Starting in 2026, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, along with Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services, has introduced new health and travel requirements for pilgrims. If you’re planning to perform Umrah, having the correct medical certificates in place is just as important as your visa and ticket.
At Rehbar-e-Haram, we’ve put together this complete, easy-to-follow guide covering every mandatory certificate and exactly how to obtain it so your journey goes smoothly, without last-minute hurdles.
Which Certificates Are Required for Umrah Travel?
Manual or handwritten yellow cards are no longer accepted for Umrah travel. Pilgrims must now carry a Digital Health Certificate with an NADRA QR Code. This certificate must confirm the following vaccinations:
1. Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine (ACYW-135)
- Why it’s required: This is a strict Saudi government requirement to protect against meningococcal meningitis.
- Timing: The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel.
2. Polio Vaccine Certificate
- Why it’s required: A valid polio vaccination and its digital record are mandatory for every traveler departing from Pakistan.
3. Seasonal Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
- Why it’s required: Makkah and Madinah see massive crowds of pilgrims from around the world. Given seasonal changes and the risk of respiratory illness in large gatherings, the flu vaccine is strongly recommended.
4. Saudi Visa Bio & Nusuk App Registration
- Saudi Visa Bio: Fingerprint and facial scan verification completed through a mobile app.
- Nusuk App: Pilgrims must create an account on the Nusuk app to secure permits for Umrah and visiting the Rawdah of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
Step-by-Step: How to Obtain Your Mandatory Certificates
Getting these certificates verified is a straightforward process:
Step 1 — Visit a Government Health Center or Hospital
Go to your nearest District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital, Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital, or a designated Hajj Medical Center. Bring your original CNIC and passport with you.
Step 2 — Get Vaccinated
At the hospital counter, mention that you need Umrah vaccinations and get the Meningitis and Polio vaccines administered. Make sure staff correctly record your CNIC number so it can be entered into the system.
Step 3 — Confirm Your Online Record Is Updated
After vaccination, verify that hospital staff have entered your record into the NIMS (National Immunization Management System) portal.
Step 4 — Download Your Certificate from the NADRA NIMS Portal
- Open nims.nadra.gov.pk on your phone or computer.
- Select “Other Vaccination” or the “Umrah/Travel Vaccination Certificate” option.
- Enter your CNIC number and the vaccination issue date.
- Pay the nominal fee online (by card or mobile wallet).
- Download your QR-coded digital certificate in PDF format and print a copy.
Important Reminders for Pilgrims
- Carry a printout: Always keep a printed copy of your digital certificate with your travel documents it’s checked at the airport during boarding.
- Mind the timing: Get vaccinated at least 10–14 days before your travel date so your certificate has time to be issued.
- Activate Nusuk before departure: Set up and verify your Nusuk app account before leaving Pakistan, and book your Umrah and Rawdah visit timings in advance.
Stay connected with Rehbar-e-Haram for the latest updates on Umrah travel and visa requirements.