Saudi Arabia has temporarily stopped issuing block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, and Nigeria.
The suspension, which will last until the end of June 2025, comes during the busy Hajj season and is expected to affect industries that rely heavily on foreign workers.
As businesses struggle to adjust, many migrant workers now face uncertainty about job opportunities and travel permissions.
What Are Block Work Visas?
Block work visas are pre-approved quotas that allow companies in Saudi Arabia to hire large numbers of foreign workers at once.
These visas are managed through the Kingdom’s labor platform, Qiwa. The government has now removed the block visa option from the platform, freezing all new hiring under this system.
Impact on Companies and Workers
Companies that usually recruit workers from the 14 affected countries will no longer get new quotas. Even previously approved quotas might face delays in processing.
This pause is expected to especially impact construction and domestic work sectors, which rely heavily on migrant labor.
Pending visa applications might be postponed or denied, and workers who already have valid visas but haven’t entered Saudi Arabia could also face issues at the border.
List of Affected Countries
The countries affected by the suspension are:
India
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Nigeria
Egypt
Algeria
Sudan
Ethiopia
Tunisia
Indonesia
Iraq
Jordan
Yemen
Morocco
Why This Suspension?
Although no official explanation has been given, experts believe this move is part of Saudi Arabia’s “Saudization” program.
The goal is to create more job opportunities for Saudi nationals by increasing local hiring, especially in industries like tourism. These local workforce quotas are expected to rise between 2026 and 2028.
Challenges for Migrant Workers
Despite difficult working conditions and criticism of the Kafala system—often blamed for worker exploitation—Saudi Arabia remains a key destination for migrant workers, especially from Africa and South Asia.
Countries like Ethiopia and Kenya send many workers to the Kingdom, mostly for domestic and low-paying jobs.
Even with these challenges, the income earned by workers in Saudi Arabia is crucial for their families and home countries, as remittances support both households and national economies.
Other Recent Restrictions
This suspension is part of a larger trend. Saudi Arabia has also delayed family visit permits and stopped issuing Umrah visas during peak seasons for citizens of these same 14 countries.
Advice for Workers and Recruiters
Authorities have advised workers to check visa eligibility with airlines or Saudi embassies before making travel plans.
Recruitment agencies are also being told to prepare for longer visa processing times and keep clients informed about any changes.