JEDDAH – Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted the issuance of block work visa quotas for citizens from 14 countries, including Pakistan.
Block work visas are employer-requested quotas that allow Saudi companies to hire foreign workers from specific nations.
The decision comes in the lead-up to the annual Hajj pilgrimage, as part of efforts to tighten immigration control, ease congestion, and curb unauthorized pilgrimages.
The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources confirmed that the block work visa has been suspended for citizens of Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.
As per the changes in the policy, new visa applications will not be processed, and previously submitted requests may face delays or cancellations.
Additionally, individuals who have already obtained work visas but have not yet entered the Kingdom could encounter entry issues.
The Saudi authorities have also imposed temporary ban on issuing Umrah, family visit, business, and tourist visas for several countries.
Work Visa Resumption Schedule
Reports said the restrictions on block work visa quotas are expected to remain in place through June 2025. If it happens, the process for work visas will be resumed in July 2025.
However, officials suggest the rules may be relaxed following the conclusion of the Hajj season. In this case, the process for work visas is likely to be resumed in mid-June.
