Saudi Arabia has announced new visa restrictions affecting nationals from 14 countries, including Nigeria, as part of efforts to manage travel ahead of the 2025 Hajj season. Starting April 13, 2025, citizens of Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, India, Tunisia, Yemen, Jordan, Iraq, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh will be restricted from applying for new short-term visas.
The affected visa categories include business visas (single and multiple-entry), tourist e-visas, and family visit visas.
Current Saudi visa holders from these countries may continue to travel to the Kingdom until April 13 but must depart no later than April 29, or risk penalties, including a potential five-year ban.
Saudi authorities say the decision stems from logistical issues and overcrowding during last year’s Hajj season, caused in part by travelers using non-pilgrimage visas to perform Hajj.
In February, the Kingdom had already suspended one-year multiple-entry visas and limited travel from the affected nations to 30-day single-entry permits.
Saudi officials also reiterated guidance on Umrah travel, stating that Umrah visas will be issued annually from the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah until the 1st of Shawwal, stressing that proper visa types must be used for religious purposes to avoid legal consequences.
Source: Swifteradio.com
