The Saudi Arabian authorities have announced a suspension of temporary work visas for a number of nationalities on a temporary basis. The suspension is effective immediately.
The suspension does not affect standard work visas (Iqama-based employer) or any other residence visas.
The nationalities currently affected by the suspension are:
| Algeria | Egypt |
| Ethiopia | India |
| Indonesia | Iran |
| Iraq | Jordan |
| Libya | Morocco |
| Nigeria | Pakistan |
| Somalia | Sudan |
| Tunisia | Turkey |
| Yemen |
Employers planning short-term assignments in to Saudi will face excess processing delays and refusals for the above nationalities.
It does not affect any employees that currently hold valid visas, it is purely for any new applications.
The authorities have not given any reason for the suspension, but there has been some concerns that the Temporary Work visas are being misused for longer stays or informal employment.
For information and assistance on global immigration matters, please contact [email protected] and [email protected].
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