Saudi Umrah Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Understanding the Saudi Umrah Visa The Saudi Umrah Visa is a special entry permit issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah, a religious journey to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Unlike the Hajj visa, which is only available during the Hajj season, the Saudi Umrah Visa is available throughout the year. This visa allows SAUDI UMRAH VISA from around the world to visit the sacred sites and perform their religious obligations.

Types of Saudi Umrah Visa There are several types of Saudi Umrah Visas available, depending on the applicant’s needs and travel plans:

Single-entry Umrah Visa: This visa is valid for a specific period, usually up to 30 days, and allows a one-time entry into Saudi Arabia.
Multiple-entry Umrah Visa: This visa permits multiple entries into Saudi Arabia within a certain timeframe, making it ideal for pilgrims who plan to visit more than once in a short duration.
E-Umrah Visa: Introduced to facilitate a faster application process, the E-Umrah Visa can be applied for online through authorized travel agents or the Saudi government’s official platforms.

Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Umrah Visa To obtain a Saudi Umrah Visa, applicants must meet certain requirements:

The applicant must be a Muslim and provide proof of their faith if necessary.
A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of application.
Women below 45 years of age must be accompanied by a male guardian (Mahram) unless traveling in an organized female group.
Proof of confirmed accommodation and return flight tickets.
Recent passport-sized photographs that meet Saudi Arabian visa standards.
A completed and signed visa application form.

How to Apply for a Saudi Umrah Visa Applying for a Saudi Umrah Visa involves several steps, which include:

Choose an Authorized Travel Agent: The Saudi government only processes Umrah visa applications through licensed travel agents.
Submit the Required Documents: These include a passport, photographs, flight details, and hotel bookings.
Pay the Visa Fee: The cost of the Saudi Umrah Visa varies depending on the type and services included in the package.
Wait for Processing: The visa approval process usually takes a few days, but applicants should apply well in advance.
Receive and Print the Visa: Once approved, the visa must be printed and presented at the airport upon departure.

Validity and Duration of Stay on a Saudi Umrah Visa The Saudi Umrah Visa is typically valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. Pilgrims must ensure they leave the country before the visa expires to avoid penalties or fines. During the validity period, visa holders are allowed to visit Mecca, Medina, and a few other designated areas but are not permitted to work or reside in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Umrah Visa Fees and Costs The cost of obtaining a SAUDI VISA ESSENTIAL GUIDE varies depending on several factors, such as the type of visa, travel season, and additional services like accommodation and transportation. On average, the visa fees range between $80 and $150. However, complete Umrah packages, which include flights, hotels, and guided tours, may cost significantly more.

Saudi Umrah Visa for Different Nationalities While most Muslim-majority countries have a straightforward process for obtaining the Saudi Umrah Visa, some nationalities may face additional requirements. For instance:

Citizens from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not require a Saudi Umrah Visa.
Applicants from non-Muslim-majority countries may need to provide a certificate from a recognized Islamic center.
Some nationalities may experience longer processing times due to security or diplomatic reasons.

Rules and Regulations for Saudi Umrah Visa Holders Once a traveler obtains a Saudi Umrah Visa, they must abide by the following rules:

Stay within permitted areas: Visa holders are only allowed to travel between Mecca, Medina, and designated nearby cities.
No work or business activities: Engaging in employment or commercial activities is strictly prohibited.
Adhere to local customs: Pilgrims must respect Saudi Arabian laws and cultural norms, including dress codes and prayer times.
Exit before visa expiry: Overstaying the Saudi Umrah Visa can result in fines, deportation, or a future travel ban.

Saudi Umrah Visa During COVID-19 The Saudi government has implemented various health and safety measures for Umrah pilgrims due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the key requirements include:

Proof of full vaccination with an approved vaccine.
Negative PCR test results before travel.
Compliance with health protocols during the pilgrimage.

How to Extend a Saudi Umrah Visa In some cases, pilgrims may wish to extend their Saudi Umrah Visa due to unforeseen circumstances. While extensions are not commonly granted, travelers can apply through the Saudi immigration office with a valid reason. However, approvals are rare, and it is generally advised to adhere to the original visa duration.