How to Apply for an Umrah Visa from the UK

Planning Umrah from the UK begins with one practical question: which visa do you need, and how do you apply for it? The answer depends on your passport, the purpose of your journey and the time of year you intend to travel.

For many British passport holders, the process can now be completed online. However, living in the UK does not automatically mean that you qualify under the same rules as a British citizen. If you hold a passport from another country, your eligibility and application route may be different.

This guide explains how to apply for an Umrah visa from the UK, what documents you may need, how online applications work and what affects the total cost. Visa and health rules can change, particularly before Ramadan and Hajj, so always confirm the latest requirements on an official Saudi government website before paying for flights or accommodation.

Quick Answer

British passport holders can normally apply online for Saudi entry permission that allows Umrah outside the Hajj season. Depending on eligibility, this may be a Saudi electronic travel authorisation, tourist eVisa or electronic visa waiver. UK residents travelling on a non-British passport must check the rules for their passport nationality. You will usually need a valid passport, a suitable photograph, contact details, travel information, payment details and any required vaccination evidence.

Do UK Pilgrims Need a Visa for Umrah?

Yes. Travellers from the UK need valid permission to enter Saudi Arabia. The correct option depends on nationality, travel purpose and intended length of stay.

According to the UK Government’s Saudi Arabia entry guidance, eligible travellers may be able to use an electronic travel authorisation for Umrah outside the Hajj season. British citizens may also be eligible for a Saudi tourist eVisa, which permits Umrah but not Hajj.

The important distinction is between travelling from the UK and travelling on a British passport. A UK resident who holds a non-British passport should check eligibility using the nationality shown on that passport. Residence permits and immigration status in the UK may be relevant to some routes, but they do not replace Saudi entry permission.

Before choosing a route, read our comparison of an Umrah visa vs tourist eVisa. It explains how the available options differ and why the cheapest-looking choice may not always be the most suitable one.

Which Visa Can You Use for Umrah from the UK?

Several entry routes may be available, but they are not interchangeable. Always apply through an official portal or arrange the appropriate visa through a reliable travel provider.

The approval document always takes priority over general descriptions. Check the exact validity, permitted stay and number of entries issued to you.

Saudi Electronic Travel Authorisation

Current UK Government guidance states that eligible British citizens can apply online for a Saudi electronic travel authorisation, commonly called an ETA. It may be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season.

The same guidance says that an ETA is valid for 730 days from issue, allows multiple entries and permits a total stay of up to 180 days across that validity period. It does not include health insurance, so travellers should arrange suitable cover separately.

The permission shown on your approved document is what matters. Check its validity, number of entries and permitted stay rather than relying on a screenshot or an old travel post.

Saudi Tourist eVisa

The official Saudi eVisa portal lists the United Kingdom among eligible countries. The tourist eVisa is generally valid for one year, allows multiple entries and permits a total stay of up to 90 days during its validity. It can be used for tourism and Umrah, excluding Hajj.

The eVisa route is popular because the application can be completed online. The UK Government’s Saudi entry guidance states that the tourist eVisa includes health insurance with cover up to SAR 100,000. Pilgrims should still consider additional travel insurance because exclusions, medical conditions and limits may apply.

Our detailed guide to performing Umrah on a tourist visa explains when this route may be appropriate and what pilgrims should check before travelling.

Umrah-Specific Visa

Some pilgrims may need or prefer an Umrah-specific visa arranged through an authorised travel provider. This can be relevant when the traveller is not eligible for a simple online route or wants flights, hotels, transfers and visa support organised together.

Requirements can vary according to passport nationality and current Saudi regulations. A provider may request additional documents or information before submitting the application. Do not assume that another traveller’s approval means your own application will follow exactly the same route.

Electronic Visa Waiver

UK Government guidance also describes an electronic visa waiver for eligible travel, including Umrah outside the Hajj season. It allows a single entry and a stay of up to 180 days. The application requires flight details and should be made at least 48 hours before departure and no more than 90 days in advance. It does not include health insurance.

Because several online permissions now exist, read the conditions carefully before selecting one. The visa with the longest validity is not automatically the best option for every journey.

How to Get an Umrah Visa Online from the UK

For an eligible traveller, the online process is usually straightforward. The exact screens and questions may vary depending on the visa route.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Start by checking the official Saudi visa platform using your passport nationality. Do not choose “United Kingdom” simply because you live in Britain if you travel on another country’s passport.

Also confirm that your intended dates fall outside any Hajj-related restrictions. An Umrah permission, tourist eVisa or ETA cannot be used to perform Hajj. Saudi authorities may restrict travel to Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah or Taif around the Hajj period.

Step 2: Check Your Passport

Your passport should be in good condition and meet Saudi validity rules. Current UK Government guidance says a British passport must expire at least six months after the date of arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Use the passport you will carry on the journey. Your application details must match it exactly, including:

• Full name and date of birth
• Passport number
• Nationality and place of birth
• Passport issue and expiry dates

A missing name, reversed number or incorrect date can delay the application or cause a refusal. Review our guide explaining why Umrah visas get rejected before submitting your details.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Prepare your documents before opening the application. The exact requirements depend on your visa route, but you may need:

• A valid passport
• A recent passport-style photograph
• A working email address
• Accommodation and travel details
• A debit or credit card for the online fee
• Evidence of UK residence if requested
• Vaccination certificates required for Umrah
• Travel insurance if it is not included with your visa

Image and file requirements can be surprisingly fussy. Upload clear documents in the requested format and avoid photographs with glare, shadows or cropped passport edges.

Step 4: Complete the Official Online Application

Complete the form using the exact details printed on your passport. Answer all eligibility and travel questions honestly, select the appropriate purpose of travel and upload the requested documents.

Apply only through an official Saudi portal or use a trusted travel provider. Unofficial websites may charge unnecessary service fees or display outdated requirements.

Step 5: Pay the Applicable Charges

Review the complete price before paying. Depending on the route, the amount may include a government charge, mandatory insurance, VAT, platform fees or provider service fees.

Save the payment confirmation and application reference number. They may be needed if you have to check the status of your application or correct an issue.

Step 6: Download and Check Your Approval

Download the approval as soon as it is issued and check:

• Your name and passport number
• Visa or authorisation type
• Valid-from and expiry dates
• Permitted length of stay
• Number of entries

Keep a digital copy and a printed copy with your travel documents. Approval should be received before you rely on non-refundable bookings.

How Much Does an Umrah Visa Cost from the UK?

There is no single price that applies to every UK pilgrim. The cost depends on the type of entry permission, passport nationality, insurance and whether an agent or travel company handles the application.

A quoted “Umrah visa price” may combine several items:

• Saudi government or authorisation fee
• Compulsory medical insurance
• VAT or payment-processing charges
• Application support or agency fee
• Package administration charges

Currency conversion also affects the amount paid in pounds. For that reason, the final checkout figure on the official application platform is more reliable than a fixed sterling price published months earlier.

When comparing prices, ask for an itemised total. A low headline price may exclude insurance or assistance, while a higher quote may include application handling and support if something needs to be corrected.

The visa is only one part of the travel budget. Pilgrims comparing better hotels and shorter walking distances can review 5-star Umrah packages separately instead of treating the package price as the visa cost.

How Much Does a 21-Day Umrah Visa Cost?

A 21-day Umrah journey does not necessarily require a visa sold specifically as a “21-day Umrah visa.” In many cases, 21 days describes the length of the travel package rather than a separate government visa category.

The visa charge is normally based on the entry route, not simply on whether the traveller stays for seven, 14 or 21 days. A 21-day package may cost more overall because it includes additional hotel nights, transport and services, but the visa element may remain the same.

Before booking, confirm that your permission covers your full itinerary. Never calculate your permitted stay from the package name alone; use the dates and conditions printed on the approved document.

How Much Does an Umrah Visa Cost in 2026?

Visa fees and application systems can change, so a precise 2026 figure should be checked at the point of application. Your total may also differ depending on exchange rates, insurance and service charges.

If a website advertises one universal 2026 price without asking about your passport or visa route, treat it cautiously. Request a written breakdown and confirm whether the price includes insurance and processing support.

For travellers who want flights, accommodation, transfers and application support arranged together, comparing the full package cost is often more useful than comparing visa charges in isolation. Always check exactly what the quoted total includes.

Umrah Vaccine and Health Requirements

Visa approval is only one part of your preparation. Current UK Government guidance says Hajj and Umrah pilgrims must provide proof of a quadrivalent meningococcal vaccination. Other requirements may apply according to your age, health, nationality or countries recently visited.

Health rules can be updated before a pilgrimage season. Check the latest official advice well before departure and speak to a qualified travel-health professional if needed. Our guide to Umrah vaccine and visa requirements for 2026 covers the key checks to make before travelling.

It is also sensible to arrange appropriate travel insurance, carry prescribed medication correctly and keep supporting medical documents with you. The UK Government recommends checking health guidance at least eight weeks before travel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many application problems are preventable. Before pressing submit, make sure you have not:

• Entered details that differ from your passport
• Used a passport with insufficient validity
• Uploaded an unclear or unsuitable photograph
• Selected the wrong nationality or travel purpose
• Assumed that a UK residence permit gives British-passport eligibility
• Booked travel during Hajj restrictions with an Umrah or tourist visa
• Ignored vaccination or insurance requirements
• Paid through an unofficial or unverified website

Give yourself enough time to resolve errors. Although online approvals can sometimes arrive quickly, processing is not guaranteed, and busy periods may create delays.

Demand rises sharply around the holy month, so travellers considering Ramadan Umrah packages should check visa eligibility and passport validity before committing to limited-availability flights or hotels.

Final Checklist Before Travelling

Before leaving the UK, check that you have:

• A passport valid for the required period
• The correct approved visa, ETA or waiver
• Copies of your approval and booking documents
• Required vaccination evidence
• Suitable travel and medical insurance
• Confirmed flights, hotels and transfers
• Checked current Saudi entry and Hajj-season restrictions

Visa rules are not the glamorous part of Umrah planning, but getting them right protects the journey from entirely avoidable drama. Apply through the correct channel, check every detail and keep official documents accessible throughout your trip.

If you would prefer help coordinating flights, accommodation, transfers and the relevant travel documents, compare complete Umrah packages from the UK after confirming the entry route available for your passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for an Umrah visa online from the UK?

Yes, eligible travellers can apply online. The correct portal and visa route depend on passport nationality and travel purpose.

Can a British citizen perform Umrah on a tourist eVisa?

Yes. The official Saudi eVisa portal states that its tourist eVisa permits Umrah but does not permit Hajj.

How long does an online Umrah visa take?

Processing times vary. Apply early and do not depend on immediate approval, especially during Ramadan and other busy periods.

Is there a special 21-day Umrah visa?

Not necessarily. “21-day Umrah” usually refers to the package length. Your permitted stay depends on the conditions of the visa or authorisation issued to you.

Do children need their own Saudi visa?

Yes. Every traveller, including children, needs the appropriate entry permission and travel documents.

Can I perform Hajj with an Umrah visa or tourist eVisa?

No. Hajj requires separate permission, and additional travel restrictions apply during the Hajj season.

How long should my passport be valid?

Current UK Government guidance says a British passport should expire at least six months after arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Is travel insurance included with an Umrah visa?

It depends on the route. UK guidance says the Saudi tourist eVisa includes limited health insurance, while the ETA and electronic visa waiver do not.

Official References

• UK Government: Saudi Arabia entry requirements
• UK Government: Saudi Arabia health guidance
• Official Saudi eVisa portal
• Official Nusuk platform

Visa, entry and health requirements may change. Check the latest official Saudi and UK Government guidance before booking or travelling.