What are the visa requirements for Umrah from the UK?

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As a rule, most foreign pilgrims need to apply for an Umrah Visa to undertake this vital pilgrimage. However, Muslim citizens in the UK possessing a valid passport can book packages for Umrah using a Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa. It is also important to remember that UK citizens approved for an Umrah Visa must also carry travel insurance (mandatory) to cover unexpected medical expenses that may arise during their trip/stay to KSA.
 
To perform Umrah from the UK, you need an Umrah visa. Here are the basic requirements:


  1. Passport: Valid for at least 6 months.
  2. Visa Application: Submit through an approved travel agency.
  3. Flight and Hotel Booking: Confirmed return flight and accommodation details in Saudi Arabia.
  4. Vaccinations: Proof of Meningitis (ACWY) vaccination.
  5. Photographs: Passport-sized photos.
  6. Travel Insurance: Some agencies may require it.
  7. Eligibility: Must be Muslim, and women under 45 should travel with a male mahram (unless in a group with a tour operator).

The visa is typically valid for 30 days. Make sure to check with your agency for any specific additional requirements.
 
As a UK citizen planning to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia, you have several visa options:


  1. Umrah Visa via Approved Agents: Traditionally, pilgrims apply through licensed UK-based Umrah travel agents. Ensure your chosen agent is authorized by the Saudi authorities. citeturn0search3
  2. Tourist e-Visa: Saudi Arabia offers an e-Visa program for tourists, which can also be used for Umrah outside the Hajj season. You can apply online through the official portal. citeturn0search5
  3. Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW): As of August 2023, Saudi Arabia introduced an EVW for UK citizens, allowing single-entry stays of up to 6 months for tourism, business, education, or medical purposes. This can be utilized for Umrah. citeturn0search6

Health Requirements:


  • Meningococcal Vaccination: All Umrah pilgrims must have a valid certificate of vaccination against the ACWY strains of meningitis, administered at least 10 days before arrival. citeturn0search5
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination: If you're arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, a valid vaccination certificate is required. citeturn0search0

Additional Considerations:


  • Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into Saudi Arabia. citeturn0search0
  • Female Travelers: Women aged 45 and above can travel without a Mahram (male guardian) if part of an organized group and with a notarized No Objection Certificate from a male family member. citeturn0search3

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the Saudi Embassy in London or visit official Saudi government websites.
 
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