OpenLife Nigeria reports that like President Donald Trump who recently reviewed migration and stay policies in the United States of America, Saudi Arabia has introduced new visa regulations that will impact travelers from 14 countries, restricting them to single-entry visas valid for 30 days with no option for extension.
The changes apply to tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family members, while excluding applicants for Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas.
The new regulations target travellers from the following nations: Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Saudi authorities have cited the misuse of multiple-entry visas as a key reason for the policy shift, noting that some travelers used long-term visas to stay in the country illegally or participate in Hajj without proper authorization.
The Saudi government regulates Hajj attendance through a fixed quota per country, and unauthorized pilgrims have contributed to overcrowding issues.
The situation became particularly severe in 2024, when over 1,200 pilgrims lost their lives due to extreme heat and congestion, a crisis authorities believe was exacerbated by unregistered attendees.
Officials have described the suspension of multiple-entry visas as a temporary measure but have not provided a specific timeline for its review.
The government plans to assess the impact of the new regulations before making further decisions.
Travelers from affected nations are advised to apply for their single-entry visas well in advance of their trips and to comply strictly with the new regulations to avoid penalties or travel disruptions.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated the importance of adherence to these new guidelines and urged travelers to stay updated through official government channels.
Lagos State Government has warned husbands against forcing their wives into sex without their consent
2027: Tinubu Projected To Win 20 States, Atiku 9, Obi 8 OpenLife News reports…
Archbishop Alfred Martins has called on governments to ensure clean water, proper sanitation and pollution…
ADC has condemned Alhaji Atiku Abubakar over alleged impersonation and plans to drag President Tinubu…
SORA has emerged as the overall winner of the Fourth Edition of the Nigerian Communications…
G100 has proposed a Government of National Competence with a single 4-year term to unite…
This website uses cookies.