Saudi Arabia’s New Visa Rules: What You Need To Know

Hello there, friend! I want to share some important news about Saudi Arabia’s visa rules. Starting February 1, 2025, the country will only allow single-entry visas for travelers from 14 specific nations. This change is meant to stop unauthorized Hajj pilgrims from using long-term visas.

Saudi Arabia’s New Visa Rules

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Who Is affected?

This new rule affects travelers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. In simple terms, people from these countries can no longer get a one-year multiple-entry visa for tourism, business, or family visits.

Key Changes In The Visa Policy

First, if you are from one of these 14 countries, you must apply for a single-entry visa. 

Next, this visa is valid for 30 days, which means you can stay for up to 30 days only. 

However, if you are planning a Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visit, the old visa rules still apply.

Why Is This happening? 

Saudi officials noticed that some travelers were misusing multiple-entry visas. They sometimes entered on long-term visas, worked without permission, or even did Hajj without proper authorization. Moreover, Saudi Arabia carefully controls the Hajj by assigning a set number of pilgrims to each nation. Unfortunately, in 2024, overcrowding and extreme heat led to the tragic loss of over 1,200 lives. Officials believe that unregistered pilgrims added to this crisis. Therefore, the government wants to make sure that only authorized pilgrims can perform the Hajj.

Officials say this change is temporary. They will watch how the new rules work before making any further decisions.

What Travelers Need To Know

If you are planning to visit Saudi Arabia, make sure you apply for your single-entry visa well in advance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises everyone to follow these new rules carefully. By doing so, you can avoid any penalties or travel disruptions and enjoy your journey without worries.