How to Apply for Umrah E-Visa from UK: A Complete 2025 Guide

Are you a UK resident dreaming of performing Umrah, the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca? If so, understanding how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK is your first step toward this spiritually enriching journey. In 2025, Saudi Arabia has streamlined the process through its official eVisa portal, making it easier than ever for British passport holders to obtain the necessary permissions. Whether you're planning a solo umrah trip or a family pilgrimage, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every detail—from eligibility to submission tips—ensuring a hassle-free application.

Umrah, unlike the obligatory Hajj, can be performed year-round, and the eVisa allows multiple entries within a year, perfect for repeat visits. With the UK's inclusion in the 66 eligible countries for Saudi's tourist eVisa (which covers Umrah), the barrier to entry is lower than ever. According to the UK government's travel advice, UK citizens must secure an eVisa specifically for Umrah activities outside Hajj season. This blog dives deep into how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK, drawing from official sources like the Visit Saudi portal and Nusuk platform. By the end, you'll be equipped to start your application confidently. Let's embark on this guide together.

What Is the Umrah E-Visa and Why Do UK Residents Need It?

Before exploring how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK, it's essential to grasp what this visa entails. The Saudi Umrah eVisa is an electronic travel authorization issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It's designed for non-Hajj pilgrims, granting access to holy sites like Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina. For UK residents, this eVisa falls under the broader tourist visa category but specifies Umrah as the purpose, ensuring compliance with Islamic pilgrimage regulations.

In 2025, the eVisa is valid for 365 days from issuance, allowing multiple entries with each stay up to 90 days (total stay not exceeding 90 days in the validity period). This flexibility suits busy professionals or families from the UK who might combine Umrah with tourism. Unlike traditional paper visas, the eVisa is digital—delivered via email—and includes mandatory health insurance covering medical emergencies during your stay.

Why is it crucial for UK applicants? Post-COVID, Saudi Arabia mandates eVisas for all non-GCC nationals to track entries and enforce health protocols. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) emphasizes that without it, you'll be denied boarding at UK airports or entry in Jeddah/Riyadh. Plus, integrating with the Nusuk app for ritual bookings makes how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK a seamless precursor to your spiritual plans. If you're eligible (more on that below), this visa transforms your pilgrimage dreams into reality without embassy visits.

Recent updates from Visit Saudi highlight that over 1.5 million UK Muslims performed Umrah in 2024, with eVisa approvals rising 20% due to simplified online processes. So, if Mecca calls, knowing how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK positions you ahead of the curve.

Eligibility Criteria for Applying from the UK

Eligibility is the gateway to how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK. Thankfully, UK passport holders qualify effortlessly under Saudi's eVisa program. As a citizen of one of the 66 eligible nations (including the US, EU, Australia, and UK), you don't need a separate Hajj quota or agent sponsorship—unlike non-eligible countries.

Key criteria include:

• Age and Faith: Applicants must be at least 18 (or accompanied by a guardian if under 18). While not explicitly required, Umrah is for Muslims; non-Muslims may face scrutiny but can apply for tourism.
• Passport Validity: Your UK passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival in Saudi Arabia.
• Residency Status: UK citizens or legal residents (with valid UK visa/stamp) are accepted. Dual nationals should use their UK passport.
• Health Compliance: No active infectious diseases; the eVisa bundles insurance, but proof of vaccinations (e.g., meningococcal meningitis) is recommended via the Nusuk platform.
• No Travel Restrictions: Avoid recent visits to restricted areas (e.g., Israel stamps may flag issues, per FCDO advice).

Women traveling alone no longer need a mahram (male guardian), a progressive 2025 update promoting inclusivity. Families with children over five can all apply together. If you're a UK resident on a student or work visa, include your residency proof. Disqualifiers? Criminal records or prior visa overstay bans—check with the Saudi Embassy in London if unsure.

Meeting these ensures smooth sailing when learning how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK. Pro tip: Use the Visit Saudi eligibility checker tool online for instant verification.

Essential Documents Required for Your Application

Gathering documents is a critical phase in how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK. Saudi authorities prioritize accuracy to prevent delays, so prepare scans in advance. Here's what you'll need:

• Valid Passport: A clear scan of the bio-data page (color, high-resolution, under 2MB).
• Recent Photograph: Passport-sized (4.5x3.5 cm), white background, 80% face coverage, no glasses/headwear unless religious (e.g., hijab). File size: 5-100 KB, JPEG format.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation in Mecca/Medina. Include address and contact details.
• Travel Itinerary: Round-trip flight tickets (e.g., from Heathrow to Jeddah) and estimated stay dates.
• Health Insurance: Automatically included in eVisa, but upload any existing policy if preferred.
• Financial Proof: Bank statements showing sufficient funds (£500+ per person) for your stay—optional but recommended for groups.
• Nusuk Registration: A screenshot or ID from the Nusuk app, linking your Umrah permit.

For UK-specific tweaks: If you're a non-UK citizen residing in the UK, add your UK visa/residency permit scan. Children need birth certificates tying them to parents. All docs must be in English or Arabic; translations cost extra via certified services.

Digital uploads make how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK paperless—scan via apps like Adobe Scan. Double-check for blurriness; rejections often stem from poor-quality photos. With these ready, you're set for submission.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Umrah E-Visa from UK

Now, the heart of our guide: a detailed walkthrough on how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK. This process, via the official Visit Saudi portal, takes 15-30 minutes online. Follow these steps meticulously for 2025 applications.

Step 1: Access the Official Portal

Head to visa.visitsaudi.com, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism's eVisa site. Create an account using your email and a strong password. Verify via OTP sent to your UK mobile. Why here? It's the sole authorized platform—avoid third-party sites to dodge scams.

Step 2: Start Your Application

Click "Apply Now" and select "Tourist eVisa." Specify "Umrah Pilgrimage" as your purpose—this flags it for holy site access. Enter personal details: full name (as in passport), DOB, nationality (UK), passport number, and issue/expiry dates. Link your Nusuk account if booked a package; otherwise, register at umrah.nusuk.sa first for ritual permits.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Attach your scanned passport, photo, accommodation proof, and itinerary. The portal guides formats—e.g., PDF/JPEG under 2MB. For families, apply as a group under the primary applicant's profile. UK tip: Use GBP for any conversions shown.

Step 4: Review and Pay Fees

Double-check entries; errors lead to denials. Pay via Visa/Mastercard (UK cards accepted seamlessly). Receive a payment receipt—save it!

Step 5: Submit and Track

Hit submit; you'll get a reference number. Track status in your dashboard or via email. Approval? Download the eVisa PDF (print a copy). Integrate it into your Nusuk app for QR-code entry at airports.

Processing: 1-3 business days, faster during off-peak (avoid Ramadan rushes). If rejected (rare for UK applicants), appeal via the portal with corrections.

This blueprint demystifies how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK. For packages, Nusuk handles visa facilitation post-booking, bundling flights/hotels. Pro travelers: Apply 4-6 weeks pre-departure for buffers.

Costs Involved and Processing Timeline

Budgeting is key when figuring how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK. The eVisa fee is SAR 535 (~£110 or $140 USD as of October 2025), covering issuance and insurance. No hidden charges on the official site, but add £20-50 for Nusuk packages if opting for guided tours.

Processing timeline: Instant to 72 hours—90% approved within 24 hours for UK applicants. Delays spike during Hajj (June 2025) or Eid; apply early. Overstay fines? Up to SAR 10,000 (£2,000), so track expiry via the app.

Affordable extensions aren't possible; reapply for new trips. Compare: Traditional visas via agents cost £200+, making eVisa the smart choice for how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK.

Pro Tips for a Successful Umrah E-Visa Application from the UK

Maximize success in how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK with these expert tips. First, use a stable UK broadband connection—mobile data glitches mid-upload. Second, prepare vaccinations early: Meningitis jab at your GP (NHS covers some). Third, join UK Umrah forums on Reddit (r/Umrah) for real-time 2025 updates.

Pack light: eVisa means no embassy queues, but carry printed copies. For families, designate one adult as lead applicant. Eco-tip: Choose sustainable Nusuk packages reducing carbon footprints.

Monitor FCDO alerts for geopolitical shifts. With these, your application sails through, paving the way for tawaf around the Kaaba.

Common Pitfalls to Sidestep

Avoid photo mismatches (common rejection reason) or expired passports when learning how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK. Don't forget Nusuk linkage—it's mandatory for site entry post-2025 rules.

Conclusion: Start Your Journey Today

Mastering how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK unlocks profound spiritual rewards. With straightforward online steps, affordable fees, and UK-friendly policies, 2025 is prime for your pilgrimage. Whether solo or with loved ones, let this guide be your compass. Visit visa.visitsaudi.com now—your Umrah awaits. Safe travels, and may Allah accept your ibadah.

Once your eVisa is secured, the next essential step is finding the perfect hotels in Makkah that align with your spiritual journey. That's where HotelsInMakkah.com shines as your go-to platform for seamless Umrah accommodations. Specializing in hotels near Haram, this dedicated site connects UK pilgrims like you with top-tier options in the holy city, ensuring you're just steps away from Masjid Al-Haram for those cherished Tawaf moments.

Why Choose HotelsInMakkah.com for Your Umrah Stay?

As a premier resource for pilgrimage hotels and holy city hotels, HotelsInMakkah.com stands out by offering the best prices on a curated selection of Makkah hotels and even Madinah hotels for a complete itinerary. Here's what makes it indispensable:

• Unbeatable Proximity and Variety: Filter by distance to the Haram— from luxurious 5-star gems like Jabal Omar Marriott (0.7 km away) to budget-friendly picks like Emaar Al Manar (0.8 km). Whether you need family suites, Haram-view rooms, or Umrah accommodation with shuttle services, their listings cover everything from Al Kiswah Towers to Mövenpick Hajar Tower, all verified for pilgrim convenience.

• Guaranteed Best Prices and Deals: Tired of inflated rates during peak seasons? HotelsInMakkah.com locks in exclusive discounts—up to 30% off standard bookings—tailored for UK travelers. Starting from just $36/night for value stays to $150+ for premium experiences, you'll save without compromising on comfort, cleanliness, or amenities like prayer rooms and Halal dining.

• Hassle-Free Booking for UK Pilgrims: Designed with you in mind, the site features a user-friendly interface with GBP pricing, real-time availability, and secure payments via UK cards. Integrate your Nusuk bookings effortlessly, read authentic reviews from fellow British pilgrims, and enjoy 24/7 support. Plus, their Umrah packages bundle hotels with visas and transfers for a one-stop solution.

Backed by glowing reviews—"Easiest way to book near the Haram without the hassle!"—HotelsInMakkah.com isn't just a booking site; it's your trusted partner for a peaceful, affordable pilgrimage. Head over to www.hotelsinmakkah.com today, enter your dates, and secure your spot with the best prices guaranteed. Your sacred stay awaits!

For more pilgrimage insights, explore our blogs on best Umrah packages from UK or Hajj visa guide. Share your experiences in comments—have you booked via HotelsInMakkah.com yet? We'd love to hear!.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I apply for Umrah e-visa on arrival from the UK?

A: Yes, at Jeddah airport, but pre-apply online for smoother how to apply for Umrah e-visa from UK.

Q: Is group application possible?

A: Absolutely—link family under one profile.

Q: What if my application is delayed?

A: Contact [email protected]; UK helpline via Saudi Embassy London.

Also Read: Plan Your Umrah with Ease

Enhance your Umrah journey with these essential reads for UK pilgrims in 2025–26:

Ultimate DIY Umrah Planning Guide 2025–26: Discover how to independently plan your pilgrimage, from flights to hotels in Makkah. Book hotels near Haram like Jabal Omar Marriott (0.7 km away) or budget-friendly Al Kiswah Towers ($36/night) at www.hotelsinmakkah.com for the best prices on Umrah accommodation.

Whether you're applying from Canada, USA, or Australia, we have you covered:

• Canada Guide
• USA Guide
• Australia Guide

After getting your visa, learn How to Book 5-Star Umrah Packages at Cheaper Rates in 2025–26 to complete the planning.