Saudi Arabia declares changes for visa policy for Indian and 13 other countries, restricting them to single entry visa effective from February 2025. The main motive is to prevent unauthorized Hajj pilgrims and manage overcrowding. The policy targets nations like India, Egypt and Pakistan. Travelers must know these new regulations to avoid penalties. Saudi Arabia has announced a major change in its visa policy, restricting travelers from 14 countries to single entry visa. Effective from February 1, 2025, the motive aim is to prevent unauthorized entry during Hajj pilgrims. The new regulations applies to the nationals of Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan. Sudan, Tunisia and Yemen. The goverment has recognize suspension on the one-year multiple entry visa for tourism, business and family visits from these nations.
Visitors from the 14 impacted countries will now only be eligible for single-entry visas under the revised visa policy, which brings about significant changes.These visas have a 30-day validity period and a 30-day maximum stay. It is crucial to remember that diplomatic, residency, Hajj, and Umrah visas are not impacted by these changes.The misuse of multiple-entry visas was clarified by Saudi officials. Some visitors came with long-term visas but either performed the Hajj without the required authorization or stayed in the country illegally to work. The Hajj is strictly regulated by Saudi authorities, who assign each country a pilgrimage quota. Many tourists have used long-term visas to get around these restrictions, which has led to overcrowding.
When over 1,200 pilgrims perished in 2024 as a result of excessive heat and crowding, the problem took on a particularly serious tone. The need for stricter visa regulations is highlighted by authorities’ belief that unregistered pilgrims played a role in the crises. By limiting travel to single-entry visas, the government hopes to reduce the risks associated with unapproved attendance and guarantee that only authorized pilgrims complete the Hajj. The multiple-entry visa suspension has been characterized by officials as a temporary measure. But there isn’t a deadline for reviewing it. Before taking any further action, the government will assess the policy’s effects.
Single-entry visas should be applied for well in advance by tourists who intend to visit Saudi Arabia. In order to avoid fines, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised travelers to adhere closely to the new visa requirements. To avoid problems when they travel or stay in Saudi Arabia, visitors from the affected countries must ensure that they abide by the country’s more stringent immigration regulations.
