Saudi Arabia has formally declared a provisional suspension on the issuance of new short-term visas, encompassing business visit visas (both single-entry and multiple-entry), e-tourist visas, and family visit visas for nationals from fourteen specified countries, including Nigeria.
The moratorium, which is scheduled to commence on April 13, 2025, pertains to citizens of India, Egypt, Pakistan, Yemen, Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan, Nigeria, Algeria, Indonesia, Iraq, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Libya, as reported by Gulf News.
According to the report, individuals from these nations possessing valid visas may still gain entry into the Kingdom until April 13, and are required to depart no later than April 29.
According to the report, individuals from these nations possessing valid visas may still gain entry into the Kingdom until April 13, and are required to depart no later than April 29.
Saudi authorities, as cited by Gulf News, articulated that the newly imposed restrictions are intended to enhance the coordination of arrivals while ensuring the safety and orderly conduct of the forthcoming pilgrimage.
This prohibition on visa issuance follows Saudi Arabia’s prior indefinite suspension of one-year multiple-entry visas and the limitation of travel from these 14 countries to single-entry visas valid for a duration of 30 days, which was enacted in February 2025.
Saudi Arabia has additionally provided updated directives concerning the logistical arrangements for Umrah travel. The issuance of Umrah visas is slated to commence annually on the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah and will terminate on the 1st of Shawwal.
“The Kingdom has repeatedly emphasized the importance of obtaining the appropriate visa type for religious travel and warned of legal consequences for those who fail to comply.”
