How to Apply for Umrah Visa: A Full Step-by-Step Guide for First-Timers
For many people around the world, Umrah is so much more than a trip; it is more of a lifetime dream, an emotional motivation, and a moment we look forward to year after year. It is everything to us, a moment we care so deeply about, plan for well in advance, learn the required rituals to observe in Makkah and Madinah, and pack the necessary Ihram. But, before everything else, and above all, getting the Visa is the first crucial step.
The Saudi government, in the last few years, has done a lot to make the process easier. There are faster online portals for applications, the requirements have been simplified, and we have more flexible visa options than in the past. However, the first-time pilgrim is most impacted by the ease of the process, and for them, the information available online is fairly complicated, and it is either years out of date, minimalistic, or simply too vague and complex.
For that reason, this guide has been created. What you are about to read is the most complete and easy-to-understand visa guide available online for Umrah in 2026 that is up-to-date and in a conversational tone, providing clarity and actionable insights, and great tips that are more than what other sites provide. To take that first step toward your journey, more is required than acquiring a visa.
Let’s get started.
Kinds of Umrah Visas on sale in 2026
Saudi Arabia currently offers 3 types of main visa options for Umrah pilgrims:
Umrah Visa Through Authorized Travel Agents
This is the traditional Umrah visa, specifically issued for religious travel.
It includes:
- 30–90 days validity
- Entry into Makkah and Madinah
- Mandatory health requirements
- Return ticket confirmation
This Visa is the most commonly used by Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi, and African pilgrims.
Saudi Tourist eVisa (Valid for Umrah)
With the introduction of the eVisa that many pilgrims can easily access, Umrah allows applicable for pilgrims from 57 different nationalities in Saudi Arabia. These countries consist of:
- 1-year validity
- Multiple entries
- Stay up to 90 days per visit
- No travel agent required
- For the UK, USA, Canada, EU, Malaysia, Singapore, and other countries, this is perfect.
VOA for Saudi Arabia
- Visa on arrival for Umrah is available for other citizens of the GCC and various other nationalities as well.
- Umrah Visa Requirements for 2026 – Revised
- Please ensure you have the requisite documents in advance
Valid Passport
Your passport must have:
- At least 6 months validity
- Two blank visa pages
Passport-Sized image
Recent image with a plain white background.
Return Airline Ticket
Saudi Arabia requires confirmed round-trip details.
Proof of Accommodation
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings) in Madinah and Makkah. Usually through a travel agency:
- CNIC or National ID Copy.
- For countries like Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, etc.
- Vaccination Certificate
- Current Vaccination Required:
- Meningitis vaccination (ACWY).
A COVID vaccination is not a requirement unless otherwise instructed through seasonal updates.
Step-by-Step: Submission for the Umrah Visa
Below is the simplest breakdown:
Step 1: Select Your Visa Type
Decide whether you’re applying through:
✔ Approved travel agent
✔ Online eVisa
✔ Visa on arrival
For Pakistanis, the travel agent Umrah visa is recommended and the fastest.
Step 2: Get all the Documents Ready
Prepare your passport, picture, ID copies, immunization record, and reservation information.
This vital expedites the visa application process.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
If applying through an agent:
- Fill the Umrah visa form.
- Submit your passport and documents.
If applying online (eVisa):
- Go to visa.mofa.gov.sa or the Saudi unified portal.
- Fill out the digital form.
- Upload documents.
- Pay the fee using a card.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Fees differ by visa type:
- Traditional Umrah visa: $100–$150
- Tourist eVisa: Around $175
- VOA (if eligible): $120–$150
Travel agent packages often include:
✔ Visa
✔ Hotel
✔ Transport
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Processing time:
- Agents: 24–72 hours
- eVisa: 5–30 minutes (super fast!)
- VOA: instant at the airport
You will receive your Visa by email (PDF) or through your agent.
Step 6: Print Your Visa
Always carry:
- Printed visa copy
- Digital copy on phone
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Return ticket
Saudi immigration sometimes checks both physical and digital copies.
How much will an Umrah visa cost in 2026?
The cost depends on:
- Visa type
- Country of residence
- Peak season (Ramadan is the highest)
- Services included
Average breakdown:
- Visa fee: $100–$150
- Agent service charges: $10–$30
- eVisa: $175 including insurance
- Health insurance: included in most cases.
If someone charges more than $150–$180, compare with another agent.
How Long Does Umrah Visa Processing Take?
- Regular Umrah visa (via agent): 1–3 days
- Tourist eVisa: Minutes to a few hours
- Visa on arrival: Instant
- During Ramadan: 3–7 days
- During the off-season: fastest approval
Umrah Visa Age Limit in 2026
Saudi Arabia now allows:
- Adults: 18+
- Minors under 18: Allowed with a guardian
- Seniors: No maximum age
A medical fitness certificate is recommended for elderly pilgrims.
Best Time to Apply for Umrah Visa
If you want smooth travel and cheaper prices, apply:
- 2–3 weeks before travel
- Steer clear of the busiest ten days of Ramadan.
- A- Off-Season: Shawwal, Muharram, Safar
Common Mistakes Pilgrims Don’t Have To Make (And How To Avoid Them)
Mistake 1:
Leaving the Visa Application To the Last Minute
Start by submitting a visa application as soon as possible.
Mistake 2:
Submitting Vague Documentation and Poor Quality Photos, which results in an automatic rejection.
Mistake 3:
Failure To Use Current Information
Information about Saudi policies is subject to frequent revisions; please check for updates in 2026.
Mistake 4:
Opting For Unsanctioned Representatives. Delays or scams may result from this.
Pro Tips to Make Your Umrah Visa Process Easier
- Apply early, especially before Ramadan
- Use a reliable agent
- Maintain all documents in digital format.
- Purchase travel insurance.
- Reconfirm your passport expiry date.
Conclusion
New updates, such as the rapid online application, leniency in Umrah requirements, and different types of visas, will make the acquisition of the Umrah Visa of 2026 easier than ever. As always, however you go about it, whether online or traveling smart through a travel legacy, preparation, as they say, is key. May we be blessed to enjoy an Umrah and live it fully. An experience we cannot wait to begin preparation for and study all that is required for the sacred rituals of Makah and Madinah, including packing the right Ihram, will always remain special for us. But most of all, and most importantly, obtaining a visa is the important first step.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the processing time for an Umrah visa approval?
If you use a travel agent, the processing time would be about 1-3 days, but an e-tourist visa from Saudi Arabia should take around 5 minutes to 30 minutes maximum.
What documents does a person require to obtain an Umrah visa?
You will need:
- A 6-month valid passport
- Passport photos
- National ID Card (CNIC)
- A Return Ticket
- Proof of Hotel Reservation
- Proof of ACWY Vaccination
Can a Muslim go to Saudi Arabia with a tourist e-visa for Umrah?
A Muslim can go to any city in Saudi Arabia, do Umrah, and not exceed 90 days with a tourist e-visa.
How much will the Umrah visa cost in 2025?
For a standard visa for Umrah, it usually costs $100 USD to $150 USD, but for an eVisa for tourists, it can be around $175 USD. If you request an arrival visa to Saudi Arabia, the cost would be between $120 USD and $150 USD. Depending on the nationality and season, the price of the eVisa or arrival visa can be lower or adjusted up.
Is there a maximum age limit for Umrah in 2025?
Are there any restrictions concerning ages? Minors, 18 years of age and under, can take part in Umrah; however, they are required to travel with their parents or legal guardians.
