Umrah Visa from Pakistan
What is an Umrah Visa?
The Umrah Visa is a travel permit allowing Muslims seeking to perform Umrah to visit Saudi Arabia. Umrah is a pilgrimage to Mecca that, unlike Hajj, is not mandatory but is highly recommended for Muslim people. Pakistani nationals are eligible to apply for the Umrah Visa if they are Muslim.
In order to apply for the Saudi Umrah Visa from Pakistan, Pakistani nationals must apply through a licensed travel agency. They must hold a valid passport, provide passport-sized photos, complete the application, and show proof of return travel to qualify. The Umrah Visa is valid for 90 days, without an option to extend.
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Umrah Visa Types for Pakistani Citizens
The main visa to perform Umrah for Pakistani nationals is the Umrah Visa. This is a special permit allowing Pakistani nationals to travel to Saudi Arabia specifically for Umrah. The only way to obtain it is through an authorized travel agent. It is valid for 90 days and doesn’t allow residency or employment while in Saudi Arabia.
There is a Saudi eVisa that allows visitors from specific nations to perform Umrah, but Pakistan is not one of them. Pakistani citizens are only eligible for this if they hold a valid visa or residency permit from the US, the UK, or countries within the Schengen Zone, or if they are a GCC resident.
There is additionally a 96-hour Transit Visa that Pakistani nationals can obtain. This permits travelers with a long layover in Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. In order to qualify for this visa you must have an onward flight ticket within 96 hours of landing in the country.
Other ways that Pakistani nationals may perform Umrah is if they are Business Visa or Family Visit Visa holders. Pakistani nationals entering Saudi Arabia on these visas can perform Umrah, but it cannot be their primary purpose of travel. Pakistani nationals who are residence visa holders can also perform Umrah while residing in Saudi Arabia.
Umrah Visa vs. Tourist eVisa: Key Differences
When it comes to the difference between the Umrah Visa and the Saudi Tourist eVisa, there are key differences in eligibility, application process, and validity.
The Umrah Visa is available to all Pakistani Muslims. It must be obtained through an authorized travel agent. This makes the application process involve additional processing time and fees. The 3-month Umrah Visa is valid for 90 days but only allows for Umrah and visits to Mecca and Medina. The processing time for the Umrah Visa is typically several days, usually between 7 and 10.
The Tourist eVisa is only available to Pakistani nationals holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen Visa or residency, or residency in a GCC country. The Tourist eVisa is much simpler and a fully online application. It has faster approval times than the Umrah Visa and is valid for one year, allowing for multiple entries and visits to any city in Saudi Arabia. Alternatively, it can be issued as a single-entry visa, permitting a 30-day visit, depending on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For those that are eligible, the Tourist eVisa is an overall better and more flexible option. If you are not eligible for the Tourist eVisa, the Umrah Visa is the best option for performing Umrah.
Umrah Visa for Pakistani Citizens
The Umrah Visa, valid for 90 days, allows Pakistani nationals to come to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and allows for a single entry. The visa is issued only for religious purposes and does not permit employment or other travel activities.
Umrah Visa Requirements
There are specific Umrah Visa requirements from Pakistan that must be met during the application process.
Valid Passport
your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the application date
Recent Photograph
you must provide a passport-sized photo with a white background
Confirmed Onward Flight
it is a requirement to have a round-trip flight ticket confirming your departure from Saudi Arabia
Proof of Accommodation
proof of your hotel reservations is a requirement
Required Vaccines
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's government requires vaccination against meningitis, polio, and yellow fever. Make sure to have proof of vaccinations during the application process
Visa Fee Payment
Proof of payment of the Saudi Umrah Visa fees from Pakistan is required before the visa can be processed. The cost of the Umrah Visa from Pakistan will differ based on your package and travel agent.
How to Apply for an Umrah Visa from Pakistan
As it is a requirement to apply for the Umrah Visa through an authorized travel agent, the application process is relatively simple.
Choose an Authorized Travel Agent
Apply through a Saudi-approved Umrah tour operator.
Submit Required Documents
The documents required for an Umrah Visa from Pakistan include your passport, passport-size photo, round trip tickets, and other necessary paperwork.
Pay the Visa Fee
Fees vary by agent; ensure payment is made correctly.
Wait for Approval
Processing can take a few days to two weeks.
Receive Your Visa
Once approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.
Umrah Visa Processing Time and Fees
Renewal of Umrah Visa
The Umrah Visa for Pakistani citizens cannot be renewed or extended. If you want to stay in Saudi Arabia longer than the Umrah Visa duration from Pakistan, you must leave the country before the visa expires and redo the Umrah Visa process from Pakistan for a new visa. It is not advised to stay longer than the validity duration of your visa, as overstaying can lead to heavy fines, deportation, or even a travel ban.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes that are often made by Pakistani nationals that cause issues in the Umrah Visa application process. These mistakes are easily avoidable.
Some common mistakes include:
- Incorrect Documentation: Make sure to provide accurate and complete information when filling out your application. Visas are often rejected due to simple mistakes made regarding incomplete or inaccurate information.
- Last Minute Applications: It is best to apply well in advance before your trip to avoid any unforeseen circumstances with the visa application. The application may take extra time during Ramadan or if any information is inaccurate or needs to be verified.
- Using Unverified Agents: Make sure to only use authorized travel agents that are approved by the Saudi Arabian government.
- Non-refundable Bookings Without Visa Approval: It is best to wait for visa confirmation before finalizing flights & hotels. If you must book flights or hotels in advance, it is best to make sure that they are refundable in case your Umrah Visa is not approved.
Tips for Getting an Umrah Visa from Pakistan
To increase your chances of a smooth and successful Umrah visa application, follow these expert tips:
- Apply Well in Advance: Peak seasons (Ramadan) experience higher demand. Typically, the Umrah Visa is approved in 7-10 days but it is advised to apply 4-6 weeks in advance during the peak periods to avoid unforeseen circumstances and delays.
- Choose a Reliable Travel Agent: Make sure you are using only Saudi-approved Umrah travel agencies to prevent fraud and application rejection. It is best to check online reviews and ask for recommendations before selecting an agent. The Umrah Visa cost from Pakistan will vary based on your chosen travel agent.
- Ensure Your Passport is Valid: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel date. You also need to make sure you have at least two blank visa pages available within your passport.
- Provide Accurate & Complete Documents: Double-check your visa application form for any errors or missing information. Make sure it is filled out completely and accurately to avoid any issues during the application process. Ensure that your hotel reservations and flights match the duration of your stay.
- Get the Required Vaccinations Early: It is advised to be vaccinated at least 2 weeks before your departure date. You should carry your vaccination certificate with you in case of any unforeseen circumstances regarding questioning your vaccination status.
- Avoid Non-refundable Flight and Hotel Bookings: You should wait until your visa is approved before purchasing non-refundable flights or accommodation. While a booking may be required by the authorized travel agent you book your Umrah Visa with, you should make sure it is refundable in case your visa is not approved.
- Be Aware of the Validity of your Visa: Umrah Visas are typically valid for 90 days. You should plan your travel dates accordingly and make sure you exit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia before your visa expires to avoid overstaying penalties.
- Check for Other Visa Opportunities: It is advised to check if you are eligible for a different visa that allows you to perform Umrah. Some Pakistani nationals may be eligible to apply for a Saudi Tourist eVisa, which offers a simpler application process and has a cost that is less than the Umrah Visa charges from Pakistan. If you are passing through Saudi Arabia for less than 96 hours, you may be eligible for the Saudi Transit Visa.
- Be Prepared for Immigration and Entry Requirements when Entering Saudi Arabia: When you arrive in Saudi Arabia, you should keep a printed and digital copy of your visa, your passport, your return ticket, and your hotel bookings. Saudi immigration officials may ask for proof that you have sufficient funds to last you through your stay. Make sure to cooperate with immigration officials when entering the country.
- Follow Saudi Arabia’s Latest Travel and Religious Guidelines: Before arriving in the country, make sure that you stay updated on any entry requirements, dress codes, and Umrah regulations.
By following these tips, Pakistani applicants can avoid delays, minimize risks, and ensure a smooth Umrah experience.
Umrah with a Saudi eVisa for Eligible Pakistani Nationals
The Saudi Tourist eVisa is a simple and convenient option for eligible Pakistani nationals traveling for Umrah. Pakistani nationals must hold a valid visa or residency from the United States, the United Kingdom, a country in the Schengen Zone, or be a GCC country resident in order to be eligible for the Saudi Tourist eVisa.
This option allows you to travel the country, visit friends and family, and attend events. The Saudi Tourist eVisa is valid for 1 year, allowing for a stay of up to 90 days per visit, and allows multiple entries into Saudi Arabia. Alternatively, it can be issued as a single-entry visa, permitting a stay of up to 30 days, depending on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Required Documents for a Saudi eVisa Application
In order to apply for the Saudi Tourist eVisa, you must have the following documentation:
Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel date. It should have at least 2 blank visa pages available.
Passport Size Photo
You must be able to provide a copy of a passport-size photo with a white background clearly showing your face.
Completed Application Form
Make sure to fill out the completed online application form completely and accurately.
Proof of Residency
Only Pakistani nationals who are residents or hold valid visas for the US, the UK, or countries within the Schengen Zone, or are residents of a GCC country are authorized to apply for the Saudi Tourist eVisa. Make sure you can provide proof of this when applying.
How to Apply for a Saudi Tourist eVisa
Applying for the Saudi Tourist eVisa is a simple and straightforward process.
Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Provide your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. You should ensure that all your information is complete and accurate.
Pay the Visa Fee
The Saudi Tourist eVisa Fee is 199 USD. You can pay it online via credit or debit card.
Get Your Approved Visa
The processing time is typically between 24 and 72 hours. Once it is approved, you will be sent the visa via email. You should either print it out or save it digitally before traveling.
Saudi eVisa Processing Time and Fees
The Saudi Tourist eVisa is a simple and quick alternative for Pakistani nationals that are eligible. It allows them to perform Umrah, explore Saudi Arabia, and visit loved ones during their visit. It typically takes between 24 and 72 hours for the Saudi Tourist eVisa to be processed. The eVisa fee is $199.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for an Umrah Visa online from Pakistan?
You can apply for an online Umrah Visa from Pakistan through authorized travel agents. The travel agency will handle the visa application for you; however, there is no official Umrah eVisa for Pakistani nationals. You can check your Umrah Visa online in Pakistan through the travel agent that you are booking it with.
Can I book a 90-day Umrah package from Pakistan?
The Umrah Visa is valid for 90 days, and you are only eligible to be in the country for a maximum of those 90 days. The Umrah Visa price is based on this 3-month validity.
Can non-Muslims get the Umrah Visa?
No, non-Muslims are not eligible for the Umrah Visa. The Umrah Visa is open for Pakistani nationals only if they are Muslim.
Can I do Umrah for free?
No, Pakistani nationals cannot perform Umrah for free. All travelers going to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah must pay to obtain their visa and cover all associated costs. While the Umrah Visa costs a fee, the Hajj Visa is free. There is no Hajj Visa price for Pakistani nationals, making it an option if you cannot afford the Umrah Visa.