Umrah Visa from Pakistan: Fees, Requirements & Process

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Are you planning to apply for an Umrah visa from Pakistan but unsure about the process, costs, and requirements? Every year, thousands of Pakistani pilgrims embark on the sacred journey to Makkah and Madinah, and obtaining the right visa is the first crucial step.

Understanding the latest visa policies, eligibility criteria, and travel guidelines can help you avoid delays and ensure a hassle-free experience. With updated regulations in 2025, including extended visa validity and free transit visa options, applying for an Umrah visa has become more accessible than ever.

This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of fees, application procedures, validity, and travel requirements, helping you prepare for your spiritual journey with ease and confidence.

What Is an Umrah Visa?

An Umrah visa is a travel permit issued by Saudi Arabia that allows Muslims to enter the country specifically to perform Umrah. Unlike the Hajj visa, the Umrah visa is available year-round and is easier to obtain. This visa grants access to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, but it does not permit employment or extended stays in Saudi Arabia.

Key Features of an Umrah Visa:

Purpose: Exclusively for performing Umrah, not for work or tourism.
Validity: Usually 90 days from the date of issuance, with a stay limit of 15 to 30 days.
Single Entry: Pilgrims must leave the country before the visa expires.
Application Method: Available through authorized travel agencies or official Saudi e-visa platforms.

Understanding these basics helps ensure a smooth and compliant visa application process for your spiritual journey.

What Are the Requirements for an Umrah Visa from Pakistan?

Obtaining an Umrah visa from Pakistan requires fulfilling specific eligibility criteria and submitting essential documents. Ensuring all requirements are met can streamline the application process and prevent delays.

Key Requirements:

Valid Passport: Must have at least six months of validity from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
Completed Application Form: Available through authorized travel agencies or online portals.
Recent Passport-Sized Photos: Two color photos with a white background, meeting Saudi visa specifications.
Vaccination Certificate: Proof of Meningococcal Meningitis and other required vaccinations as per Saudi health regulations.
Confirmed Travel Plans: Round-trip flight details and hotel booking confirmation.
Proof of Relationship for Women & Children: Women under 45 must travel with a Mahram (male guardian) or provide a notarized consent letter.
Biometric Registration: Mandatory fingerprinting at designated visa centers.

Ensuring these documents are correctly prepared can significantly reduce processing time and increase the chances of visa approval.

How Much Does an Umrah Visa Cost for Pakistani Citizens?

The cost of an Umrah visa from Pakistan varies depending on the type of visa, additional services, and processing speed. It’s crucial to understand all potential fees before applying to avoid hidden charges.

Umrah Visa Fee Breakdown (2025)

Type of Visa	Cost (PKR)	Details
Standard Umrah Visa	37,000 – 52000	Includes basic visa processing
Urgent Umrah Visa (24-hour processing)	Varies	Higher fee due to expedited service
Umrah Visa with Package	150,000+	Includes flights, hotels, transport
Free Umrah Transit Visa (4 days)	Free	For short stopovers in Saudi Arabia

Additional Costs to Consider:

Travel Agency Service Fees: If applying through an agent, service charges may apply.
Health Insurance: Mandatory as per Saudi regulations, included in some packages.
Accommodation & Transport: Not included in a visa-only application.

Always check for updated pricing, as fees may change due to Saudi government regulations or seasonal demand.

How Can You Apply for an Umrah Visa Online?

Applying for an Umrah visa from Pakistan online has become more convenient with digital platforms and authorized travel agencies. The process involves several steps to ensure accurate submission and approval.

Step-by-Step Umrah Visa Application Process:

Choose an Authorized Travel Agency: Applications must be submitted through licensed travel agents.
Complete the Online Application Form: Provide personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
Upload Required Documents: Passport copy, passport-sized photos, vaccination certificate, and flight/accommodation details.
Pay the Visa Fee: The fee varies based on service type (standard or urgent).
Biometric Registration: Complete fingerprint scanning at an authorized visa center.
Receive Visa Approval: Processing typically takes 5-10 days, while urgent visas may be issued within 24 hours.
Download the Visa: Once approved, the e-visa is sent via email for printing and use at immigration checkpoints.

Ensuring all documents are correctly submitted and verifying details can prevent application delays or rejections.

Can You Get an Umrah Visa Without an Agent?

Many Pakistani travelers wonder whether they can apply for an Umrah visa without an agent. While direct applications are not available, the Saudi government provides an alternative option through its official online portals.

Key Points to Consider:

Self-Application via Saudi Platforms: Some travelers may apply through Saudi Arabia’s official e-visa system or government-authorized travel portals.
Licensed Travel Agents Are Mandatory for Most Applicants: Saudi authorities primarily process visas through registered travel agencies to ensure compliance.
Higher Cost Without a Package: Independent applications may cost more due to separate expenses for hotels and transport.
Visa-On-Arrival for Eligible Travelers: Pakistani citizens with valid UK, US, or Schengen visas may qualify for visa-on-arrival, avoiding agent fees.

While it is technically possible to apply through official Saudi platforms, using a trusted agent simplifies the process, ensuring compliance with Saudi requirements.

What Is the Validity Period of an Umrah Visa?

The Umrah visa validity determines the duration you can stay in Saudi Arabia and the timeframe within which you must enter the country.

Umrah Visa Validity & Stay Duration 2025:

Visa Type	Validity Period	Maximum Stay
Standard Umrah Visa	90 days from issuance	15-30 days
Free Transit Umrah Visa	3 months	4 days (96 hours)
Visa-on-Arrival	1 year (multiple entry)	90 days per visit

Important Guidelines:

Pilgrims must enter Saudi Arabia within the visa validity period.
Overstaying the permitted duration can result in penalties or bans.
Extensions are not allowed for standard Umrah visas but may apply for transit or tourist visas.

Understanding the validity and duration ensures proper travel planning and avoids potential fines or legal issues.

What Are the Travel and Stay Guidelines for Umrah Pilgrims?

Saudi Arabia has specific travel and accommodation requirements for Umrah pilgrims from Pakistan. Compliance with these guidelines ensures a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage experience.

1. Travel Guidelines

Approved Airlines: Travelers must book flights with airlines permitted by Saudi authorities, such as PIA, Saudi Airlines, and Emirates.
Mandatory Apps: Download Tawakkalna (for health records) and Nusuk (for Umrah permit and entry management).
Direct & Indirect Flight Rules: Some visas require direct travel, while others allow transit routes.

2. Accommodation Rules

Registered Hotels Only: Pilgrims must stay in Saudi-approved hotels with confirmed bookings before visa approval.
Stay Near Holy Sites: It is recommended to book accommodations close to Masjid al-Haram (Makkah) or Masjid an-Nabawi (Madinah) for convenience.
Group Travel for Women & Elderly: Women under 45 and senior citizens are advised to travel with family or organized groups for safety and ease of movement.

Following these travel and stay regulations ensures a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling journey without administrative complications.

What Are the Common Reasons for Umrah Visa Rejection?

An Umrah visa from Pakistan may be rejected due to various reasons related to documentation, eligibility, or policy violations. Understanding these factors can help applicants avoid delays or denials.

Top Reasons for Umrah Visa Rejection:

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation: Missing passport copies, incorrect application details, or invalid photos.
Passport Validity Issues: Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the travel date.
Vaccination Non-Compliance: Lack of required vaccines (Meningitis, COVID-19, etc.) as per Saudi health regulations.
Travel History Issues: Previous overstays, visa violations, or bans in Saudi Arabia.
Unverified Mahram Details for Women: Women under 45 traveling without a male guardian (Mahram) without proper consent documentation.
Financial Instability Proof: Inability to show sufficient funds for the trip when required.
Errors in Biometric Registration: Incorrect fingerprinting or non-compliance with Saudi Arabia’s biometric data submission.

To avoid rejection, ensure all documents are complete, meet the requirements, and follow the latest Saudi visa guidelines.

What Is the Difference Between an Umrah Visa and a Hajj Visa?

Although Umrah and Hajj visas both allow entry into Saudi Arabia for religious purposes, they have distinct rules and validity periods.

Key Differences Between Umrah Visa & Hajj Visa:

Feature	Umrah Visa	Hajj Visa
Purpose	For performing Umrah	For performing Hajj
Application Period	Available year-round	Only during the Hajj season
Validity	90 days from issuance	Limited to Hajj dates
Maximum Stay	15-30 days	Up to 40 days
Government Restrictions	Fewer restrictions	Strict quotas and approvals
Requirements	Basic travel documents	Special Hajj permit required

The Hajj visa is only issued during the designated Hajj season and follows strict quotas, while the Umrah visa is available throughout the year and is easier to obtain.

What Are the Latest Updates on Umrah Visa Policies?

Saudi Arabia frequently updates its Umrah visa policies to improve the pilgrimage experience and enhance security measures. For 2025, several new changes have been implemented.

Recent Umrah Visa Policy:

Extended Visa Validity: Umrah visas are now valid for 90 days instead of 30 days.
Visa-on-Arrival for Some Travelers: Pakistani passport holders with valid US, UK, or Schengen visas may now apply for a visa-on-arrival.
Free 4-Day Transit Visa: Travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia can apply for a 96-hour free visa to perform Umrah.
Mandatory Online Registration: Pilgrims must pre-register their visit using Saudi apps like Nusuk before arriving.
Expanded Flight Options: More airlines now offer direct and transit flights for Pakistani pilgrims.

Staying updated with these changes ensures a hassle-free Umrah experience and prevents any last-minute travel disruptions.

Conclusion

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual experience, and securing the right visa is essential for a smooth pilgrimage. Understanding the Umrah visa requirements from Pakistan, application process, costs, and travel guidelines can help ensure a stress-free journey.

With Saudi Arabia’s updated policies in 2025, pilgrims now have more flexibility, whether they opt for a standard Umrah visa, an urgent 24-hour visa, or a free 4-day transit visa.

By carefully following the visa guidelines, booking authorized accommodations, and complying with travel regulations, you can focus on your spiritual obligations without logistical concerns.

Whether you are traveling independently or through an authorized agency, thorough preparation will help make your Umrah journey fulfilling and hassle-free.