Saudi Arabia: Temporary Hold on Issuance of Temporary Work Visas

Update – July 30, 2025: The pause has been lifted for nationals of Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. The pause remains in effect for Ethiopian nationals.

Update - July 16, 2025:  This pause on issuing Temporary Work Visas has been lifted for most nationals. The pause remains in place for nationals of Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. 

April 28, 2025: Though there has not been a government announcement, in practice, Saudi Arabia has paused the issuance of Temporary Work Visas (TWV) for all nationals, including applications currently in progress, and removed the TWV quota option on the Qiwa portal until further notice. The hold on TWVs may cause delays and challenges for employers relying on foreign nationals for short-term projects. Employers should reassess timelines, explore alternative staffing options, and consult their immigration practitioners on alternative visa pathways. There has been no official announcement regarding whether TWV holders need to leave Saudi Arabia. Our teams on the ground are monitoring this closely.