How to Apply for Umrah Visa from Pakistan: Complete 2025 Guide

Want to perform Umrah but feeling confused about the visa process? You’re not alone! Many Pakistani Muslims feel overwhelmed when they first learn how to apply for umrah visa from Pakistan. But here’s the good news – it’s actually much simpler than you think.

I’ll walk you through every single step, share the real costs involved, and give you insider tips that’ll save you time and headaches. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to do to get your Umrah visa approved quickly.

What is an Umrah Visa?

Think of an Umrah visa as your special ticket to visit the holiest places in Islam. It’s an official document from Saudi Arabia that lets you enter the country specifically to perform Umrah.

Here’s what makes it different from other visas:

• Purpose-built for pilgrimage – You can only use it for Umrah and visiting Mecca and Medina
• Valid for 90 days – That’s plenty of time for your spiritual journey
• Single entry only – Once you leave Saudi Arabia, the visa expires
• Cannot be extended – Plan your trip carefully because there’s no extending it

Your Visa Options: Which One Suits You?

Before diving into the application process, you need to know your options. Pakistani citizens have several ways to get to Saudi Arabia for Umrah:

Option 1: Traditional Umrah Visa

This is the most common choice for Pakistani pilgrims. Here’s what you need to know:

Option 2: Saudi Tourist eVisa

This is the easier option, but not everyone qualifies:

You can apply if you have:

• Valid US, UK, or Schengen visa with at least one entry stamp
• Permanent residency in US, UK, or EU countries
• Residency in any GCC country

Benefits:

• Apply online yourself
• Multiple entries allowed
• Valid for 1 year
• Can visit all of Saudi Arabia

Option 3: Transit Visa

Got a long layover? You can use this for a quick Umrah:

• Available for layovers over 12 hours
• Valid for 96 hours maximum
• Free if flying with Saudia or Flynas airlines
• Perfect for quick spiritual visits

Step-by-Step Application Process

Now let’s get to the meat of it – how to actually apply. I’ll break this down into simple steps you can follow easily.

Step 1: Choose Your Authorized Agent

This is crucial because you cannot apply directly. The Saudi government only allows licensed travel agents to process Umrah visas for Pakistani citizens.

What to look for in an agent:

• Licensed by Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
• Registered with Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs
• Good online reviews and recommendations
• Clear pricing with no hidden fees
• Responsive customer service

Pro tip: Don’t just go with the cheapest option. A reliable agent will save you from headaches later.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Here’s your complete checklist. Print this out and check off each item:

Essential Documents:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity remaining)
• CNIC front and back copies
• 2 passport photos (white background, recent)
• Vaccination certificates (Meningitis ACYW135 is mandatory)
• Polio certificate from NADRA

Additional Requirements:

• Return flight booking (can be provisional)
• Hotel reservation proof (your agent usually handles this)
• Bank statement (some agents require this)

Important note: Make sure your passport has at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve chosen your agent and gathered documents:

1. Fill out the application form – Your agent will provide this
2. Submit documents – Either visit their office or send digitally
3. Choose your package – Decide on accommodation and transport options
4. Pay the fees – More on costs below
5. Wait for processing – Your agent submits to Saudi authorities

Step 4: Receive Your eVisa

The good news is that Saudi Arabia now issues electronic visas. Once approved:

• You’ll get an email with your eVisa PDF
• No need to submit your passport for stamping
• Just print the eVisa and carry it while traveling
• It’s linked electronically to your passport

Real Costs You Need to Know (2025 Prices)

Let me give you the straight facts about costs. Prices vary based on your choices, but here’s what you can expect:

Basic Umrah Package Costs:

Visa-Only Option:

If you want to arrange everything yourself:

• Visa fee: PKR 33,600-42,000
• Processing fee: PKR 14,000-28,000
• Total: Around PKR 50,000-70,000

Remember: These prices can change based on:

• Peak season demand (Ramadan costs more)
• Hotel proximity to Masjid al-Haram
• Flight dates and airline choices
• Currency exchange rates

Processing Time: How Long Will You Wait?

Here’s the realistic timeline:

Normal Processing:

• Application submission: 1-2 days
• Saudi approval: 7-14 days
• eVisa delivery: Same day once approved
• Total time: 10-16 days

Peak Season (Ramadan):

• Total time: 3-4 weeks
• My advice: Apply 6-8 weeks early during peak times

Fast-Track Options:

Some agents offer expedited processing for extra fees, but honestly, it’s better to just apply early and avoid the rush.

Insider Tips for Guaranteed Approval

After helping many people through this process, here are my top tips:

Before You Apply:

1. Apply 4-6 weeks early – Don’t wait until the last minute
2. Check your passport expiry – Renew if it expires within 6 months
3. Get vaccinated early – Meningitis vaccine needs time to be effective
4. Choose reputable agents – Ask friends and family for recommendations

During Application:

5. Double-check everything – One wrong digit can cause delays
6. Keep digital copies – Scan all documents before submission
7. Stay in touch with your agent – Follow up regularly but don’t be pushy
8. Have backup documents – Sometimes agents ask for additional papers

Money-Saving Tips:

9. Book during off-peak times – Avoid Ramadan and school holidays
10. Compare multiple agents – Prices can vary significantly
11. Consider Medina extensions – Sometimes packages include this cheaply

Common Mistakes That Cause Rejections

I’ve seen these mistakes trip up many applicants:

Document Errors:

• Blurry or old photographs – Take fresh, clear photos
• Mismatched names – Ensure passport and CNIC names match exactly
• Missing signatures – Check all forms are properly signed

Application Mistakes:

• Wrong travel dates – Be realistic about when you can travel
• Incomplete forms – Fill every single field carefully
• Using unauthorized agents – Only use licensed operators

Timing Issues:

• Last-minute applications – Rushing leads to mistakes
• Expired documents – Check all expiry dates beforehand
• Vaccination timing – Get shots at least 2 weeks before travel

What Happens If Your Visa Gets Rejected?

Don’t panic if this happens. Here’s what you should do:

1. Ask for the reason – Your agent should tell you why
2. Fix the problem – Address the specific issue mentioned
3. Reapply – You can apply again once problems are fixed
4. Consider alternatives – Maybe try for a tourist eVisa if eligible

Most rejections happen due to simple document errors, not because authorities don’t want you to go.

Special Rules for Women Travelers

Important updates for women planning Umrah:

New Freedom (Since 2019):

• Women aged 18-65 can travel without mahram
• No need for male guardian approval
• Can join women-only groups

What You Still Need:

• All the same documents as men
• Modest clothing for the journey
• Extra care with accommodation bookings

This change has made Umrah much more accessible for women, and it’s truly liberating.

Your Journey Starts Now

Getting an Umrah visa from Pakistan isn’t rocket science, but it does need careful planning and attention to detail. The key is choosing the right agent, preparing your documents properly, and applying with enough time.

Remember, this visa is your gateway to one of the most spiritual experiences of your life. Every step you take in this process brings you closer to standing before the Kaaba and feeling that incredible peace that millions of pilgrims describe.

My final advice: Don’t get overwhelmed by all the details. Take it one step at a time, choose a trustworthy agent, and trust the process. Your Umrah journey is waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for Umrah visa directly without an agent?

No, Pakistani citizens cannot apply directly. Saudi Arabia requires all applications from Pakistan to go through authorized travel agents. This isn’t just a rule – it’s strictly enforced. The agents handle the technical submission process and ensure your documents meet Saudi requirements.

How much does an Umrah visa really cost from Pakistan in 2025?

The total cost ranges from PKR 137,000 to PKR 500,000 depending on your choices. A basic economy package (7-10 days) costs around PKR 137,000-200,000, while premium packages can go up to PKR 500,000. If you want visa-only service, expect to pay PKR 50,000-70,000 just for the visa processing.

Can I get Umrah visa during Hajj season?

No, Saudi Arabia temporarily stops issuing Umrah visas during Hajj season (usually from mid-April to mid-June). This prevents overcrowding in holy sites. In 2025, the suspension runs from April 13 to mid-June. Plan your Umrah outside these dates.

What happens if I overstay my Umrah visa?

Overstaying is serious and expensive. You’ll face fines of PKR 700,000 (25,000 SAR) if you stay beyond 90 days. Worse, you might get deported and banned from entering Saudi Arabia in the future. Always leave before your visa expires – there are no extensions available.

Can I perform Umrah multiple times with one visa?

Yes! Your 90-day Umrah visa allows multiple Umrah performances during that period. Many pilgrims do Umrah several times during their stay. However, each time you want to perform Umrah, you’ll need to enter the state of Ihram again, usually from Masjid Aisha (Taneem), which is about 5km from the Haram.