Saudi Visa & Documents
Saudi Arabia has significantly modernised its visa system in recent years. There are now multiple ways to enter the Kingdom for worship, each with different requirements and processes.
Hajj Visa
The Hajj visa is issued exclusively for the Hajj season and is only available through authorised Hajj tour operators in your country. You cannot apply for a Hajj visa independently. Key points:
- Your tour operator handles the visa application as part of your Hajj package.
- You will need to provide your passport (valid for at least 6 months), passport-sized photos (white background, recent), and proof of meningitis ACWY vaccination.
- A Hajj visa is typically valid only for the duration of the Hajj period plus a few days either side.
- Women under 45 travelling without a mahram may face additional requirements depending on their country of origin - check with your operator.
- Saudi Arabia allocates a quota to each country (roughly 1 pilgrim per 1,000 Muslim population). Apply early as places fill quickly.
Umrah Visa (via Nusuk)
Since 2023, Umrah visas for many nationalities are available through the Nusuk app and website (nusuk.sa). This has made the process much easier:
- Download the Nusuk app or visit the website and create an account.
- Apply for an Umrah visa directly. You will need to upload a passport photo and a personal photo.
- The e-visa is typically approved within 24-48 hours.
- The Umrah visa is valid for 90 days and allows a stay of up to 90 days.
- You can also book Umrah permits (to enter Masjid al-Haram) through the same platform.
Tourist Visa for Umrah: Citizens of over 60 countries can obtain a Saudi tourist visa (e-visa or visa on arrival) and perform Umrah on it. You no longer need a specific Umrah visa if your country is eligible for the tourist visa. This is valid for one year with multiple entries, each stay up to 90 days. Apply at visa.visitsaudi.com.
Required Documents Checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from date of travel
- Visa (printed e-visa or visa stamp)
- Vaccination certificate - Meningitis ACWY is mandatory (must be taken at least 10 days before arrival)
- Passport-sized photographs (4x6 cm, white background) - carry several extras
- Flight itinerary and hotel booking confirmation
- Travel insurance (increasingly required and always recommended)
- Medical prescriptions for any medications you carry (especially controlled substances)
Meningitis ACWY vaccination is mandatory. You will not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia without a valid meningitis vaccination certificate. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before departure and carry the International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card).
COVID-19 Rules
As of 2025, Saudi Arabia has removed all COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements for entry. However, policies can change, so check the Saudi Ministry of Health website or your airline’s requirements before travel. It is always wise to carry your vaccination record just in case.