Visa Documentation Requirements

Visa Documentation Requirements for Umrah

Planning your Umrah pilgrimage starts with understanding the visa requirements. At Aqdas Travel, we make the visa process simple and stress-free by handling all the documentation on your behalf. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about Umrah visa requirements, the documents needed, and how we support you through every step of the application process.

Understanding the Umrah Visa

The Umrah visa is a special entry permit issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia specifically for Muslims wishing to perform the pilgrimage. Unlike tourist visas, the Umrah visa grants you access to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah for the sole purpose of worship. This visa is typically valid for 30 to 90 days from the date of entry, depending on the type of package you book.

It is important to note that the Umrah visa is separate from the Hajj visa. You cannot perform Hajj with an Umrah visa, and the Umrah visa cannot be used during the Hajj season, which runs from the start of Dhul Hijjah until approximately the 15th of the Islamic month.

Essential Documents Required

To apply for your Umrah visa, you will need to provide several important documents. Gathering these documents in advance helps ensure a smooth and quick visa processing experience.

Valid Passport

Your passport is the most crucial document for your Umrah visa application. The Saudi authorities have strict requirements regarding passport validity:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of travel
• The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps
• Damaged or torn passports will not be accepted and must be renewed before application
• Machine-readable passports are mandatory for all applicants

If your passport is nearing expiration or does not meet these requirements, you should renew it before starting your visa application. Processing a new passport can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.

Passport-Sized Photographs

You will need recent passport-sized photographs that meet specific requirements:

• White background only
• Clear, front-facing image with both ears visible
• No glasses, hats, or head coverings except for religious reasons
• Women must wear hijab but face must be fully visible
• Photographs should be recent, ideally taken within the last six months
• Size specifications: 4cm x 6cm

We recommend having professional photographs taken to ensure they meet all Saudi visa requirements. Poor quality or non-compliant photographs are a common reason for visa delays.

Vaccination Certificates

Health and safety are paramount for pilgrims, and Saudi Arabia requires proof of certain vaccinations:

• Meningitis ACWY vaccine is mandatory for all Umrah pilgrims
• The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before travel
• The certificate must be issued within three years of your travel date for most vaccines
• Additional vaccines may be required depending on your country of origin or recent travel history
• COVID-19 vaccination requirements may apply, so check current regulations

Your GP or travel clinic can administer these vaccines and provide the official certificate. Bring your vaccination records to your visa appointment, as they are essential for approval.

Proof of Accommodation

Saudi authorities require confirmation of your accommodation arrangements in Makkah and Madinah:

• Hotel confirmation letters or booking vouchers
• The accommodation must be in approved hotels near the holy sites
• Full details including hotel name, address, check-in and check-out dates

When you book your Umrah package with Aqdas Travel, we provide all necessary hotel documentation as part of our comprehensive service. This eliminates any confusion and ensures your accommodation meets official requirements.

Return Flight Tickets

You must demonstrate that you have confirmed travel arrangements for your entire journey:

• Confirmed return flight booking from UK to Saudi Arabia
• Complete itinerary showing departure and return dates
• Tickets must show flights to and from approved Saudi airports

As part of our all-inclusive Umrah packages, Aqdas Travel provides complete flight documentation that satisfies visa requirements. We handle all the details so you can focus on preparing spiritually for your pilgrimage.

Additional Documents for Specific Groups

Certain travelers may need additional documentation depending on their circumstances.

For Women Travelers

Women have specific requirements for Umrah travel:

• Women under 45 must travel with a Mahram, who is a male guardian such as husband, father, brother, or son
• The Mahram must provide proof of relationship, such as marriage certificate or birth certificate
• Women over 45 may travel in organized groups without a Mahram, subject to Saudi regulations

For Children

If you are traveling with children:

• Each child must have their own passport and visa
• Birth certificates showing parent names are required
• For children traveling with one parent, a consent letter from the other parent may be needed
• Parental responsibility documents should be carried

For Non-UK Citizens Residing in UK

If you hold a passport from another country but live in the UK:

• Valid UK residence permit or visa showing at least three months validity beyond your return date
• Proof of UK address such as utility bills or bank statements
• Employment letter or proof of ties to the UK

The Visa Application Process

Understanding the application process helps you prepare properly and avoid delays.

Timeline and Processing

Umrah visa processing typically takes between 7 to 14 working days, though this can vary depending on the time of year and volume of applications. During peak seasons like Ramadan, processing may take longer. We always recommend applying at least one month before your intended travel date to allow adequate time.

How Aqdas Travel Helps

As your trusted Umrah travel agency, we handle the entire visa process on your behalf:

• We review all your documents to ensure they meet requirements before submission
• Our experienced team completes the visa application forms accurately
• We liaise directly with Saudi authorities and visa processing centers
• We track your application status and keep you informed throughout
• We notify you immediately when your visa is approved and ready for collection

This comprehensive support means you do not need to worry about complex paperwork, long queues at visa centers, or potential mistakes that could delay your application. We have processed thousands of Umrah visas for UK pilgrims and know exactly what is required.

Visa Fees

Visa fees are included in all Aqdas Travel Umrah packages, so there are no hidden costs or surprises. The fee covers the visa processing, administrative charges, and our professional service. We provide complete transparency about all costs when you receive your package quotation.

Important Reminders

To ensure your visa application proceeds smoothly:

• Check that all your documents are current and meet the specified requirements
• Provide accurate information on all forms, as errors can cause delays
• Ensure your photographs meet the exact specifications
• Keep photocopies of all submitted documents for your records
• Apply well in advance of your travel date
• Inform us immediately if there are any changes to your circumstances

Common Visa Issues and How to Avoid Them

Many visa delays or rejections are preventable. Here are the most common issues:

• Expired or soon-to-expire passports
• Poor quality photographs that do not meet specifications
• Missing vaccination certificates
• Incomplete or incorrect application forms
• Insufficient passport validity period
• Damaged passport pages

By booking with Aqdas Travel, you benefit from our expertise in avoiding these common pitfalls. We check every document thoroughly before submission to ensure everything is in perfect order.

What Happens After Visa Approval

Once your visa is approved, we will notify you immediately. Your visa will either be stamped in your passport or issued electronically, depending on current Saudi procedures. We provide clear instructions about collecting your visa or accessing your electronic visa documentation.

Your approved visa will show:

• Your personal details
• Visa validity dates
• Permitted duration of stay
• Type of visa

Review all details carefully to ensure accuracy. If you notice any errors, contact us immediately so we can resolve them before your departure.

Ready to Begin Your Umrah Journey

At Aqdas Travel, we understand that visa requirements can seem overwhelming, especially for first-time pilgrims. That is why we take care of everything for you. Our comprehensive visa service is included in all our Umrah packages, giving you complete peace of mind.

When you book with us, you are not just getting flights and hotels. You are getting expert guidance, professional support, and the confidence that every detail of your journey is properly managed by experienced professionals who care about your spiritual experience.

Contact Aqdas Travel today to discuss your Umrah plans. Let us handle the visa documentation while you focus on preparing your heart and mind for this beautiful spiritual journey.