The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a new initiative to streamline the process of obtaining a visa for performing Umrah, the minor pilgrimage. The Umrah e-Visa, also known as the Saudi e-Visa. It allows eligible individuals from specific countries to apply for and receive their visa electronically. This latest development aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. It aiming to enhance the quality of Umrah services and attract a greater number of Muslims to the Kingdom.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched the Nusuk platform for submitting electronic visa applications for Umrah. This convenient online process enables pilgrims to begin their journey to the Kingdom starting from July 19. The ministry also implemented several new regulations. It is including a 63% reduction in insurance fees and an expedited visa issuance process, taking less than 24 hours. Additionally, the duration of the Umrah e-visa has been extended from 30 days to 90 days, with no health requirements.
Eligibility and Validity:
The Umrah e-visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims from eligible countries, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, can apply for this e-visa. Furthermore, GCC residents can also apply for the Umrah e-visa, provided they meet specific requirements.
Requirements:
To apply for the Umrah e-visa, applicants need to complete an online application form on the visa.visitsaudi.com website. The required documents include a valid passport, a recent passport photo, a valid email address, and a debit or credit card for payment.
Additional Requirements for Certain Countries:
Pilgrims from the UK, Tunisia, Kuwait, Bangladesh, and Malaysia must provide their biometric data, including fingerprints, to obtain the Umrah e-visa. This process can be completed using the Saudi Visa Bio app, which allows for visa registration via fingerprints and selfie biometrics, eliminating the need to visit embassies or consulates.
Application Process:
For GCC citizens, the application process involves visiting the MOFA website, logging in to the account, filling out the required information, and uploading the necessary eVisa documents. Upon approval, the Umrah e-visa will be sent via email.
For applicants from other countries, the process includes visiting the visa.visitsaudi.com website, registering or logging in, filling out the online visa application form, paying the visa fee, and receiving the e-visa via email.
Processing Time and Fee:
The Umrah e-visa is typically processed within 5 to 30 minutes. The visa fee is SAR 535 (USD 142) for Umrah or Saudi tourist e-visas, which includes full health insurance. For GCC residents, the cost is SAR 300 (USD 79) plus full health insurance fees.
Umrah e-Visa for 2023 provides a hassle-free and efficient way for eligible pilgrims to perform the minor pilgrimage. However, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah aims to enhance the overall experience and accessibility of Umrah services. It is aligning with the goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. Pilgrims can now embark on their spiritual journey with ease and peace of mind.