EU Considering Visa-Free Travel for Saudi Citizens, Ambassador Reveals

EU Considering Visa-Free Travel for Saudi Citizens, Ambassador Reveals

Key Points

1. The EU is actively working to eliminate Schengen visa requirements for Saudi citizens, according to its ambassador in Riyadh.  
2. While no timeline was provided, Saudi passport holders may soon enjoy visa-free access to Europe's Schengen Zone.  
3. Currently, Saudis benefit from extended 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visas.  

EU Moves Toward Visa-Free Travel for Saudi Nationals

Christophe Farnaud, the EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, has confirmed that Brussels is progressing toward removing Schengen visa obligations for Saudi citizens. Speaking to local media, Farnaud indicated that visa-free entry for Saudis is imminent, though he didn't specify when this change might occur or where discussions currently stand.  

During this transition period, Saudi nationals will maintain access to simplified Schengen visa procedures. The Ambassador emphasized that while full visa exemption remains a priority, the current streamlined visa system has already significantly improved EU-Saudi relations and cultural exchanges.  

Current Visa Benefits for Saudi Travelers

Since April 2024, Saudi citizens have enjoyed:  
✓ 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visas  
✓ Simplified application processes  
✓ Frequent travel privileges within the Schengen Zone  

However, the standard 90/180-day rule still applies - allowing stays of up to 3 months within any 6-month period.  

Regional Context

• The UAE remains the only Gulf state with full visa-free Schengen access  
• The EU is negotiating similar arrangements with other Gulf nations  
• Saudi Arabia ranked 7th globally for Schengen visa applications in 2023:  
   - 428,954 applications filed  
   - 398,250 visas approved (93% success rate)  
   - 25,672 rejections (6% refusal rate)  

This potential policy change reflects growing EU-Saudi ties and could significantly ease travel for Saudi businesspeople, tourists, and students visiting Europe. The move would align Saudi Arabia's travel privileges with those already enjoyed by Emirati citizens.  

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