Singapore has recently announced that starting from June 01, 2023 (inclusive), Saudi nationals holding passports issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will no longer need to apply for an entry visa to enter Singapore. This bold move by the Singaporean authorities aims to facilitate travel and enhance the relationship between the two countries. This article discusses the implications of this new policy, what it means for Saudi nationals, and how it will impact Singapore-Saudi Arabia relations.
The Announcement
The Embassy of Singapore in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, made a public announcement stating that from June 01, 2023, Saudi nationals holding passports issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will no longer need to apply for an entry visa to enter Singapore. Prior to this change, all Saudi nationals except those with diplomatic passports were required to apply for an entry visa if they intended to visit Singapore.
Exempted Categories
According to the announcement, the exemption applies to all types of visits, including tourism, business, and transit. Saudi nationals will be allowed to stay in Singapore for up to 30 days without a visa. However, it is important to note that Saudi nationals who are holders of diplomatic passports are already exempted from Singapore visa requirements and will not be affected by this change.
No Refunds for Singapore Entry Visa Applicants
The Embassy has also stated that there will be no refund of the visa processing fee for those who have already applied for an entry visa or received the outcome of their application. All Saudi nationals should be aware of this policy, according to the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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Positive Impact on Singapore-Saudi Arabia Relations
The Saudi embassy in Singapore has expressed appreciation for the new policy, which it hopes will lead to increased travel and closer ties between the two countries. The waiver of entry visa requirements for Saudi nationals is a positive step towards strengthening Singapore-Saudi Arabia relations. It is anticipated that it will encourage more Saudi nationals to visit Singapore for business and tourism purposes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Singaporean authorities’ decision to remove the visa requirement for Saudi nationals is a welcome development. The move will facilitate travel and enhance the relationship between the two countries. It is hoped that this new policy will encourage more Saudi nationals to visit Singapore, thereby promoting business and tourism between the two countries.
FAQs
Why did Singapore remove the visa requirement for Saudi nationals?
Singapore removed the visa requirement for Saudi nationals to facilitate travel and enhance the relationship between the two countries.
When will the new policy take effect?
The new policy will take effect from June 01, 2023 (inclusive).
Who is eligible for the visa exemption?
Saudi nationals holding passports issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are eligible for the visa exemption.
How long can Saudi nationals stay in Singapore without a visa?
Saudi nationals can stay in Singapore for up to 30 days without a visa.
Will Saudi nationals with diplomatic passports be affected by this new policy?
No, Saudi nationals with diplomatic passports are already exempted from Singapore visa requirements and will not be affected by this change.
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