Key Points
- Saudi Arabia has paused block visa issuance for nationals of 14 countries
- The suspension affects QIWA platform visa applications and is expected to lift in July 2025
- Employers should adjust recruitment timelines and prepare documentation in advance
Overview
Saudi Arabia has enacted a temporary suspension on block visa issuance for nationals of 14 countries, effective immediately and expected to last through the Hajj season. Block visas, issued through the QIWA platform, are a crucial tool for employers in the Kingdom to obtain government approval for recruiting groups of foreign workers. This pause is part of Saudi Arabia’s seasonal immigration management strategy and is anticipated to remain in place until early July 2025.
The countries affected by the suspension include Ethiopia, Jordan, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Algeria, Sudan, Iraq, Morocco, Yemen, Indonesia, Tunisia, Egypt, and Nigeria. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has not released specific guidance on exceptions; however, this temporary measure is likely intended to alleviate pressure on immigration and border control systems during the busy pilgrimage season.
Employers with hiring needs in affected countries should reassess recruitment timelines and prepare any necessary documentation to avoid further delays once visa processing resumes. Valid documentation, especially that with short-term expiration dates, such as police clearances, should be monitored closely. For applicants who have already received visa approvals, direct contact with the relevant Saudi embassy or consulate is recommended for case-specific guidance.
This suspension underscores the importance of aligning workforce planning with seasonal immigration restrictions in Saudi Arabia, particularly around significant national and religious events such as the Hajj.
Looking Ahead
With visa services likely to resume in July 2025, employers should use this downtime to gather and validate the necessary paperwork, ensuring that the documents meet the QIWA platform requirements. Proactive planning will help mitigate backlogs once processing resumes. Companies with high-volume recruitment from affected countries may consider alternative hiring strategies or staggered onboarding schedules to maintain operational continuity. Future Hajj seasons may see similar temporary restrictions, so long-term workforce strategies should incorporate annual immigration timelines.
