Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa for Citizens of India: Requirements and Application Process

Are you an Indian citizen wanting to perform the Muslim pilgrimage of Umrah? You’ve come to right place. This extensive guide will talk you through the Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa application process for Indians!

If you're from India, you'll need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah or for tourism. While iVisa cannot currently help you apply for the Umrah Visa from India, in this article we will explain:

• If Indian citizens need a visa to perform Umrah

• Which Saudi Arabia Visa you can apply for as an Indian citizen

• What the differences are between the Tourist Visa and the Umrah Visa

• Can Indian citizens apply for a Saudi Arabia Visa online?

• Is there a Saudi Arabia Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens?

• What Are The Saudi Arabia Visa fees for Indians?

• What is the Saudi Visa processing time?

• What is the Saudi Visa validity?

Check our ultimate Saudi Arabia travel guide for more info about attractions, the best time to visit, and transportation.

Do Indian citizens need a visa to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia?

First things first. Yes, Indian passport holders must get a visa for Saudi Arabia to enter the country, for tourism and to perform Umrah.

However, the application process may not seem so straightforward as for many other visas. This is because Saudi Arabia has different eligibility criteria for different nationalities.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa options for citizens of India.

Why go to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah?

Labbayka Allahumma Umrah!

Muslims from all over the world, including India, yearn for the chance to utter those words and follow in the steps of the Prophet, may peace and prayers be upon him, and perform Umrah.

The Umrah journey is an Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, similar to Hajj. However, unlike the Hajj, which has specific dates and rituals that must be followed, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year.

The process of Umrah involves visiting the Kaaba and performing tawaf and Sa’y between Mount Safa and Mount Marwah.

Umrah is significant in Islam due to its spiritual and religious value. It is considered a way for Muslims to purify their souls and seek forgiveness for their sins. It is also a way to demonstrate devotion to Allah and to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who performed the Umrah four times during his lifetime.

Indian citizens planning to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Umrah must have a valid Umrah Visa.

All you need to know about Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa for citizens of India

As mentioned, citizens of India who wish to visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah are required to obtain an Umrah Visa. This is an official travel document issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), allowing you to enter Saudi Arabia to perform the Umrah pilgrimage.

This visa cannot be used to perform Hajj. A separate Hajj Visa is required during this period.

To apply for a separate Umrah Visa, Indian citizens must first determine which Saudi Arabia visa they are eligible for based on the criteria. Keep reading to find out which visa you should apply for and how.

Eligibility criteria for obtaining an Umrah Visa

Unfortunately, Indian citizens cannot apply for a Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa (also sometimes called the Umrah e-Visa) online with iVisa.

To apply for a visa for Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, check the following options:

• If you are a GCC resident, you are eligible to apply for the official Umrah Visa online through the Saudi Arabian government or a tour package.

• Indian nationals who are permanent residents or visa holders of the United States, United Kingdom, or EU/Schengen, may be eligible for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia (conditions apply), or a tour package.

• If you do not meet the above exceptions, you will only be eligible to apply for the Umrah Visa through package option. This can be obtained by booking an Umrah tour package online through one of the reputable and approved service providers, or visiting one of your local approved travel agencies.

Unfortunately, iVisa cannot currently accommodate Umrah Visa applications part of a package, and citizens of India are not eligible for the Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa option we offer.

If you are not a citizen of India, check your eligibility for the Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa with our handy Visa Checker Tool!

Step-by-step guide to applying for an Umrah Visa

To apply for a Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa as an Indian national, you will need to:

• Step 1: Find an approved travel agency in your home country and apply for your visa through them. They will help you prepare your application and plan your trip. The agency will offer several Umrah package options at different price ranges.

These packages usually include accommodation and transport, depending on the package you choose.

• Step 2: Prepare all required documents for the application and submit them to your chosen travel agency. The agency will help you submit your application and keep you up-to-date about the status.

• Step 3: Register on the Umrah apps. Once you enter the country, you need to download two obligatory apps on your phone:

• The Tawakkalna app, which works only in Saudi Arabia and will contain all your vaccination records. You need this to which you need to display when you enter hotels, restaurants, and the masjids.

• The Eatamarna/Nusuk app, which allows you to get prayer permits and have them linked to your Tawakalna.

Documents required for Umrah Visa application

Indian Umrah pilgrims will need the following documents to apply for their Umrah visa:

• Umrah visa application form.

• One recent passport photograph. If you require new photos, use the iVisa passport photo service to get updated passport photos from the comfort of your home.

• Valid passport with a six-month validity period (from when you submit your application).

• Purchased non-refundable flight tickets.

• Evidence of a relationship between female pilgrims and their ‘mahram’ (partner/brother/father).

• Health insurance covering COVID-19 related symptoms as well.

• Proof of meningitis vaccination at least ten days before traveling but not older than three years.

These requirements seem overwhelming. However, remember that even an economy Umrah package already includes visa application, accommodation, transportation, and medical insurance. Your Umrah package agent will assist you with the visa application process.

Alternatively, those applying for a visa on arrival or the official Umrah e-Visa may be required to provide additional documentation, including the relevant residency permits or visas.

Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa costs: what to expect

The Umrah Visa application costs between US$380 to US$490. But, the visa fees vary from country to country.

Additionally, foreign pilgrims must pay for the Umrah travel package, raising the overall cost of Umrah to between US$1,500 to US$2,000.

How long is the Umrah Visa valid for?

The official Umrah Visa is valid for two weeks. But, if you are performing Umrah during Ramadan, you must leave by the last day of the holy month regardless of whether you have stayed for two weeks.

What is the Umrah Visa processing time?

In normal circumstances, an Umrah visa takes five to ten days to finish processing, depending on your country of residence.

However, apply as early as you can, as you still have to book other travel arrangements and gather documents.

Tips for a successful Umrah Visa application

If you are an Indian national planning to apply for an Umrah visa, here are some tips to increase the chances of a successful application:

• Choose an authorized travel agent who is experienced in handling Umrah visa applications for Indian citizens. They can provide you with the necessary guidance and support to ensure a smooth application process.

• Provide accurate and complete information on the visa application form. This includes personal details, travel plans, and contact information.

• Ensure your visa application is submitted well in advance of your intended travel dates. The processing time for the Umrah Visa can vary, and applying at least two months before your planned departure is recommended.

• Be prepared to provide additional documentation or attend an interview if requested by the Saudi embassy or consulate in India.

• Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses and stay in Saudi Arabia. The embassy or consulate may request this as part of the visa application process.

• Follow the guidelines and regulations the Saudi government sets for Umrah pilgrims. This includes adhering to health and safety measures related to COVID-19 and following the rules and rituals of Umrah.

Can I use a Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa to perform Umrah?

Usually, Muslims can also use the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa to perform Umrah outside Hajj period. However, as we mentioned earlier, Indian nationals are unfortunately not eligible to apply for the Tourist e-Visa online.

If you are a citizen of a country that does qualify for this visa, you can perform Umrah with a Tourist Visa, which has several advantages compared to the official Umrah Visa.

For example, you can stay longer in the country for tourism purposes, and it’s issued with multiple entries. Best of all, you can apply through iVisa, making the entire process a piece of cake!

However, please note that there are some other difference between these two visas and what you can and cannot do during your time in Saudi Arabia. Read more [here}(/saudi-arabia/blog/saudi-arabia-umrah-visa-requirements).

iVisa’s Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa application process

Umrah pilgrims who are eligible to apply for a Saudi Arabia Tourist visa, let iVisa help you take the guesswork out of the visa application process with our easy visa application. It can be completed in minutes from your home or office with these three simple steps:

Step 1: Provide basic information about yourself in the application form and your trip and choose your preferred processing time.

Step 2: Double-check all information, and pay for the Saudi Arabia e-Visa Fees using a credit or debit card.

Step 3: Finally, upload the required documents, if needed, and click ‘Submit.’

Then sit back and relax while we do all the hard work for you! The approved visa confirmation will be emailed to you.

Your e-Visa for Saudi Arabia expires a year after the issue. Your maximum stay in Saudi Arabia is 90 days per trip.

Tips for a successful Umrah trip

Once you secure your visa, it's time to prepare for your Umrah trip. Here are some tips for a successful and fulfilling experience:

• Prepare yourself both physically and spiritually. Engage in physical activities, such as walking or jogging, to build stamina for the journey. Also, reflect and increase your spiritual connection through prayer, reciting the Quran, and other religious activities.

• Ensure you are registered on the apps and have confirmed all your travel plans and accommodation.

• Study the rituals of Umrah and the rules and regulations set by the Saudi government. This will help you understand the pilgrimage's significance better and ensure that you are fully prepared for the journey.

• Respect the cultural and religious traditions of Saudi Arabia. Dress modestly and behave respectfully towards the local people and the customs of the Muslim faith.

• Take care of your health and safety. Follow the health and safety guidelines set by the Saudi government, such as wearing masks and practicing social distancing, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Also, take precautions like carrying a first-aid kit and staying hydrated during the journey.

• Be patient and maintain a positive attitude. The journey of Umrah can be challenging at times, but maintaining a positive mindset and having patience can help you to overcome any obstacles or difficulties.

• Focus on the spiritual aspect of the journey. Reflect and connect with Allah through prayer and other religious activities. This will help you to derive the maximum benefit from the pilgrimage and experience a truly fulfilling and meaningful journey.

Who can I contact if I have more questions?

If you have any questions or concerns about the Umrah Visa, Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa, or other travel document, please contact our customer service team, available 24/7 via online chat, or email us at [email protected].

We hope you have a great time in Saudi Arabia, and a fulfilling journey.