Udaipur, February 8, 2025 - Saudi Arabia has changed its visa policy for travelers from 14 countries. From February 1, 2025, these travelers can only get single-entry visas instead of multiple-entry visas. The government made this rule to stop unauthorized Hajj pilgrims and reduce overcrowding during the pilgrimage. Many people were using long-term visas to stay in Saudi Arabia illegally or to perform Hajj without permission. Saudi Arabia has said this is a temporary rule, but they have not given a date for when it might change. They will watch the situation before making further decisions.  

The New Rule Applies to Travelers From  

- India

- Pakistan

- Egypt

- Bangladesh  

- Indonesia  

- Algeria

- Iraq 

- Jordan

- Ethiopia

- Morocco 

- Nigeria

- Sudan

- Tunisia

- Yemen

What Are the New Visa Rules?

• Only single-entry visas are allowed.  
• These visas are valid for 30 days only.  
• Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas are not affected.  

What Happened in 2024?

In 2024, over 1,200 pilgrims died due to extreme heat and overcrowding during Hajj. Many of them were unregistered pilgrims who used long-term visas.  

What Should Travelers Do?

• Apply for a single-entry visa well in advance.  
• Follow all new visa rules to avoid problems.  
• Check with Saudi authorities before making travel plans.  

Travelers from these 14 countries must follow the new rules carefully to avoid any trouble while visiting Saudi Arabia.

Source: Media Reports