Umrah Visa Saudi Arabia: Requirements, Application & Cost [2024]

Umrah Visa Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide to Requirements, Application, and Cost (2024)

I. Understanding the Umrah Visa

The Umrah visa is a mandatory travel document that permits Muslims worldwide to perform Umrah, a non-mandatory Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. Unlike the Hajj visa, which is restricted to a specific period annually, the Umrah visa is generally available throughout the year, except during the peak Hajj season. Understanding the nuances of the Umrah visa is crucial for a smooth and spiritually fulfilling journey. This guide provides detailed information about the requirements, application process, and associated costs for obtaining an Umrah visa in 2024.

II. Eligibility Criteria for Umrah Visa

Before initiating the Umrah visa application, it’s essential to ascertain whether you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Saudi Arabian government. Generally, the requirements are consistent across nationalities, but slight variations may exist.

• Religion: The applicant must be a Muslim. Evidence of faith may not be explicitly required in all cases, but it is a fundamental prerequisite.
• Valid Passport: The applicant must possess a passport with a minimum validity of six months from the date of intended travel. The passport should also have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
• Age Restrictions: While there isn’t an upper age limit, women under the age of 45 are generally required to travel with a mahram (male relative, such as a husband, father, brother, or son). Proof of relationship, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate, is necessary. Men of any age can travel independently.
• Financial Stability: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their travel, accommodation, and living expenses during their stay in Saudi Arabia. This is typically assessed indirectly through the overall application and may not require explicit financial statements, but ensuring you can afford the trip is crucial.
• No Criminal Record: Applicants with a serious criminal record may be denied a visa.
• Health Requirements: As of 2024, specific health requirements, including mandatory vaccinations, are subject to change based on global health conditions and Saudi Arabian government regulations. It is imperative to consult the latest guidelines from the Saudi Ministry of Health and your local Saudi embassy or consulate regarding required vaccinations and health certifications. Typically, a meningitis ACYW vaccine is required.
• Travel Arrangements: Applicants must have confirmed round-trip airline tickets and confirmed hotel reservations in Mecca and Medina. These arrangements are generally facilitated through authorized Umrah travel agencies.

III. Required Documents for Umrah Visa Application

A complete and accurate document submission is vital for a successful Umrah visa application. The following documents are typically required:

• Passport: Original passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs (typically 2 inches x 2 inches) with a white background. The number of required photographs may vary depending on the agency or consulate.
• Visa Application Form: A completed Umrah visa application form. This form is usually available through authorized Umrah travel agencies or the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah website. Ensure all information is accurate and consistent with your passport details.
• Marriage Certificate (if applicable): If a woman is traveling with her husband, a valid marriage certificate (original or notarized copy) is required.
• Birth Certificate (if applicable): If a woman is traveling with a male relative other than her husband (e.g., father, brother, or son), a birth certificate or other official document proving the relationship is required.
• Proof of Vaccination: A valid vaccination certificate, typically for meningitis ACYW, as per the latest health regulations.
• Confirmed Flight Itinerary: Confirmed round-trip airline tickets.
• Confirmed Hotel Reservations: Confirmed hotel reservations in Mecca and Medina.
• National Identity Card/Residence Permit: A copy of your national identity card or residence permit (if applicable).
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): In some cases, particularly for expatriates working in certain countries, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer may be required. Check with your local Saudi embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
• Bank Statement (Potentially): While not always explicitly required, some agencies may request a recent bank statement to demonstrate financial stability.
• Proof of Funds (Potentially): As with the bank statement, proof of sufficient funds may be requested, especially if the applicant is self-employed or unemployed.
• Police Clearance Certificate (Potentially): In rare cases, a police clearance certificate may be required, particularly if the applicant has a history of criminal activity.

IV. The Umrah Visa Application Process: Step-by-Step

The Umrah visa application process typically involves engaging with an authorized Umrah travel agency, as individual applications are generally not accepted directly by the Saudi Arabian government.

1. Choose an Authorized Umrah Travel Agency: Select a reputable and authorized Umrah travel agency. These agencies are licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and are responsible for facilitating visa applications, arranging travel, accommodation, and transportation. Research different agencies, compare their packages and services, and read reviews before making a decision.
2. Select an Umrah Package: Umrah travel agencies offer various packages catering to different budgets and preferences. These packages typically include visa processing, flights, accommodation, transportation between cities, and Ziyarat (visits to historical and religious sites). Discuss your requirements and preferences with the agency to choose a package that suits your needs.
3. Submit Required Documents: Provide the travel agency with all the necessary documents as outlined in Section III. Ensure that all documents are accurate, complete, and valid. The agency will review your documents and may request additional information if needed.
4. Visa Application Submission by the Agency: The authorized Umrah travel agency will submit your visa application to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah through their online portal. The agency will pay the visa fee and handle the necessary paperwork.
5. Visa Processing: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will review your application and, if approved, issue the Umrah visa. The processing time can vary depending on the season and the volume of applications. Typically, it takes between 1 to 3 weeks, but it can sometimes be longer.
6. Visa Stamping: Once the visa is approved, the travel agency will collect your passport and submit it to the Saudi embassy or consulate for visa stamping.
7. Passport Return: The agency will return your passport with the Umrah visa stamped inside. Carefully review the visa details to ensure accuracy.
8. Travel Arrangements Confirmation: Confirm all your travel arrangements, including flights, accommodation, and transportation, with the travel agency.
9. Health Precautions: Ensure you have received all the required vaccinations and have taken necessary health precautions before traveling.
10. Travel to Saudi Arabia: Travel to Saudi Arabia within the validity period of your Umrah visa.

V. Umrah Visa Validity and Duration of Stay

The Umrah visa typically has a validity period of three months from the date of issue. However, the permitted duration of stay in Saudi Arabia is usually limited to 30 days. Overstaying your visa can result in penalties, including fines, deportation, and future travel bans. It is crucial to adhere to the visa’s validity period and duration of stay.

VI. Umrah Visa Fees and Associated Costs

The cost of an Umrah visa varies depending on several factors, including:

• Nationality: Visa fees may differ based on your nationality.
• Travel Agency: Different travel agencies may charge different fees for their services.
• Umrah Package: The cost of the Umrah package you choose will significantly impact the overall expense. Packages vary in terms of accommodation, transportation, and Ziyarat options.
• Season: Prices tend to be higher during peak seasons, such as Ramadan and school holidays.
• Accommodation: The type and location of your hotel accommodation will affect the cost.
• Flights: Flight prices fluctuate depending on the airline, time of booking, and travel season.

Estimated Costs Breakdown (2024):

• Visa Fee: The official Umrah visa fee is typically included in the Umrah package offered by travel agencies. The actual fee levied by the Saudi government can fluctuate, but generally falls within the range of USD 100-200. This is often bundled into the overall package cost.
• Umrah Package: Umrah packages can range from USD 800 to USD 5000 or more, depending on the level of service and amenities included. Budget packages typically offer basic accommodation and transportation, while luxury packages provide premium hotels, private transportation, and personalized services.
• Flights: Round-trip flight tickets can range from USD 500 to USD 1500 or more, depending on your origin country, airline, and time of booking. Booking flights well in advance can often result in lower prices.
• Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in Mecca and Medina can range from USD 50 to USD 500 per night, depending on the hotel’s star rating, location, and amenities. Hotels closer to the Haram (Grand Mosque in Mecca and Prophet’s Mosque in Medina) tend to be more expensive.
• Transportation: Transportation costs within Saudi Arabia, including airport transfers and travel between Mecca and Medina, can range from USD