RIYADH — With millions expected to undertake the annual Hajj pilgrimage in 2025, Saudi Arabia has released updated immigration procedures, health regulations, and temporary entry restrictions to ensure a safe and well-coordinated experience for all pilgrims.
The Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, attracts Muslim worshippers from across the globe. In anticipation of the influx, Saudi authorities have streamlined visa processes through digital platforms, enforced stricter health protocols, and temporarily adjusted immigration policies to prioritize pilgrimage-related travel.
Entry Procedures and Visa Applications
Entry requirements for Hajj 2025 vary depending on whether applicants reside inside or outside the Kingdom. Since 2023, most pilgrims have been required to apply through Nusuk, an official platform launched by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The portal facilitates visa and permit applications, flight and accommodation bookings, payment processing, and access to key information.
Saudi citizens and residents are eligible to apply directly via Nusuk, provided they have not performed Hajj within the previous five years. International pilgrims from 122 designated countries can also apply through the platform, but must book travel through one of 14 authorized Saudi travel agencies. Those from non-serviced countries must use Hajj missions or licensed travel agencies in their home nations.
Foreign pilgrims must obtain a Saudi Hajj Visa, which includes a single-entry visa and a Hajj permit. These documents are strictly issued for Hajj participation and grant access to the holy sites. The approved entry window for Hajj 2025 is May 31 to June 2 (corresponding to 4–6 Dhul Hijjah), and all pilgrims must depart by July 6 (10 Muharram).
For Saudi nationals and residents, only a Hajj permit is required. While registration via Nusuk opened in February, international visa processing will occur between April 14 and May 23, 2025, with an average processing time of five business days. Authorities recommend early applications to avoid delays.
Health and Documentation Requirements
The Ministry of Health has reinforced health regulations for Hajj participants. A Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination is mandatory for all pilgrims. International travelers must receive the vaccine between 10 days and three years prior to arrival. Additional vaccines—such as for yellow fever, polio, or influenza—may be required based on the traveler’s nationality, age, or medical background.
Documentation requirements also vary. Saudi citizens and residents must present a valid National ID or Iqama and a health certificate. These can be managed through the Absheer platform, which is integrated with Nusuk. International pilgrims must present a passport valid for at least six months, a recent photo, a health certificate, and—for women and children over 12—a proof of relationship to a male guardian (mahram), if applicable.
Temporary Visa Suspensions and Travel Restrictions
To accommodate the surge in Hajj visitors—typically numbering between two and three million—Saudi authorities have implemented temporary entry restrictions affecting travelers from several nations. According to visa agents and media sources, the Kingdom has paused the issuance of visit visas for business, tourism, or family purposes for nationals of 14 countries, including India, Egypt, Pakistan, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Yemen. The suspension is expected to remain in place through the end of June 2025.
Although travelers from these countries holding valid visit visas may still be allowed entry, Saudi authorities retain discretion, and reports have surfaced of boarding denials and instructions to depart. Additionally, Umrah pilgrims were required to leave by April 29, though no formal exit deadline has been announced for other visit visa holders. Officials advise all travelers to stay updated on entry guidelines.
Compliance and Penalties
The Saudi government emphasizes strict compliance with all Hajj-related and temporary immigration measures. Unauthorized entry, overstaying a visa, or breaching permit conditions may result in penalties of up to SAR 50,000, six months’ imprisonment, deportation, and future travel bans. Sponsors and companies that fail to report violations may also incur substantial fines.
Businesses planning travel to Saudi Arabia during this period are advised to assess potential delays and reconsider non-essential visits while national resources remain focused on managing the Hajj season.
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