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Saudi Arabia has temporarily paused the issuance of Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries ahead of the 2025 Hajj season, according to Wego and multiple media reports. The suspension, which runs until mid-June 2025 to coincide with the end of Hajj, is part of broader efforts to manage the influx of visitors during the pilgrimage.
Officials say the decision comes as part of efforts to better manage the flow of pilgrims and ensure proper registration, addressing challenges experienced in previous years. The changes aim to prevent overcrowding and related issues during Hajj.
Under the new rules, 13 April 2025 is the final day to apply for an Umrah visa. No new Umrah visas will be issued until Hajj ends. While the suspension is temporary, it impacts thousands of would-be travelers from countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Saudi authorities have released a digital guide in 16 languages to support safe and legal pilgrimages. They also warn that overstaying during Hajj or entering without a valid permit may lead to a SAR 10,000 fine and a five-year entry ban, underscoring the importance of following official channels.
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