Why Saudi Arabia Imposed New Visa Restrictions On Nigeria

Saudi Arabia has imposed new visa restrictions on Nigeria and 13 other countries, limiting travelers to a single-entry visa valid for just 30 days.

The new Saudi Arabia visa restrictions policy affects tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family member from Nigeria and more other 13 countries but does not apply to applicants for Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas.

Aside from Nigeria, other countries affected by the Saudi Arabia visa restrictions are Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

Saudi authorities explained that the decision was driven by the misuse of multiple-entry visas, noting that some visitors had exploited long-term visas to overstay illegally or participate in the Hajj pilgrimage without proper authorization.

The government enforces strict quotas for Hajj pilgrims from each country, and the influx of unauthorized worshippers has contributed to overcrowding. Officials described the suspension of multiple-entry visas as a temporary measure but did not specify when it might be lifted.

This policy shift comes ahead of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. In 2024, more than 1,200 pilgrims reportedly lost their lives due to extreme heat and congestion, a crisis authorities believe was worsened by unregistered attendees.

Saudi Arabia has yet to announce whether additional measures will be introduced to regulate future pilgrimages.
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