Saudi Arabia suspends block work visas for 14 countries, including Bangladesh — Here's why

Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of "block work visa quotas" for nationals of 14 countries, including Bangladesh, in a move that is expected to significantly impact foreign workers and businesses.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development made the decision, which will remain in effect until the end of June 2025, coinciding with the Hajj season, reports Arab Times.

Other than Bangladesh, the affected countries are Pakistan, India, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen and Morocco.

What are block work visas?

Block work visas are pre-approved quotas that allow Saudi companies to recruit a specific number of foreign workers. Once approved, companies can apply for entry visas for selected candidates under this quota system.

However, under the temporary ban, no new quotas will be issued for employers targeting workers from the listed countries, while the processing of previously approved quotas may also face delays.

Pending work entry visa applications could be delayed or even denied, and individuals who already hold valid work visas but have not yet entered Saudi Arabia may encounter entry restrictions.

Reasons behind the suspension

The move is reportedly aimed at regulating labour market inflow during the busy Hajj season, preventing illegal Hajj participation by foreign workers, and enhancing immigration compliance and crowd management.

Though temporary, the decision has added pressure on foreign job seekers and employers dependent on manpower from the affected countries.

Additional visa restrictions

Saudi Arabia has also imposed several other visa limitations, including a pause on Umrah visa applications from the same 14 countries during peak periods, and delays in family visit visas, leaving many applications pending and families uncertain.

Business visit visas are also facing delays and unexplained rejections, while from 1 February 2025, the Kingdom banned multiple-entry tourist visas for the affected countries, permitting only single-entry visas and potentially restricting entry for current multiple-entry visa holders.

Guidance for travellers and employers

Employers are advised to explore alternative sourcing countries or delay recruitment plans.

Travellers must confirm their visa and entry eligibility with airlines or the nearest Saudi diplomatic missions before departure. Recruitment agencies should keep clients informed about potential delays and plan for longer processing timelines.

Meanwhile, pilgrims and visitors are encouraged to regularly check official Hajj and Umrah portals for updates on visa application resumptions.

While the suspension is expected to be lifted after June 2025, stakeholders are advised to stay informed through official Saudi channels and plan accordingly to avoid disruptions.

Saudi Arabia imposes temporary visa ban for Bangladesh, 13 other countries

In April, Saudi Arabia implemented a temporary visa ban on the same 14 countries, specifically aimed at individuals who attempt to perform Hajj without proper authorisation by entering the country on multiple-entry visas and overstaying illegally.

This measure was introduced to address overcrowding and ensure the safety of all pilgrims.