Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa 2025: Eligibility, Application Process & Visa-Free Entry Options
Get ready for a transformative experience in 2025! Saudi Arabia has made it easier than ever to perform Umrah. Now, you can book your spiritual journey with just a few clicks. Whether you are stopping over, visiting family, or seeking spiritual renewal in Mecca, there’s an Umrah visa waiting for you.
Exciting Changes for Umrah Travelers
In 2025, Saudi Arabia welcomes travelers from over 60 countries to apply for an Umrah visa online. Gone are the days of complicated embassy appointments and stressful planning. Instead, you can now secure your visa comfortably from home. The Kingdom has simplified the process, making it more accessible for pilgrims worldwide.
Types of Visas Allowing Umrah in 2025
Several visa types permit Muslims to perform Umrah legally. Here’s a list of the main options:
Electronic Tourist Visa (e-Visa)
- Purpose: Tourism and Umrah (excluding Hajj)
- Validity: 1 year (multiple entries); max stay of 90 days
- Eligibility: Available for 68 countries (including the US, UK, EU, Canada, Japan, and Australia)
- Umrah Allowed: Yes
Visa on Arrival
- Available: At Saudi airports for 68 nationalities or travelers with valid US/UK/Schengen visas
- Max Stay: 90 days
- Umrah Allowed: Yes
Transit Visa
- Purpose: For passengers transiting through Saudi Arabia
- Max Stay: 96 hours
- Umrah Allowed: Yes
Family Visit Visa
- Purpose: To visit family in Saudi Arabia
- Umrah Allowed: Yes (can be converted)
Personal Visit Visa
- Purpose: Issued on invitation from a Saudi citizen
- Umrah Allowed: Yes
Business Visa
- Purpose: For conferences and meetings
- Umrah Allowed: Yes (optional activity)
GCC Residents Visa
- Eligibility: For expatriates living in GCC countries
- Umrah Allowed: Yes
How to Obtain an Electronic Umrah Visa
The Electronic Umrah Visa is specifically designed for Muslims intending to perform Umrah. Here’s how you can apply:
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a Muslim; Umrah is only for Muslims.
- Minimum age: 18 to apply individually. Minors can apply with guardians.
- Women (18–65) may apply without a mahram if joining an authorized group and submitting a notarized No Objection Certificate.
- The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry.
- Proof of vaccination (especially for meningitis) is necessary.
Required Documents
When applying, gather the following:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-sized photo (white background)
- Proof of relationship (for women/children traveling with a mahram)
- Confirmed return flight ticket
- Vaccination certificate for Meningococcal Meningitis
- Completed visa application form
- Hotel bookings or proof of accommodation (for some visa types)
Application Process for the Umrah Visa
Option 1: Through Authorized Umrah Agents
- Visit a licensed Umrah tour operator.
- Submit your passport, photo, and required documents.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Expect processing within 5 working days.
Option 2: Online via Saudi Government Platforms
- Visit the official e-Visa portal.
- Fill out the e-Visa form and upload documents.
- Pay online using a credit card.
- Receive your e-Visa via email, typically within 24 hours.
Visa-Free Entry for Umrah in 2025
Nationals from the following GCC countries do not require a visa for Umrah:
- Qatar
- Bahrain
- United Arab Emirates
- Oman
- Kuwait
Conclusion
In 2025, Saudi Arabia offers multiple pathways to perform Umrah. Whether through an e-Visa or a visa on arrival, the process is designed for convenience. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and prepare your documents in advance. Your spiritual journey awaits—take the first step today!
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