Applying for an Umrah visa from India is a straightforward process when you understand current rules and prepare documents correctly. In 2026 Saudi regulations introduced a few important changes — most notably the requirement to pre-book hotels and local transport through approved channels before visa submission. This page explains who is eligible, what documents are required, the step-by-step application flow, expected timelines, recent policy updates you must know about, and practical tips to avoid delays.
Key policy updates (2026) — hotel & transport pre-booking
Important: Saudi authorities now require confirmed hotel reservations and verified local transport bookings (airport transfers / intercity transfers) for Umrah visa applications in 2026. These bookings are verified through the Nusuk / unified platforms or by licensed travel operators; incomplete or unverifiable bookings can delay or reject visa applications.
Who can apply for an Umrah visa?
- Muslims of eligible age who plan to perform Umrah (many nationalities can obtain an Umrah e-visa or use other valid visa types that allow Umrah).
- Minors and elderly pilgrims are allowed, but documents (passport, guardian details) must be in order.
- All applicants must comply with Saudi health and entry requirements (vaccinations etc.). For the latest eligibility checks, always refer to the Saudi embassy/consulate guidance.
Required documents (checklist)
Prepare the following before applying — missing documents are the most common cause of delays:
- Passport with at least six months validity from intended travel date.
- Recent passport-size photographs (as per Saudi specs).
- Confirmed round-trip flight bookings (or tentative flight itinerary) — some operators advise waiting until visa approval to issue non-refundable tickets.
- Confirmed hotel bookings for the full period of stay (check-in & check-out dates must match visa dates) — book through Nusuk/ licensed agents when required.
- Proof of paid visa fee (if applicable via agent) and travel insurance if required by the operator.
- Vaccination certificates (e.g., meningococcal; check for any seasonal/temporary requirements).
Step-by-step application process
- Decide travel dates & package: choose your departure city, dates, and preferred length of stay. If using a customized package, finalise hotels and transport first.
- Book hotels & transport (if required): reserve confirmed hotel rooms and transfers through your licensed operator or the Nusuk system so the details can be verified during visa submission.
- Complete application form: your travel agent or the official e-visa portal will ask for passport details, contact info, hotel and flight info, and vaccination records.
- Submit documents & fees: the operator will submit the application to the unified visa platform; applicants may pay fees via nominated channels.
- Receive e-visa / approval: typical processing time can be rapid (1–3 business days) but may vary by season; airlines such as Flynas indicate 1–3 business days for many Umrah visa types.
- Finalize tickets & travel: once the e-visa is issued, confirm (or issue) final e-tickets and ensure travel documents and Tawakkalna (or other required) health app records are ready for entry.
Processing time & fees
Processing times for Umrah e-visas are generally quick (many applications are approved within 24–72 hours), but peak periods (Ramadan, school holidays) can take longer. Airlines and official portals list variable processing windows; always allow buffer time and avoid last-minute non-refundable purchases.
Using licensed operators vs self-apply
You can apply via an authorised travel operator (recommended) or through the official e-visa/tourist visa channels if they permit Umrah travel. Operators specialise in Nusuk platform bookings, hotel verification and ensuring your application meets Saudi digital checks — which reduces rejections. Licensed operators also bundle visa, hotels and transport so your paperwork is consistent with the new 2026 rules.
Special visa types you may encounter
- Umrah e-Visa (standard): issued for pilgrims specifically performing Umrah or tourist visas that permit Umrah where allowed.
- Stopover/Transit visa: a short-stay visa (up to 96 hours) available in some cases — can permit pilgrims on transit to perform Umrah without a separate permit (check carrier eligibility). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Group visas: organised by licensed operators for large groups; these require consolidated hotel and transport details.
Health, apps & entry requirements
Saudi authorities rely on digital public-health apps (e.g., Tawakkalna and Etmarna) to manage vaccination and permit statuses for pilgrims. Ensure your vaccination record is registered and accessible via the required apps. Confirm the latest health advisories before travel.
Common reasons for visa delays or refusals
- Incomplete or mismatched hotel/transport bookings (dates differ from application).
- Insufficient passport validity (less than six months).
- Unverified or unofficial booking channels — always use Nusuk or licensed agents when the rule applies.
- Missing vaccination proof or wrong photo specs on passport photos.
How UmrahOne.in can help
At UmrahOne.in we assist Indian pilgrims with end-to-end Umrah visa services — from verifying hotel & transport bookings on Nusuk (where required), preparing documents, submitting applications through licensed channels, to tracking e-visa approvals. Contact our visa specialists to get personalised guidance and a pre-application checklist tailored to your dates and departure city.