The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has revised its visa policy for travelers from 14 countries, including Pakistan, who restricts Visa with multiple entry to business, tourism and family visits due to the annual Hajj period.

This change affects travelers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia and Yemen.

The new visump policy rules came into force on February 1, 2025. Earlier, visitors from these 14 countries were able to get one year of visas on several annual charges, according to a statement issued on Thursday.

Now they can only receive visas on single entries that are valid for 30 days. This rule applies to tourists, business visitors and family visitors. In the meantime, no changes in Hajj, Umrah, Diplomatic or Stay Visum have found.

Saudi authorities have emphasized that the audit ensures better regulation of visitors. In addition, the move also supports KSA’s wider immigration control strategy. Primarily, the top concern is unauthorized Hajj participation.

Previously, many visitors entered Saudi Arabia using Visa with multiple entry, but remained illegally to perform Hajj. As a result, this led to overcrowding and security risks.

Another reason is illegal employment. Some travelers entered Saudi -Arabia on business or family visa, but dealt with unauthorized work. This practice violated the visa rules and caused irregularities in the labor market.

In addition, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry has emphasized that the decision will improve security and the organization. In the future, the travelers concerned called for the new rules to avoid sanctions.

The authorities have also conveyed that these new visump policy rules are in line with Saudi -Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal. The Kingdom aims to increase its tourism industry while maintaining strict immigration control.

The new visump policy rules are significantly affecting the frequent travelers for Saudi Arabia. For example, business people who visit the country several times a year now have to apply for a visa every time.

In addition, families with relatives in Saudi Arabia are now also facing several travel restrictions.

Travel agencies predict longer visa processing times due to the inevitable higher influx of applications. Therefore, frequent visitors must adjust their travel plans accordingly. Furthermore, experts recommend applying for Visa well in advance to avoid problems at the last minute.

The hospitality and aviation industry will also experience the impact of the new visump policy rules.