Saudi suspends work visas for Bangladesh and 13 others

Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted the issuance of work visas for citizens of 14 countries, including Bangladesh, until the end of the upcoming Hajj season.

The suspension, announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, will remain in effect through June.

The affected countries are Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.

This measure will impact thousands of foreign workers and businesses that rely on labour migration to Saudi Arabia. Authorities have confirmed the suspension is temporary, with work visa processing expected to resume after the Hajj period.

The decision is part of administrative arrangements ahead of the annual pilgrimage, which draws millions to the Kingdom.

Industry experts warn the suspension may cause delays in workforce deployment and disrupt contracts for companies dependent on labour from these countries.