If you hold a US passport and want to perform Umrah, you will need a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia. The good news is that the Saudi government has significantly streamlined the visa process for American pilgrims in recent years. Here is everything you need to know for 2026.
What Type of Visa Do You Need for Umrah?
US passport holders traveling for Umrah use a Saudi Tourist Visa — specifically the e-Visa issued through the Nusuk platform or the Saudi tourism portal. This visa replaced the older dedicated Umrah visa for most nationalities and is valid for multiple entries over 90 days. A separate Hajj visa is required for the annual pilgrimage and has its own quota system.
Can You Get a Saudi e-Visa as a US Citizen?
Yes. The United States is on Saudi Arabia's approved e-Visa list. US citizens can apply online through the official Saudi Visa portal or Nusuk platform. Approval is typically granted within minutes to a few hours for most applicants.
Requirements for US Passport Holders
- •A valid US passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining from your intended travel date
- •A digital passport-sized photo (white background, face clearly visible)
- •A valid email address for the e-Visa confirmation
- •A credit or debit card for the visa fee payment
- •Proof of onward travel (return flight booking)
- •Meningococcal meningitis (ACWY) vaccination — required for all pilgrims entering Saudi Arabia
What About Non-Citizen US Residents (Green Card Holders)?
If you are a permanent US resident (Green Card holder) but not a US citizen, you will apply based on your country of citizenship rather than your US residency status. Many nationalities are eligible for the Saudi e-Visa. Contact us and we will help you determine the correct process based on your passport.
How Much Does the Saudi Visa Cost for US Passport Holders?
The Saudi tourist visa fee is approximately $120–$140 USD for US passport holders, plus a small processing fee. This fee is included in all of our full Umrah packages — you will not pay it separately. For our land-only packages, the visa fee is also bundled in.
How Long Does Visa Processing Take?
Online e-Visa applications for US passport holders are typically processed within minutes to 24 hours. However, some applications are flagged for manual review and can take 3–5 business days. We recommend completing the visa process at least 2–3 weeks before your departure to avoid any last-minute complications.
The New Multiple-Entry Umrah Visa
In 2026, Saudi Arabia introduced a multiple-entry Umrah visa valid for 365 days. This allows pilgrims to enter Saudi Arabia more than once within that year to perform Umrah, with a combined maximum stay of 90 days. This is a significant change that makes it easier for American Muslims to plan multiple visits without reapplying for a visa each time.
Do You Still Need a Nusuk Permit?
Yes. Even with a valid visa, pilgrims must book a Umrah permit through the Nusuk platform before each trip. The permit confirms your registration to perform Umrah during a specific window. When you book through Dar El Mecca Travel, we handle the Nusuk coordination on your behalf.
Can Dar El Mecca Handle the Visa for Me?
Yes. When you book a package through us, our team manages the entire visa documentation and submission process. You provide the required documents and we handle the rest — confirming your approval before you travel. This is one of the key benefits of booking a full-service Umrah package versus booking independently.
"The visa process used to feel overwhelming. Dar El Mecca handled everything — I just showed up with my bags."
— Package traveler, September 2025
Vaccination Requirements
All pilgrims entering Saudi Arabia must show proof of a Meningococcal (ACWY) vaccination. This shot must typically be administered at least 10 days before entry. Depending on Saudi Ministry guidance for 2026, a COVID-19 vaccination record may also be required. We recommend visiting a travel clinic or your primary care doctor at least 4–6 weeks before your departure date.