Under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the Kingdom has simplified travel for international tourists and pilgrims. While citizens of over 60 eligible countries can obtain an instant online eVisa, travelers from other nationalities (including Pakistan) can access the Kingdom through multiple legal avenues.
Importantly, holding a valid, previously used visa from the United States, United Kingdom, or Schengen member states allows Pakistani passport holders to obtain a Visa on Arrival at Saudi international airports when travelling on national carriers like Saudia or Flynas.
Eligibility
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
- For Visa on Arrival: Must hold a valid, used tourist or business visa from USA, UK, or Schengen area and arrive on a designated airline.
- For Tasheer Consular Visas: Completion of biometric registration at an authorized Tasheer center in Pakistan.
- Must have approved medical health insurance (bundled into the visa fee).
Required Documents
- Original passport with at least 2 blank pages
- Recent photograph with white background (4×6 cm)
- Confirmed return flight booking
- Tasheer appointment confirmation and payment slip
- For family visit visas: Valid Iqama of the inviting family member in Saudi Arabia and NADRA relationships certificates
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine Application Track: Verify if you qualify for Visa on Arrival through Western visa reciprocity, or if you require a consular visit visa via Tasheer.
- Register on MOFA Visa Platform: Complete the digital application on visa.mofa.gov.sa and receive an application number.
- Book Appointment at Tasheer Pakistan: Schedule your appointment at Tasheer centers in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, or Peshawar for biometric collection.
- Obtain Nusuk Permits for Umrah: Once your visa is issued, install the Nusuk mobile app and reserve your Umrah and Rawdah appointment slots.
Fees
Standard fee: Consular visa and Tasheer lounge/standard fees plus mandatory health insurance (approx. 300-500 SAR equivalent). Fees include mandatory healthcare coverage for the duration of stay.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Attempting Umrah during Hajj: Tourist visas are strictly prohibited from entering Makkah during the designated Hajj season.
- Unused Western Visa for VoA: If relying on a US/UK/Schengen visa for Visa on Arrival, the supporting visa must have been used at least once to enter that issuing country.
Practical Tips
- Always reserve your Rawdah prayer slot on the Nusuk app well in advance, as slots fill quickly.
Official Government Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah without a Mahram?
Yes. Saudi regulations officially permit women of all ages to perform Umrah without a male guardian (Mahram) on tourist and visitor visas.
Official source: Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) & Nusuk. VisaGlobe is an independent educational portal. Entry criteria and Umrah regulations are defined by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and MOFA.
