Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visa quotas for Nigeria and six other African countries, including Egypt, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia and Morocco.
The policy change is expected to also affect some other non-African countries bringing the total number of affected nations to 14.
Block work visas are a pre-approved quota that allows companies to hire a specified number of foreign workers. It is a permit that gives employers the authority to apply for work visas.
According to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the suspension will remain in effect until June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
The suspension aligns with the aim to boost employment opportunities for Saudi nationals in sectors like tourism.
The visa halt means that Saudi employers will not be granted new blockwork visa quotas for the listed countries during this period.
Consequently, approved applications may experience delays, and any pending requests could face rejection. Furthermore, individuals who possess valid work visas but have not yet entered Saudi Arabia might encounter entry restrictions.
