Saudi Arabia Announces Same-Day Visa Processing for Pakistanis (2026)
On 30 October 2026, Saudi Ambassador Dr Rajeh bin Tami Al-Baqami said the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad has introduced same-day processing of visa applications for Pakistani citizens. The announcement was reported by Geo News, Samaa TV, Daily Pakistan and Pakistan Observer. Here is what is confirmed, what is not yet clear, and how to prepare so you are ready when you apply.
What was actually announced
According to the reports, the ambassador made the announcement during a meeting with Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, a meeting that mainly covered energy and mining cooperation. The stated aim is to ease travel and support business, cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
What it probably does not change
“Same-day processing” describes how fast an application is handled once it is properly submitted. Nothing in the announcement says that documents, funds or eligibility checks have been relaxed. Embassy processing is also not the same as a refusal-proof process: an incomplete or weak file can still be refused quickly.
Don’t confuse it with the September visa waiver
On 21 September 2026, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a visa waiver agreement on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. It covers holders of diplomatic and official/special passports only. Ordinary Pakistani passport holders, including tourists and visitors, are not covered, and you still need a visa.
Existing routes for ordinary travellers
Gulf News reported in 2025 that holders of a valid US, UK or Schengen visit visa can qualify for the Saudi eVisa and for visa on arrival; the eVisa is multiple-entry, valid for one year, with up to 90 days per visit. Rules for individual nationalities change, so check eligibility on the official Saudi visa platform (ksavisa.sa) by selecting “visit” as the purpose and entering your nationality. Family visits need an invitation from a Saudi resident or citizen, and business visits need an invitation letter from a Saudi company. If you travel for Umrah, see our guide to the one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa.
How to prepare now
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Recent passport-size photo
- Bank statements showing genuine funds
- Confirmed travel dates and itinerary
- Invitation letter (family or business visits)
- Travel insurance where required
- Accurate, consistent application form
- Official channels only
Quick answers
Is the Saudi visa now instant for Pakistanis? Not confirmed. Only same-day processing of applications at the Islamabad embassy has been announced, without details.
Does it apply to tourist, family and Umrah visas? The reports do not say which categories are included. Check with the embassy or official portal before relying on it.
Does the September waiver help ordinary travellers? No. It covers diplomatic and official/special passports only.
Applying for a visit visa?
Reloaded Visa prepares your complete file and guides you at every step. Free consultation — no obligation.
Visa rules, fees and processing times change often. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official Saudi embassy or visa platform before you apply.