COVID-19: Entry testing requirements changed for foreign nationals

IMPACT – MEDIUM

Saudi Arabia has changed COVID-19 testing requirements for foreign nationals entering the country.

Key Points:

• Upon arriving, foreign nationals must now submit a negative test certificate from a PCR COVID-19 test conducted at a verified laboratory outside Saudi Arabia no more than 72 hours before departing. The previous requirement was no more than 48 hours before departing.
• Travel restrictions were lifted on Sept. 15 for some Saudi citizens, citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens and foreign nationals with valid exit and re-entry visas, work permits, resident permits or visit visas.

Analysis & Comments: The testing requirement changes will allow foreign nationals who wish to enter Saudi Arabia more time to get tested and receive their results. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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