The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has abruptly suspended all Umrah, business, and family visit visas for 14 nations, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Egypt, a startling decision that has alarmed thousands of eager tourists. The ruling, which took effect in early April 2025, has raised concerns among religious tour organizers, travel agencies, and visa applicants.
Let’s examine the current situation, its causes, when things might get back to normal, and what you should do right away if you’re impacted.
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Which Nations Will Be Impacted by the 2025 Saudi Arabia Visa/Entry Ban?
Visa issuance for the following nations has been suspended by Saudi Arabia:
- Indonesia
- Pakistan
- India
- Turkey
- Sudan
- Afghanistan
- Jordan
- Bangladesh
- Yemen
- Iran
- Egypt
- Morocco
- Syria
- Nigeria
Why Did Saudi Arabia Suspend Visa Services?
This action was taken by the Saudi government to stop unapproved Hajj participation, which has grown in importance in recent years.
In the past, a large number of people visited Saudi Arabia on business or Umrah visas and lingered longer to participate in the yearly Hajj pilgrimage without the proper authorization. Due to the overpopulation caused by this excess, the nation’s public safety and logistics systems were severely strained. Over 1,200 people died on the most recent Hajj in 2024, mostly from crowding and heatstroke.
The regulated labor market is also being disrupted by Saudi authorities’ crackdown on people who enter the country on business or visitation visas and work without authorization.
When Will Visa Services Be Restored?
It is anticipated that visa services for the impacted nations will reopen following the end of the Hajj season, most likely in mid-June 2025.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah claims that
- Visas for Umrah will no longer be granted after April 13, 2025.
- The dates of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage are set for June 4–9.
- After the Hajj, visa restrictions will be reviewed, and regular services should soon resume.
What You Should Do If You’re Seeking a Saudi Arabia Visa
Here are some strategies to deal with the uncertainty if this decision affects you:
1. Avoid attempting to enter the country illegally or remaining longer than allowed on an existing visa. Violations of this rule can result in heavy fines, deportation, and a five-year ban from Saudi Arabia.
2. Use Official Channels to Stay Updated: Continue to verify:
- The Hajj and Umrah Ministry
- The Saudi embassy or consulate in your area
- reliable media outlets for any modifications or revisions
3. Postpone or Reschedule Travel Plans: It is recommended that any travel plans be rescheduled for after June 2025, regardless of whether you are going to visit relatives, attend business meetings, or conduct Umrah.
4. Hajj Applicants Must Follow Official Quotas: You must apply through your nation’s approved Hajj program if you want to go to the Hajj in 2025. No other visa type will be allowed to join the pilgrimage.
Refs: https://www.mofa.gov.sa/en/eservices/pages/default.aspx.
