Transparent Accounting: What You Are Actually Paying For
One of the primary frustrations experienced by Indian pilgrims is the wide divergence in visa quotes advertised across the market, ranging from suspiciously low figures to exorbitant surcharges. In accordance with our founding philosophy of absolute honesty (Amanah), NOOR-E-HARAM publishes the exact, line-by-line government fee structure governing all legitimate Saudi electronic Umrah visas.
Every genuine Umrah e-visa is tied directly to the central electronic portal of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Nusuk platform) and must include verifiable emergency health insurance.
Itemized Saudi Umrah Visa Cost Breakdown
| Cost Component | Saudi Riyals (SAR) | Approximate INR (₹) | What This Covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi MOFA Base Fee | SAR 300 | ~₹6,750 – ₹7,200 | Official government fee for visa issuance and border entry processing. |
| Mandatory CHI Medical Insurance | SAR 100 – SAR 180 | ~₹2,250 – ₹4,200 | Emergency hospital coverage up to SAR 100,000, ICU care, COVID treatment & repatriation. (Higher for senior pilgrims). |
| Electronic Platform & IT Service Fees | SAR 85 – SAR 105 | ~₹1,900 – ₹2,400 | Centralized Nusuk processing, digital security tokens, and database verification. |
| Authorized Agency Processing & BRN Generation | Variable | ~₹2,500 – ₹3,800 | Document verification, photo resizing to Saudi specs, BRN hotel linkage, and embassy coordination. |
| Total Typical Market Price | SAR ~535 – SAR 650 | ₹14,000 – ₹17,500 | Complete, legal, verified 90-day Umrah E-Visa with full insurance. |
*Exchange rate calculated at ~₹22.50 to ₹23.00 per SAR. Final INR amounts vary slightly with daily currency fluctuations and applicant age brackets.
Umrah E-Visa vs. 1-Year Tourist eVisa: Cost & Eligibility
Standard Umrah Visa
- Eligibility: Open to all Indian passport holders through authorized agencies.
- Validity: 90 days from date of issuance (Single Entry).
- Permitted Activities: Umrah, Rawdah prayer, travel throughout all Saudi cities.
- Zamzam Allowance: Official 5-litre Zamzam canister permitted on return flights.
- Typical Cost: ₹14,000 to ₹17,500 all-inclusive.
1-Year Multiple Entry eVisa
- Eligibility: Indian passport holders who possess a valid, used US, UK, or Schengen visa, or GCC residency.
- Validity: 1 year (Multiple entries, max 90 days per stay).
- Permitted Activities: Tourism, leisure, and performing Umrah (except during Hajj season).
- Zamzam Allowance: Airline policies vary; some budget carriers restrict Zamzam check-in.
- Typical Cost: ~SAR 535 (~₹12,500) applied directly on visitsaudi portal.
Beware of "₹5,000 Umrah Visa" Scams
Unscrupulous middlemen and unverified social media ads frequently advertise "Cheapest Umrah Visa for ₹5,000 to ₹7,000". These are either transit visas (only valid for 96 hours and ineligible for Zamzam carriage) or completely fraudulent counterfeit printouts. Entering the Kingdom on an unauthorized transit visa to perform full Umrah risks heavy fines, deportation, and entry bans.
What Documents Are Required to Process Your Visa?
- Original Indian Passport Scan: Clear color scan of first and last page with minimum 6 months validity from date of travel.
- Passport-Size Photograph: 2x2 inch white background photo (no glare, no head tilted, neutral facial expression).
- Confirmed Travel Dates: Tentative arrival and departure dates to align with the electronic booking reference (BRN).
- PAN Card: Required under Indian Reserve Bank (LRS) regulations for foreign remittance.
Frequently Asked Questions on Visa Pricing
Is the Umrah visa fee refundable if my travel plans change?
No. Once the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) generates the electronic visa and policy number, all government fees and mandatory insurance premiums are non-refundable under Saudi law.
Are there extra visa fees for repeat pilgrims (Mukarrar)?
The historical SAR 2,000 repeat pilgrim fee was abolished by royal decree several years ago. Today, repeat pilgrims pay the exact same standard visa and insurance fee as first-time applicants.
How fast can NOOR-E-HARAM process my Umrah visa?
Standard electronic processing typically takes between 24 to 72 business hours after receiving your clear passport scans and verified details.