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Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended Umrah, visit, and business visas for 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Egypt, starting April 13, 2025. The visa ban will stay in effect until mid-June to manage Hajj overcrowding and prevent unauthorized pilgrims.
Planning a trip to Saudi Arabia? Recent changes and suspensions regarding visa issuance have confused many travelers worldwide. As the Kingdom prepares for the bustling Hajj season, temporary restrictions are in place.
If you’re navigating travel plans for business, family visits, or religious purposes like Umrah, you likely have questions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key facts surrounding the visa ban and how it could impact your travel plans.
1. Which Visas Have Been Suspended?
Saudi authorities have temporarily halted applications for Umrah visas, family visit visas, and business visit visas, which are currently facing holds or are not being issued. While systems might accept applications, they often remain ‘on standby’ without guaranteed approval.
• Umrah Visas
• Business Visit Visas
• Family Visit Visas
• Tourist Visas (in some cases)
This includes both single-entry and multiple-entry visa categories.
2. When does the Visa Ban Start?
The suspension takes effect on April 13, 2025, and will remain in place until the conclusion of Hajj season, expected to be mid-June 2025.
3. Who Is Affected by the Visa Ban?
The visa suspension impacts travelers from the following 14 countries:
1. India
2. Pakistan
3. Bangladesh
4. Egypt
5. Indonesia
6. Iraq
7. Nigeria
8. Jordan
9. Algeria
10. Sudan
11. Ethiopia
12. Tunisia
13. Yemen
14. Morocco
Travel agents report difficulties obtaining visas across various nationalities during this pre-Hajj period. The key takeaway is that anyone needing a new visa in the affected categories or planning to use an existing visa should be aware of the current restrictions and deadlines.
4. What About Multiple-Entry Visa Holders?
As of February 1, 2025, Saudi Arabia has banned the use of multiple-entry visas for all 14 affected countries. Travelers from these nations will only be eligible for single-entry visas moving forward.
This measure is part of a broader effort to:
• Reduce unauthorized Hajj participation
• Ensure compliance with immigration regulations
• Manage crowd control efficiently
5. What are the Last Entry and Exit Dates?
Travelers who already hold valid Saudi visas should note:
• Last Entry Allowed: April 13, 2025
• Exit Deadline: April 29, 2025
Failure to exit by this deadline could result in significant fines and legal consequences.
6. What are the Penalties for Overstaying?
Overstaying your visa during this period carries severe consequences. Authorities have reportedly increased the fine significantly. Failing to exit by April 29th can result in a penalty of SAR 100,000 (Saudi Riyals).
Saudi authorities have updated the fines for overstaying visit visas:
• New Penalty: SAR 100,000
• Previous Penalty: SAR 25,000
Additionally, Umrah operators associated with overstaying pilgrims can face penalties, potentially impacting their future operations.
7. Why Has the Visa Ban Been Imposed?
The decision follows a tragic Hajj season in 2024, where over 1,000 lives were lost, many of them unauthorized pilgrims. Key reasons behind the ban include:
• Preventing unregistered individuals from performing Hajj
• Avoiding overcrowding in Mecca
• Maintaining order and security during the pilgrimage
8. When Will Visa Issuance Resume?
The visa suspension is temporary and directly linked to the Hajj season. Based on the Islamic calendar (Dhul Hijjah 20), visa issuance across categories is expected to resume around July 16th or 17th, 2025, following the conclusion of Hajj activities. Note: This date depends on the official moon sighting.
9. What If You’re already in Saudi Arabia?
Anyone present in the Kingdom on visit visas (including single-entry or those who entered earlier on multi-entry visas) must exit Saudi Arabia by April 29th, 2025. If you’re currently in Saudi Arabia on a visit or Umrah visa from one of the banned countries:
• Ensure departure before April 29
• Check your visa status and exit plans immediately
• Coordinate with a registered travel operator for assistance
10. What Should Travelers Do Now?
Here are some steps you can take if you’re affected by the visa ban:
• Avoid new bookings to Saudi Arabia until mid-June 2025
• Monitor official updates from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
• Contact your visa agent or tour operator for personalized guidance
• Ensure legal compliance to avoid fines or bans
Final Thoughts
The Saudi Arabia visa ban is a temporary but crucial step in ensuring a safe and smooth Hajj season. Travelers from the 14 affected countries should plan accordingly and stay updated through official channels. With proper planning and compliance, disruptions can be minimized for all.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/saudi-arabia-visa-ban-14-countries-key-things-to-know/
