Saudi Umrah Visa Policy Updates for 2025: What Indian Pilgrims Need to Know
Saudi Arabia continues to modernise its Umrah visa infrastructure as part of Vision 2030. Here is a summary of the most important policy changes affecting Indian pilgrims in 2025.
E-Visa Now Standard for Indian Pilgrims
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah now processes all Umrah visa applications electronically. Physical visa stickers in passports have been phased out. Your Umrah visa will be delivered as an e-visa — a digital document linked to your passport number that immigration systems read automatically.
What this means for you: You do not need to visit an embassy or visa collection centre. Apply online, receive your e-visa by email, and travel.
Mahram Requirements Relaxed for Women Over 45
Women aged 45 and above can now perform Umrah without a male guardian (mahram) if travelling as part of an organised group. Women under 45 still require a mahram or must travel with a group with a notarised letter from their mahram.
Nusuk App Integration
Saudi authorities now recommend the Nusuk app for visa status tracking, Masjid al-Haram appointment booking during peak periods, and digital access to your visa. Download it before travelling.
Key Documentation Changes
- Passport photographs must now have a plain white background (coloured or off-white backgrounds are rejected)
- Flight bookings must be confirmed, not provisional — airlines routinely verify bookings against the visa database
- Hotel bookings must be at Makkah-registered properties; private rentals are not accepted
FAQ
Has the visa fee changed in 2025? The visa application fee structure remains unchanged for Indian pilgrims as of this update. Check our Visa Fees page for current pricing.
How long is an Umrah visa valid? Standard Umrah visas are valid for 90 days from the date of issue, with a permitted stay of 30 days inside Saudi Arabia.