Bangladesh, 13 other countries face Saudi visa suspension

Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visa quotas for nationals of 14 countries, including Bangladesh.

The measure will remain in effect until the end of June, coinciding with the conclusion of the upcoming Hajj season, reports Arab Times Kuwait.

This decision, announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, halts the approval of new block work visa quotas for the countries, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.

The suspension is part of broader efforts by the Kingdom to manage inbound labour during peak pilgrimage periods and tighten regulatory oversight across immigration and employment sectors.

Block work visas are quota-based permits that allow Saudi employers to hire a predetermined number of foreign workers. Once approved, these quotas enable businesses to apply for work visas for specific candidates.