Riyadh, in a significant move to boost global investment, Saudi Arabia has launched the second phase of its 'Visiting Investor' e-visa program, now extending it to include investors from all countries worldwide. This initiative, led by the ministries of investment and of foreign affairs, marks a pivotal step in the Kingdom's effort to attract global investors.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Undersecretary for Integrated Investor Services at the Ministry of Investment, the 'Visiting Investor' business visit e-visa will streamline the process for foreign investors to enter Saudi Arabia. The e-visa can be applied for through the 'Invest Saudi' platform, operated by the Ministry of Investment, and will be issued digitally by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This process eliminates the need for biometric verification at Saudi embassies abroad. The visa, valid for one year and allowing multiple entries, can be issued instantly in some cases, enabling investors to explore opportunities in the Kingdom more easily.
Ambassador Ali bin Abdulrahman Al Yousef, Undersecretary for Consular Affairs at the Foreign Ministry, emphasized that this service aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals, which include increasing visitor numbers by simplifying visa procedures. The 'Visiting Investor' e-visa forms part of a broader strategy to enhance the business environment and attract significant investments to drive economic growth.
The program's expansion enables a wider range of individuals to benefit from the instant e-visa. This includes those listed on the 'Invest Saudi' platform, holders of valid tourist or commercial visas from the US, UK, or any Schengen country (who have visited these regions at least once), permanent residents in the US, UK, or EU, and those with at least three months' residency in Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Additionally, those licensed by the Ministry of Investment are entitled to 3 instant visas per year for each facility.
For further information about the 'Visiting Investor' business visit visa and its benefits, interested parties are directed to visit the electronic platform "https://investsaudi.sa/en".