Umrah pilgrimage visas: your complete guide 2026–2027
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of year — only Muslims may perform it. Whether this is your first Umrah or your fifth, here's exactly which visa fits your nationality, what it costs, and the documents and dates that matter for 2026–2027.
Check my eligibility
Select your nationality to see which visa applies to you.
No countries match your search.
Based on your nationality:
Required for all Umrah travelers, regardless of nationality or visa type. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before departure and keep your certificate — it's checked on arrival.
Separately, a Visa on Arrival may be available at Saudi airport kiosks — but only to holders of a valid Schengen, US, or UK visa, or residents of the US, EU, or UK. It is not granted by nationality alone.
What do you need to know?
Not planning to perform Umrah? Non-Muslims can still visit Saudi Arabia on the tourist eVisa, but cannot enter Makkah.
Record demand, record numbers: Umrah by the data
Compare your options
Both the Umrah visa and the Saudi tourist eVisa permit Umrah (outside Hajj-season restrictions). For most pilgrims the day-to-day experience is very similar — here's what actually differs.
Umrah Visa
All Muslims worldwide · some nationalities via a licensed agent only
- Single entry — valid 90 days from issue to enter; stay up to 30 days
- Season deadline: depart by Apr 7, 2027 (Umrah visa holders only)
- Travel window Jun 2026 – Mar 23, 2027, excluding the Hajj blackout
- Makkah & Madinah, plus other Saudi cities after Umrah (Nusuk Masar)
- Health insurance included — mandatory, bundled into the visa fee
- Zamzam water (5L) allowance is an official entitlement at Haramain airports
Rawdah visits (Madinah) require a pre-booked Nusuk time slot for every visa type.
Tourist eVisa
66+ eligible nationalities, regardless of religion
- Multiple entries — 1 year validity
- Up to 90 days continuous stay per visit
- Available year-round, in every Saudi city outside the Hajj blackout
- Muslims can perform Umrah — Makkah entry is blocked during Hajj season only
- Health insurance included — certificate issued separately after booking
- No business activities permitted on this visa
Zamzam water is airline-dependent for tourist eVisa holders — confirm with your carrier, as the allowance isn't always enforced.
Non-Muslims can visit Saudi Arabia on the tourist eVisa but cannot enter Makkah or perform Umrah under any circumstances.
Visa on Arrival
Available at self-service kiosks or immigration counters at Saudi international airports — but only to holders of a valid Schengen, US, or UK visa, or to permanent residents of the US, EU, or UK. It is not granted by nationality alone.
UK nationals enter using the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW): single entry, up to 6 months, Umrah permitted outside the Hajj blackout, available to all British nationals regardless of religion.
Why some nationalities must use a licensed agent
For Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi pilgrims, the mandatory-agent route exists because Saudi authorities require pre-confirmed, government-approved hotel and transport bookings before any visa can be issued — and those bookings must go through Nusuk-authorized operators. It's a system built to protect pilgrims from unofficial packages and overcrowding at the holy sites.
“More and more pilgrims are opting for the tourist eVisa, as it gives mostly the same permissions. At iVisa we offer both options — but we especially focus on nationalities like India or Pakistan, who can only apply for the Umrah visa due to current regulations and bilateral agreements. For millions of pilgrims, the traditional Umrah visa isn't optional: it's the only path.”
What you'll need for your Umrah visa
Based on 2026–2027 season requirements from Nusuk. Tourist eVisa and Visa on Arrival applicants: your document list is shorter — see the compare table above.
Passport scan
Valid at least 6 months from your travel date.
Digital photo
Passport-style, white background.
Arrival & departure details
Accurate travel dates required at the time of application.
Full payment for the Masar Umrah eVisa approval
Residency proof
Only if your passport nationality isn't on the standard eligible list but you hold legal residency in the UK, EU, or USA. In the UK: a Share Code from gov.uk. Elsewhere: a physical residence card (EU residence permit, US Green Card, etc.).
Shahadah certificate
Proof of Islam — may be required depending on nationality.
Confirmed airline ticket
Biometrics via the Saudi BIO app
Required for some nationalities before applying — including the UK, Bangladesh, Kuwait, Tunisia, and Malaysia. Submit your biometrics through the Saudi BIO app on your smartphone ahead of the visa application.
Accurate BRN (Masar)
Your Nusuk booking reference number for accommodation in Makkah & Madinah.
Ground transport booking
A confirmed voucher from a Saudi-registered transport company covering airport pickup and transfers between Makkah and Madinah. Required for nationalities applying via an agent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh).
Inbound transfer booking
Confirmed pickup from Jeddah or Madinah airport to your hotel, through a Nusuk-approved operator. Arrival leg only, not a return flight — compulsory, the visa cannot be issued without it.
When can you travel — and when should you apply?
The Umrah season has fixed dates for travel AND for applications. Missing either window means you can't go. These dates apply to the Umrah visa only — tourist eVisa holders can enter Saudi Arabia year-round.
The Umrah visa is valid for 90 days from issue to enter (stay up to 30 days), but the Apr 7 departure deadline overrides individual validity — apply only once your travel dates are confirmed.
- Jun 2026
Season opens
The Hajj blackout lifts and Umrah visas become fully available. June–August is the sweet spot: fast processing (2–3 days), the widest hotel availability near the Haram, and the most competitive prices.
- Jul 2026
Ideal window
Season fully open, minimal congestion. Processing 2–3 days, good hotel availability. Weather is hot — plan rituals for early morning or after sunset.
- Aug 2026
Ideal window
Strong availability, fast processing. Demand is steady, not at peak. Hotels near the Haram have good options at fair rates.
- Sep 2026
Good window
Mid-season, no rush. Temperatures begin to ease. Processing 2–3 days, hotels readily available.
- Oct 2026
Ideal window
Weather improves — cooler mornings make rituals more comfortable. Popular with families. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.
- Nov 2026
Best window
One of the most comfortable months — mild temperatures, manageable crowds, full visa availability. Recommended for families and elderly pilgrims.
- Dec 2026
Good window
Season fully open. If planning Jan–Feb 2027 travel, apply now to stay ahead of Ramadan demand.
- Jan 2027
Last ideal window
Season open, but Ramadan approaches (around Feb 17). Last comfortable month before congestion builds — apply by mid-January if traveling in February.
- Feb 2027
Ramadan season
Ramadan starts around Feb 17. Umrah visas stay open, but demand spikes and hotels near the Haram can fully book. Apply at least 3 weeks early — processing may extend to 5–7 days.
- Mar 2027
Applications close
Applications close Mar 9; last entry into Saudi Arabia is Mar 23. An application filed after Mar 9 won't be accepted for this season.
- Apr 2027
Mandatory departure — Apr 7
Every Umrah visa holder must leave Saudi Arabia by Apr 7, no exceptions, even with days remaining on the visa. Overstaying risks fines up to SAR 50,000, deportation, and a future entry ban.
- May 2027
Hajj blackout
No new Umrah visas are issued during Hajj preparation and pilgrimage. Tourist eVisa holders can still visit Saudi Arabia, but Makkah access may be restricted.
Tourist eVisa holders: none of the dates above apply to you. You can visit any time of year and stay up to 90 days per entry — only Makkah access may be restricted during the Hajj blackout (around May–Jun 2027).
Nationality guides
Most nationalities just need the standard Umrah visa or tourist eVisa process above. These have extra rules worth knowing.
BangladeshUmrah visa only · agent required
Bangladeshi passport holders are not on the tourist eVisa's eligible list, so the Umrah visa is the only route. Applications go through the Masar system via a licensed agent — iVisa can be that agent. Biometrics through the Saudi BIO app are required before applying.
IndiaUmrah visa only · agent required
Indian passport holders are not on the tourist eVisa's eligible list. The Umrah visa is the only route, applied for through a licensed agent with pre-confirmed Nusuk hotel and transport bookings.
IndonesiaUmrah visa only
Indonesian passport holders are not on the tourist eVisa's eligible list — Indonesia sends one of the largest annual Umrah pilgrim cohorts, almost entirely on the Umrah visa route.
NigeriaNAHCON-licensed operator only
Nigerian pilgrims are eligible for Umrah, but only through a NAHCON-licensed Nigerian tour operator. iVisa does not currently process Umrah visa applications for Nigerian nationals.
PakistanUmrah visa only · agent required
Pakistani passport holders are not on the tourist eVisa's eligible list. The Umrah visa is the only route, applied for through a licensed agent with pre-confirmed Nusuk hotel and transport bookings.
Saudi Arabia Expats (Iqama holders)Domestic permit, not a visa
Iqama holders already residing in Saudi Arabia perform Umrah under a Ministry of Hajj & Umrah domestic permit obtained through Nusuk or Absher, not a visa. Rules and quotas are set separately from the visitor Umrah visa described on this page.
UAE & GCC Nationals (UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar)No visa needed
GCC nationals enter Saudi Arabia visa-free to perform Umrah. Outside the Hajj blackout you can travel and perform Umrah at any time, using your national ID at land borders or your passport by air.
Other countriesCheck the eligibility checker above
If your nationality isn't listed here, use the eligibility checker at the top of this page — most nationalities fall into the standard "Umrah visa or tourist eVisa" or "Umrah visa only" result, with no extra process notes.
How much does each visa cost?
Visa fees are set by the Saudi government and updated periodically. Here's what to expect — and why the Umrah visa's price varies so much more than the tourist eVisa's.
Umrah Visa
The government fee is confirmed at the time of application on Nusuk, and fees change seasonally.
- Government visa fee, set by Saudi authorities
- Mandatory health insurance, bundled into the government fee — no separate purchase needed
- Nusuk processing fee — the Saudi government platform's own fee
- Accommodation: Saudi Arabia requires a Nusuk-approved hotel booking reference (BRN) before the visa is issued — iVisa arranges this compliant booking for you
- Inbound transport (mandatory): a confirmed airport-to-hotel transfer through a Nusuk-approved operator, required before the visa is issued
- Plus an agent or visa-service fee where applicable (required for Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi nationals), disclosed upfront at checkout
Visa prices aren't always the same: agents and platforms price against the daily exchange rate, so two people applying for the same visa at different times can pay slightly different amounts.
Tourist eVisa
Total includes the government visa fee, health insurance, and digital service fees. The exact amount varies with the daily exchange rate; fees are set by the Saudi government and subject to change.
- Government visa fee — one fee, the same for every eligible nationality
- Health insurance included — certificate issued separately after booking
- 1-year validity, multiple entries — better value if you'll visit more than once
- No hotel or transport bundle — book accommodation and transfers separately
- Plus an agent or visa-service fee where applicable, disclosed at checkout (self-applying on the official Saudi portal has no service charge)
Why is Umrah visa pricing so hard to pin down? Unlike most tourist visas, it isn't a single fixed number: the final amount depends on nationality, whether you choose a visa-only application or a bundle with hotel and transport, the Nusuk processing tier, and whether a licensed agent is involved — and the base fee is updated at the start of each season. The number you see at checkout on Nusuk or with your chosen service is always the accurate one.
Additional costs to budget for (Umrah visa)
All amounts below are approximate, shown in USD.
- Meningitis ACWY vaccine — typically $50–$120 at a travel clinic
- Makkah hotel premium — prices rise 3–5× during Ramadan
- Ground transport (Haramain express train, buses, taxis)
- Ihram garments and other pilgrimage essentials
- Return airport transfer
- Zamzam water purchase at the airport (roughly $3–5)
Processing times
Timing starts once every required document is submitted and verified correctly — an incomplete application resets the clock.
Apply at least 2 weeks before travel, or 3–4 weeks during Ramadan. Don't book non-refundable flights until your visa is confirmed — the Umrah visa is valid for 90 days from issue to enter (stay up to 30 days), so apply only once your travel dates are set.
Let iVisa handle it for you
iVisa has helped 80,000+ travelers apply for Saudi Arabia visas. We've got your documents, your process, and your back.
- We coordinate your Nusuk BRN (Booking Reference Number) — the hotel and transport bookings required before your visa can be issued.
- After your visa is issued, you book your Umrah ritual permit yourself, directly in the Nusuk app — it takes about 5 minutes on your phone. That step stays with you; we handle the visa file and the BRN.
- Expert review before submission, so errors don't cost you time.
- Transparent, itemized pricing — no hidden charges.
- 24/7 human support via chat, email, and phone.
Questions about Umrah visa requirements? Talk to our team at [email protected]. Media enquiries: [email protected].
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for my Umrah visa myself, or do I need a travel agent?
It depends on your nationality. Most pilgrims can apply directly through Nusuk or a licensed platform like iVisa. Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi nationals must apply through the Masar system via a licensed agent, because Saudi authorities require pre-confirmed hotel and transport bookings before the visa is issued.
What is Umrah?
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of year, unlike Hajj, which happens during a fixed period. Only Muslims may perform Umrah.
Can non-Muslims visit Makkah or perform Umrah?
No. Non-Muslims can visit Saudi Arabia on the tourist eVisa, but Makkah is closed to non-Muslims and Umrah cannot be performed by anyone outside the faith.
Can I perform Umrah on a tourist visa?
Yes, if you're a Muslim holder of the Saudi tourist eVisa from an eligible nationality. Makkah entry is blocked only during the Hajj-season blackout, typically late March to May.
What's the difference between an Umrah visa and a tourist eVisa?
The Umrah visa is single entry, valid 90 days from issue to enter, with a 30-day stay, mandatory bundled health insurance, and a required Nusuk hotel/transport booking. The tourist eVisa is multiple entry, 1-year validity, up to 90 days per visit, with no hotel or transport bundle required. Both permit Umrah outside the Hajj blackout.
Do I need Nusuk to get my Umrah visa?
Yes. Nusuk is the Saudi government's official Umrah and pilgrim-services platform. Your visa file, your BRN (hotel and transport booking reference), and your ritual permit are all issued or booked through it, whether you apply yourself or through an agent like iVisa.
How much does an Umrah visa cost?
There's no single fixed price — it varies by nationality, whether you book a visa-only application or a bundle with hotel and transport, the Nusuk processing tier, and whether an agent is involved. The exact figure is confirmed at checkout on Nusuk or with your chosen service.
Do I need a meningitis vaccine?
Yes. A meningitis ACWY vaccination is required for every Umrah traveler, regardless of nationality or visa type. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before departure and bring your certificate — it's checked on arrival.
Can I extend my Umrah visa in Saudi Arabia?
No. The Umrah visa's stay (up to 30 days) and its Apr 7, 2027 seasonal departure deadline are both fixed. Overstaying risks fines up to SAR 50,000, deportation, and a future entry ban.
I'm a Muslim convert — how do I prove my faith?
Some nationalities' Umrah visa applications ask for a Shahadah certificate as proof of Islam. Requirements vary by nationality and by the platform you apply through — check what's needed for your specific application.
Can I visit other Saudi cities on an Umrah visa?
Yes, after completing Umrah, using the Nusuk Masar feature that extends your visa's reach to other Saudi cities beyond Makkah and Madinah.
When can't I apply for an Umrah visa?
Umrah visas aren't issued during the Hajj blackout (typically late March through May) or after the season's application cutoff, Mar 9, 2027 for the 2026–2027 season. Tourist eVisa holders aren't affected by either date.
Is visa approval guaranteed?
No visa service, including iVisa, can guarantee approval — the final decision always rests with Saudi authorities. iVisa reviews every application for the errors that most often cause delays or rejections before submitting it.
What happens if Saudi authorities reject my application?
Saudi authorities communicate a reason for rejection, and in many cases you can correct the issue and reapply. Contact your visa service or check your Nusuk account for the specific next step in your case.
What does iVisa's service fee cover?
Application review, correct submission through the right official channel, coordinating your Nusuk BRN (hotel and transport booking) where that's part of your visa route, and 24/7 human support. It's disclosed upfront, itemized, and separate from the Saudi government's own fees.
What do I need to do on Nusuk after my visa is issued?
Book your Umrah ritual permit yourself, directly in the Nusuk app — it takes about 5 minutes. iVisa handles your visa file and BRN, but the ritual permit booking is a step you complete personally after arrival.
Can GCC nationals perform Umrah during the Hajj blackout?
GCC nationals don't need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia at all, but Makkah access during the Hajj blackout follows the same restrictions as every other traveler — check current Ministry of Hajj & Umrah guidance close to your travel dates.
My spouse and I are from different countries — do we apply separately?
Yes, each applicant's visa is tied to their own nationality and passport, so you apply individually even when traveling together. Your eligible visa type may also differ from your spouse's if your nationalities fall into different eligibility buckets.
Do I need to pre-book a hotel before applying for my Umrah visa?
Yes. Saudi Arabia requires a Nusuk-approved hotel booking reference (a BRN) before the Umrah visa can be issued. iVisa arranges this compliant booking as part of the application, so you don't need to secure it separately.
Are there different Umrah visa durations, like 20-day or 80-day packages?
No. The Umrah visa itself is a single, fixed product: single entry, valid 90 days from issue to enter, with a stay of up to 30 days. Package or duration options you may see advertised describe the trip/hotel package around the visa, not the visa's own terms.
Are access to Rawdah, Jannat al-Baqi, and Zamzam water guaranteed?
No. Rawdah visits require a pre-booked Nusuk time slot, strictly enforced for every visa type. Zamzam water (5L) is an official allowance for Umrah visa holders at Haramain airports; for tourist eVisa holders it depends on your airline and isn't always enforced.
Important notice
Entry, stay periods, and permitted activities are subject to the terms and conditions attached to the visa and may change without notice. Travelers are responsible for ensuring they comply with all Saudi laws, regulations, health requirements, and immigration rules. Access to religious sites, Rawdah appointments, Jannat al-Baqi visits, and Zamzam water allowances are subject to the policies of the relevant Saudi authorities and may be amended at any time.
Please validate all information — including visa requirements, fees, and procedures — directly with the official KSA authorities before applying. These details can change at any time based on the Saudi government's decisions, and iVisa has no power over them. iVisa is an independent travel document service, not a government agency or embassy — we prepare, check, and submit your application, and you can also apply directly with the government.
