Saudi Arabia changes entry rules ahead of Hajj. Learn about e-visa rules for 18 countries, temporary ban on 14 countries, new requirements for applicants, and fines of up to 100,000 riyals for violations

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Saudi Arabia has made significant changes to its visa policy, effective ahead of the annual Hajj season. Short-stay e-visas are now only available to citizens of 18 countries, and new short-stay visas have been temporarily suspended for citizens of 14 other countries.

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E-visa restrictions: Only 18 countries on the list

Under the updated rules, only citizens of countries that fall into the so-called “Group A” classification of the Saudi Civil Aviation Authority can obtain an e-visa for transit or short-stay in Saudi Arabia.

This list includes the following countries:

- Canada

- Malaysia

- USA

- UK

- France

- Italy

- Germany

- Spain

- China (including Hong Kong and Macau)

- Singapore

- Thailand

- Turkey

- Mauritius

Requirements for applicants include a valid visa to one of these countries, as well as proof of prior entry to it.

This decision is part of Saudi Arabia’s initiative to streamline the visa process and strengthen control over compliance with entry regulations.

Suspension of short-term visas for 14 countries ahead of Hajj

Also, starting from April 13, 2025, Saudi Arabia is temporarily suspending the issuance of short-term visas – including tourist, business and family – for citizens of 14 countries: Egypt, India, Tunisia, Jordan, Algeria, Iraq, Sudan, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Libya, Yemen, Morocco, Nigeria.

Travelers from these countries who have already received a visa will be able to enter the Kingdom until April 13 and must leave by April 29, 2025. After this date, staying in the country without the appropriate permit will be a violation of the law.

These restrictions are related to the end of the Umrah season and preparations for the Hajj - one of the largest events in the Muslim world.

Severe sanctions for violating the visa regime: fines of up to 100,000 riyals

The Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia reminds of the mandatory observance of the rules of stay during the Hajj and Umrah. Violation of the visa regime, in particular, leaving the country after the expiration of the visa, is punishable by fines of up to 100,000 Saudi riyals (approximately $ 26,670).

These sanctions apply not only to pilgrims, but also to companies that provide services for organizing Hajj or Umrah, and those who do not report foreigners who have not left on time.

The new visa restrictions are part of a broader strategy by Saudi Arabia to ensure security and order during religious events. Travelers from countries affected by the restrictions are advised to closely monitor changes in legislation and plan their trips in accordance with the new requirements.

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Reminder! Saudi Arabia is a country with a developed economy that is one of the popular tourist destinations. In recent years, the country has been developing as a center for medical tourism. We have already told you how the healthcare system works in Saudi Arabia, which destinations are popular for treatment and whether the country plans to become a center for medical tourism.