Reasons for Saudi Arabia Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals

Saudi Arabia is a dream destination for many Indian tourists, offering a unique blend of ancient history, modern architecture, and vibrant culture. However, the Saudi Arabia visa rejection rate for Indian applicants can be high, with over 20% facing refusal in 2023-24.

This article will guide you through the common reasons for Saudi Arabia visa rejection for Indians and provide practical tips to increase your chances of approval. The topics we will be covering are:

Suggested Read: Saudi Arabia Visa Photo Requirements for Indian

Reasons for Saudi Arabia Visa Rejection for Indians

Saudi Arabia visa rejection reasons can range from minor oversights to more serious issues. Here are the most common causes of Saudi Arabia tourist visa refusal for Indian applicants:

Application Timings

Timing is crucial when applying for a Saudi Arabia tourist visa. Submitting your application too close to your intended travel dates is a common reason for Saudi Arabia visa rejection.

• The e-Visa takes a minimum of 24 hours to process.
• Enjaz visas are processed within 3-5 working days.
• For visa on arrival, ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria beforehand.
• It’s best to apply at least 2-4 weeks before your planned departure date.
• During peak travel seasons like Ramadan, submit your application as early as possible.

Incomplete Application Form

An incomplete visa application form is one of the top reasons for Saudi Arabia tourist visa rejection for Indians. Let’s go over each detail of the application form step by step to ensure you fill it out accurately:

Enjaz Visa Application Form

• Form Name: Enjaz Visa Application Form
• Application Mode: Print and fill by hand
• Form Length: Short, about 2-3 pages
• Language: English or Arabic

Visa Interview Gone Wrong

Select Saudi Arabia tourist visa applicants may be called for an interview at the embassy or consulate. Common reasons for Saudi Arabia visa rejection after the interview include:

• Giving false or inconsistent information
• Inability to communicate properly in English or Arabic
• Unsatisfactory answers to questions about your trip
• Inappropriate behavior or attire during the interview

If asked to appear for an interview, prepare well and be honest, polite, and confident in your responses.

Lack of Ties to Home Country

Saudi Arabia visa officials need assurance that you will return to India after your visit. Lack of strong ties to your home country is a common reason for Saudi Arabia visa rejection for Indians. To prove your ties:

• Provide proof of employment like a letter from your employer
• Show evidence of family ties such as marriage or birth certificates
• Submit documents for any property or assets you own in India
• If a student, include your school enrollment records

The stronger your roots in India, the more likely your Saudi Arabia tourist visa will be approved.

Insufficient Funds

Demonstrating sufficient financial means to support your stay is important for Saudi Arabia tourist visa approval for Indians. You’ll need to show:

• Bank statements for the last 6 months with a consistent balance
• Minimum balance of 5000 Saudi Riyal or equivalent per person
• Proof of income such as salary slips or tax returns
• If sponsored by a family member, a formal affidavit of support

The inability to prove adequate funds is a frequent reason for Saudi Arabia visa rejection. Make sure your financials meet the minimum criteria before applying.

Insufficient Travel Insurance

Having adequate travel insurance is a must for Saudi Arabia tourist visa approval. Your insurance policy should meet these criteria:

• Minimum coverage of 100,000 Saudi Riyal
• Valid for the entire duration of your stay in Saudi Arabia
• Covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation
• Issued by an insurance provider approved by the Saudi government

Lack of travel insurance or inadequate coverage is a common reason for Saudi Arabia visitor visa refusal for Indians.

Overstaying a Previous Visa

If you have previously visited Saudi Arabia, your travel history will be scrutinized while evaluating your tourist visa application. Any of the following records could result in Saudi Arabia visa rejection:

• Overstaying a previous visa
• Violations of visa terms and conditions
• Deportation or denial of entry
• Criminal offenses committed in Saudi Arabia

If you have any adverse records from past visits, it’s advisable to provide a letter of explanation and relevant supporting documents while applying again.

False Information on Visa Applications

Providing false or misleading information on your Saudia Arabia visa application is a surefire way to get rejected. The visa authorities verify the details you submit, and any discrepancies can lead to immediate rejection and potential legal consequences. Ensure that all the information in your application form and supporting documents is accurate, consistent, and up-to-date.

Records in the Destination Country

If you have previously visited Saudi Arabia, your travel history will be scrutinized while evaluating your tourist visa application. Any of the following records could result in Saudi Arabia visa rejection:

• Overstaying a previous visa
• Violations of visa terms and conditions
• Deportation or denial of entry
• Criminal offenses committed in Saudi Arabia

If you have any adverse records from past visits, it’s advisable to provide a letter of explanation and relevant supporting documents while applying again.

Health Issues

Saudi Arabia tourist visa applicants must meet certain health requirements. Some medical conditions that may lead to visa rejection include:

• Infectious diseases like tuberculosis or HIV
• Psychiatric disorders that may pose a risk to public safety
• Drug addiction or substance abuse problems
• Pregnancy beyond 6 months (may require special permission)

You may be asked to submit a medical certificate or undergo health screening as part of the Saudi Arabia visa process.

Incomplete Documentation

Not having the complete set of documents with you as part of the application can be a major cause for Saudi Arabia visa rejection for an Indian citizen. The key documents required for a Saudi Arabia tourist visa application include the following:

• a valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
• a completed visa application form
• 2 recent passport-size photographs
• proof of sufficient funds (bank statements)
• a confirmed return ticket
• a detailed travel itinerary
• proof of hotel bookings
• proof of travel insurance

Suggested Read: How to Book Visa Appointment for Saudi Arabia

How To Check Your Saudi Arabia Visa Rejection Status

• Track online: Check your Saudi Arabia e-Visa application status on the Saudi Arabia Online Visa Portal using your application ID number.
• Contact the embassy: For visas applied through the embassy, contact the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate where you applied.
• Check with your agent: If you used a visa agent, request them to follow up on the status of your application.

Saudi Arabia Visa Rejection Refund Policy

The Saudi Arabia tourist visa fee is non-refundable in most cases, even if your application is rejected.

However, if the rejection was due to a mistake by the visa-issuing authorities, you may be eligible for a refund. Contact the embassy or your visa agent for more details on the refund process.

What Should You Do After Saudi Arabia Visa Rejection?

If your Saudi Arabia tourist visa gets rejected, you have two options:

• Appeal the decision: If you believe the rejection was unfair or unjustified, you can appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice. Provide additional supporting documents to strengthen your case.
• Reapply: If the rejection was due to incomplete documentation or fixable reasons, you can submit a fresh Saudi Arabia visa application. Make sure to address the reasons for the previous rejection in your new application.

Suggested Read: How To Check Saudi Arabia Visa Status In India

Guide to Appealing Your Saudi Arabia Visa Rejection

If you decide to appeal a Saudi Arabia tourist visa rejection, follow these steps:

• Get the rejection reason: The Saudi Arabia visa rejection letter will state the specific reason for denial. Review it carefully.
• Gather additional documents: Prepare extra documents to counter the rejection reason and support your case.
• Write an appeal letter: Compose a formal letter addressed to the Saudi Arabia embassy, explaining why you believe the rejection was incorrect and requesting reconsideration.
• Submit the appeal: Send your appeal letter along with all supporting documents to the Saudi Arabia embassy within 30 days of the rejection.

How to File a New Application After Saudi Arabia Visa Rejection?

If you choose to reapply for a Saudi Arabia tourist visa after a rejection, make sure to:

• Fix the issues: Address the reasons for rejection in your new application. If you were denied due to insufficient funds, include more financial documentation in the new application.
• Provide additional documents: Include any extra documents that can strengthen your application, even if they were not asked for originally.
• Apply with ample time: Submit your new application well in advance of your trip to avoid last-minute issues.

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco simplifies the Saudi Arabia tourist visa process for Indians. Our visa experts stay updated on the latest requirements and help you submit an error-free application. Benefits of choosing OneVasco include:

• 98.7% visa approval rate
• Personalized guidance from visa specialists
• Comprehensive document verification
• Secure handling of your personal information
• End-to-end assistance till your visa is approved

FAQs

1. What are the common reasons for Saudi Arabia visa rejection for Indians?

Common reasons for Saudi Arabia tourist visa refusal for Indians include incomplete application forms, insufficient funds, unclear purpose of travel, and lack of strong ties to India.

2. Does a previous Saudi Arabia visa rejection affect future applications for Indians?

Yes, a prior Saudi Arabia visa rejection can impact future applications. The Saudi Arabia visa rejection rate is higher for applicants with a history of refusal.

3. Can you reapply after a Saudi Arabia visa rejection?

Yes, you can reapply for a Saudi Arabia tourist visa after a rejection. However, it’s important to carefully review the reasons for refusal stated in the rejection letter.

4. How long should you wait to reapply after your Saudi Arabia visa rejection?

There is no mandatory waiting period to reapply after a Saudi Arabia visa rejection. You can submit a new application immediately, but it’s advisable to wait at least 2-3 weeks.

5. Is there a Saudi Arabia visa appeal process?

Yes, if you believe the Saudi Arabia visa rejection was unjustified, you can file an appeal within 30 days of receiving the refusal. Write a formal letter to the Saudi Arabia embassy or consulate explaining why you think the decision was incorrect and provide extra evidence to support your case.

6. How much bank balance is required for a Saudi Arabia visa?

While there is no fixed minimum balance, you should have at least 5000 Saudi Riyal (approximately INR 98,000) per person in your account. This shows you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during the trip.

10. How strict is Saudi Arabia about visa violations?

Saudi Arabia is very strict about visa rules and regulations. Overstaying your visa or engaging in activities not permitted under your visa category can lead to fines, deportation, and a ban on future entry ultimately resulting in Saudi Arabia visa rejection for Indian tourists.