Hajj Visa in 2025: Updated Rules and Application Process

Saudi Arabia has introduced new rules for the Hajj pilgrimage in 2025 to improve crowd control and ensure the safety of pilgrims.

In this guide, we'll explain these updates to the Hajj visa policies, including how to apply and how to meet the requirements for a Hajj visa picture easily.

Table of contents

• Hajj visa updates-2025: new rules and restriction
• Saudi Arabia Hajj visa application dates in 2025
• Hajj visa eligibility
• Hajj visa requirements for female pilgrims
• Online Hajj visa application
• Documents required to apply for a Hajj visa
• Saudi Arabia visa photo requirements (for the Nusuk platform)
• Get a Hajj visa photo online
• Saudi Arabia visa photo app
• Hajj visa validity and entry rules
• Hajj visa fees-2025
• Hajj visa processing times

Hajj visa updates-2025: new rules and restriction

According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, children will no longer be allowed at the Hajj in 2025. The Hajj visa age limit is 12 years. Pilgrims under this age cannot participate in Hajj 2025. The decision was made to protect children from potential overcrowding dangers during the pilgrimage.

Saudi Arabia will also make changes to visa rules for certain countries. As of February 1, 2025, people from 14 countries will only be eligible for single-entry visas. These countries include:

• Algeria
• Bangladesh
• Egypt
• Ethiopia
• India
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Jordan
• Morocco
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Sudan
• Tunisia
• Yemen

Under the new regulations, citizens from these countries will be issued visas valid for 30 days, and since these are single-entry visas, they will become invalid once the holder leaves Saudi Arabia. These changes are intended to limit unregulated pilgrimages and prevent crowding from those using multiple-entry visas.

Additionally, priority will be given to first-time pilgrims, ensuring more Muslims can complete this important religious duty at least once in their lifetime.

Is a Hajj visa stamped on a passport? — Yes, and the passport must also have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.

Saudi Arabia Hajj visa application dates in 2025

Visa applications can be submitted from Mid-Shawwal until the 25th of Dhual-Qa’dah each year. In 2025, that's April 14 to May 23 on the Gregorian calendar.

Thus, the Hajj visa's last date to apply for is May 23.

Hajj visa eligibility

To be eligible for a Hajj visa to Saudi Arabia, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a practicing Muslim.
• Be in good health and capable of undertaking the physical activities involved in Hajj.
• Have sufficient financial resources to cover your travel and accommodation costs.
• Possess a valid passport and all necessary documentation for travel to Saudi Arabia.

What is the difference between a Hajj visa and a tourist visa? — A Tourist visa is intended for those wishing to visit for leisure, business, or family purposes, while the Hajj visa is only for pilgrims. The Hajj visa length is specifically tied to the Hajj pilgrimage period. The Hajj visa expiry date is the 10th of Muharram, which is July 6th, 2025. Staying beyond this period is not allowed with a Hajj visa.

Please note that this kind of visa restricts travel to Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah, and visiting other locations without authorization could lead to penalties. Additionally, this visa does not permit employment or residency in Saudi Arabia.

Can I apply for a Hajj visa without a Saudi agent? — No, you must apply through approved travel agents. Applications for a Hajj without an agent are not accepted; all international pilgrims need to go through agents accredited by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah.

Hajj visa requirements for female pilgrims

Women of any age can apply for a Hajj visa, but some conditions apply:

• Women under 45 must travel with a Mahram, who must present proof of relationship, such as a marriage or birth certificate.
• Women over 45 can travel without a Mahram if they are part of an organized group.
• In the case of women over 45 traveling without a Mahram, a notarized consent letter is required. This letter must be signed by an authorized male guardian (such as a father, brother, or son) and must grant permission for the woman to join her travel group for pilgrimage.

Online Hajj visa application

The Nusuk platform provides a list of countries it serves each year. If your country is on the list, you can apply for your Hajj visa online through their website. Since the platform may not be accessible at all times, subscribing to Nusuk updates is recommended. This ensures you don't miss the application deadline or any significant announcements.

Applying for a Hajj visa online is straightforward with Nusuk. Here’s how you can apply using the platform:

1. Visit the Nusuk platform and set up an account with your email and a memorable password. You'll also need a valid passport for registration.
2. Upload all required documents (detailed below) and ensure they are up-to-date and accurate.
3. Complete the visa application by entering the necessary information. The platform will assist you at every step.
4. Browse through officially provided Hajj Travel Packages and select the one that suits you best.
5. Pay for your chosen package. Payment options include credit card (Visa, Mastercard), bank transfer, SADAD service, or cash at specific locations.
6. Following booking and payment, you'll get a confirmation email. You'll be informed about your flight details through your profile well before your departure, allowing ample time to prepare. Make a habit of checking the platform for any updates, and subscribe to receive the latest news directly to your inbox.

If you prefer to get this visa without a package, you will need to consult a licensed travel agent for guidance on the necessary procedures and requirements.

It's highly advisable to pre-register your biometric data through the Saudi visa bio app for Hajj. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Sign up with your email and personal information.
3. Enter your passport number and upload a clear photo of the information page.
4. Capture a clear facial photo and scan your fingerprints as the app directs.
5. Verify all details for accuracy before submission.
6. Monitor your application status through the app after submitting.

How can I check my Saudi Hajj visa? — To check your Hajj visa status online, log into the Nusuk platform, navigate to your profile or dashboard, and look for the section displaying your visa status. You can also monitor your application status through the Saudi visa bio app after submitting.

Documents required to apply for a Hajj visa

The documents required for the Hajj application are as follows:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond your expected entry into Saudi Arabia, with two blank pages for visa stamps.
• A completed Saudi Hajj visa application form.
• Recent passport-sized photos that adhere to specified guidelines.
• Proof of Islamic faith, such as certificates from an Islamic institution or letters from a mosque.
• A Meningococcus Vaccine certificate issued no less than 10 days and no more than three years before entering Saudi Arabia. Additional vaccines, like those for yellow fever, polio, and influenza, may be necessary depending on your nationality, age, and health.
• Proof of relationship (for women and children over 12), such as a marriage or birth certificate, since women and children must travel with a husband, father, or male guardian (mahram) and be on the same flights.
• A Letter of No-Objection for women in groups.
• A confirmed return or onward flight ticket is also required for your application.

Saudi Arabia visa photo requirements (for the Nusuk platform)

When applying via the Nusuk platform, ensure your photo meets the following guidelines:

• The Hajj visa photo size must be 2×2 inches and cover 80% of your face.
• The digital file size should be 200×200 pixels and not exceed 18 KB.
• Your photo must be in color, not in black and white.
• Ensure the image is clear, and your face is easily recognizable.
• Use a plain white background with no patterns or shadows.
• Face the camera directly with your eyes open and a neutral expression.
• Religious headwear is acceptable, but it shouldn't obscure your face from the forehead to the chin.
• Wear something other than white to contrast with the background.

Here is a photo example:

Get a Hajj visa photo online

Simplify the process and ensure your Hajj visa photo matches all requirements by using Visafoto.com, a professional photo editing service with a 99.7% approval rate.

Just snap your picture against a plain white backdrop using your phone or digital camera and upload it to Visafoto.com. We handle all needed adjustments, including sizing, format, background color, and facial positioning, to meet the official criteria.

Example of the photo you can use:

You'll get a photo for online applications that meets all the requirements. If you're dissatisfied with the outcome, we'll replace your photo for free. If your photo isn't accepted by authorities, we offer a full refund.

Saudi Arabia visa photo app

Check out the 7ID App by Visafoto.com, a handy tool for creating a perfect ID, passport, and visa photos straight from your smartphone. Available for both iPhone and Android devices.

Using 7ID is straightforward: upload your photo, select the document type and country, and the app automatically adjusts it to meet official specifications. This covers the correct size, format, background color, and proper positioning of your face and eyes.

You'll receive a digital version and a print template that fits standard paper sizes like 4×6, A4, A5, or B5. Our technical support is available around the clock to assist you.

Hajj visa validity and entry rules

The Saudi Hajj visa is valid only during the specified Hajj period. Pilgrims are required to exit Saudi Arabia by the 10th day of Muharram.

Hajj visa fees-2025

What is the Saudi Hajj visa price? — While the Hajj visa has no direct fee, costs arise from service fees, your chosen program, and other expenses. Booking a Hajj package through an authorized agency will likely be the largest cost, ranging between USD 3000 and USD 10 000.

Hajj visa processing times

Typically, a Saudi Hajj visa is processed within about 5 days. However, this time frame may extend to 1–2 weeks for applications submitted nearer to the deadline.