Saudi Arabia Temporarily Suspends Blockwork Visas for Nigerians and Six Other African Countries
In a move that has sparked concern across the African continent, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended blockwork visa quotas for Nigeria and six other African nations. The suspension also affects both pending and new temporary work visa applications.
The decision was announced by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Resources and is expected to remain in effect until the end of June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage season.
The suspension impacts the following seven African countries:
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Nigeria
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Egypt
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Algeria
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Sudan
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Ethiopia
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Tunisia
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Morocco
In total, 14 countries have been listed, including major labor-exporting nations like:
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India
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Pakistan
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Bangladesh
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Indonesia
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Jordan
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Iraq
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Yemen
A blockwork visa allows Saudi employers to request a pre-approved quota of foreign workers for specific job roles. Once a block is granted, companies can apply for work permits for selected individuals.
This temporary freeze means that:
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No new blockwork quotas will be issued for employers targeting the affected nations.
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Previously approved quotas will experience processing delays or suspensions.
While no official explanation has been released, analysts suggest the move is tied to Saudi Arabia’s intensified “Saudization” policy, a national plan to prioritize local employment in sectors such as tourism, construction, retail, and services.
The Ministry noted that quotas will likely increase between 2026 and 2028, creating more job openings for Saudi nationals.
Implications for Nigeria and Other African Nations
This development could impact:
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Job seekers planning to work in Saudi Arabia
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Recruitment agencies in Africa
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Remittance flows from the Middle East
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Businesses depending on seasonal or Hajj-related labor exports
The halt could also strain diplomatic relations, especially if no formal justification is provided by Saudi authorities before or after the Hajj season.
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