The temporary prohibition on block work visa quotas for 14 nations, such as India, Egypt, and Pakistan, has been revoked by Saudi Arabia. Workers with valid entry visas can now travel to the Kingdom, but it’s essential to verify travel eligibility with airlines prior to departure.
Exciting news for international talent! In a key move for overseas workers, Saudi Arabia has formally lifted the temporary suspension on “block work visa quotas” for citizens from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Egypt.
This important change, which takes effect right after Hajj 2025, reopens doors for thousands of skilled laborers who were impacted by the earlier suspension enacted this year.
Comprehending the Block Work Visa
A “block visa” is a pre-authorization issued by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, which permits companies to enlist a certain number of foreign workers, thus simplifying the hiring process.
Who Is Impacted?
This adjustment affects the nationals from the following nations:
- Algeria
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- India
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
Workers from these countries can now journey to Saudi Arabia, provided they possess a valid work entry visa.
Permitted Entry for Visa Holders
In reality, individuals from the aforementioned nations who already have a valid work visa but haven’t yet arrived in Saudi Arabia to finalize their residency procedures are now authorized to travel and enter the Kingdom.
Nonetheless, it’s highly recommended that travelers verify their eligibility with their airline before boarding, as entry prerequisites may differ and could rely on specific documentation or recent policy changes.
Background: The Hajj Season Interlude
In May 2025, Saudi Arabia temporarily halted the issuance of block work visa quotas for the 14 listed nations. This suspension was related to logistical arrangements for the Hajj season, which generally experiences a substantial increase in visitor numbers and heightened demand on infrastructure and immigration processing.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development provides block visas as a pre-approval mechanism, enabling Saudi employers to hire a designated number of foreign workers based on their operational requirements.
Initially, authorities anticipated that the halt would extend until the end of June 2025, but the earlier lifting of the restriction indicates a shift in policy likely designed to meet post-Hajj labor market needs.
Potential Delays Despite Policy Adjustment
Despite the lifting of the ban, travelers should be aware that processing delays might still arise, particularly for those with ongoing applications. Even if a company has received quota authorization, the actual granting of work entry visas may take longer than normal.
Thus, applicants and employers are encouraged to keep in close communication with recruitment agencies, sponsors, and airlines to stay updated on any modifications or new requirements.
What Are the Steps for Travelers?
If you are a citizen of one of the 14 affected nations and have a valid work entry visa:
- Verify your travel eligibility with your airline
- Carry all essential documentation to validate your visa and employment status
- Stay informed about any policy updates or entry requirements through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and your employer
Travel Resumes, But Exercise Caution
The removal of the block work visa quota suspension is great news for both employers and foreign workers. However, given that entry conditions remain uncertain and there is some ambiguity regarding processing times, travelers should proceed carefully.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
