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Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Saudi Arabia has recently lifted the suspension on issuing visit visas for nationals from select countries, including those applying for business, tourism, and family visit visas. However, the Kingdom is still imposing significant restrictions on entry and exit for these nationals. The government continues to issue only single-entry visas with a maximum stay of 90 days, while the issuance of Letters of Invitation now comes without specifying the visa’s validity or number of permitted entries. These decisions remain at the discretion of Saudi authorities, and travelers are advised to stay informed about any changes.

Key Updates and Impact on Travel

• Visa Issuance Update: The suspension on issuing new visit visas has been lifted, but single-entry visas are currently the only option, allowing stays up to 90 days.
• Travel Restrictions: Nationals from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen still face entry and exit restrictions, affecting travelers who hold existing visit visas for business, tourism, or family purposes.
• Letter of Invitation: Saudi Arabia is issuing Letters of Invitation for nationals from restricted countries without specifying the visa validity or the number of entries.
• Exit Deadline for Existing Visa Holders: Nationals already in Saudi Arabia must exit by April 13, 2025, to avoid penalties or a future ban on re-entry.
• Umrah Pilgrims Deadline: All Umrah pilgrims are required to leave by April 29, 2025, as part of the ongoing exit restrictions.

Ongoing Suspension of New Visit Visas for Certain Nationals

The temporary suspension of new visit visa issuances remains in place for nationals from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. This restriction is expected to last until June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the Hajj season. However, some travelers may still be able to enter with existing valid visit visas, but these decisions are subject to Saudi authorities’ discretion.

Temporary Measures Affecting Existing Visas

• Exit Requirements: Nationals already holding valid visit visas must depart by April 13, 2025, to avoid legal issues, including fines or future entry bans.
• Visa Validity Decisions: Saudi authorities retain the discretion to determine the validity and entry conditions for visas, adding an element of uncertainty for travelers.

February 2025 Update: Limitations on One-Year Multiple-Entry Visas

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In February 2025, additional measures were introduced, which limited the issuance of one-year multiple-entry visas for nationals of the affected countries. This is part of Saudi Arabia’s effort to control and monitor the flow of visitors, particularly during peak seasons like Hajj.

Ongoing Monitoring and Updates

Fragomen, a global immigration services firm, is closely monitoring the evolving situation and will provide timely updates as new information is released. Affected travelers are advised to check for the latest guidance and comply with Saudi Arabia’s visa rules and regulations to ensure smooth travel.

Conclusion and Travel Recommendations

With the lifting of the visit visa suspension, nationals from the affected countries can once again apply for single-entry visas. However, these travelers must adhere to strict entry and exit deadlines and remain vigilant about any additional restrictions that may arise. The ongoing suspension of new visit visa issuances and the requirement for early exits serve as reminders of the Kingdom’s dynamic approach to managing visitor numbers during high-demand periods.
For further updates and clarification, travelers are encouraged to consult official government websites and stay in close contact with immigration agents.
Sources: (Fragomen, Travel and Tour World, Times of India, Economic Times, Vanguard Nigeria, Travelobiz, Newland Chase, EY (Ernst & Young), U.S. Department of State, Siasat Daily, Visa Saudi, Reddit)

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Tags: algeria, bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, indonesia, iraq, jordan, morocco, nigeria, pakistan, saudi arabia, sudan, Tunisia, Yemen

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Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Wednesday, July 2, 2025

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