Umrah Visa Guide: Requirements, Validity and Online Check


Last updated: 04.02.2026

What Is an Umrah Visa

An Umrah visa is an official travel authorization issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that allows foreign Muslims to enter the country for the purpose of performing Umrah. This visa is specifically intended for religious travel and is separate from other types of Saudi visas such as tourist, work, or Hajj visas.

Unlike the Hajj visa, which is issued only during a fixed annual period and under strict quotas, the Umrah visa is available for most of the year. It allows pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia outside the Hajj season in order to perform Umrah rituals in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.

The Umrah visa defines:
  • the purpose of travel as religious pilgrimage,
  • the permitted duration of stay,
  • the geographic scope of travel within Saudi Arabia.

It does not grant the right to work, study, or reside permanently in the country.

Any activities outside the scope of Umrah are considered a violation of visa conditions.
An Umrah visa may be issued in different formats depending on the applicant’s nationality and application method.In recent years, Saudi authorities have introduced digital and online systems that allow many travelers to apply electronically, reducing the need for traditional paper-based processing.

It is important to distinguish an Umrah visa from a Saudi tourist visa. While a tourist visa may allow entry for leisure travel, not all tourist visas automatically permit Umrah. Travelers must ensure that their visa type explicitly allows religious pilgrimage if Umrah is their primary purpose of travel.

Umrah Visa Requirements

Umrah visa requirements are set by Saudi authorities and may vary slightly depending on the applicant’s country of residence and method of application. However, there are general conditions that apply to most travelers seeking an Umrah visa.

Applicants are required to meet documentation, eligibility, and compliance criteria before a visa can be issued. Failure to meet these requirements may result in delays or rejection of the application.

Understanding the requirements in advance helps travelers avoid common issues and ensures that the visa application process proceeds smoothly.
Umrah Visa Requirements

Basic Documents for Umrah Visa


Basic Documents for Umrah Visa
Applicants for an Umrah visa are required to submit a set of basic documents that confirm identity, travel purpose, and eligibility. These documents are reviewed during the application process and must meet official standards.

Commonly required documents include:
  • a valid passport with sufficient remaining validity,
  • a recent passport-sized photograph meeting official specifications,
  • confirmed travel arrangements related to Umrah,
  • proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia.

The passport must typically remain valid beyond the intended stay period. Passports with insufficient validity or visible damage may be rejected during processing.

In some cases, additional documentation may be requested depending on the applicant’s nationality or travel history. Travelers are advised to check specific requirements before submitting their application.

Accuracy and consistency of information across all submitted documents are essential. Discrepancies in names, passport numbers, or travel dates can result in processing delays or denial.

Applicants should also ensure that all documents are submitted through official or authorized channels. Using unverified intermediaries may increase the risk of errors or fraudulent applications.

Eligibility Rules for Umrah Travelers

Eligibility for an Umrah visa is determined by a combination of religious, legal, and health-related criteria. The visa is intended exclusively for Muslim travelers, and applicants may be required to confirm their eligibility as part of the process.

General eligibility rules include:
  • compliance with Saudi entry regulations,
  • adherence to health and vaccination requirements,
  • intention to perform Umrah within the permitted stay period.

Travelers must agree to follow Saudi laws and regulations during their stay.
Violations of visa terms, such as overstaying or engaging in unauthorized activities, may result in penalties or future travel restrictions.

Eligibility rules may also be affected by seasonal regulations or public health measures. During peak periods, additional controls may be introduced to manage the number of incoming pilgrims and ensure safety.

It is the responsibility of the traveler to stay informed about current eligibility conditions at the time of application. Requirements may change, and relying on outdated information can lead to application issues.

How to Apply for Umrah Visa Online

Applying for an Umrah visa online has become the primary method for many travelers due to the introduction of digital visa systems by Saudi authorities. The online process is designed to simplify applications, reduce paperwork, and improve transparency for pilgrims planning their journey.

An online Umrah visa application allows eligible travelers to submit required information electronically without visiting an embassy or consulate. Depending on nationality, applicants may apply directly through official platforms or through authorized service providers that facilitate the process.

The online application process generally focuses on:
  • verifying the traveler’s identity,
  • confirming the purpose of travel as Umrah,
  • validating travel and accommodation details.

Although the process is digital, applicants remain responsible for ensuring that all submitted information is accurate and complete. Errors made during online submission can affect approval or delay processing.
How to Apply for Umrah Visa Online

Umrah Visa Online Application Process

The Umrah visa online application process follows a structured sequence designed to ensure that applicants meet all entry requirements before traveling. While specific interfaces may differ depending on the platform used, the overall logic of the process remains consistent.

The process typically includes:
  • selecting the Umrah visa option,
  • entering personal and passport details,
  • submitting travel-related information,
  • completing health and compliance declarations.

Applicants are required to provide information exactly as it appears on their passport. Any mismatch in spelling, passport number, or date of birth may result in application rejection or the need for resubmission.

Once the application is submitted, it is reviewed electronically. In many cases, applicants receive updates through email or an online account dashboard. Processing times may vary depending on demand and seasonal travel volume.

Online submission does not guarantee immediate approval. Applications are subject to verification, and additional checks may be applied during peak pilgrimage periods.

Travelers are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel dates to account for possible delays.

If approved, the Umrah visa is usually issued in electronic form. Travelers are expected to carry a digital or printed copy of the visa during travel, as it may be requested by airlines or border authorities.

Step-by-Step Umrah Visa Application Guide

The following step-by-step overview outlines the typical stages of applying for an Umrah visa online. While individual platforms may differ, these steps reflect the general structure of the process.

1. Choose an authorized online platform
Applicants begin by selecting an official or authorized service platform that supports Umrah visa applications. Using verified channels reduces the risk of errors or fraud.

2. Create or access an application account
Some platforms require users to create an account to track application status. Others allow direct submission without account creation.

3. Enter personal and passport information
Applicants provide full name, passport number, nationality, and passport validity details. Information must match passport records exactly.

4. Provide travel and accommodation details
Applicants submit intended travel dates and accommodation information associated with their Umrah journey.
5. Review and submit the application
Before submission, applicants should carefully review all entered information to ensure accuracy.

6. Monitor application status
After submission, applicants can track their visa status through the platform or via email notifications.

Applicants are encouraged to keep copies of all submitted information and confirmation messages. This documentation may be useful if follow-up is required or if questions arise during travel.

It is also important to understand that approval of an Umrah visa does not exempt travelers from standard immigration checks upon arrival. Final entry decisions remain subject to compliance with Saudi entry regulations at the time of travel.

Applying for an Umrah visa online provides convenience, but it also requires careful attention to detail. By following the correct steps and using authorized platforms, travelers can reduce the likelihood of delays and ensure that their pilgrimage preparations proceed smoothly.

How to Check Umrah Visa Status

Checking the status of an Umrah visa is an important step after submitting an application. It allows travelers to confirm whether the visa has been approved, is still under review, or requires additional action. This verification helps avoid travel disruptions and ensures compliance with entry requirements before departure.
Saudi authorities provide official digital systems that allow applicants to check their Umrah visa status online.

These systems are designed to be accessible and are commonly used by travelers, airlines, and travel service providers.
Visa status checks are typically used to:
  • confirm visa approval before travel,
  • verify visa validity dates,
  • ensure passport details match visa records.

Travelers are encouraged to check their visa status shortly before departure, even if they have already received confirmation, to avoid last-minute issues.

Umrah Visa Check by Passport Number

One of the most common ways to check an Umrah visa status is by using the passport number provided during the application process.

This method allows applicants to retrieve visa information without needing additional reference numbers.

When using a passport number for a visa check, travelers are usually required to enter:
  • passport number exactly as submitted,
  • nationality,
  • date of birth or passport issue details.

Accuracy is essential. Even minor differences in spelling or number formatting may prevent the system from displaying the correct visa record. Travelers should use the same passport that was used during the visa application.
This method is widely used because it provides quick access to visa information and is supported by official online platforms linked to Saudi immigration systems.

It is important to note that visa records may not appear immediately after application submission. Processing times vary, and newly submitted applications may take time to be registered in the system.

If no record is found, travelers are advised to:
  • wait and check again later,
  • verify that the correct passport details were entered,
  • confirm submission through the original application platform.

Repeated failed searches may indicate that the application is still under review rather than rejected.

Umrah Visa Validity Check Online

Checking Umrah visa validity online allows travelers to confirm how long their visa remains valid and whether it can still be used for entry. This step is particularly important if there has been a delay between visa approval and planned travel.

Online validity checks typically display:
  • visa issue date,
  • visa expiration date,
  • permitted duration of stay.

Travelers should ensure that their travel dates fall entirely within the visa validity period. Attempting to enter Saudi Arabia after the visa has expired may result in denied boarding or refusal of entry.
Online validity checks are especially useful for travelers who:
  • applied well in advance,
  • changed travel plans,
  • need confirmation for airlines or accommodation providers.

Visa validity is distinct from the allowed length of stay. A visa may still be valid for entry even if the permitted stay period is limited. Travelers should review both elements carefully to avoid overstaying.

If discrepancies are found during a validity check, travelers should contact the platform through which they applied or seek clarification from official support channels before traveling.

How to Check Umrah Visa Status Step by Step

The following general steps outline how travelers typically check their Umrah visa status online. While exact interfaces may vary, the process usually follows a similar structure.

  1. Access an official visa status portal
  2. Travelers begin by visiting an official Saudi visa verification platform or an authorized service website.
  3. Select the visa status check option
  4. Applicants choose the option related to Umrah visa or visa verification.
  5. Enter passport or reference details
  6. Required information usually includes passport number and nationality.
  7. Submit the query
  8. After entering the details, the system processes the request and retrieves available visa information.
  9. Review the visa status results
  10. The system displays the current visa status, validity dates, and related details.
Travelers are encouraged to save or print the visa status confirmation after checking.

This information may be useful during airline check-in or upon arrival.

If the system indicates that no visa is found or that the application is pending, travelers should avoid making assumptions and instead recheck closer to the travel date or contact the original application provider.

Checking Umrah visa status is a straightforward but essential step in travel preparation.

Regular verification helps ensure that all visa conditions are met and reduces the risk of unexpected complications during the journey.

Common Issues With Umrah Visa

Despite the availability of online systems, travelers may still encounter issues when applying for or using an Umrah visa. Most problems are related to documentation accuracy, timing, or misunderstanding of visa conditions rather than system errors.

One of the most common issues is incorrect personal information. Errors in passport numbers, names, or dates of birth can prevent visa approval or cause difficulties during status checks. Even small discrepancies may result in delays.

Common application-related issues include:
  • mismatched passport details,
  • expired or soon-to-expire passports,
  • incomplete travel or accommodation information.
Common Issues With Umrah Visa
Source: arabnews.com
Issues With Umrah Visa
These issues often arise from rushed applications or failure to review submitted details carefully.

Another frequent issue involves delays in visa processing. While many Umrah visas are processed quickly, high-demand periods may increase review times. Travelers who apply close to their intended travel date may face uncertainty if processing is not completed on time.

Processing delays are more likely during:
  • peak Umrah seasons,
  • major religious holidays,
  • periods of regulatory updates.
Applying well in advance helps reduce the risk of travel disruption caused by processing delays.

Travelers may also encounter confusion regarding visa validity and permitted stay. A visa may be valid for entry, but the allowed length of stay may be shorter than expected. Misunderstanding this distinction can lead to overstaying, which may result in penalties.
Other commonly reported issues include:
  • difficulty accessing visa status portals,
  • lack of clarity on eligibility rules,
  • problems retrieving electronic visa copies.

In such cases, travelers are advised to rely on official platforms or authorized providers rather than third-party sources with unclear credibility.

FAQ About Umrah Visa

Saudi Arabia is a destination unlike anywhere else - a place where history, nature, and innovation converge. Whether you’re exploring ancient civilizations, savoring local cuisine, hiking through misty highlands, or swimming in crystal-clear Red Sea waters, the Kingdom offers experiences that stay with you long after your journey ends. With so many remarkable visiting places in Saudi Arabia, your adventure can be as relaxing or adventurous as you choose, and every corner of the Kingdom offers something memorable.

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Our author brings extensive on-the-ground experience and a deep understanding of Middle Eastern destinations to her work. Drawing on years of field research and cultural immersion, she provides authoritative insights into the region’s most compelling places to visit, its cultural heritage, and essential travel logistics. Through her writing, Emma is dedicated to crafting clear, reliable, and enriching guidance that helps readers explore the cultural and natural beauty of Saudi Arabia with confidence and informed curiosity.
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