Visa Compliance Tips for U.S. Companies Operating in the Gulf Region
October 24, 2025
Can a Saudi Business Visa Be Applied for from the UK While Holding a Residence Permit?
For professionals living in the United Kingdom on a residence permit and planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for business, it’s common to ask whether the visa application can be made locally. The good news is that Saudi business visa applications from the UK are open to both British citizens and foreign residents, provided certain requirements are met.
Eligibility for Applying from the UK
The Saudi Business Visit Visa is designed for those travelling to the Kingdom for short-term commercial activities — such as attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, or corporate visits.
Applications from the UK are accepted for:
UK citizens with a valid passport.
Foreign residents legally residing in the UK with a valid residence permit or long-term visa.
Applicants in both categories must hold an official invitation letter issued by a Saudi-registered company and approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Saudi Arabia.
Required Documents
To ensure a smooth and compliant submission, the following documents are typically required:
Valid passport (minimum six-month validity).
MOFA-approved business invitation letter.
Proof of UK residence status (such as BRP or residence visa).
Recent passport-sized photographs with white background.
Completed Saudi business visa application form.
Company covering letter from the employer in the UK, stating purpose and duration of travel.
All documents should be checked for consistency, as any discrepancy in name, job title, or company details may result in processing delays.
Where to Apply
Applications are processed through the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in London or authorised visa centres such as Tasheer. Once documents are verified, biometric data and any required information are collected, and the application is forwarded to the embassy for final approval and stamping.
Processing time usually ranges from 3 to 5 working days, depending on embassy workload and the accuracy of submitted information.
Important Considerations for UK Residence Permit Holders
The UK residence permit must remain valid throughout the visa processing and travel period.
The Saudi business invitation must match the applicant’s professional details as stated in the UK residence documents.
A short-term business visit visa does not permit employment or paid work in Saudi Arabia — it is strictly for temporary business engagements.
How Saudi and Gulf Visa Services Can Help
Saudi and Gulf Visa Services provides complete support for applicants based in the UK, including document verification, MOFA coordination, Tasheer appointment scheduling, and embassy submission.
Each application is managed with precision to ensure accuracy, compliance, and a smooth approval process.
For professional assistance with Saudi Business Visit Visas from the UK, contact info@saudiandgulfvisaservices.com to begin the process today.
