Hajj & Umrah Visa Guide for Overseas Pakistanis 2026
Whether you are performing your first Hajj or planning an Umrah from abroad, this guide covers everything overseas Pakistanis need to know about visas, packages, health requirements, and the application process.
Key distinction: Overseas Pakistanis apply for Hajj/Umrah through Saudi authorities or approved agents in their country of residence, not through the Pakistan government Hajj scheme (which is for residents of Pakistan only).
Hajj for Overseas Pakistanis
How It Works
As an overseas Pakistani, you apply for Hajj through an approved Hajj tour operator in your country of residence. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj allocates quotas to each country, and licensed operators manage the visa process, accommodation, and logistics.
Application Process
- Choose an approved operator: Select a licensed Hajj operator in your country (e.g., ATOL-bonded operators in the UK, licensed operators in the US)
- Book your package: Packages include visa, flights, accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, transport, and meals
- Submit documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), passport photos, completed visa application, vaccination certificates
- Biometric enrolment: Required at the Saudi embassy or visa centre
- Receive visa: Your operator will coordinate visa stamping in your passport
Required Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, at least 2 blank pages)
- Passport-size photographs (white background, as per Saudi specifications)
- Completed Hajj visa application form
- Proof of Muslim faith (declaration or certificate)
- Meningitis ACWY vaccination certificate (mandatory)
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (check current Saudi requirements)
- For women under 45 travelling without a Mahram: notarised letter of consent from male guardian plus proof of group travel
- Marriage certificate (if travelling as a couple)
Umrah Visa
Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be performed year-round (except during the Hajj season). Saudi Arabia has significantly simplified the Umrah visa process since 2019.
Umrah Visa Options
| Option | Cost | Validity | Processing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi eVisa (online) | SAR 300 (~$80 USD) | 1 year, multiple entry | Minutes to 24 hours |
| Through tour operator | Varies (included in package) | 90 days | 3-7 days |
| Saudi embassy direct | SAR 300 (~$80 USD) | Varies | 3-10 days |
Saudi eVisa for Umrah
Pakistani passport holders from many countries can apply for a Saudi eVisa online, which includes Umrah permission:
- Apply at visa.visitsaudi.com
- Pakistani passport holders residing in the UK, US, Canada, EU countries, and other eligible nations can apply
- 1-year multiple entry, 90 days per visit
- Covers tourism and Umrah
- Processing: Usually within 24 hours
Note: eVisa eligibility depends on your country of residence and residency status, not just your nationality. Pakistani passport holders with valid residence permits in eligible countries can apply.
Hajj Package Costs (2026 Estimates)
| Package Type | From UK | From US | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy / Shifting | GBP 4,500-6,000 | $6,000-8,000 | Shared room, basic meals, group transport |
| Standard / Non-Shifting | GBP 6,000-8,000 | $8,000-11,000 | Fixed hotel, half board, Mina tent |
| Premium / 5-Star | GBP 8,000-12,000 | $11,000-16,000 | 5-star hotel near Haram, full board, VIP Mina |
| VIP / Luxury | GBP 12,000-20,000+ | $16,000-25,000+ | Suite, Haram view, private transport, all meals |
Prices vary significantly by operator, proximity to Haram, and booking timing. Book early (6-12 months ahead) for the best rates.
Health Requirements
Mandatory Vaccinations
- Meningitis ACWY: Mandatory for all Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Must be administered not more than 3 years and not less than 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia
- COVID-19: Check current Saudi requirements (requirements change frequently)
- Polio: May be required for travellers from polio-endemic countries
Recommended Vaccinations
- Seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine (for elderly pilgrims)
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
Health Tips for Pilgrims
- Carry a 30-day supply of any regular medications
- Carry a doctor's letter for prescription medications
- Stay hydrated (Makkah temperatures can exceed 45°C in summer)
- Use an umbrella and sunscreen during outdoor rituals
- Wear comfortable, broken-in footwear
Tips for Overseas Pakistani Pilgrims
- Book through licensed operators only: In the UK, check ATOL protection. In the US, verify the operator is licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj
- Travel insurance: Take comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies in Saudi Arabia
- Carry photocopies: Keep copies of your passport, visa, and hotel booking separate from originals
- Register with your embassy: Register with the Pakistan Embassy in Riyadh or Consulate in Jeddah before Hajj for emergency assistance
- Mobile SIM: Buy a local Saudi SIM card for communication and navigation
- Exchange money: Exchange currency at your destination for better rates
Hajj Checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Hajj visa
- Meningitis ACWY vaccination
- Travel insurance
- Ihram (2 white unstitched cloths)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Medications
- Passport copies
- Embassy registration