Planning an Umrah pilgrimage with your family can be one of the most spiritually rewarding experiences for Muslim parents and children. Sharing this sacred journey creates lasting memories and instills important religious values in younger generations. However, the process of obtaining Umrah visas for an entire family comes with unique considerations and requirements that differ from individual applications.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for family Umrah visas in 2025, covering everything from documentation for minors to practical tips for a smooth application experience.
The Significance of Family Umrah
Before diving into the procedural aspects, it’s worth reflecting on the special significance of performing Umrah as a family. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of teaching children about their faith through practice. When children participate in Umrah, they not only learn about Islamic rituals firsthand but also develop a deeper connection to their religious heritage in a profoundly experiential way.
A family Umrah allows parents to: – Model spiritual devotion for their children – Create shared religious experiences and memories – Teach practical aspects of faith in their most authentic context – Strengthen family bonds through shared spiritual goals
Understanding Family Umrah Visa Basics
The Saudi government has made significant improvements to the family Umrah visa process in recent years, recognizing the importance of family pilgrimages. Here are the fundamental aspects of family Umrah visas in 2025:
Key Features of Family Umrah Visas
- Family Grouping: Applications can be submitted together, streamlining the process
- Extended Duration: Family visas often allow for slightly longer stays (up to 30 days)
- Child Inclusion: Children of all ages can be included, with specific documentation
- Relationship Verification: Proof of family relationships is strictly required
- Unified Processing: All family members’ applications are typically processed together
Who Qualifies for a Family Application?
A family Umrah visa application can generally include: – Husband and wife – Parents and their unmarried children under 18 – In some cases, dependent adult children (with additional documentation) – Grandparents may be included in certain circumstances
Extended family members like siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles typically need to apply separately unless there are specific dependency relationships that can be documented.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Family Umrah Visas
Step 1: Gather Required Documents for All Family Members
For All Family Members: – Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond your planned return date – Recent passport-sized photographs (4.5cm x 3.5cm) with white background – Completed Umrah visa application forms (either online or physical, depending on your country) – Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia – Confirmed return flight tickets – Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or other required health documentation
For Parents/Adults: – Marriage certificate for spouses (officially translated if not in Arabic or English) – Proof of employment or financial stability – Travel insurance covering the entire family’s stay in Saudi Arabia
For Children (Under 18): – Birth certificates clearly showing parentage (officially translated if not in Arabic or English) – Consent form signed by both parents (if a child is traveling with only one parent) – School identification or other secondary ID (for older children) – Vaccination records as required by Saudi health authorities
For Infants (Under 2): – Birth certificate – Passport – Recent photographs (though biometric requirements are typically waived) – Vaccination records as required by Saudi health authorities
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
In 2025, families have several options for submitting their Umrah visa applications:
- Nusuk Platform (nusuk.sa): The official Saudi platform for Umrah planning and visa applications. This is often the most direct and cost-effective method for eligible countries.
- Authorized Umrah Agents: Licensed travel agencies specializing in Hajj and Umrah services. This option provides personalized assistance but may include service fees.
- Saudi Visa Centers: Physical application centers in major cities where biometrics can be collected and applications submitted in person.
- Saudi Embassy or Consulate: In some countries, applications must still be processed through official Saudi diplomatic missions.
For families, especially those with young children, working with authorized agents often provides valuable support in navigating the documentation requirements.
Step 3: Complete the Application Forms
When applying as a family:
- Designate a Head of Family: Usually one of the parents who will be the primary contact
- Link All Applications: Ensure all family members’ applications are properly linked in the system
- Provide Consistent Information: Ensure addresses, contact details, and travel dates match across all applications
- Double-Check All Forms: Errors or inconsistencies can lead to delays or rejections
When using the Nusuk platform, you’ll be able to add family members to your application and manage the entire process under one account.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees
Visa fees must be paid for each family member, including children. As of 2025, the standard Umrah visa fee is approximately:
- Adults: SAR 300 (approximately $80 USD)
- Children under 12: Often discounted rates apply
- Infants under 2: May be exempt from fees in some cases
Additional service charges may apply depending on your application method. Some countries have bilateral agreements with Saudi Arabia that may affect fee structures.
Step 5: Submit Biometric Data
Most family members, except very young children, will need to provide biometric data:
- Adults and Children Over 12: Full biometrics including fingerprints and photographs
- Children 5-12: Typically only digital photographs
- Children Under 5: Usually exempt from biometric requirements
Biometric collection locations include: – Saudi Visa Centers – Designated collection points arranged by authorized agents – In some cases, Saudi diplomatic missions
Family-Friendly Tip: Call ahead to check if the biometric center has family-friendly facilities or special hours for families with young children. Some centers offer priority processing for families with infants or young children.
Step 6: Track Your Application
After submission, you can track your family’s application status through: – The Nusuk platform (if applied online) – Your authorized agent – The visa application center’s tracking system
Processing times for family applications typically range from 5-10 business days, though this can vary based on nationality and seasonal demand.
Step 7: Receive and Verify Your Visas
Once approved, verify that: – All family members’ visas have been issued – Names and passport numbers are correct on each visa – The validity period covers your intended travel dates – Entry and exit dates align with your flight bookings – Any special conditions are clearly understood
Special Considerations for Family Umrah Visa Applications
Single-Parent Applications
If a child is traveling with only one parent, additional documentation is required: – If Parents Are Married: A notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent – In Case of Divorce: Legal custody documents and possibly court permission for travel – In Case of Widowed Parent: Death certificate of the deceased parent – Legal Guardian: Documentation proving guardianship
Adopted Children
For adopted children, provide: – Legal adoption papers – Court documents establishing guardianship – The child’s amended birth certificate (if applicable)
These documents typically need to be authenticated by both your home country authorities and the Saudi Embassy.
Expedited Processing for Families
Some countries offer expedited processing for families with special circumstances: – Families with very young children – Families including elderly members – Families with members who have medical conditions
To request expedited processing, provide supporting documentation and make the request formally through your application channel.
Common Challenges and Solutions for Family Umrah Visa Applications
Challenge 1: Documentation for Blended Families
Solution: Provide clear documentation showing legal relationships, including marriage certificates, adoption papers, or court-ordered custody arrangements. A cover letter explaining the family structure can be helpful.
Challenge 2: Name Discrepancies Across Documents
Solution: If family members’ names appear differently on various documents (common with transliterations), provide a notarized affidavit confirming all names refer to the same person.
Challenge 3: Coordinating Biometrics for Young Children
Solution: Schedule appointments during less busy times (often early morning) when children are rested. Bring snacks, small toys, and comfort items to keep children calm during the process.
Challenge 4: Proof of Accommodation for Large Families
Solution: Ensure hotel bookings clearly show accommodations for all family members. If booking multiple rooms, make sure all reservations are linked and under the same confirmation.
Planning Your Family Umrah: Timeline and Best Practices
Recommended Timeline
- 4-6 Months Before: Research requirements specific to your country and family situation
- 3-4 Months Before: Gather all necessary documents and ensure passports are valid
- 2-3 Months Before: Submit visa applications and complete biometrics
- 1-2 Months Before: Confirm visa approvals and make final travel arrangements
- 2-4 Weeks Before: Prepare children for the journey with age-appropriate education about Umrah
Best Practices for a Smooth Family Application
- Apply During School Holidays: Align your application with school breaks to avoid educational disruptions
- Consider Off-Peak Seasons: For easier processing and less crowded conditions in the holy cities
- Prepare a Family Document Portfolio: Keep all family documents organized in one place
- Make Copies of Everything: Have digital and physical copies of all important documents
- Prepare Children in Advance: Educate children about the significance of Umrah and what to expect
After Visa Approval: Preparing Your Family for Umrah
Once your family’s visas are approved, focus on:
- Age-Appropriate Education: Teach children about Umrah rituals in ways they can understand
- Physical Preparation: Gradually increase walking distances with children to build stamina
- Packing Appropriately: Ensure each family member has suitable clothing and essentials
- Health Precautions: Schedule any necessary vaccinations and prepare a family medical kit
- Setting Expectations: Discuss the crowds, weather, and physical demands with children
Conclusion: Embarking on a Spiritual Journey Together
Obtaining Umrah visas for your family is just the beginning of a profound spiritual journey that you will share together. While the application process requires careful attention to detail and thorough preparation, the rewards of performing Umrah as a family are immeasurable.
At Aqsa Hajj, we understand the unique needs of families planning their Umrah journey. Our specialized family Umrah packages include comprehensive visa assistance, family-friendly accommodations, and services designed to make your pilgrimage comfortable and meaningful for all ages.
May Allah accept your intentions and bless your family with a transformative and unifying pilgrimage experience that strengthens both your faith and your family bonds.
For personalized assistance with your family Umrah visa applications or to explore our family-friendly Umrah packages, please visit aqsahajj.com or contact our dedicated family services team.