How to Get Umrah Visa from Qatar: Requirements & Steps
To obtain an Umrah visa from Qatar, you must apply through an approved travel agency, submit required documents, and meet eligibility criteria. The process involves filling out an application form and providing necessary paperwork.
Understanding the Umrah Visa
The Umrah visa is a special travel document issued by Saudi Arabia that allows Muslims to enter the country for the purpose of performing the Umrah pilgrimage. This visa is distinct from other types of visas and has specific requirements and conditions.
What is an Umrah Visa?
An Umrah visa is a permit that grants entry into Saudi Arabia specifically for performing the Umrah pilgrimage. It allows pilgrims to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina to carry out religious rituals. The visa has a validity period and specific conditions that must be adhered to by the visa holder.
Eligibility Criteria for Umrah Visa from Qatar
To be eligible for an Umrah visa from Qatar, applicants must meet certain criteria:
- Be a Muslim
- Be at least 18 years old to apply independently
- Have a valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia
- Provide proof of relationship for women traveling with a male guardian (Mahram)
- Have a clean bill of health and required vaccinations
Women aged 18 to 65 can now travel without a male guardian if they are part of a group and have obtained permission from their Mahram.
Umrah Visa Requirements
Obtaining an Umrah visa requires gathering several documents and meeting specific conditions. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Completed Umrah visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photograph with white background
- Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia
- Round-trip flight tickets
- Vaccination certificates (including meningitis and seasonal flu)
- Proof of relationship for family members traveling together
- No-objection letter for women traveling in groups without a Mahram
Health Requirements
Pilgrims must provide:
- Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination certificate, valid for at least three years
- Proof of other vaccinations as required by Saudi health authorities
- Medical insurance covering COVID-19 treatment
Financial Requirements
While there’s no specific amount required, pilgrims should have sufficient funds to cover their stay and expenses in Saudi Arabia.
Umrah Visa Application Process
The process of applying for an Umrah visa from Qatar involves several steps:
Step 1: Choose an Approved Travel Agency
Select a travel agency authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. These agencies are equipped to handle Umrah visa applications and can guide you through the process.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents as listed in the requirements section. Ensure all papers are up-to-date and meet the specified criteria.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
Complete the Umrah visa application form provided by your chosen travel agency. Be sure to fill in all details accurately to avoid delays or rejection.
Step 4: Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Hand over all required documents to the travel agency along with the completed application form. Pay any applicable visa fees as instructed by the agency.
Step 5: Wait for Visa Processing
The processing time for Umrah visas is typically around 5 business days. Your travel agency will inform you once the visa is approved.
Step 6: Receive Your Visa
Once approved, you can collect your passport with the Umrah visa from the travel agency.
Types of Umrah Visas Available
There are different types of visas that allow for performing Umrah:
Traditional Umrah Visa
This is the standard visa issued specifically for Umrah. It has a validity of 30 days and allows for a single entry into Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Tourist eVisa
Introduced recently, this visa allows tourists to perform Umrah as part of their visit. It’s valid for one year and permits multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days per visit.
Umrah+ Visa
This extended version of the Umrah visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days, giving pilgrims more time to perform their rituals and explore Saudi Arabia.
Umrah Visa Validity and Duration
Understanding the validity and duration of your Umrah visa is crucial for planning your pilgrimage:
Validity Period
The standard Umrah visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. However, with recent changes, some Umrah visas may be valid for up to 90 days.
Duration of Stay
Pilgrims are typically allowed to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 14 days on a standard Umrah visa. The new extended visas may allow for longer stays of up to 90 days.
Entry and Exit Rules
Umrah visas are usually single-entry visas, meaning you can only enter Saudi Arabia once. You must leave the country before the visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.
Umrah Visa Fees and Costs
When planning for your Umrah, it’s important to consider the various fees and costs involved:
Visa Application Fee
The Umrah visa itself is free of charge. However, there may be service fees charged by the travel agency handling your application.
Service Charges
Travel agencies may charge a service fee for processing your Umrah visa application. These fees can vary, so it’s advisable to check with multiple agencies.
Additional Costs
Other costs to consider include:
- Vaccination fees
- Medical insurance
- Travel and accommodation expenses
- Fees for any additional services provided by the travel agency
Special Considerations for Qatari Residents
Residents of Qatar have some specific considerations when applying for an Umrah visa:
GCC Residents
If you’re a resident of Qatar but not a Qatari citizen, you’ll need to provide proof of your residency status when applying for the Umrah visa.
Visa on Arrival Option
Qatari citizens, along with citizens of other GCC countries, can enter Saudi Arabia for Umrah using their national ID cards. However, they still need to obtain an Umrah permit through the official apps.
Using Tourist Visa for Umrah
Qatari residents eligible for the Saudi tourist eVisa can use this to perform Umrah. They’ll need to obtain an Umrah permit through the Nusuk app after entering Saudi Arabia.
Preparing for Your Umrah Journey
Once you’ve obtained your Umrah visa, there are several steps to prepare for your pilgrimage:
Book Your Travel and Accommodation
Secure your flights to Saudi Arabia and book your accommodation in Mecca and Medina. Many travel agencies offer package deals that include both.
Download Required Apps
Before traveling, download and register on the following apps:
- Tawakkalna app: For displaying your vaccination records
- Eatmarna app: For obtaining prayer permits
Understand Umrah Rituals
Familiarize yourself with the rituals of Umrah, including Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba) and Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwa hills).
Pack Appropriately
Pack suitable clothing for the pilgrimage, including Ihram garments for men. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for walking long distances.
Recent Changes in Umrah Visa Regulations
Saudi Arabia has made several changes to its Umrah visa regulations in recent years:
Extended Validity
The validity of Umrah visas has been extended from 30 days to 90 days, allowing pilgrims more time in the country.
Women Traveling Without Mahram
Women aged 18 to 65 can now perform Umrah without a male guardian, provided they travel in a group and have permission from their Mahram.
Year-Round Umrah
Umrah can now be performed throughout the year, except during the Hajj season.
Integration with Tourism
The introduction of the tourist eVisa has made it easier for visitors to combine Umrah with tourism activities in Saudi Arabia.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Applying for an Umrah visa can present some challenges. Here are common issues and how to address them:
Incomplete Documentation
Ensure all required documents are complete and up-to-date before submitting your application. Double-check the requirements with your travel agency.
Visa Processing Delays
Start your application process well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any potential delays.
Language Barriers
If you’re not fluent in Arabic or English, consider using a travel agency that offers services in your preferred language.
Health Concerns
Consult with your doctor well before your trip to ensure you meet all health requirements and receive necessary vaccinations.
FAQs
Can I apply for an Umrah visa directly at the Saudi embassy in Qatar?
No, Umrah visas must be obtained through authorized travel agencies. The Saudi embassy does not process Umrah visa applications directly.
How long does it take to get an Umrah visa from Qatar?
The processing time is typically around 5 business days, but it’s advisable to apply at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date.
Can I extend my Umrah visa once I’m in Saudi Arabia?
Generally, Umrah visas cannot be extended. You must leave Saudi Arabia before your visa expires to avoid penalties.
Is there an age limit for Umrah visa applicants?
There’s no upper age limit, but applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply independently. Younger individuals must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Can non-Muslims apply for an Umrah visa?
No, Umrah visas are specifically for Muslims intending to perform the Umrah pilgrimage.
Ammara Abdullah is an experienced writer and editor specializing in technology and digital trends. With over 5 years of experience, she produces insightful articles on emerging tech, consumer electronics, and digital culture. Ammara holds a degree in journalism and is passionate about making complex topics accessible to readers.
