Is Passport Required for Umrah? Complete Guide for Pakistani Pilgrims 2025

If you’re planning to perform Umrah from Pakistan, you’re probably wondering about the documentation you’ll need. Let’s get straight to the point: Yes, a valid passport is absolutely mandatory for Umrah.

In fact, your passport needs to have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your date of entry into Saudi Arabia. Without meeting this requirement, you won’t be able to obtain an Umrah visa or board your flight.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about passport requirements, visa processes, fees, and documentation for your spiritual journey. Whether you’re applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, this article covers all the essential details Pakistani pilgrims need.

Why Is Passport Required for Umrah?

Saudi Arabia enforces strict travel regulations for international visitors, including pilgrims. Your passport serves as your primary identification document and proof of citizenship. Without it, you cannot:

• Apply for an Umrah visa through authorized travel agents
• Clear immigration at Pakistani and Saudi airports
• Check into hotels in Makkah and Madinah
• Return to Pakistan after completing your pilgrimage

The Saudi government requires all international visitors to hold valid travel documents with sufficient validity. This ensures smooth immigration processing and helps authorities maintain security standards during the sacred pilgrimage season.

What Happens If Your Passport Expires During Umrah?

This is a situation you absolutely want to avoid. If your passport expires while you’re in Saudi Arabia:

• You’ll face serious legal complications
• You may be detained by immigration authorities
• Getting an emergency travel document can take weeks
• You’ll likely incur heavy fines and penalties
• Your return to Pakistan will be significantly delayed

Always check your passport’s expiry date before booking your Umrah package. A good rule of thumb: your passport should be valid for at least 8 months when you apply for the visa.

Pakistani Passport Fees and Types in 2025

Now let’s talk about the costs involved. Passport fees in Pakistan vary based on validity period, number of pages, and processing speed you choose.

Standard Passport Fees

Here’s a complete breakdown of current passport fees for 2025:

Processing Times:

• Normal processing: 21 working days (approximately 3 weeks)
• Urgent processing: 5 working days
• Fast Track (select cities only): 2 working days

*Prices are Tentative. Prices can be changed subject to government policy

E-Passport Option

Pakistan now offers electronic passports (e-passports) with enhanced security features, including an embedded chip containing your biometric information. The e-passport fees are slightly higher than regular passports but offer better international acceptance and faster immigration processing.

For most Umrah pilgrims, a standard 5-year or 10-year passport with 36 pages is sufficient. However, if you’re a frequent traveler or plan multiple trips, consider opting for 72 or 100 pages.

Executive Passport Office Services

If you need your passport faster and prefer premium service, Executive Passport Offices (EPO) operated by NADRA offer expedited processing. Here’s what you need to know:

• Additional service charges: Rs. 3,000 (on top of standard fees)
• Locations: Available in major cities including Lahore DHA, Karachi, and Islamabad
• Benefits: Faster processing, dedicated counters, better customer service
• Processing time: Generally quicker than regular passport offices

Important Note About Current Passport Shortage

Pakistan has been experiencing a passport shortage due to lamination paper supply issues. This has created backlogs at various passport offices. Our advice: Apply for your passport well in advance – ideally 2-3 months before your planned Umrah travel dates.

How to Apply for a Pakistani Passport

Getting your passport is now easier than ever with online services. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Documents Required for Your Passport Application

Before heading to the passport office, make sure you have these documents ready:

For Adults (18+ years):

• Original valid CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) with photocopy
• Previous passport (if renewing) with photocopy
• Fee payment receipt or e-payment confirmation (PSID number)
• Passport-sized photographs: 2×2 inches with white background
• For government employees: No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your department
• For dual nationals: Foreign passport with photocopy
• For lost passports: Police report with previous passport number

For Children and Minors:

• Child Registration Certificate (CRC/Form B) for children under 10 years
• Juvenile Card for children 10 years and above
• Parents’ CNICs and passports
• Birth certificate containing both parents’ names

Online Application Process

1. Visit the official website: Go to https://onlinemrp.dgip.gov.pk/
2. Fill the application form: Provide accurate personal information
3. Calculate and pay the fee: Use the Passport Fee Asaan system to generate your PSID number
4. Make payment: Pay through 1-Link, JazzCash, EasyPaisa, or any bank branch
5. Book biometric appointment: Schedule a visit to your nearest passport office
6. Submit documents and biometrics: Visit the office with all required documents
7. Track your application: Use your token number to check status online

Helpline Numbers:

• National: 051-111-344-777
• International: +92-51-111-344-777
• Available: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Passport Office Timings

• Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Friday: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Weekends: Closed

Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid long queues, especially during peak travel seasons.

Umrah Visa Requirements and Fees for Pakistani Passport Holders

Once you have your valid passport, the next step is obtaining your Umrah visa. Here’s everything you need to know about the Saudi Umrah visa process for Pakistani citizens.

How Much Does an Umrah Visa Cost?

The Umrah visa fee structure for Pakistani passport holders includes multiple components:

Important Points About Umrah Visa Pricing:

• Fees fluctuate based on SAR to PKR exchange rates
• Some agents include transport services in the base price
• Full Umrah packages (visa + hotel + flights) offer better value
• Processing time: 5-10 working days
• Visa validity: 90 days from issue date

Why You Must Use Authorized Travel Agents

Unlike many countries where you can apply for visas directly, Pakistani citizens cannot apply for Umrah visas independently. You must work with a Ministry-approved travel agency that’s registered with Saudi authorities.

These authorized agents handle:

• Complete visa application and submission
• Coordination with Saudi consulates
• Documentation verification
• Visa tracking and delivery
• Mandatory app registrations

Saudi E-Visa for Umrah

Saudi Arabia has introduced a digital e-visa system for Umrah pilgrims. Instead of a physical visa sticker in your passport, you’ll receive an electronic visa that can be printed and presented at immigration.

What You Need to Know:

• All new Umrah applications receive e-visas
• Your travel agent will provide the printed e-visa
• “Okay to Board” stamp is mandatory from your agent
• Keep both digital and physical copies
• Download Tawakkalna and Etmarna apps before arrival

Complete Documentation Checklist for Umrah

Beyond your passport and visa, you’ll need several other documents for a smooth Umrah journey:

Essential Documents:

✓ Valid passport with 6+ months validity ✓ Umrah visa (e-visa printout with Okay to Board stamp) ✓ Vaccination certificates:

• Meningitis (ACWY) – mandatory
• Polio vaccination – required for Pakistani citizens
• Yellow fever (if traveling from endemic countries) ✓ Return flight tickets (required for visa approval) ✓ Hotel booking confirmation ✓ Travel insurance covering COVID-19 (recommended)

Special Requirements:

For Women Pilgrims:

• Women if traveling with a Mahram (male guardian)
• Mahram relationship proof (marriage certificate, birth certificate, CNIC showing relationship)

For Families:

• Marriage certificate (for couples)
• Children’s birth certificates or CRC
• Family Registration Certificate if traveling as a family unit

For Dual Nationals:

• Both Pakistani and foreign passports
• Proof of residency if living abroad

Special Situations and Requirements

Children and Infants

Even newborns need their own passports for international travel. Here’s what you need:

• Infants and children under 10: Original Child Registration Certificate (CRC) or Family Registration Certificate (FRC)
• Children 10-18 years: Updated CRC with fingerprints and photo, or Juvenile Card
• Passport fees: Same as adults – no discounts for children
• Processing time: Same as adult passports

Lost or Damaged Passports

If your passport is lost or damaged, replacement fees are significantly higher:

First-Time Lost Passport (5-year validity):

• Normal: Rs. 9,000 (36 pages)
• Urgent: Rs. 15,000 (36 pages)

First-Time Lost Passport (10-year validity):

• Normal: Rs. 13,400 (36 pages)
• Urgent: Rs. 22,400 (36 pages)

For Second or Third Lost Passports: Fees increase substantially as a deterrent.

What to Do:

1. File an FIR at the nearest police station immediately
2. Obtain a police report mentioning your previous passport number
3. Apply for a replacement passport with all required documents
4. Expect longer processing times for verification

Passport for Domestic Travel in Pakistan

Here’s a common question: Do you need a passport for domestic flights within Pakistan?

Answer: No. Your CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) is sufficient for all domestic air travel within Pakistan. However, you’ll need your passport for:

• All international flights
• Visa applications
• Hotel check-ins abroad
• Currency exchange at international rates

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others’ experiences. Here are the most frequent mistakes Pakistani pilgrims make:

Applying too late: With current passport shortages, some applicants wait 4-6 weeks. Apply at least 2-3 months before your Umrah dates.

Incorrect photo specifications: Many applications get rejected due to wrong photo size or background color. Ensure 2×2 inches with plain white background.

Name mismatches: Your passport name must exactly match your CNIC. Even small spelling differences cause visa rejections.

 Insufficient validity: Applying with a passport that has only 4-5 months validity. Always maintain 6+ months, preferably 8 months.

Missing vaccination records: Saudi Arabia requires proof of meningitis vaccination. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.

 Incomplete documentation: Missing even one document delays the entire process. Use our checklist above to ensure nothing is forgotten.

Using unauthorized agents: Only work with Ministry-approved travel agencies. Check the official list on the Ministry of Religious Affairs website.

Tracking Your Passport Application

Once you’ve submitted your application, you can easily track its status online:

How to Track:

1. Visit: https://onlinemrp.dgip.gov.pk/
2. Enter your 11-digit token number (provided at application submission)
3. View real-time status updates
4. Alternatively, SMS your token number to 9988

Status Updates You’ll See:

• Application received
• Under process
• In printing
• Ready for collection

You can also visit your passport office with your CNIC for status updates if you’ve lost your token number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I perform Umrah without a passport?

No, absolutely not. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity is mandatory for all international travel, including Umrah.

How long does the complete passport and visa process take?

Expect 4-6 weeks minimum. Normal passport processing takes 21 days, and visa processing takes 5-10 days. Apply 2-3 months in advance to be safe.

Is passport required for domestic flights in Pakistan?

No, your CNIC is sufficient for all domestic flights within Pakistan. Passports are only required for international travel.

What if my passport gets rejected?

Common rejection reasons include incomplete documents, poor photo quality, or discrepancies in information. Fix the issues and reapply. Note that fees are non-refundable.

Can I renew my passport and apply for Umrah visa simultaneously?

It’s better to renew your passport first, receive it, and then apply for the Umrah visa. This avoids complications if there are delays.

How many countries can I visit with a Pakistani passport without visa?

As of 2025, Pakistani passport holders can visit 32 countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. This includes destinations like Rwanda, Dominica, and several Caribbean nations.

What’s the difference between Umrah visa and Saudi tourist visa?

Umrah visa is specifically for pilgrimage purposes and must be obtained through travel agents. Saudi tourist e-visa allows general tourism but is not available directly to Pakistani passport holders (unless they hold US/UK/Schengen visas).

Do I need travel insurance for Umrah?

While not always mandatory, travel insurance covering medical emergencies and COVID-19 is highly recommended. Some agents include it in their packages.

Conclusion: Start Your Umrah Journey Today

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual experience, and proper documentation is your first step toward this blessed journey. Remember these key takeaways:

• Your passport must have at least 6 months validity (8 months recommended)
• Budget Rs. 7,700 for a 10-year passport and approximately Rs. 100,000-117,000 for visa fees
• Apply early due to current passport processing backlogs
• Use only authorized travel agents for Umrah visa applications
• Keep all documents organized and make multiple copies
• Get vaccinated and obtain certificates before applying

Don’t let documentation stress hold you back from this sacred journey. With proper planning and the right guidance, the process is straightforward.

Ready to Begin Your Umrah Journey?

KSA Travels specializes in hassle-free Umrah packages for Pakistani pilgrims. We handle everything from passport guidance to visa processing, flights, accommodation, and ground transportation. Our experienced team has helped thousands of pilgrims fulfill their spiritual dreams.

What We Offer:  Complete visa processing assistance  Hotels near Haram in Makkah and Madinah  Comfortable group transportation  Documentation support and verification  24/7 customer support throughout your journey

Contact KSA Travels Today:  

 +92 326 5721234

[email protected]

 Visit: ksatravels.pk

Let us take care of the details while you focus on your spiritual preparation. Your journey to the House of Allah begins with a single step – contact us today!