequent Travelers: If you’ve had Saudi visas before, processing is usually faster. The system remembers you and does fewer checks.
First-Time Applicants: Expect slightly longer processing as they verify everything more carefully.
Group Applications: Everyone’s visa in the group processes together. If one person has an issue, it might delay the whole group.
New Rules and Updates You Should Know
Saudi Arabia keeps updating their visa system, so here are recent changes that affect status checking:
The new digital system now sends SMS updates to your phone number. Make sure you enter the right number when applying.
Meta glasses and smart devices are now banned at Jeddah Airport. This doesn’t affect your visa status, but it’s good to know for travel planning.
During Hajj season, tourist visas can’t be used to enter Mecca. Your visa status will still show “Approved” but immigration might have restrictions.
The multiple-entry tourist visa is now valid for one full year, making it great for frequent visitors.
Tips for Faster Processing
Want your visa approved quicker? Here’s what actually works:
Apply early in the week (Sunday-Tuesday). Avoid Fridays and weekends when offices are closed.
Submit perfect documents the first time. Every mistake adds delay.
Use the online system when possible – it’s faster than embassy applications.
Don’t submit multiple applications for the same trip. This confuses the system and can cause delays.
Be honest on your application. They verify everything, and lies cause automatic rejection.
Status Checking Schedule
How often should you check? Here’s my recommended schedule:
First 24 hours: Check once. It takes time to enter the system.
Days 2-3: Check twice daily (morning and evening).
After Day 5: Once daily is enough unless there’s an urgent travel date.
If approved: Stop checking and start packing!
Checking every hour won’t make it go faster and just increases your stress. Trust the process.
Contact Information for Help
If you need human help, here are the best contact methods:
Online eVisa Support: Available 24/7 through the official website chat feature.
Embassy Phone Lines: Best times are 9-11 AM local time when they’re not too busy.
Agent Support: Should be available during business hours via phone, email, or WhatsApp.
Keep your application reference number handy for any support calls. They can’t help you without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to check Saudi visa status online?
The actual status check takes just 2-3 minutes. You enter your reference number and passport details on the official website, and results appear immediately. However, visa processing itself takes 1-3 days for tourist visas, 2-5 days for business visas, and up to 3 weeks for work visas.
Why does my Saudi visa status show “under review” for so long?
“Under review” means officials are checking your documents and background. This typically lasts 1-5 days but can be longer during busy periods like Hajj season or holidays. Work visas take longer due to additional employer verification. If it’s been over a week with no change, contact support.
Can I check my Saudi visa status without a reference number?
No, you need either your eVisa application reference number (starts with EVS) or embassy tracking number to check status. If you lost it, check your email confirmation, contact the embassy where you applied, or ask your agent. You’ll also need your passport number for verification.
What should I do if my Saudi visa status shows “additional documents required”?
Log into the same system where you applied and upload the requested documents immediately. You typically have 7-10 days to respond. Only submit exactly what they’re asking for – don’t add extra documents. Common requests include better passport photos, bank statements, or travel insurance proof.
Is there an SMS service to track Saudi visa status updates?
Yes, the Saudi visa system sends SMS updates to the phone number you provided during application. Make sure you entered your number correctly with the country code. You’ll get messages when your status changes from “received” to “under review” to “approved” or if additional documents are needed.
What Happens After Approval
Once your status shows “Approved,” here’s what comes next:
You’ll get your visa via email within 2-4 hours. Print multiple copies – you need them for travel.
Check all details carefully. Make sure your name matches your passport exactly and the dates are correct.
Download the PDF to your phone as backup. Immigration officers can scan the digital version if needed.
Your visa is now valid for entry, but remember travel insurance and other requirements still apply.
Final Tips for Peace of Mind
Checking your Saudi visa status doesn’t have to be stressful. Set up a simple routine, stay patient, and remember that most applications get approved without issues.
Keep your confirmation emails and reference numbers safe. Screenshot your approved status and save the visa PDF in multiple places.
If you’re traveling soon and your status hasn’t updated, don’t wait until the last minute to contact support. It’s better to ask early and get peace of mind.
Saudi Arabia wants visitors, and they’ve made the visa process much smoother in recent years. Trust the system, follow up when needed, and you’ll have your visa in no time.
Start checking your status today, and you’ll be exploring Riyadh or Jeddah before you know it!