Saudi Arabia Visa Eligibility for Citizens of Madagascar

As we move through 2026, the travel bridge between the island nation of Madagascar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is managed through a combination of traditional and modern entry protocols. Whether you are traveling from Antananarivo to experience the economic transformation in Riyadh, the historic port of Jeddah, or a spiritual journey to the holy cities, understanding the latest visa framework is essential. While Madagascar is not currently on the primary "Group A" direct e-visa list, the Kingdom provides efficient pathways that utilize both consular reliability and digital exceptions for international travelers.

2026 Entry Pathways: Consular and Digital Options

For the majority of travelers from Madagascar, entry into Saudi Arabia is determined by their travel history and global residency status.

• The Consular Route: This remains the primary and most reliable method for most Malagasy passport holders. Applications are typically processed through the Saudi diplomatic mission or an authorized visa service center. This route involves the verification of physical documentation and biometric data to ensure a secure entry permit before departure.

• The Digital Exception Pathway (E-Visa): In an effort to facilitate global mobility, Madagascar citizens who hold a valid and used tourist or business visa from the United States, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen Area country are eligible to apply for an electronic visa. This also applies to those holding permanent residency in these regions or valid residency in GCC countries.

• Travel Scope: Approved visas under these categories are valid for leisure tourism, family visits, professional events, and the performance of Umrah.

Spiritual Travel: Umrah Guidelines for Malagasy Citizens

For the Muslim community in Madagascar, the pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah is a core reason for visiting the Kingdom. The 2026 framework offers several ways to facilitate this journey:

• Umrah via Tourist Permit: Malagasy travelers qualifying for the e-visa exception (via used US, UK, or Schengen credentials) can use that same permit to perform Umrah. This allows for independent travel planning through the Nusuk digital platform.

• Consular Umrah Visa: For those without international visa exceptions, dedicated Umrah visas are processed through licensed travel agencies in Madagascar that coordinate with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

• Hajj Season Notice: Participation in Hajj remains strictly governed by official national quotas and requires a dedicated Hajj visa. Standard visitor or exception-based e-visas are not valid for the Hajj season.

Professional Verification and All-Inclusive Pricing

To ensure that every application meets the Kingdom's 2026 security standards and that your mandatory health insurance is correctly activated, we provide a dedicated verification service. This prevents administrative errors that could lead to delays at the border or boarding issues.

• Standard Eligibility Review: The total all-inclusive fee for our professional service (for those eligible via the digital pathway) is 175 dollars. This final price encompasses the official government visa fee, the 2026 mandatory health insurance policy, and our manual document audit. Most authorizations are finalized within 3 to 5 business days.

• Express Priority Service: For travelers with an urgent departure from Madagascar, an expedited pathway is available for 225 dollars, prioritizing your file for a response within 24 business hours.

Specialized Entry: Employment and Residency

It is vital for citizens of Madagascar to note that tourist and electronic visas do not grant the right to engage in paid labor. If your goal is professional relocation or a long-term contract in the Kingdom, a specific Consular Work Visa must be obtained through a local Saudi sponsor. This process requires the verification of academic and medical records. We recommend a preliminary check of your credentials to ensure they meet the latest 2026 professional standards before initiating the embassy process.

Essential Requirements for Madagascar Applicants

To confirm your entry eligibility, please ensure the following essentials are ready:

1. Passport: A valid Madagascar passport with at least six months of validity beyond your arrival date.

2. Supporting Credentials: A copy of your valid and used US, UK, or Schengen visa (if applying through the digital exception rule).

3. Digital Assets: A clear biometric photograph and a valid email address for receiving your official PDF authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Madagascar citizens get a visa on arrival in 2026?

Only if you meet the specific criteria of holding a valid and used US, UK, or Schengen visa. All other citizens must obtain their visa through the appropriate consular channels before departure.

Does the 175 dollar fee include medical insurance?

Yes. Every visa issued for entry into Saudi Arabia in 2026 requires government-approved health insurance. This is fully covered in our 175 dollar standard service fee for eligible applicants.

Is the e-visa valid for multiple entries?

For those qualifying under the exception rules, the e-visa is typically a multiple-entry permit valid for one year, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.