Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa guide for citizens of Germany

Citizens of Germany who wish to embark on this spiritual journey need to obtain a Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa, and we are here to help you navigate the confusing Saudi Arabia visa application process!

Here’s everything you need to know to fulfill your dream of performing Umrah in Saudi Arabia easily and comfortably. Keep reading to discover your Saudi Arabia Umrah visa options and the simplified visa application process we offer.

Introduction of new Umrah Visa rule in 2024

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has made significant updates to the Umrah Visa rules. Umrah Visas now remain valid for 90 days from the issue date. Previously, the validity of the visa began once you arrived in Saudi Arabia.

In addition, Umrah Visas for pilgrims coming from outside the country will now expire on 15 Dhu al-Qa’dah, which corresponds to May 23, 2024, for the current season. The previous expiry date was 29 Dhu al-Qa’dah. This change allows Saudi authorities more time to prepare for the Hajj season, aiming to improve the experience for both Umrah and Hajj pilgrims.

All international pilgrims must leave the country by the new expiry date. There are penalties for overstaying an Umrah Visa, which will be levied on both the pilgrims and the companies that arranged their visas.

Saudi Arabia visa options for German citizens for Umrah

German citizens who wish to undertake Umrah in Saudi Arabia must obtain a Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa.
There are three different Saudi Arabia Visa options for German citizens planning to visit Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah:

• Saudi Arabia eVisa or Saudi Arabia Online Visa for Umrah. This is an Umrah-specific visa you apply for online via the Saudi Arabia Nusuk website.

• Visa on Arrival

• The Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa which you can apply for through iVisa.

What is the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa?

The Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa, also known as the Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa, allows you to participate in tourism-related activities. This includes attending events, visiting family and relatives, leisure, and even performing Umrah (excluding Hajj) if you are Muslim.

With this visa, you can visit the holy cities of Jeddah, Makkah (Mecca), and Medina. However, only Muslim citizens can visit Makkah and Medina.

Please note: Using this visa to perform Hajj is not possible. A separate Hajj Visa is required during this period. The visa also does not allow activities like studying.

How often can I enter Saudi Arabia with a Tourist eVisa?

The Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa is a Multiple Entry visa. You can enter the country as often as you want within a year. Each stay can be up to 90 days in Total.

What is the difference between the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa and the Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa?

It is important to note that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers a separate Umrah Visa. This visa provides Umrah pilgrims certain perks they will not get when traveling on tourist visas. For instance, those with an Umrah-specific visa may leave the country with ZamZam, while those on a tourist visa may not.

Other differences include that the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa is a Multiple Entry visa that anyone of any religion can apply for. In contrast, the electronic Umrah visa is a single entry visa only issued to Muslims for the sole purpose of performing Umrah.

Saudi authorities also have vastly different requirements for each visa. Foreign pilgrims from forty-nine countries can travel to Saudi Arabia and perform the religious pilgrimage on a tourist eVisa. On the other hand, travelers from anywhere in the world can apply for the Umrah Visa.

Unfortunately, iVisa does not offer an Umrah-specific visa currently due to the rigorous Umrah visa requirements. You can check your eligibility for the Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa with our Visa Checker Tool.

Suppose you do not qualify for the Tourist Visa and require the Umrah e-Visa instead. In that case, we suggest speaking to your local agent or Hajj and Umrah representatives for more guidance on the stringent application process.

How to apply for a Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa from Germany with us

Plan to get a Tourist Visa for Saudi Arabia? Apply online with iVisa in a few simple steps:

• Step 1: Complete the online application form on iVisa with your details and choose your preferred processing time.

• Step 2: Double-check all info carefully and pay the Tourist Visa fees with a credit/debit card or PayPal.

• Step 3: Upload all required documents, click “Submit,” and prepare to travel to Saudi Arabia!

Upon arrival, you must present your passport and your new tourist visa confirmation with a QR code, which must be printed.

Document requirements for a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa

To apply for your Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa, you will be required to submit these documents:

• National ID card or birth certificate - You must show your identity with your government's official document.

• Travel authorization from employer or school - You need a letter or a statement from your host indicating the reason for your stay.

• Applicant photo - A recent color passport photo works best.

• German passport personal details scan - Scan your passport bio page. You must have six months of validity left from the day you plan to enter Saudi Arabia.

• Proof of accommodation—Show that you have a place to stay while you are in the country.

• Bank statement - Show customs officials you have the money to pay for your trip.

• Vaccinations—If you come from a country with a high risk of yellow fever, you will need a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate to enter Saudi Arabia.

• Onward ticket - Show that you have a departure ticket to leave Saudi Arabia.

Contact us for more information

If you have more questions about applying for a Saudi Arabia Tourist or Umrah visa, you can contact our customer support agents via [Chat]/contact-us) or WhatsApp.