Staff Report
Saudi Arabia has banned issuing multiple-entry visas for 14 countries including Pakistan. It announced a major change in its visa policy to take effect February 1, 2025. Middle East country has now banned multiple-entry visas for 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Egypt.
Saudi Arabia will now issue only single-entry visas to the travelers from these countries instead of multiple-entry visas. This policy shift has been made to stop misuse of visa and tackle issue of overcrowding during the Hajj pilgrimage.
New Visa Rules Explained
- Saudi Arabia will issue only single-entry visas.
- Visa will be valid for 30 days, with a maximum stay of 30 days.
- This policy is not applicable on Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas.
Who Is Affected?
Here is a list of 14 countries whose travelers will face new regulations.
- Algeria
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- India
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
Why Shift in Visa Policy?
Saudi authorities say that new policy has been made to stop the misuse of multiple-entry visas. Authorities had come to knowledge about some visitors who had stayed beyond their permitted period for work. Some had performed Hajj without proper authorization.
Saudi Arabia has been concerned about the overcrowding of unauthorized pilgrims during Hajj. These reasons have forces Saudi Arabia authorities to enforce stricter visa control measures. (Read more here)
Impact on Travelers
- Tourists and business visitors will have to apply for a new visa each time to visit Saudi Arabia.
- Families visiting relatives will have to plan accordingly as they will be having only single-entry visa.
- The frequent travelers will face increased paperwork and costs to travel to Saudi Arabia for work or personal reasons. (Learn more)
How to Prepare for the New Rules
- You will have to apply for your visa early.
- Check visa requirements on the official Saudi embassy website before booking your trip.
- Visitors will have to follow regulations strictly to avoid any travel disruptions.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s visa policy is a challenge for 14 affected countries whose visitors will have to increased cost and proper work to travel to Saudi Arabia. Travelers will have to Keep checking for further updates on visa regulations before your next trip!
