JEDDAH – Umrah visas can now be obtained electronically thanks to the activation of an international e-network, announced Minister of Haj Dr. Bandar Hajjar here on Friday. An intending Umrah performer fills an e-form through an approved agent. The application is linked with a package of services that has been purchased from the agent. The intending Umrah performer pays the cost of the package linked with the visa through a bank transfer to a recognized bank in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Interior issues a computerized entry number for him. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues the visa after getting the Umrah performer's data from the Interior Ministry. The visa is received within 48 hours after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has received the data. The agent is informed to visit the embassy to get the visa stamped. After the Umrah performer arrives in the Kingdom, the Ministry of Haj starts monitoring to ensure that all services are provided to him or her. The Ministry of Haj ensures that Umrah performers leave the Kingdom on time. The new e-network is linked with the ministries of interior and foreign affairs and the other authorities concerned. – SG
