New Umrah Visa Rules Announced by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah

 

 

Pilgrims from Pakistan planning to Perform Umrah in near future are urged to take note of recent significant visa updates. The Saudi authorities have introduced several changes impacting visa application deadlines, requirements, issuance, and visa processing time too. These Umrah visa updates underscore the importance of staying informed and proactive in managing your Umrah travel arrangements. Your cooperation and understanding are appreciated as we navigate these adjustments together in pursuit of fulfilling your spiritual journey of Umrah. Here's what you need to know:

 

Pilgrims are to be informed that the final date for submitting the Umrah visa applications from Pakistan is 28th April 2024. This visa application deadline was announced by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah recently. It's crucial for all wishful pilgrims to start the application process well in advance to ensure timely processing.

 

For those already in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas, 23rd May 2024 is the deadline for departure. Pilgrims must plan their travel arrangements accordingly to follow to this exit requirement. Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has advised all pilgrims to follow Umrah visa deadlines to avoid violations & fines upon entry or exit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

 

Starting immediately, Umrah visas will be issued on a limited basis within a single day. Also, as per the new rule issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Umrah visas validity has also changed. The Umrah visas from now on will last for three months from the visa issuance date. This Umrah visa validity was earlier calculated from the entry date of the pilgrims into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These adjustments aims to streamline the visa issuance process and enhance efficiency for pilgrims. However, applicants are advised to anticipate potential delays and plan accordingly.

 

The processing time of Umrah visa applications has also been extended from one day to an estimated duration of 2 to 4 days. This decision has been made due to the numerous number of visa applications received by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah during Ramadan. According to an estimate more than 30 million pilgrims from around the world performed Umrah in during this year’s holy month of Ramadan. Pilgrims are encouraged to factor in this extended processing period when arranging their travel plans and accommodations.