Performing umrah is a dream for many Muslims across the world. Umrah is not mandatory in Islam like hajj, but it is considered a highly rewarding spiritual act. For Muslims living in USA, getting an umrah visa involves following some specific procedures. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for and get an umrah visa from USA.
Before You Apply
Before applying for an umrah visa from USA, you need to complete some prerequisites.
- Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months at the time of travel. Saudi Arabia immigration requires passport validity of 6 months minimum for issuing any visa.
- Get certified translations of any documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates etc if they are not originally in Arabic or English. Translations should be attested by a certified translator.
- Have medical insurance coverage for your full stay duration in Saudi Arabia. This is a requirement for getting the visa.
- Prepare 2 recent passport size photographs as per the photo requirements specified by the Saudi embassy. Do not wear glasses in the photos.
- Optional but recommended – Book your hotels in Makkah and Madinah and get confirmed reservations. Also book your return flight tickets. This is not mandatory for visa processing but good to complete in advance.
Choosing an Authorized Umrah Agent
As per Saudi embassy rules, all umrah visa applications from USA must be submitted via an authorized umrah agent. Umrah agents are licensed companies that specialize in umrah travel services.
- Research well and select a reputable and experienced umrah agent with good reviews. Many agents provide online services.
- Provide the agent with all the required documents, information and forms. Follow their instructions carefully.
- Pay the agent their service fees for processing your umrah visa application. Fees range from $100 to $200 per applicant.
Documents Required for Umrah Visa
To apply for an umrah visa from USA, you have to submit the following documents via your chosen umrah agent:
- Completed visa application form of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Your agent will provide this.
- Original, valid passport with at least 6 months validity at time of travel. Include old expired passports if you have previous Saudi visas.
- 2 recent passport size photographs as per Saudi visa photo requirements.
- Certificate of Conversion to Islam if you are a convert to Islam.
- Letter from employer stating employment details and approval of leave for umrah.
- Last 3 months bank account statements showing you have sufficient funds to perform umrah.
- Confirmed hotel booking in Makkah and Madinah for entire stay duration.
- Confirmed return flight reservations showing entry and exit from Saudi Arabia.
Application Process and Timeline
Once you submit your documents and application to the chosen umrah agent they will handle the processing.
- The licensed umrah agent submits the visa application and all documents to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Washington DC.
- Typical visa processing time is approximately 7 to 10 business days.
- Once the visa is issued, your agent will inform you and provide original visa. Check all details are accurate before travel.
- Entry to Saudi Arabia must be within 30 days from visa issue date.
On Arrival and Departure
When you arrive at the airport in Saudi Arabia, follow these procedures:
- Go through immigration checkpoint and submit your passport, visa, medical certificate and fingerprints as required.
- Undergo the mandatory health screening process at the airport.
- If needed, extend your visa by applying online within Saudi Arabia before the expiry date.
- At exit immigration, submit your fingerprints again before departing Saudi Arabia.
Final Words
The key steps for US citizens to get an umrah visa involve finding an authorized visa agent, providing complete documentation, booking hotels/flights in advance, and following Saudi entry/exit procedures. The umrah visa allows a single entry and maximum stay of 30 days. Performing this spiritual pilgrimage gives immense blessings and satisfaction to Muslims.
