Umrah Visa Process

Introduction

Planning your spiritual journey to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah begins with obtaining an umrah visa. Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or returning for another blessed experience, understanding the umrah visa application process is essential to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about securing your umrah visa, from choosing between the dedicated Umrah visa and the tourist e-visa option, to gathering the required documents and submitting your application. With recent policy updates making travel more accessible and the introduction of streamlined digital applications, obtaining an umrah visa has become faster and more convenient than ever. Follow our step-by-step instructions below to navigate the application process with confidence and prepare for your sacred pilgrimage.

Step-by-step guide

Understand the visa options and requirements

Visa Options Overview

Dedicated Umrah Visa
- Validity: Single entry, valid for 90 days.
- Cost Estimate: Approximately $150–$300 (via travel agent).
- Flexibility: Low; often requires booking a bundled travel package.

Tourist E-Visa (Allows Umrah):
- Validity: Multiple entry, valid for one full year (allows stays of up to 90 days per visit).
- Cost Estimate: Approximately $110–$140 (check the official portal).
- Flexibility: High; you book your own flights and hotels independently.

General Requirements

Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of application.
Vaccinations: Check current Saudi health regulations for required immunizations, such as meningitis.
Mahram: The requirement for women under 45 to travel with a male guardian (Mahram) is being significantly relaxed by Saudi authorities, making independent travel possible for many.
Other Documents: Have passport-sized photos (white background), confirmed round-trip flights, and accommodation bookings ready.

Who Is Eligible for the Tourist E-Visa?

You can apply for the faster, cheaper tourist e-Visa if you fall into one of two categories:

Citizens of Eligible Countries (~49 nations): This includes the US, Canada, the UK, most of Europe, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, etc. You can verify your eligibility on the official Saudi e-visa portal.
Holders of US, UK, or Schengen Visas: If your nationality isn’t listed above, you may still be eligible for an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival if you hold valid permanent residency or a valid, previously-used tourist visa for the United States, United Kingdom, or any Schengen-area country.

Choose your application method

Online (e-Visa): Use the official Saudi eVisa portal to apply for an e-Visa if you are eligible. This is often the fastest method.
Authorized Agent: Work with a travel agency authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Many agencies assist with both the Umrah package and the visa application process.

Prepare your documents

Gather clear copies of required documents

Passport copy: A clear scan of your passport’s information page.
Passport photos: Recent photos meeting Saudi visa specifications (white background).
Vaccination records: Proof of required immunizations.
Travel itinerary: Confirmed round-trip flight details and hotel reservations.
Proof of relationship (if applicable): Documents showing the relationship between a woman and her Mahram.

Await Approval and Recieve your Visa

Approval Time: Processing is often quick for e-Visas (sometimes minutes), but always plan ahead, especially during busy seasons like Ramadan.
Receive Your Visa: The approved e-Visa is sent via email. Download and print this document to present upon arrival at the airport.

Official resources:

Saudi eVisa Portal: The official online platform for for certain visas.
Nusuk: An official Saudi platform for managing your pilgrimage, including booking accommodation and Umrah permits.
Authorized Travel Agencies: Search for agencies licensed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to assist with your visa application

Conclusion

Obtaining your umrah visa is the crucial first step in your spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia. Whether you choose the dedicated umrah visa through a travel agency or opt for the more flexible tourist e-visa that permits Umrah, understanding your options empowers you to make the best decision for your circumstances. With recent policy updates simplifying the application process and expanding eligibility, more pilgrims than ever can fulfill their sacred obligation with greater ease and flexibility.

Remember to always verify the latest umrah visa requirements through official Saudi government channels, as regulations and procedures can change. Start your application well in advance of your intended travel dates, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan, to allow adequate processing time. Once your umrah visa is approved, you’ll be one step closer to experiencing the transformative spiritual journey of a lifetime. May your pilgrimage be blessed and accepted.

Ready to continue your preparation? Explore our Umrah Steps guide to learn what to do once you arrive in the holy cities, or check our Umrah Preparation Hub for comprehensive planning resources.

Written by [Nadia]

Performed Hajj (2024) and Umrah (Oct 2025). Created Guide to Umrah to help fellow Muslims navigate their pilgrimage with confidence and ease.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is based on general Islamic knowledge and established practices. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal or religious counsel. Pilgrims are strongly advised to verify all procedures, requirements, and regulations with the appropriate religious scholars, their national consulates, licensed Hajj/Umrah travel agencies, and Saudi Arabian authorities prior to travel.