Umrah Visa Application | Requirement

If you’re looking to obtain an Umrah visa, we’re here to provide you with a complete guide on how to secure it quickly. Just follow each step we outline in detail.

Muslims have the opportunity to fulfill the Umrah pilgrimage by traveling to the sacred city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia and engaging in various religious rites. This journey is open to all Muslims across the globe.

The most important requirement is that pilgrims enter the kingdom with a valid Umrah visa to perform their pilgrimage.

What is an Umrah Visa?

An Umrah visa is a travel authorization provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), allowing you to enter the country to complete the Umrah pilgrimage.

This spiritual journey can be undertaken at any time throughout the year. However, many pilgrims prefer to complete it during the holy month of Ramadan, being equivalent to a minor Hajj.

Who Needs an Umrah Visa?

All international pilgrims are required to apply for an Umrah visa, except for the citizens of the following countries:

• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Qatar

Moreover, as of April 2022, the Saudi government has allowed individuals holding a valid Schengen, US, or UK visa to perform Umrah without acquiring a separate visa.

Umrah Visa Opening Date

All applicants can currently apply for an Umrah visa for the year 2022.

However, due to the ongoing pandemic, only a limited number of visas are being issued. In 2022, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced that 1 million pilgrims will be allowed to perform Umrah, prioritizing foreign pilgrims, with a designated quota for each nation.

Requirements For an Umrah Visa

Here is a list of documents you need to prepare to apply for the Umrah visa:

• Visa application form for Umrah (completed with accurate information)
• A recent passport photo.
• A passport that is valid for at least six months (from the date of your application submission).
• Proof of purchase for a non-refundable flight.
• Evidence that female pilgrims have a mahram (partner, brother, or father).
• Health insurance that covers Covid-19.
• Proof of meningitis vaccination administered within the last three years and at least ten days before travel.
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, etc.).

If you can furnish all of the above-mentioned documents, you can proceed to the next steps.

Keep in mind that applicants with non-Muslim names must provide documentation to prove their Muslim status from local masjids or Islamic organizations.

How To Apply For an Umrah Visa

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to apply for your Umrah visa.

1. Find a Recognized Travel Agency

You will need to contact an accredited travel agent in your country to apply for an Umrah visa. Your travel agent will handle your application and travel itinerary. Most agents will present various packages at different price points so you can choose the one that suits your budget.

2. Gather All Required Documents

Ensure that you provide all necessary documents to your travel agent. They will process the remaining application components.

3. Register on the Umrah Apps

Upon arriving in the country, you need to install the following applications on your mobile device:

1. Tawakkalna app: This app must be downloaded and registered upon entry into Saudi Arabia, as it’s mandatory for tracking immunization records required when visiting hotels, restaurants, and masjids.
2. Etmarna app: Use this app to obtain your prayer permissions and link them to your Tawakkalna account.

Note: The usual processing time for an Umrah visa ranges from five to ten days, depending on your country of residence.

Umrah Visa Fee

As of 2022, the application fee for an Umrah visa varies between $380 and $490. However, costs may differ from nation to nation.

For example, service fees from the US vary from $173 to $220, while fees from the UK are around £89 ($120).

Pilgrims must also cover travel package costs, which brings the overall expense of the Umrah journey to between $1,500 and $2,000.

Umrah Visa Duration

The Umrah visa is valid for two weeks. However, should you perform Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan, you must leave by the last day of Ramadan, regardless of your stay duration.

New Regulations for Umrah Visa

Recently, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia introduced new rules for travelers with an Umrah visa. Here are the key points:

• Unvaccinated pilgrims may still perform Umrah if they can prove they haven’t been exposed to the virus or in contact with infected individuals.
• Travelers from previously banned countries (such as South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, etc.) can now enter Saudi Arabia and perform Umrah.
• Upon arrival, presenting a PCR or rapid antigen test is no longer required.
• Pilgrims are not obligated to undergo quarantine after entering Saudi Arabia.
• Masks and social distancing are not enforced in public places; however, masks may still be required indoors.
• Pilgrims can now pre-order their Umrah permits using either the Umrahna or Tawakkalna apps.
• Registration on the Muqeem app is no longer mandatory upon arrival. Vaccinated individuals are encouraged to register to update their Tawakkalna app with immunization status.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to process an Umrah visa?

The visa processing time generally takes about 10 to 15 days.

Where can I travel with an Umrah visa?

Only individuals with an Umrah visa are permitted to travel to Jeddah, Makkah, and Medina. Attempting to visit other places may lead to arrest, fines, or deportation.

Can I perform Umrah with a tourist visa?

Yes, it is possible to perform Umrah with a tourist visa.

Conclusion

If you plan to visit Umrah, be sure to follow all the stated instructions.

At Ilovesov, we will keep you updated on visa application details.

For further information and queries, please leave a comment below.