As the sacred pilgrimage season approaches, the Hajj 2025 visa rules have undergone significant updates. Pilgrims and visitors planning to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must now comply with newly announced restrictions and requirements. Authorities have urged travelers to strictly follow these regulations to avoid harsh penalties.
🔗 Official Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Portal
Visa Overstay Could Result in Severe Consequences
The Saudi Press Agency confirmed that foreign nationals who overstay their visas will face substantial fines of up to SR50,000 (approx. USD13,000). Additional consequences may include imprisonment for up to six months and deportation. These measures aim to maintain order during the Hajj season and ensure compliance with Saudi immigration laws.
Ban on Short-Term Visas for 14 Countries
To regulate the influx of travelers before Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of short-term visas to citizens from 14 countries. This includes e-tourist, family visit, and business visit visas. The affected countries are:
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India
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Egypt
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Pakistan
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Bangladesh
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Yemen
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Tunisia
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Morocco
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Jordan
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Nigeria
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Algeria
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Indonesia
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Iraq
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Sudan
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Libya
The visa ban, which began on Sunday, April 13, is a strategic move to ease travel congestion and enhance security. Travelers from these nations with existing visas must exit Saudi Arabia no later than April 29.
🔗 Gulf News – Saudi Travel Updates
Residents Must Obtain Entry Permits for Makkah
Starting tomorrow, residents inside the Kingdom planning to enter the city of Makkah must secure valid permits from the appropriate authorities. Those without a permit will be denied entry and returned to their original location.
Exceptions are granted to:
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Residents with a Makkah-issued ID
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Individuals with a valid Hajj permit
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Workers with permits to operate in the Holy Sites
🔗 Absher Portal for Permit Application
Hajj Pilgrimage Restricted to Valid Hajj Visas
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that only official Hajj visas authorize individuals to perform the pilgrimage. Tourist and family visit visas are not valid for Hajj. This move is intended to maintain the sanctity and organization of the pilgrimage.
Authorities Urge Compliance from Hosts and Visitors
Saudi authorities have requested all citizens and residents to ensure their guests — especially those arriving on Umrah or visit visas — are aware of and comply with the latest Hajj 2025 visa rules. Non-compliance will result in severe penalties that include fines, imprisonment, and deportation.