Countries affected by suspension include Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen and Morocco
RIYADH: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-May 30th, 2025) In a major development, Saudi Arabia has announced the suspension of the "block work visa quota" for citizens of 14 countries, including Pakistan, India, Egypt, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, until June 2025.
The decision, taken ahead of the Hajj season, aims to improve immigration control, manage overcrowding, and prevent illegal pilgrimages.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources, the countries affected by the suspension are: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.
A block work visa is a pre-approved quota system that allows Saudi companies to recruit workers from specified countries. With this suspension in place, new applications will not be accepted, while delays or rejections may occur for pending requests. Individuals who have been granted visas but have not yet entered Saudi Arabia may face difficulties at the border.
In addition to the work visa suspension, Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted the issuance of Umrah, family visit, business, and tourist visas for several countries.
The restrictions would remain in effect until the end of June 2025, with expectations of easing after the Hajj season concludes.
