How to Apply for Your Umrah Visa in 2024

Embarking on a spiritual journey to perform Umrah is a cherished desire for many Muslims worldwide. The first step in fulfilling this religious duty is obtaining an Umrah visa. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to apply for your Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia in 2024, covering required documents, visa costs, and detailed steps for a smooth application process.

What Is an Umrah Visa for Saudi Arabia?

An Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia is a special permit issued by the Kingdom to allow Muslims to perform Umrah in the holy city of Makkah. Unlike the Hajj visa, it can be applied for year-round (except during Hajj). The Umrah visa is valid up to 29 April 2025, but the duration of stay with the Umrah visa is 90 days from the date of entry, meaning pilgrims must return within that period.

Who Is Eligible for an Umrah Visa?

Before applying, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria for an Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia:

• Muslim Faith: Only Muslims are eligible for the Umrah visa.

• Age Requirement: Applicants under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.

• Valid Passport: You must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of application.

• Proof of Vaccination (If Required): Current health regulations may change, but as of now, a COVID-19 certificate is not required for Umrah visa applications.
  

Documents Required for Umrah Visa Application

When applying for an Umrah visa for Indians or other nationalities, you will need to gather the following documents:

1. Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least six months of validity from the intended entry date.

2. Recent Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photos with a white background are typically required.

3. Proof of Accommodation: A confirmed hotel booking in Makkah or Madinah is necessary.

4. Completed Umrah Visa Application Form: Obtain this from an authorized Umrah agent or the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah website.

5. Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies is mandatory.

Note: Flight booking is not required at the time of applying for an Umrah visa, though you may need it later for your trip.

How to Apply for an Umrah Visa

We know the visa process can seem overwhelming, but don’t worry — we’ve broken it down into simple steps to make your application as smooth as possible.

Step 1: Choose an Authorized Umrah Travel Agent

To apply for an Umrah visa for Indians or other nationalities, start by selecting an authorized travel agent. These agents work directly with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ensure your application is properly processed.

Step 2: Complete the Visa Application

Fill out the Umrah visa application form provided by your travel agent, ensuring all fields are completed accurately.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Submit your passport, photos, proof of accommodation (hotel bookings), and the completed application form to your travel agent. Ensure that all documents meet the requirements.

Step 4: Pay the Umrah Visa Cost

The Umrah visa cost varies depending on your country of origin and travel agent fees. For Indians, the visa fee usually includes service charges and travel insurance. Check the exact cost with your travel agent.

Step 5: Wait for Visa Processing

The Umrah visa processing time is usually 2-3 working days, but it’s recommended to apply at least 15 days before your journey to avoid any delays.

Step 6: Receive Your Umrah Visa

Once approved, you will get an E-Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia. Verify the details, including the duration of stay and entry validity.

Umrah Visa Validity and Duration of Stay

Your Umrah visa will be valid until April 29, 2025, giving you plenty of time to plan your journey. However, the duration of stay allowed on an Umrah visa is 90 days from the date of entry. This means that you must return to your home country within this 90-day period.

• Single-entry visa: The Umrah visa is a single-entry visa, meaning you can only enter Saudi Arabia once. After you leave the country, the visa expires, even if the 90-day stay is not fully used.

• Multiple-entry visa: If you wish to enter Saudi Arabia multiple times, you will need to apply for a Tourist visa, which allows for multiple entries.

Umrah Visa Cost in 2024

The Umrah visa cost in 2024 varies based on the country and the type of visa. For Indians, the average Umrah visa fee typically ranges between ₹13,000 and ₹17,000 depending on the visa type and travel agency fees.

In addition to the visa fee, you should also budget for flights, accommodation, and other travel expenses.

Tips for a Smooth Umrah Visa Process

To ensure a seamless application process for your Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia, consider these tips:

• Apply Early: Submit your application at least 15 days before your planned departure to avoid any last-minute issues.

• Check Documents Carefully: Ensure that your hotel bookings and all other documents meet the visa application requirements.

• Use Authorized Agents: Always apply through authorized Umrah travel agents to avoid scams or delays.

• Stay Updated on Health Regulations: Follow the latest vaccination and health requirements to ensure you are compliant with current regulations.

Special Umrah Visa Rules for 2024

Saudi Arabia has introduced several updates to its visa policies for 2024. Some key updates include:

• Women Traveling Alone: Women over the age of 18 can now apply for an Umrah visa without needing a male guardian (mahram) if they are part of an organized group.

• Multiple-Entry Visa: If you want the flexibility to enter Saudi Arabia multiple times, you need to apply for a Tourist visa, not an Umrah visa.

• E-Visa for Umrah: Certain countries, including India, may be eligible for an Umrah e-visa, simplifying the application process. Check the official Saudi e-visa website to see if your country qualifies.

Conclusion: Your Path to Umrah in 2024

Applying for your Umrah visa for Saudi Arabia can be straightforward if you follow the correct steps and ensure all requirements are met. From gathering the necessary documents to understanding the Umrah visa cost and eligibility criteria, proper planning will allow you to focus on the spiritual aspects of your pilgrimage. Whether you're applying from India or another country, We at umrahvisa.in are here to support you every step of the way. Your journey to Umrah is not just a trip; it’s a spiritual experience, and we’re honored to help you make it happen smoothly in 2024.