Saudi Hajj Ministry reminds pilgrims to complete biometrics at home countries


The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on Monday reminded pilgrims traveling to the kingdom to complete their required biometrics locally to avoid the risk of deportation.
The ministry issued the circular reminding pilgrims of the proper visa procedures amid reports that hundreds of visitors had been denied entry to Saudi Arabia due to incorrect or incomplete requirements.
“To avoid such unfortunate incidents, pilgrims must apply [for] the right category of visas through the travel agents registered with the country’s Hajj and Umrah Committees,” said the ministry. “Without the right visa and documentations, pilgrims will encounter fines and/or deportation to the home country.”
The ministry also reminded travelers to complete their mandatory biometric registration locally after obtaining a Hajj or Umrah visa.
“Once [the] entire visa formality is completed, including enrollment of biometric information, pilgrims can travel with peace of mind, fully focusing on the holy journey ahead of them,” they said.
Biometric registration would only take around 10 minutes to complete at any local visa service center authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Travelers who wish to complete their biometric registration locally must first secure a pre-booked appointment.
Pilgrims who complete their biometrics in their country of origin will only need to clear customs and have their passports stamped by immigration upon their entry to the KSA. — Julia Mari Ornedo/DVM, GMA News

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