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Which visa do British citizens use for Umrah?
British citizens are currently eligible for the Saudi tourist e-visa, which allows visitors to perform Umrah outside the Hajj period, as well as to travel for tourism and to visit family. It is applied for online and, once approved, is linked to your passport electronically. A separate Umrah visa arranged through authorised providers is also available.
You may see references to electronic travel authorisations for various countries. For Saudi Arabia, the usual route for British passport holders is the e-visa, applied for through official Saudi channels. Be wary of unofficial websites that charge extra or ask for unnecessary information.
If you hold a passport from another country or have residency in the UK on a non-British passport, different rules may apply, so check before planning your trip.
How to apply for the Saudi e-visa
Check your passport
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Saudi Arabia and have blank pages.
Apply online
Complete the application on the official Saudi visa platform with your personal details, passport information and travel plans, and upload a passport-style photo if requested.
Pay the fee
The visa fee usually includes mandatory medical insurance. The current fee is shown at the time of application, as it can change.
Receive your e-visa
Approval is often quick, but allow time in case of delays. Print a copy and save it on your phone to show at check-in and on arrival.
Requirements to check before you travel
- A passport valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
- A meningitis ACWY vaccination certificate: Saudi Arabia requires this for pilgrims, and it must be given within the valid time frame before arrival. Speak to your GP or a travel clinic well in advance.
- Any other vaccinations or health requirements listed in the latest Saudi and UK travel health guidance.
- Confirmed accommodation and return travel.
- Travel insurance that covers your trip, in addition to any insurance included with the visa.
- If anyone in your group is under 18, check the current rules for minors travelling with a parent or guardian.
The Nusuk app and Rawdah permits
Nusuk is the official Saudi platform for pilgrims. It is used to book a permit to pray in the Rawdah at Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, and may also be needed for Umrah permits or other services depending on the current rules. Download it before you travel, create an account with your passport and visa details, and book your Rawdah slot as early as you can, because slots can fill quickly in busy seasons.
Hajj season and other restrictions
Each year, Saudi Arabia pauses Umrah for international visitors on tourist and Umrah visas for a period around Hajj, and entry to Makkah is limited to those with Hajj permits. Rules on visas, vaccinations and permits can change at short notice. We re-check the latest requirements before confirming any trip and will let you know if anything affects your plans.
Let Lumarah arrange your visa
The Saudi e-visa is included in every Lumarah Umrah package. Once you have accepted your written quote and paid by UK bank transfer, we arrange the visa as part of your booking and send you the confirmation, so you do not need to deal with the application on your own.
Plan your Umrah with Lumarah
If you are planning Umrah from the UK and want your flights, hotels and visa handled together, with optional transfers, ziyarat or an Umrah guide added if you wish, our team is happy to help.
Message our UK team on WhatsApp at +44 7950 739581 or email lumarahtravelagency@gmail.com. Tell us your dates, departure airport and who is travelling, and we will send you a tailored Umrah quote in writing. Nothing is paid on our website: once you are happy with the quote, you pay by UK bank transfer and we confirm everything in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Can British citizens perform Umrah on a Saudi tourist e-visa?
Yes. British citizens are currently eligible for the Saudi tourist e-visa, which allows Umrah outside the Hajj period. Rules can change, so always check the latest official guidance.
How much does a Saudi e-visa cost?
The fee can change, and the current fee is shown at the time of application. For Lumarah Umrah packages, the visa is already included in your quote.
Do I need a meningitis vaccine for Umrah?
Saudi Arabia requires pilgrims to have a meningitis ACWY vaccination within the valid time frame before arrival. Speak to your GP or a travel clinic well before you travel.
Do I need the Nusuk app?
Yes, it is strongly recommended. Nusuk is used to book permits to pray in the Rawdah in Madinah and may be needed for other pilgrim services under the current rules.
How long must my passport be valid for?
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Saudi Arabia.
Planning your Umrah? See our Umrah packages or message us for a tailored quote.