Saudi Arabia has introduced a major change in its visit visa policy, impacting 14 countries, including Pakistan, India, Egypt, and Indonesia. Effective from February 1, 2025, the Kingdom has officially discontinued one-year multiple-entry visit visas for business, tourism, and family visits. This move is aimed at curbing unauthorized Hajj participation, ensuring that the pilgrimage system remains regulated and within the prescribed quotas.
What Does the New Policy Mean for Visitors?
Under the revised regulations, only single-entry visas will be issued for travelers from these 14 countries. The visa will now be:
- Valid for 30 days
- Allow a maximum stay of 30 days per visit
- Require biometric verification at designated Etimad visa centers
The affected nations include: Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
This decision follows Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to regulate the Hajj pilgrimage system more strictly. Authorities observed that individuals were misusing long-term visit visas to participate in Hajj outside of their allocated quotas. The revised policy is meant to prevent unauthorized pilgrims from bypassing official regulations.
How Will This Impact Travelers?
For visitors, this means:
- Frequent travelers must apply for a new visa every time they plan a trip to Saudi Arabia.
- Business professionals will no longer be able to use multiple-entry visas to attend meetings and conferences throughout the year.
- Families looking to visit relatives in Saudi Arabia will now need to plan shorter and more structured trips.
Hajj 2025 Registration Opens for Domestic Pilgrims
Meanwhile, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that Hajj 2025 registration is now open for domestic pilgrims, including Saudi citizens and residents. Those wishing to perform Hajj must register through:
- The Nusuk App
- The Official e-portal
The ministry has advised applicants to:
- Register early
- Update their health information
- Add accompanying pilgrims
- Apply for Mahram (male guardian) exemption, if eligible
Priority for Hajj bookings will be given to first-time pilgrims to ensure a fair and equal opportunity for those who have never performed Hajj before.
Conclusion
This new policy signals Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regulating its visa system and ensuring proper Hajj procedures. Travelers from the affected 14 countries should plan accordingly and be mindful of the new single-entry restrictions when applying for visas. For business, tourism, or family visits, advanced preparation will be essential.
For more updates and travel guidelines, stay tuned to Brides & You!