Saudi Arabia Temporarily Suspends Work Visas for Multiple Nationalities

Temporary Work Visa Suspension Takes Effect

Saudi Arabia has implemented a temporary suspension on the acceptance, processing, and issuance of Temporary Work Visas (TWVs) for nationals of several countries. The suspension, which became effective on April 28, 2025, impacts all new and pending applications for these visas. The visa quota has also been removed from the Qiwa platform, a key online portal for labor market services in the Kingdom.

Affected Nationalities and Lack of Official Timeline

As of February 6, 2026, the temporary work visa suspension applies to nationals from Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, Türkiye, and Yemen. This development has created significant operational uncertainty for companies that depend on short-term foreign labor. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has not issued an official statement or provided a timeline regarding the resumption of the TWV program.

Policy Context and Reported Reasons

This suspension aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader economic strategy, Vision 2030, which aims to reduce the Kingdom's reliance on foreign labor and increase the participation of Saudi nationals in the workforce. The government has been actively expanding its Saudization efforts, particularly within the tourism sector, where new requirements mandate increased employment of Saudi nationals. These Saudization targets are set to be introduced gradually between 2026 and 2028, with quotas ranging from 30% to 100% depending on the specific position.

Additionally, reports suggest that one of the reasons behind the temporary suspension is concern over the misuse of these visas for unauthorized entry into the Hajj pilgrimage. Officials have cited instances of individuals entering the country on work visas and then performing Hajj without the necessary official permits.

Impact on Businesses and Sectors

The suspension is expected to cause delays and challenges for employers who rely on foreign nationals for short-term projects and to meet labor demands. Sectors that traditionally depend heavily on workers from South Asia and parts of Africa, such as hospitality, construction, and domestic services, are particularly impacted by these changes. Businesses are advised to reassess their staffing timelines, explore alternative options, and consult with immigration practitioners to navigate the evolving visa landscape.