Get Your Yemen Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for Socotra Island, historic Sana'a, and ancient Yemeni architecture
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Yemen Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications processed within 5-10 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details and travel plans. Our intelligent system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Yemen Immigration requirements for visiting this historic Arabian destination.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, and supporting documentation. Our visa specialists review every document against Yemen entry standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to Yemen Immigration authorities. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS throughout the process.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved Yemen visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at immigration along with your passport. Welcome to Yemen — land of ancient civilizations and extraordinary natural wonders!
Yemen Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 30 days
Single entry for tourism and visiting historical sites
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and professional meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers connecting through Yemen airports
Family Visit Visa
Up to 60 days
For visiting relatives and family members in Yemen
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation from sponsor
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Letter of support or travel authorization
Tourist & Visitor Visas
Yemen offers a unique travel experience for adventurous visitors seeking to explore one of the Arabian Peninsula's most historically rich destinations. From the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sana'a Old City to the extraordinary biodiversity of Socotra Island, Yemen presents travelers with unparalleled cultural and natural attractions.
Tourist Visa
The standard Yemen tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days — ideal for exploring the ancient mud-brick skyscrapers of Shibam, the historic port city of Aden, the stunning landscapes of Wadi Hadramaut, and the unique Dragon Blood Trees of Socotra. This visa suits leisure travelers, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts drawn to Yemen's extraordinary heritage.
Visitor Visa
For those visiting family members or friends residing in Yemen, the visitor visa provides stays up to 60 days. This visa requires an invitation letter from your host in Yemen and may involve coordination with local authorities for approval. Extended visits may be possible with proper sponsorship arrangements.
Business & Special Visas
Business Visa
Yemen business visas accommodate commercial activities, trade discussions, and professional engagements. Valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entry options, business visas require an invitation letter from a Yemeni company or organization, along with documentation of your company registration and purpose of visit. Yemen's strategic location at the entrance to the Red Sea has historically made it important for maritime trade.
Journalist & Media Visas
Media professionals require special authorization from Yemen's Ministry of Information. This process involves pre-approval and may require extended processing times. Documentary filmmakers and journalists should plan well in advance and work with local fixers familiar with current requirements.
Humanitarian & NGO Visas
Personnel working with humanitarian organizations typically enter through coordination with their agency and relevant government ministries. These visas follow specific protocols established for aid organizations operating in Yemen.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Essential Requirements
All Yemen visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Support letter: Authorization letter or invitation from sponsor in Yemen
• Travel itinerary: Detailed plans including accommodation and transportation arrangements
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay
• Travel insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation strongly recommended
Special Considerations
Due to ongoing security concerns, travelers should check current travel advisories before planning visits to Yemen. Many governments advise against travel to mainland Yemen, though Socotra Island has been accessible for tourism. Travel arrangements often require coordination with specialized tour operators familiar with current conditions.
Entry Points & Processing Times
Entry Points
Yemen visas are valid at official entry points depending on current accessibility:
• Air: Aden International Airport and Seiyun Airport (for Socotra access) are the primary entry points when operational. Sana'a International Airport availability varies with current conditions.
• Sea: Port of Aden and Mukalla port may accommodate passenger arrivals depending on circumstances.
• Land borders: Crossings with Saudi Arabia and Oman exist but accessibility varies significantly.
Processing Times
Yemen visa processing typically takes 5-10 business days, though timing can vary based on application completeness and current administrative conditions. Socotra-specific visas may have different processing requirements. We recommend applying at least 3-4 weeks before travel to allow adequate buffer time.
Best Time to Visit
October to April offers the most pleasant weather across Yemen. Socotra Island is best visited from October to May when seas are calmer and temperatures comfortable. The monsoon season (June-September) brings rough seas making Socotra access difficult.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.5Customer rating
96%Approval rate
"Finally visited Socotra thanks to DoVisa! The visa process was handled professionally and all my documents were reviewed before submission. Dragon Blood Trees were incredible!"
"DoVisa helped with my family visit visa to see relatives in Yemen. Great communication throughout and the team understood the complexities involved. Very grateful!"
"Professional service for a challenging destination. The team kept me updated throughout processing and answered all my questions about current entry requirements."
"Socotra Island trip of a lifetime! DoVisa handled the visa perfectly. Their expertise with Yemen travel made the whole process much less stressful than expected."
"Business visa processed smoothly. The support team speaks Arabic which was very helpful. Will definitely use DoVisa again for future travel to the region."
"Good experience overall. Processing took about a week as quoted. The document checklist was comprehensive and the team was responsive to questions."
"Photography trip to Socotra was amazing. DoVisa handled all the visa requirements and even provided tips about travel logistics. Highly recommend their service!"
"Visa approved without issues. The team was knowledgeable about Yemen requirements and guided me through providing the right documentation. Thank you DoVisa!"
Yemen Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Yemen?
Yemen offers several visa categories for different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days for sightseeing and cultural exploration. Business visa permits stays up to 90 days for commercial activities and professional meetings. Visitor/Family visa allows stays up to 60 days for visiting relatives in Yemen. Transit visa is available for travelers connecting through Yemen, valid up to 72 hours. The appropriate visa depends on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. Special visas exist for journalists, humanitarian workers, and researchers.
Can tourists visit Socotra Island?
Socotra Island has remained more accessible than mainland Yemen for tourism. The island, known for its extraordinary endemic flora including the iconic Dragon Blood Trees, attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers. Access: Flights typically operate from Seiyun or other regional airports. Best season: October to May when monsoon winds subside. Requirements: Valid Yemen visa with Socotra endorsement, arranged through tour operators specializing in Socotra travel. Tour operators: Travel to Socotra is generally arranged through specialized operators who handle permits, accommodation, and logistics. DoVisa can assist with the visa component of your Socotra adventure.
What documents do I need for a Yemen visa application?
Essential documents for all applications: Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity and at least two blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed application form with accurate travel details. Additional requirements: Letter of support or invitation from sponsor in Yemen; detailed travel itinerary including accommodation arrangements; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements); comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Business visa additions: Invitation from Yemeni company; employer support letter; company registration documents. Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long does Yemen visa processing take?
Yemen visa processing typically takes 5-10 business days, though timing can vary based on several factors. Standard processing: Most applications are processed within one to two weeks. Factors affecting timing: Application completeness, quality of supporting documents, current administrative conditions, and peak travel seasons can impact processing. Socotra visas: May require additional coordination and processing time. Recommendation: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before planned travel to allow buffer time for any documentation requests or unforeseen delays. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete, minimizing processing issues.
Is it safe to travel to Yemen?
Travel safety in Yemen varies significantly by region. Current situation: Many governments advise against travel to mainland Yemen due to ongoing conflict and security concerns. Socotra Island: Has been more accessible and relatively safer for tourism, attracting visitors interested in its unique ecosystem. Essential precautions: Check your government's current travel advisory; work only with established tour operators familiar with conditions; maintain comprehensive travel and medical evacuation insurance; register with your embassy if traveling. Recommendation: Thoroughly research current conditions and consult specialized travel agencies before planning any Yemen travel. Situations can change rapidly.
Can I extend my Yemen visa?
Yemen visa extensions are possible through immigration authorities, though the process depends on current conditions and your visa type. Process: Visit the Immigration Department before your current visa expires; bring your passport, photos, and supporting documentation; pay applicable extension fees. Duration: Extensions typically granted for 30 additional days. Important: Apply for extension well before expiration; overstaying results in fines and potential complications. Alternative: If you know you'll need an extended stay, consider applying for a longer-validity visa initially. Socotra visitors: Extensions on Socotra may have specific requirements; coordinate with your tour operator.
Can I work in Yemen with a tourist visa?
No, Yemen tourist visas do not permit employment. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, sightseeing, visiting historical and natural sites, and meeting friends or family. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings and trade discussions, but not paid employment. Working legally in Yemen requires proper work authorization, typically sponsored by a Yemeni employer or organization. This involves documentation verification through relevant ministries. Humanitarian work: NGO and humanitarian personnel enter through coordination with their organizations and government agencies. Penalties: Working without authorization risks serious legal consequences including deportation and future entry bans.
What is the best time to visit Yemen?
Yemen's climate varies by region, affecting optimal travel timing. October to April: Best overall period for mainland Yemen with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Highlands around Sana'a are pleasant year-round but can be cold in winter. Socotra Island timing: October to May is optimal when monsoon winds subside; flights operate more reliably and sea conditions allow beach access. June to September brings strong monsoon winds making Socotra difficult to access. Coastal areas: Hot year-round with humidity; October to March is more comfortable. Highland areas: Cooler climate; nights can be cold especially November to February. Ramadan: Consider Islamic calendar when planning, as services may operate differently during religious observances.
Do I need to print my Yemen visa?
Yes, you must print your approved Yemen visa and present it at immigration. Printing requirements: Print on standard A4 white paper; use a quality printer ensuring all text and barcodes are clearly legible; color printing preferred but black and white accepted if clearly readable. Multiple copies: Carry at least two printed copies in case one is retained. Presentation: Present your printed visa together with your passport at immigration control; officials will verify and stamp your passport. Digital backup: Keep a digital copy on your phone as backup, but the printed version is required. Document condition: Keep printouts clean, unfolded if possible, and protected from moisture.
What happens if my Yemen visa application is rejected?
Yemen visa rejections can occur for various reasons. Common reasons: Incomplete documentation; passport validity issues; photographs not meeting specifications; insufficient proof of funds or travel purpose; security concerns; previous immigration issues. If rejected: You'll receive notification of the unsuccessful application; specific reasons may not always be provided. You may reapply with improved documentation addressing potential issues. Prevention strategies: Ensure all documents are complete and clear; verify passport validity; provide comprehensive travel itinerary and supporting letters; include sufficient financial documentation. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide assistance with reapplication. Our pre-submission review significantly reduces rejection risk by identifying issues before submission.
What currency is used in Yemen?
Yemen's official currency is the Yemeni Rial (YER). Exchange rates: Can fluctuate significantly; check current rates before travel. US Dollars: Widely accepted, particularly in tourism and business contexts; bring clean, recent bills. Cash importance: Yemen is largely cash-based; credit cards have very limited acceptance. ATM availability: Limited and may not always be operational; do not rely on ATMs for your trip. Recommendation: Bring sufficient US dollars in cash for your entire trip; exchange for local currency as needed. Socotra: Cash is essential; bring enough for your entire stay as banking facilities are extremely limited. Exchange: Use established exchange services rather than informal money changers.
What are Yemen's main tourist attractions?
Yemen possesses extraordinary historical and natural attractions. Sana'a Old City: UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique tower houses decorated with geometric patterns; 2,500 years of continuous habitation. Shibam: The Manhattan of the Desert featuring 16th century mud-brick high-rises up to 8 stories tall. Socotra Island: UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean; home to Dragon Blood Trees and hundreds of endemic species found nowhere else. Wadi Hadramaut: Stunning valley with historic mud-brick architecture. Aden: Historic port city with volcanic craters and colonial architecture. Shahara Bridge: Remarkable 17th century stone bridge spanning a gorge.
Do I need vaccinations for Yemen?
Several vaccinations and health precautions are recommended for Yemen travel. Routine vaccinations: Ensure standard vaccinations are up to date. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A and B; Typhoid; Cholera (especially for humanitarian workers); Meningococcal meningitis. Yellow fever: Certificate required if arriving from endemic countries. Malaria: Present in some areas; consult a travel health clinic about antimalarial medication based on your itinerary. Health precautions: Drink only bottled or purified water; avoid raw foods in uncertain conditions; carry basic medical supplies. Travel insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation is essential. Consultation: Visit a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.
What language is spoken in Yemen?
The official language of Yemen is Arabic, specifically Yemeni Arabic which has several regional dialects. Arabic dialects: Sana'ani Arabic in the north; Aden Arabic in the south; various tribal dialects in rural areas. Socotra: Socotri language is spoken on the island alongside Arabic, though Arabic is understood. English: Limited outside major business and tourism contexts; don't expect widespread English. Recommendations: Learn basic Arabic phrases; translation apps can help; guides and tour operators typically speak English for tourism purposes. DoVisa support: Our customer service team includes Arabic speakers who can assist with visa-related questions and documentation.
What should I pack for Yemen?
Packing for Yemen requires consideration of climate, culture, and logistics. Clothing: Modest dress is essential — long sleeves, trousers, and covered shoulders for both men and women; women should pack headscarves for mosques and conservative areas; lightweight, breathable fabrics for hot weather; warm layers for highland evenings. Essentials: Sunscreen and hat; sturdy walking shoes; first aid kit; prescription medications with documentation; power adapters (UK-style plugs); flashlight/headlamp. Socotra specific: Camping gear if required by tour; reef-safe sunscreen; snorkel gear; waterproof bags. Cash: Sufficient US dollars for entire trip. Documentation: Multiple copies of passport, visa, and insurance documents both printed and digital.
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