Saudi Arabia introduces e-visa for Umrah

Riyadh: The authorities of Saudi Arabia started issuing electronic visas for Muslims wishing to perform Umrah.

According to Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has taken this decision considering the arrival of more and more Muslims in the country.

Last month in June, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism announced that holders of certain visas would be eligible for an instant e-Visa to the Gulf country.

Tourist visa holders of other countries like United Kingdom (UK), Unites States of America (USA) and permanent residents of any European Union (EU) country will be eligible for this new visa.

However, there is an exception for those who have a UK or US business or tourist visa in an EU country, they should have visited Saudi Arabia before applying for an e-Visa.

Families of above visa holders will also be able to get immediate visa on arrival. However, this visa will not allow the applicant to perform Umrah during Hajj season.