Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, and Indonesia.
The decision, which took effect in May 2025, is reportedly linked to security and administrative concerns surrounding the upcoming Hajj season.
The suspension is intended to prevent visa misuse and stop unauthorized participation in the pilgrimage.
In previous years, such violations have led to overcrowding and logistical challenges, prompting stricter immigration measures.
Saudi authorities have not released an official public statement regarding the visa suspension.
However, reports suggest that the move is part of a broader strategy to regulate pilgrim entry and ensure strict immigration compliance.
What Are Block Work Visas?
Block work visas are pre-approved quotas that allow Saudi companies to hire foreign workers in bulk.
These visas are frequently issued for construction, hospitality, and domestic services, where foreign workers play a crucial role.
These sectors rely heavily on migrant labor from South Asia and Africa, making the visa suspension a significant concern for employers and workers alike.
Employers typically receive large allocations of these visas, which they then distribute to workers from different countries.
However, Saudi officials have raised concerns that some individuals enter the Kingdom on work or visit visas and later perform Hajj without official permits, leading to health and safety risks.
Impact on Employers and Migrant Workers
The suspension has created uncertainty for employers and job seekers, particularly in industries that depend on seasonal or semi-skilled labor.
Recruitment agencies in India and Bangladesh have expressed concerns about economic disruptions, as many workers had already begun the visa application process before the suspension was announced.
Companies that depend on foreign labor may have to revise their hiring strategies to adapt to the visa suspension.
Thousands of workers who had planned to enter Saudi Arabia under these visas now face uncertain job prospects due to the suspension.
Many may also experience delays in their employment opportunities, impacting their financial stability.
Saudi Arabia’s Broader Immigration Policies
Saudi Arabia has been implementing stricter immigration controls in recent years, particularly during peak pilgrimage seasons.
Along with the block work visa suspension, Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted several other visa categories.
These include e-visas, family visit visas, and tourist visas, affecting travel and migration plans for many individuals.
Authorities have stated that these measures are temporary and will be lifted after the Hajj season concludes.
They are intended to control the influx of visitors while ensuring strict compliance with pilgrimage regulations.
However, no clear timeline has been provided for the resumption of block work visas for the affected countries.
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