Saudi Arabia Visa Biometrics Steps & Requirements

With the introduction of Saudi Arabia visas, the need to keep a security check has risen. Since millions of tourists arrive every year in KSA, the country is delving deeper into technology usage to meet the security challenges. For this, the visa applicant has to verify himself by submitting documents and biometric details. This guide will help you cover the basic queries on Saudi Arabia visa biometrics.

What is the Biometric Test for a Visa?

In recent years, the Saudi government has invested in brilliant automated systems for easy and robust identification and verification. It has embraced biometric technology to enhance the security of its borders and ensure a more efficient visa application process.  In the scenario of visa applications, biometrics plays a pivotal role in accurately identifying and verifying individuals, thereby reducing the risk of identity fraud and enhancing overall security. This helps to ensure that the person applying for the visa is indeed the same one who is traveling to Saudi Arabia. While filling the application for Saudi visa for UAE residents, the need for biometrics will depend on your nationality.

What are the Biometric Modes for Saudi Visas?

You can provide biometrics in the following ways:

1. Fingerprint Scans: For visa applications, fingerprint scans are a commonly utilized biometric modality. The distinctive ridges and valleys on a person’s fingertips can be photographed by Saudi officials to produce a one-of-a-kind identification that is nearly impossible to duplicate.
2. Face Recognition: To generate a distinct biometric profile, facial recognition technology examines important aspects of the face. This method is used to confirm the identification of those applying for visas, making sure the person on the application is the same person who shows up at the border.
3. Eye Scans: Eye scans are used to capture the complex patterns found in the iris of the eye. The application procedure for a visa is made even more secure by this accurate biometric method.

Benefits of Biometrics in the Visa Application Process

As technology advances quickly, governments everywhere are implementing smart strategies to improve security and expedite immigration procedures. Saudi Arabia, a nation renowned for both its contemporary growth and rich past, is no exception. Biometrics helps to streamline the visa process for both travelers and the government.

One of the major advantages of Saudi Arabia visa biometrics is its unique and unrepeatable nature. That means, there are minimal to no chances of duplicating individual data. This robust technique creates a secure environment. It then reduces the risk of fraud and unauthorized entry.

Saudi Visa Biometric Appointment: What You Need to Know

There are some categories of visas that require you to book Saudi biometric appointment. These include business, work, and family visas. You will have to submit fingerprint and facial scan for the approval.

Here’s how the Saudi visa biometric appointment works:

Step 1: Check if Biometrics are required

It all comes down to the fact if your visa type requires biometrics. For example, citizens of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, etc., usually need to submit their biometric data for most visa categories except for eVisas. UAE citizens can apply for an eVisa and skip the process, in case they are going to Saudi for a tour or leisure. 

Step 2: Search for the nearest Biometric enrollment center

You can find the authorized visa biometric centers in Dubai through official websites pr approved third-party visa service providers. These are typically located in major areas like Al Baraha and Al Barsha.

Step 3: Book a biometric appointment online

Visit the official visa service portal or the center’s website to book your biometric appointment. Choose your preferred date and time based on availability. Do remember that in case of negligence or emergencies, you miss your appointment, it may cause delays or rejection of your visa. So, always confirm guidelines from your visa agent or official portal.

Step 4: Prepare for the Appointment

Now, since you are set with the appointment, stack all the important documents in a file beforehand. This includes a valid passport, visa application form, appointment confirmation details, payment receipt and any additional requests as mentioned by the center. 

Step 5: Visit the Center

Be punctual and arrive at the center on time. At the center, your fingerprint and facial scan will be captured. Your digital photography should be clear and complete without any sunglasses. Know more about this Saudi visa photo size requirements. The whole process usually takes around 15–30 minutes.

Step 6: Track Your Visa Application

Once the process is completed at the center, track your application. Keep an eye out for the status of your Saudi visa either through email or SMS updates. It is important to apply for such visas in advance to account for any processing delays.

How to Get Biometrics for a Saudi visa?

Saudi Arabia visa has a systematic procedure for a visa application. It begins with the submission of the visa application form. This form includes personal details along with tour information. It has to be furnished with certain supporting documents. Now along with this, specific Saudi Arabia visa types require the applicant to undergo biometric data collection, which could be face or fingerprint scanning.

To submit the biometrics for a Saudi Arabia visa, you need to follow a few simple steps:

• Choose a biometric collection center and book an appointment online.
• Pay the required fees.
• As per the scheduled appointment, visit the biometric collection center.
• At the center, your fingerprint and facial scan will be captured. Your virtual photography should be clear and complete without any sunglasses. Know more about this Saudi visa photo size requirements.

Once the process is completed at the center, track your application, to stay informed about the status of your Saudi visa. It is important to apply for such visas well in advance to account for any processing delays.

Can I Get a Saudi Visa Without Biometrics?

You can get a Saudi eVisa without having to go through this biometric procedure. For Saudi business and work visas, you will have to follow the guidelines regarding the submission of biometric data. This may include specific instructions on the format and quality of photographs for facial recognition.

How do Saudis Make Use of Biometrics Other Than Visas?

Saudi Arabia issues the National ID card, which is a secured individual card containing personal information, such as demographics, fingerprints, health information, family data, address, driving license, and more.

A few years back, the Saudi government also took a major step toward that even someone who gets a SIM card needs to get a fingerprint.

Can I Submit Biometrics Online?

For Umrah pilgrims, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has implemented a self-enrollment biometric visa application, called the Saudi Visa Bio App. This helps the visitors submit and verify their biometric data through their mobiles, without the need to visit a visa centre.

How to Use the Saudi Visa Bio App?

Saudi Visa Bio App is a convenient system for travelers on a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. After entering your personal information, you can submit biometric data, such as facial scans and fingerprints through this app. The process usually takes around 10 minutes.

Which Countries Require Biometrics?

All the nationals who are not eligible for Saudi eVisa, and are required to fill out the Saudi visa application form through an Embassy or visa agent, such as India, have to submit the biometrics for their application. Saudi Visa for Indians require a different set of documents and apply offline. They have to appear in person at the designated visa office to get their biometrics registered. Although, it’s currently not mandatory in many countries.

FAQS About Saudi Arabia Visa Biometrics

Conclusion

The use of biometrics in the visa application process shows Saudi Arabia’s dedication to contemporary security procedures as it maintains its position as a top travel and business destination worldwide. Through the integration of state-of-the-art technology, the Kingdom hopes to preserve the integrity of its borders while offering travelers a safer and more efficient travel experience. Besides the process, it is also important for travelers to abide by the expert-approved Saudi tips for easy traveling.

Tisca

A travel influencer, adventurer and blogger on a mision to dicover the hidden gems of this beautiful planet. For me traveling isn’t a hobby, but a way of living.