Travelling for Umrah is a profound and spiritual experience for Muslims across the UK. However, in 2025, the documentation and entry requirements for Saudi Arabia have become more structured, thanks to new digital systems, the Nusuk platform, and updated visa rules. If you want to book Umrah without delays or rejected applications, you must understand the exact documents required before you apply.
This guide explains every document UK pilgrims must prepare, why each document is needed, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to speed up your booking process. Whether you are travelling alone, with family, or through a UK travel agency, this checklist ensures your Umrah preparation is smooth and stress-free.
1. Valid Passport (Minimum Six Months Validity)
Your passport is the most important document you will need to book Umrah. Saudi Arabia requires every UK traveller to have at least six months of remaining validity from the date of travel.
Checklist for Passport Requirements:
- Minimum 6 months valid
- Machine-readable/biometric passport
- At least two blank pages
- No significant damage or tears
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Travellers with passports expiring soon often face last-minute rejection
- Minor damage, torn pages, or water marks can cause delays at immigration
- Using an old passport number when filling online forms
If your passport is close to expiry, renew it before you even begin your plan to book Umrah.
2. Recent Passport-Sized Photos
Your Umrah visa application requires recent, clear, passport-sized photographs.
Photo Requirements:
- White background
- No shadows
- Full face visible
- No head covering unless for religious reasons
- High resolution (digital copy usually needed)
Most UK agencies accept digital photos, but some may need printed copies. Taking photos at a professional studio ensures your visa won’t get delayed due to quality issues.
3. Return Flight Booking Confirmation
Saudi authorities require all Umrah travellers to show proof of return travel. You must provide a confirmed round-trip flight ticket before your visa is issued.
Why It’s Required:
- Ensures the traveller does not overstay
- Matches visa dates with travel dates
- Helps authorities regulate peak-season crowds
Most travel agencies in the UK will handle this, but if you are booking independently, ensure your flight itinerary is aligned with your visa type and travel duration.
4. Confirmed Hotel Reservation
You cannot book Umrah without showing a valid hotel booking in both Makkah and Madinah. Saudi Arabia checks hotel information before issuing the visa.
Hotel Booking Requirements:
- Confirmation for the full duration of stay
- Names must match your passport
- Clear hotel address
- Booking reference number
Tip to Avoid Issues:
If you plan to book Umrah independently, do not use “Pay at Hotel” options. They sometimes get rejected because they aren’t confirmed enough for visa approval.
5. Completed Umrah Visa Application Form
In 2025, Umrah visas for UK residents are issued electronically through the Nusuk portal or approved UK travel companies. You must submit the correct visa form with accurate information.
Information Needed for the Form:
- Full name (as per passport)
- Passport details
- Nationality
- Date of travel
- Hotel and flight details
- Contact information
- Emergency contact in the UK
Any mistake in spelling, passport number, or travel dates can delay your visa approval.
6. UK Residence Proof (For Non-British Citizens)
If you live in the UK but are not a British passport holder, you must provide proof of legal residence.
Accepted Documents:
- UK BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
- Residence visa
- EU Settlement Status proof
- Work permit or student visa
Your UK residence permit must be valid for the entire duration of your Umrah trip.
7. Vaccination Certificate (Updated Requirements for 2025)
Saudi Arabia has updated vaccination guidelines for Umrah travellers.
Required or Recommended Vaccinations:
- Meningitis (ACWY) – mandatory for Umrah and Hajj
- Seasonal Flu vaccine – strongly recommended
- COVID-19 vaccine – not mandatory, but advisable
You Must Carry:
- NHS vaccination certificate
- Paper or digital proof
Most pilgrims keep both forms to avoid any issues at immigration.
8. Travel Insurance Documents
Travel insurance is not always mandatory, but in 2025, it is highly recommended because it covers:
- Medical emergencies
- Flight cancellations
- Lost baggage
- Delayed travel
- Emergency evacuation
Some Umrah visa categories automatically include basic medical coverage, but having additional travel insurance protects you from unexpected costs.
9. Proof of Relationship (For Women Travelling Alone Under Certain Rules)
Saudi Arabia now allows women to perform Umrah without a mahram under specific guidelines, but certain agencies and visa types still require documentation.
Possible Required Documents:
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificate (for parent/child travel)
- Consent letter from spouse or guardian
Always check your visa type to confirm whether these documents are necessary.
10. E-Tickets and Permits on the Nusuk App
The Nusuk app is now a central system for Umrah travel. You may need:
- Umrah permit
- Rawdah permit (for Madinah)
- Entry barcode
- Digital visa
- Transport receipts
You will need these documents saved on your phone or printed.
11. Bank Statement or Proof of Funds (Only for Certain Visa Types)
Some Umrah visa categories (like tourism visas used for Umrah purposes) may require proof of financial stability.
Documents That Could Be Requested:
- Last 3-month bank statement
- Credit card with sufficient limit
- Employment letter
This is usually not required for standard Umrah visas issued through UK travel agencies.
Checklist Summary: Documents You Need to Book Umrah from the UK
Here is a simple checklist to ensure nothing is missing:
Essential Documents
- Valid passport (6 months minimum)
- Passport-size photos
- Return flight booking
- Hotel booking for Makkah and Madinah
- Completed Umrah visa form
- Vaccination proof
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- BRP or UK residence visa
- Proof of relationship (women, children)
- Travel insurance
- Proof of funds
- Digital permits on Nusuk app
Keeping all documents printed and saved on your phone ensures hassle-free travel.
Common Problems UK Pilgrims Face (and How to Avoid Them)
- Visa Rejection Due to Wrong Passport Information
Always double-check numbers and spellings before submitting.
- Hotel Booking Not Matching Passport Names
Use the same spelling as the passport.
- Missing Vaccination Certificates at the Airport
Save the NHS certificate offline and carry a printed copy.
- BRP Expiring Soon
If your BRP will expire within weeks, renew it before applying.
- Last-Minute Flight Changes
Avoid flexible or “hold” tickets. Confirm flights before visa application.
Final Thoughts
When you book Umrah from the UK in 2025, having the right documents prepared early will save you time, money, and stress. The more organized your paperwork is, the smoother your visa approval and travel experience will be. Whether booking through an agency or planning independently, use this checklist as your guide to avoid delays and enjoy a peaceful, well-prepared Umrah journey.