Saudi Arabia Launches Annual Umrah Visa with Multiple Entries
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia has introduced a new type of visa that allows pilgrims to visit the Kingdom multiple times throughout the year with a total stay of up to 90 days.
What is the New Umrah Visa and How Does It Work
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia has introduced a multiple-entry Umrah visa that revolutionizes the approach to pilgrimage. The visa is valid for 365 days from the date of issuance and allows pilgrims to make multiple visits without the need to apply for a new visa each time. The total allowed stay is 90 days, calculated cumulatively based on the number of days spent in the Kingdom during each visit. This means that if a pilgrim spends 30 days on the first visit, they have 60 days remaining for subsequent visits during the visa's validity period.
Important Restrictions and Usage Rules
While the new visa provides significant flexibility, there are important restrictions to consider. First, the multiple-entry Umrah visa cannot be used for entry into Saudi Arabia during the Hajj season. This is due to the fact that special rules and procedures apply to pilgrims during the Hajj period. Second, the duration of each service package must not exceed the remaining number of days available on the visa. For example, if you have 20 days left, you cannot book a service package for 30 days. The visa is automatically suspended after each departure from the Kingdom and is reactivated upon subsequent visits after meeting regulatory requirements.
Visa Application Process and Required Documents
To obtain the new multiple-entry Umrah visa, pilgrims must follow a specific procedure through the Nusuk platform. Before each visit, it is necessary to purchase a service package from one of the accredited service providers registered on the Nusuk platform. Additionally, before each entry, pilgrims are required to obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk app, with the permit dates matching the approved service package. All standard travel requirements and entry conditions remain in effect. The process is fully digitized, making it easier to plan and manage multiple visits throughout the year.
Benefits for Frequent Pilgrims
The new visa opens up significant opportunities for pilgrims who wish to perform Umrah multiple times a year. Instead of going through the visa application process each time, believers can now plan multiple visits in advance. This is especially beneficial for those living in neighboring countries or who can afford several pilgrimages throughout the year. The flexibility in distributing the 90 days of stay also allows pilgrims to tailor the duration of each visit according to their personal circumstances and capabilities. Remaining days are automatically carried over to future visits, giving pilgrims full control over their time in the Kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this visa to visit Saudi Arabia during the Hajj period?
No, the multiple-entry Umrah visa cannot be used for entry during the Hajj season. Separate visa procedures and requirements apply for Hajj. This visa is intended solely for Umrah, which can be performed at any time of the year except during Hajj.
What happens to unused days of stay?
Remaining days of stay are automatically carried over to subsequent visits within the visa's validity period (365 days). For example, if you have used 25 days out of 90, you will have 65 days left for future visits before the visa expires.
Do I need to obtain an Umrah permit for each visit?
Yes, a separate Umrah permit must be obtained through the Nusuk app before each entry into Saudi Arabia. The permit dates must match the dates of your booked service package. This requirement remains mandatory for each visit.
