Saudi Arabia has announced the suspension of block work visa quotas for citizens of 14 countries, including Pakistan, India, Egypt, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Iraq, and Nigeria, until June 2025.
This decision has been taken ahead of the Hajj season to enhance immigration control, prevent overcrowding, and stop unauthorized pilgrimages.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources, the countries affected by the block work visa 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 that allows Saudi companies to recruit workers from specific countries. With this suspension, new applications will not be accepted, and delays or rejections may occur for existing applications. Those who have received a visa but have not yet entered Saudi Arabia may also face entry difficulties.
In addition to work visas, Saudi Arabia has also temporarily halted Umrah, family visit, business, and tourist visas for several countries.
The suspension will remain in effect until the end of June 2025, with the possibility of easing restrictions after the Hajj season.
