Quick Facts
Requirement
Visa Required
Visa Fee
GHS 1,893
(~$130)
Processing Time
5–7 working days
Appointment Wait
~0 weeks
Stay Duration
Up to 90 days
E-Visa
Available online
Saudi Arabia opened tourism e-visas to Ghanaians as part of its Vision 2030 tourism push. The process is fully online with a 15% rejection rate for Ghanaians — moderate compared to many destinations.
Key Warnings
- Ghana is a yellow fever endemic country. You MUST carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate (yellow card) when entering Saudi Arabia — failing to present it can result in denial of entry or compulsory vaccination at the airport.
- Respect local laws and dress code requirements. Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Women should dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees in public.
- Saudi Arabia does not recognize Israeli passport stamps. If your passport has Israeli stamps, apply for a new passport before applying.
Insider Tips
- The Saudi tourist visa is valid for 1 year with multiple entry and up to 90 days total stay — excellent value for a multi-visit trip.
- Ramadan is a beautiful but different experience in Saudi Arabia — restaurants are closed during daylight hours. Plan meals accordingly.
- Umrah visas are separate from tourist visas. For purely religious visits to Makkah and Madinah, apply for an Umrah visa instead.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Visit visa.visitsaudi.com
Go to the official Saudi tourism visa portal and click 'Apply for a Tourist Visa'. Create an account using your email address.
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Complete the application form
Fill in your personal details as they appear on your Ghanaian passport. Select 'Tourism' as your purpose of visit.
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Upload required documents
Upload your passport scan, recent photograph, return ticket, and hotel booking. Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
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Pay the visa fee
Pay $130 (GHS 1,893) online. The fee includes basic medical insurance for your stay. Use a Visa or Mastercard international card.
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Wait for processing
Processing takes 3–7 working days. You will receive an email notification with the decision. Check your spam folder.
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Download and print your visa
Download the approved e-visa PDF and print a copy. Present it at check-in and Saudi immigration on arrival.
Required Documents
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Valid Ghanaian passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date
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Recent passport-size photograph
White background, taken within the last 3 months
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Return flight itinerary
Confirmed booking showing entry and exit from Saudi Arabia
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Hotel accommodation confirmation
Must cover all nights of stay. Hotels near the Haram in Makkah/Madinah if visiting for Umrah.
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Bank statement (last 3 months)
Demonstrate ability to fund your stay. Minimum GHS 4,000 recommended.
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Travel insurance certificate
Medical insurance included in the Saudi tourist visa fee. However, additional travel insurance is recommended.
Recommended (Optional)
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Employment letter or proof of income
Strengthens your application by confirming ties to Ghana
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Mahram documentation (women under 45 only)
Women under 45 previously required a male guardian — this restriction has been lifted for tourist visas as of 2019. Women may travel independently.
Health Requirements
⚠️ Yellow Fever Certificate required. Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from Ghana, which is a yellow fever endemic country. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ghanaians need a yellow fever certificate for Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Saudi Arabia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate for travelers arriving from Ghana, as Ghana is classified as a yellow fever endemic country. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (the yellow card) — failure to present it can result in denial of boarding or compulsory vaccination at the airport.
Can Ghanaian women travel to Saudi Arabia alone?
Yes. Saudi Arabia removed the requirement for women to travel with a male guardian (mahram) for tourist visas in 2019. Ghanaian women can apply for and use a Saudi tourist visa independently. However, modest dress is required in public — shoulders and knees should be covered.
Should I apply for a Saudi visa online or through a travel agent?
The online portal at visa.visitsaudi.com is the official and most cost-effective route. Travel agents in Accra charge additional fees. Apply online if you are comfortable with the process — it is straightforward and takes 3–7 days.
Can I visit Makkah (Mecca) on a Saudi tourist visa?
Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the holy cities of Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah regardless of visa type. Muslim Ghanaians with a tourist visa may visit Makkah and Madinah. For dedicated Umrah pilgrimage, apply for a specific Umrah visa.