Yes, you need an official Umrah permit through the Nusuk platform/app before performing Umrah. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah states that an Umrah permit must be obtained before going to Masjid al-Haram to perform the ritual.
What Is a Nusuk Umrah Permit?
The Nusuk Umrah permit is an official digital authorization that allows pilgrims to perform Umrah at an approved date and time.
It is separate from your Saudi Umrah visa. Having a valid visa does not automatically mean that you have an Umrah appointment. The Saudi government’s current guidance explains that visitors need authorization to perform Umrah, and the permit is issued through Nusuk.
For UK pilgrims, this is an important step to complete before travelling or before heading to the Haram, depending on the current arrangements for your visa and trip.
How Do I Get an Umrah Permit?
The process is completed online through Nusuk.
Generally, you need to:
- Download or access the official Nusuk platform.
- Create an account or log in.
- Select the Umrah permit service.
- Choose an available date and time.
- Confirm the permit.
- Keep the permit details available on your phone alongside your other required travel documents.
The Saudi government currently lists the Umrah permit service as free and provides the option to issue the permit through the Nusuk app or platform.
Do I Need a Permit If I Already Have an Umrah Visa?
Yes. A visa and an Umrah permit serve different purposes.
Your visa provides permission to enter Saudi Arabia under the relevant visa conditions — see how long an Umrah visa takes to process — while the Umrah permit authorises the performance of Umrah itself.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ current Umrah visa guidance specifically includes issuing the Umrah permit through the Nusuk platform after the visa process. If you’re applying as a UK resident applying online, the permit step follows visa approval.
Should I Apply for the Permit Early?
It is sensible to arrange your permit as early as the system allows, particularly if you are travelling during a busy period.
Available dates and times can depend on current Saudi regulations and operational arrangements. Checking Nusuk before travelling can help you understand what is available and avoid leaving the process until the last minute.
Requirements can also change during major religious seasons, so pilgrims should always follow the latest official Saudi guidance.
What If I Am Travelling With Family?
If you are travelling with family members or dependents, make sure the relevant people are correctly registered and that their details match their travel documents.
The Nusuk system supports services for pilgrims and dependents, although the exact process can depend on the current rules and visa arrangements.
Final Advice for UK Pilgrims
Before travelling from the UK, check your visa requirements, make sure your Nusuk account is working and confirm your Umrah permit arrangements.
Your travel agency may help you understand the process, but you should still make sure your own permit details are correct before heading to Masjid al-Haram.
In short, having a Saudi visa is not the same as having an Umrah permit. You should obtain the required Umrah permit through Nusuk before performing Umrah.
