The Saudi Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) lets British citizens visit Saudi Arabia without a full embassy visa. It has replaced the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW). The ETA is valid for 730 days and allows multiple entries, up to 180 days in total. You can apply for it yourself online, or we can handle the whole thing for you.
Last updated: October 2026
Do it yourself, or let us handle it
If you are a British citizen, you can apply for the ETA directly online, and for a simple trip that may be all you need. If you would rather not deal with the platform, the uploads and the eligibility checks, we apply on your behalf for £180 + VAT and your ETA is usually with you in 1 to 2 working days. Either way, we will tell you honestly which route suits you.
What the ETA covers
- British citizens.
- Tourism, business, study and medical treatment.
- Valid for 730 days from the date of issue.
- Multiple entries, up to 180 days in total across that period.
- It does not include health insurance, so arrange travel insurance before you go.
The ETA does not allow you to work or live in Saudi Arabia. If you hold a non-UK passport, or you are taking up a job, or visiting family through a sponsor, see the section below for the right route.
ETA or tourist eVisa?
British citizens can also apply for the Saudi tourist eVisa. The main differences:
| ETA and tourist eVisa | |
|---|---|
| Purpose | ETA: tourism, business, study, medical treatment Tourist eVisa: tourism only |
| Valid for | ETA: 730 days Tourist eVisa: 365 days |
| Entries | Both allow multiple entries |
| Total stay | ETA: up to 180 days Tourist eVisa: up to 90 days |
| Health insurance | ETA: not included Tourist eVisa: included, up to SAR 100,000 |
Not sure which fits your trip? Tell us your plans and we will point you to the right one.
How our ETA service works
- Complete our short form and upload your passport and a headshot.
- We confirm your eligibility for the ETA, then send a payment link to your email address.
- Once payment is made, we process your application and send your ETA to your email. Please check your spam folder.
You should expect your ETA within 1 to 2 working days. The price is £180 + VAT, and the payment link is sent once you have completed the form in step 1.
When the ETA is not the right route
The ETA is for British citizens on a visit. You will need a different visa, and usually our help, if:
- You hold a non-UK passport, even if you live in the UK. You will usually need an embassy visa. See our services for UK residents of any nationality.
- You are taking up employment. That needs a Saudi work visa.
- You are travelling on a formal business invitation that requires a MOFA Arabic invite. See our Saudi business visa.
- You are visiting family through a sponsor in Saudi Arabia. See our Saudi family visit visa.
Saudi ETA FAQs
Ready to start? Complete the ETA form and we will confirm your eligibility and send your payment link.
Saudi visas may be available directly through an official Saudi government portal for a lower fee or, where applicable, free of charge. Our fees are separate and are for private administrative assistance, document checking, application support and consultancy services.
Contact: support@saudiarabiavisa.co.uk






