Saudi Arabia has suspended temporary work visas for nationals of 17 countries, effective immediately.
According to reports from immigration experts and practice observations on the ground, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has paused the acceptance and processing of these short-term permits to better manage labor flows and prioritize domestic employment initiatives.
While there has been no formal public announcement, immigration practitioners and employers have confirmed that applications are no longer being accepted or processed.
It was gathered that Nigerians have also been affected after Saudi Arabia suspended temporary work visas.
Below are countries;
- Algeria
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Libya
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Türkiye
- Yemen
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that temporary Work Visas allow foreign workers to enter Saudi Arabia for short-term work assignments. These visas are commonly used for project-based work, technical installations or repairs, short-term consulting roles, training, and supervision assignments.
They are different from long-term employment visas. Temporary Work Visas usually last a few weeks or months and do not lead to residency.
Saudi authorities have not given an official explanation. However, immigration experts point to a few likely reasons.
It was gathered that Saudi Arabia has been tightening labour and immigration controls as part of its broader workforce reforms. Officials are placing more focus on regulated, long-term employment instead of short-term entries.
Second, there have been concerns in recent years about Temporary Work Visas being misused for longer stays or informal employment.
Third, the suspension may be linked to administrative capacity, compliance checks, or ongoing reviews of labour market needs.
In short, the pause appears to be a control measure rather than a permanent ban.
For foreign workers, the impact is immediate and practical.
Those planning short-term assignments in Saudi Arabia may now face delays or cancellations. Even fully prepared applications are unlikely to move forward for now.
Workers who rely on short project-based roles may need to look at alternative visa options or postpone travel plans.
