Saudi Arabia Suspends Multiple-Entry Visit Visas for 14 Countries, Including India

Policy Change Takes Effect from February 1, 2025

In a significant policy shift, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has temporarily suspended the issuance of multiple-entry visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India. This decision, which reportedly aims to prevent the misuse of long-term visit visas for illegal Haj pilgrimage, took effect on February 1, 2025.

Affected Countries

The suspension applies to visitors from the following 14 nations:

• Algeria
• Bangladesh
• Egypt
• Ethiopia
• India
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Jordan
• Morocco
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Sudan
• Tunisia
• Yemen

New Visa Regulations

Under the revised rules, visitors from these countries can now only obtain single-entry visas, valid for 30 days. The maximum duration of stay allowed under this visa is also restricted to 30 days.

However, Haj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas remain unaffected by this change.

No Official Statement Yet

Despite the changes being reflected on the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ electronic visa platform, neither the Ministry nor the General Directorate of Passports has officially confirmed or denied the suspension.

Possible Reasons Behind the Move

The decision is believed to be driven by concerns over the misuse of multiple-entry visit visas, particularly for unauthorized Haj pilgrimage. Authorities have been tightening regulations in recent years to curb illegal entry into the kingdom during the Haj season.

Impact on Travelers

The suspension is expected to affect business travelers, expatriates, and families who frequently visit Saudi Arabia. Many visitors from these 14 countries rely on multiple-entry visas for extended stays or repeated visits.

While there is no official timeline for when the policy might be reversed, travelers from the affected nations are advised to check with Saudi authorities before planning their trips.