Saudi e-Visa Suspension for Uzbek and Tajik Travelers

Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of electronic visas for citizens of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, according to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. Citizens of these two countries are no longer eligible to apply for online visas to enter the Kingdom through the simplified e-visa process.

Why the suspension?

• This measure applies to both tourist e-visas and those issued for Umrah pilgrimages, which had previously been accessible via an online application.

• The suspension is temporary and will be in effect from April 23 to June 9, 2025, coinciding with preparations for Hajj, Islam’s annual pilgrimage to Mecca.

While Saudi authorities have not issued a public statement, this decision is explicitly tied to managing the flow of pilgrims during the Hajj season, aimed at preventing abuses and adhering to the quotas allocated to each country. The move comes amid ongoing efforts to crack down on fraud associated with Hajj organization, with recent cases of illegal travel agencies detected in Uzbekistan.

Alternatives remain

• Travelers holding a valid Schengen, UK, or US visa—or residing in the EU, UK, or US—may still obtain a visa on arrival at Saudi entry points.

• During this period, Uzbek and Tajik nationals planning a trip to Saudi Arabia must apply in person at Saudi embassies or authorized visa centers in their country of residence.

Recent visa policy shifts

• Since August 2023, Uzbek and Tajik citizens could apply for a Saudi e-visa, allowing stays of up to 90 days for tourism or Umrah.

• This suspension is part of a pattern: Saudi Arabia commonly tightens certain visa categories as Hajj approaches to better manage the surge of visitors.

Uzbek authorities have announced plans to streamline Hajj and Umrah processes by launching a unified pilgrimage portal by September 2025, designed to reduce bureaucracy and fraud risks.

In short, the temporary e-visa suspension for Uzbek and Tajik travelers aims to regulate Hajj season flows and curb abuse while providing continued access for certain travelers through alternative visa pathways.