Saudi Arabia's New Rule: Umrah Visa Shortened to 30 Days, Here's Why

Performing Umrah is now easier than ever, but there are important details prospective pilgrims must note before departing for the Holy Land. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's government has just issued new regulations regarding the validity period of Umrah visas, and these changes warrant attention to avoid disrupting worship plans.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has shortened the validity period of the Umrah visa from three months to one month from the date of issuance. 

This means pilgrims who have obtained an Umrah visa have 30 days to enter Saudi Arabia. If not used within this period, the visa will be automatically canceled.

"The Umrah visa will be canceled after 30 days from the date of issuance if the pilgrim does not register to enter Saudi Arabia," reported Saudi Gazette, citing an Al-Arabiya source from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

However, there's good news: once pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia, their stay period remains a full three months, as per previous regulations. 

So, although the entry visa validity period has been reduced, the time for worship and pilgrimage in the Holy Land remains unchanged.

Reason Behind Shortening the Validity Period

This decision is not without reason. Ahmed Bajaeifer, an advisor to the Saudi National Committee for Umrah and Visitation, explained that this step was taken to anticipate the surge in pilgrims approaching spring and the drop in temperatures in Makkah and Madinah.

“This decision anticipates the increase in pilgrims, especially after the end of summer and the decrease in temperatures in Makkah and Madinah,” he said.

“Additionally, this measure aims to avoid overcrowding in the two holy cities,” he added.

All Visa Types Can Now Be Used for Umrah

Besides the validity period change, there is more good news. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed that all visa types can now be used for Umrah. 

This means holders of e-tourist visas, work visas, transit visas, personal and family visit visas, and other visa types can perform the Umrah pilgrimage.

According to the Ministry, this step is part of efforts to simplify procedures for Umrah pilgrims and expand access to Hajj and Umrah services to support Saudi Vision 2030.

As reported by SPA news agency, “This measure reflects the ongoing commitment to facilitate worship for Muslims worldwide.”

These regulations were actually implemented in the previous season and are now extended again for the 2025–2026 Umrah season.

Apply for Independent Umrah Visa via Nusuk Platform

For pilgrims who wish to process their visa without going through a travel agent, Saudi Arabia provides an official platform called Nusuk Umrah. 

This digital platform was launched in August 2025, allowing prospective pilgrims to apply for visas, book hotels, and choose Umrah service packages independently on the website [https://umrah.nusuk.sa](https://umrah.nusuk.sa).

Package prices on the Nusuk platform vary, depending on the facilities and services chosen—including the option of whether to book the visa directly or not.

With the Umrah visa validity now only 30 days from issuance, prospective pilgrims are urged to plan their departure carefully. Ensure travel schedules, accommodation, and supporting documents are ready before applying for the visa to avoid waste.