The kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has reviewed its visa policy for travelers from 14 countries, including Pakistan, restricting multiple entry visas for business, tourism and family visits due to the annual period of Hajj.
This change affects the travelers of Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia and Yemen.
The new visa policy rules entered into force on February 1, 2025. Previously, visitors to these 14 countries could obtain a multiple input visas of one year, according to a statement issued on Thursday.
Now, they can only receive unique input visas valid for 30 days. This rule applies to tourists, business visitors and family visitors. Meanwhile, there have been no changes in the Visas of Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic or residence.
Saudi authorities have emphasized that the review guarantees a better regulation of visitors. In addition, the movement also supports the broader immigration control strategy of KSA. Mainly, the main concern is the unauthorized participation of Hajj.
Previously, many visitors entered Saudi Arabia using multiple input visas, but remained illegally to perform the Hayy. As a result, this led to overcrowding and safety risks.
Another reason is illegal employment. Some travelers entered Saudi Arabia about business or family visas, but dedicated themselves to an unauthorized job. This practice violated visa regulations and caused irregularities of the labor market.
In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia has emphasized that the decision will improve security and organization. In the future, they urged travelers affected to comply with the new rules to avoid sanctions.
The authorities have also reported that these new visa policy rules are aligned with the vision 2030 objectives of the vision of Saudi Arabia. The kingdom aims to boost its tourism industry while maintaining strict immigration controls.
The new rules of visa policy significantly affect frequent travelers to Saudi Arabia. For example, business professionals who visit the country several times a year must now request a visa each time.
In addition, families with relatives in Saudi Arabia now also face more travel restrictions.
Travel agencies predict longer visa processing times due to the inevitable greater influx of applications. Therefore, frequent visitors must adjust their travel plans accordingly. In addition, experts recommend requesting visas very anticipated to avoid last minute problems.
Hospitality and aviation industries will also experience the impact of new visa policy rules.
