apply for umrah visa

Can You Do Umrah for Someone Else? Performing Ummrah on behalf of another person—often called Umrah badal—is a question many families ask, especially when a loved one has passed away or is medically unable to travel. The short answer: yes, you can do Umrah for someone else, but only under specific conditions set by Islamic jurisprudence. Below is a clear, practical guide rooted in mainstream scholarly views, alongside useful tips for those planning an umrah tour from UK. Quick overview You may perform Umrah for: Someone who has died. Someone living who has a permanent, irreversible inability to travel (e.g., severe disability, chronic illness without hope of recovery). You should not perform Umrah for: A living person who is temporarily ill or simply busy. You should perform your own obligatory Umrah/Hajj first before doing Umrah for another (by analogy with the well-known “Shubrumah” hadith regarding Hajj). This guidance reflects widely accepted Sunni fiqh positions and is taught in many foundational works and classes. When in doubt, consult a trusted local scholar for your specific scenario. Why scholars allow Umrah by proxy The precedent comes from Hajj: the Prophet (peace be upon him) instructed a companion to perform Hajj for himself first before doing Hajj on behalf of “Shubrumah.” Scholars extend this ruling to Umrah. The principles are: The obligation is personal, so you fulfill your own first. Proxy worship becomes permissible for the deceased or the permanently unable, so the act of worship is not missed entirely. While exact details can vary by madhhab, the above is a well-recognized baseline. Who exactly can you perform Umrah for? Deceased relatives or non-relatives Performing Umrah for a deceased person is permissible and a meaningful gift. Living but permanently unable individuals Someone whose illness or disability is not expected to improve, as advised by physicians and family. Temporarily ill or currently unable individuals Generally, not allowed. If a person is expected to recover, they should wait and do their own Umrah when able. Note: If you’re unsure whether a condition is “permanent,” ask a qualified scholar and a medical professional. Your intention is important, but aligning with clear criteria avoids doubt. Conditions for the person performing Umrah (the proxy) Perform your own obligatory Umrah/Hajj first. Make a sincere intention (niyyah) naming the person on whose behalf you’re performing. Complete all rites correctly, just as you would for yourself. One Umrah = one person. You can’t combine a single Umrah for multiple people. How to intend Umrah for someone else At or before the miqat, enter ihram and intend on behalf of the person: Example niyyah: “Labbaika ‘Umratan ‘an [Name]” (O Allah, here I am for Umrah on behalf of [Name]). It is fine to use your own language. Clarity is what matters. All steps—ihram, tawaf, sa‘i, and halq/taqsir—are then done as usual, with the reward intended for the named person. Step-by-step: Performing Umrah on behalf of another Prepare and enter ihram Bathe, wear ihram, and make the intention specifically for the person. Talbiyah Recite talbiyah as normal, remembering the intended recipient. Tawaf (7 circuits) Perform around the Ka‘bah with khushu‘ and dua. Two rak‘ahs and Zamzam Pray behind Maqam Ibrahim if feasible and drink Zamzam. Sa‘i between Safa and Marwah (7 lengths) Complete with focus and humility. Halq or taqsir Men: shaving (halq) is preferred; trimming (taqsir) is acceptable. Women: trim a small portion of hair. That’s it—you have performed Umrah by proxy. Many also make heartfelt dua asking Allah to accept it for the named person. Common questions Can I perform multiple Umrahs for different people in one trip? You may perform multiple Umrahs sequentially, each with a separate intention, typically exiting to the nearest boundary (e.g., Tan‘eem/Masjid ‘Aishah) before re-entering ihram. Be mindful of crowding and your stamina. Can I be paid to perform Umrah for someone? Scholars differ on compensation for proxy worship. If you’re considering this, seek specific scholarly advice and ensure transparency and integrity. What about minors? A guardian can assist a minor in performing Ummrah. When the child becomes an adult, they should perform their own obligations again. Is “ummrah” the same as “umrah”? Yes—“ummrah” is a common misspelling. The correct transliteration used in most guides is “umrah.” Practical travel notes (especially for UK pilgrims) If you’re arranging an umrah tour from UK for yourself or to serve as a proxy: Visas You can apply for Umrah via an Umrah visa through licensed agents, or in many cases, use a tourist e-visa for an umrah visit visa pathway if you’re eligible. Rules can change—always check current official guidance before you book. Start early if you plan to apply for umrah visa close to peak seasons (Ramadan, school holidays). Packages and budgeting Look for reputable operators with clear itineraries, transparent inclusions, and ATOL/ABTA protection. “Cheap umrah deals” can be good value, but verify hotel distances, transfer policies, and prayer-time accessibility. The lowest price isn’t always the best experience for elderly or less mobile pilgrims. Timing and comfort Allow buffer days for rest, especially if you’ll perform multiple Umrahs (for example, one for yourself and one for a deceased parent). Late-night tawaf can be less crowded. Hydrate, pace yourself, and consider wheelchair services if needed. Documentation and intent There’s no special “document” needed to do Umrah for someone else; the core is your intention. Your travel paperwork still reflects your own trip, not the recipient’s. Security and safety Keep valuables minimal, use hotel safes, and stay with your group. Respect local regulations and crowd management instructions. Key takeaways You can do Umrah for someone else if they’re deceased or permanently unable to travel. Do your own obligatory Umrah/Hajj first, then perform Ummrah by proxy with a clear intention. One Umrah serves one person; you can repeat Ummrah during a trip if feasible and considerate of crowds. For UK travelers, plan your umrah visit visa or e-visa, compare packages wisely, and avoid chasing “cheap umrah deals” without due diligence. Summary Performing Ummrah on behalf of a loved one is