Nigeria among 13 countries affected by Saudi visa suspension
Saudi Arabian authorities have temporarily suspended the issuance of various categories of visas — including Umrah, business, and family visit visas — for citizens of 13 countries, including Nigeria, ahead of the 2025 Hajj season.
The decision, reportedly confirmed by diplomatic sources and published by Pakistani media outlet ARY News, aims to regulate travel and ensure security during the pilgrimage period. Affected countries include Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Yemen.
According to the report, Umrah visa holders will be allowed entry into the Kingdom until April 13, 2025. However, the temporary visa restriction is expected to be lifted by mid-June.
Saudi authorities cited concerns over unauthorized attempts to perform Hajj and illegal employment as major reasons behind the move. In previous years, individuals have reportedly entered the country using multiple-entry or visit visas and remained illegally to partake in Hajj, leading to overcrowding and security risks.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the visa suspension is part of broader immigration control efforts aimed at managing pilgrim flow and maintaining order. It also warned that individuals who violate the new regulations or overstay their visas could face a five-year entry ban.
In a related effort to support pilgrims, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a digital guide in 16 languages, including English, Arabic, Urdu, and Indonesian. Available in both PDF and audio formats, the guide provides essential information to help pilgrims navigate the Hajj process more smoothly.
Normal visa processing is expected to resume after mid-June.
