Saudi Arabia, a nation rapidly diversifying its economy and cultural offerings under Vision 2030, has significantly eased its visa regulations to welcome a broader spectrum of international visitors. This transformation aims to showcase the Kingdom's rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and modern attractions beyond its traditional role as a pilgrimage destination.¹ For those seeking to explore this evolving nation, understanding the specific pathways for a SAUDI VISA FOR LITHUANIAN CITIZENS and the distinct requirements for a SAUDI VISA FOR UMRAH are crucial for a successful journey.

The SAUDI VISA FOR LITHUANIAN CITIZENS: A Straightforward Process

Lithuania is among the countries whose citizens benefit from Saudi Arabia's streamlined tourist eVisa program.² This means that for Lithuanian passport holders, obtaining a visa to visit the Kingdom for tourism, leisure, or even to perform Umrah (outside of the Hajj season) is a remarkably convenient online process.³

Key advantages and steps for a Saudi eVisa for Lithuanian citizens:

1. Online Application: The primary and most efficient method is to apply directly through the official Visit Saudi eVisa website (visa.visitsaudi.com).⁴ The platform is user-friendly, guiding applicants through the necessary steps.⁵
2. Required Documents: Typically, applicants will need a scanned copy of their passport (valid for at least six months beyond their intended arrival date in Saudi Arabia, with at least one blank page) and a recent, high-quality passport-sized color photograph.⁶ The photo must meet specific Saudi visa photo requirements, often including a plain white background and a clear, frontal view of the applicant's face.⁷
3. Visa Fee and Health Insurance: The visa fee is paid online using a credit or debit card.⁸ Crucially, this fee usually includes mandatory health insurance, which covers any medical emergencies during the stay in Saudi Arabia.⁹
4. Processing Time and Validity: eVisa applications are generally processed quickly, often within 24 to 72 hours.¹⁰ The approved eVisa is then sent to the applicant's email address.¹¹ The Saudi eVisa for Lithuanian citizens is typically a one-year, multiple-entry visa, allowing for a cumulative stay of up to 90 days in the country per visit.¹² This flexibility is ideal for tourists who might wish to visit multiple times within the year.
5. Visa on Arrival Option: In addition to the eVisa, Lithuanian citizens are also eligible for a visa on arrival at Saudi international airports and other ports of entry.¹³ While this offers flexibility for spontaneous travel, it's generally recommended to apply for the eVisa beforehand to avoid potential queues or administrative delays upon arrival.

This streamlined approach for a SAUDI VISA FOR LITHUANIAN CITIZENS underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to attracting visitors from Europe, making it easier for them to explore the Kingdom's historical sites, cultural festivals, and modern attractions.

Understanding the SAUDI VISA FOR UMRAH: Pilgrimage and Tourism Combined

The SAUDI VISA FOR UMRAH holds a distinct significance for Muslims globally, enabling them to undertake the minor pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina. While traditionally a separate visa category, recent reforms have integrated Umrah into the broader tourist visa framework, offering more flexibility.¹⁴

Key aspects of obtaining a Saudi visa for Umrah:

1. Tourist eVisa for Umrah: For many nationalities, including Lithuanian citizens, the standard tourist eVisa now allows for the performance of Umrah. This is a significant development, meaning pilgrims can often combine their spiritual journey with general tourism, visiting other parts of Saudi Arabia beyond the holy cities.¹⁵ This type of visa is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for one year, allowing stays of up to 90 days.¹⁶ This applies to Umrah performed outside the annual Hajj season.¹⁷
2. Specific Umrah Visa (Traditional Route): For citizens of countries not eligible for the tourist eVisa or those who prefer a dedicated pilgrimage visa, a specific SAUDI VISA FOR UMRAH can still be obtained through authorized Hajj and Umrah travel agencies.¹⁸ These agencies facilitate the application process, often bundling the visa with accommodation, transportation, and other logistical arrangements for the pilgrimage.¹⁹ This traditional Umrah visa is usually single-entry and has a shorter validity period, strictly for the purpose of pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina.
3. Hajj Season Restrictions: It is crucial to note that the tourist eVisa and the standard Umrah visa are not valid for performing Hajj.²⁰ During the designated Hajj season (which varies annually according to the Islamic calendar), a specific Hajj visa is required, which has a distinct application process and is managed through authorized Hajj missions and agencies.²¹
4. Requirements for Umrah Visas (general):
   • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.²²
   • Photograph: Recent passport-sized color photographs.
   • Vaccination Certificate: Mandatory vaccination against Meningococcal Meningitis is often required, and the certificate must be issued within a specific timeframe (e.g., at least 10 days before and less than three years prior to entry).²³ Other vaccinations might be recommended or required based on the country of origin.
   • Proof of Accommodation and Travel: Confirmed return flights and hotel bookings in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Mecca and Medina.²⁴
   • Mahram Requirement (Historical Context & Current Changes): Historically, women often required a male guardian (Mahram) to accompany them for Umrah. However, recent reforms have relaxed this, allowing women aged 18 and above to perform Umrah without a Mahram if they are traveling in an organized group or provide certain consent.²⁵ It is essential to check the very latest regulations from official Saudi sources or reputable Umrah agents regarding this.
   • Proof of Islam: For those with non-Muslim names or where it's not apparent, a certificate from a mosque or Islamic center affirming the applicant's Muslim faith may be requested.
   • Age Requirements: Applicants must typically be at least 18 years old to apply independently.²⁶ Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.

The option to perform Umrah with a tourist eVisa has significantly increased accessibility for pilgrims from eligible countries like Lithuania, offering greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness. However, for those from non-eVisa eligible countries or during the specific Hajj season, the traditional SAUDI VISA FOR UMRAH obtained via accredited agencies remains the essential pathway.

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia's evolving visa policies are a testament to its forward-looking vision. For LITHUANIAN CITIZENS, accessing the Kingdom for tourism or Umrah is remarkably straightforward through the efficient eVisa system. For all Muslims, the SAUDI VISA FOR UMRAH remains a sacred gateway, now made more flexible for many through the tourist visa or managed through specialized agencies, ensuring that the spiritual journey to the Holy Cities remains accessible and well-facilitated.