Saudi Arabia Suspends Block Work Visa Quotas for 14 Countries – Important Update for GAMCA Medical Applicants in India
In a significant development affecting international labor migration, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the approval of block work visa quotas for 14 countries, including India. This decision, announced in May 2025, is expected to remain in effect through the Hajj pilgrimage season, potentially until early July 2025.
For individuals in India preparing to travel to Saudi Arabia for employment, particularly those undergoing the GAMCA medical examination, this update has important implications.
Understanding the Block Work Visa Quota
A block work visa quota is a system used by Saudi employers to request pre-approved slots to recruit a specific number of foreign workers from designated countries. These quotas are typically utilized by companies hiring in bulk for roles in sectors like construction, hospitality, domestic work, and other labor-intensive industries.
The suspension specifically affects new block quota requests made through the Qiwa platform, Saudi Arabia’s digital portal for workforce management.
Countries Affected by the Suspension
As of this announcement, the suspension applies to visa block quota approvals from the following 14 countries:
- India
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Nigeria
- Ethiopia
- Sudan
- Tunisia
- Yemen
- Algeria
- Morocco
This measure has been introduced as a temporary policy adjustment, most likely to manage the inflow of foreign labor and reduce congestion during the Hajj pilgrimage season.
Reasons Behind the Suspension
Saudi Arabia implements additional security, immigration, and logistical controls during the Hajj season, when millions of pilgrims visit the country. By suspending new labor influx through block work visas, the government aims to:
- Ensure public safety and order during peak travel periods
- Allocate immigration and border management resources efficiently
- Prevent labor market strain during a time of limited domestic infrastructure bandwidth
Impact on Indian Workers and GAMCA Medical Appointments
This policy decision affects not just employers and recruitment agencies, but also individual workers undergoing pre-departure medical procedures required for Saudi employment.
For Individual Work Visa Applicants
If your employment is being processed under an individual visa (non-quota-based), this suspension does not affect you. You may proceed to book your GAMCA medical test through https://gamca.co.in as usual. Ensure your medical certificate is obtained within the valid 90-day window before visa stamping and travel.
For Block Visa Applicants
If your employer is processing your job offer through a block visa quota, we recommend that you wait before scheduling your medical test. GAMCA medical reports are valid for 90 days only, and scheduling prematurely could result in the expiration of your certificate before your visa is issued.
For Visa Holders Awaiting Travel
Applicants who have already been issued a block visa but have not yet entered Saudi Arabia should prepare for possible delays at immigration or at the port of entry. It is advisable to stay in close contact with your recruitment agency or sponsor for travel readiness and updates.
Recommendations for Applicants from India
To navigate this situation wisely, GAMCA Medical Appointment India offers the following advice:
- Verify Visa Category: Understand whether your employment is under a block quota or an individual sponsorship before scheduling your medical.
- Time Your Test Appropriately: Book your GAMCA medical only when your visa status is confirmed or near completion.
- Stay Updated: Follow updates from https://gamca.co.in or your recruitment agency regarding when block quotas will resume.
- Prepare Documentation: Keep your documents—including passport copies, visa offer letters, and employer credentials—organized and ready for submission once the suspension is lifted.
Anticipated Timeline for Quota Reopening
While no official date has been issued by the Saudi Ministry of Labor, the suspension is expected to continue until the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage, most likely early to mid-July 2025. Employers and agencies will need to await formal communication from Qiwa and other relevant authorities for quota reactivation.
Schedule your GAMCA medical appointment today!
Support and Assistance
If you are unsure about your visa type or need help determining the right time to book your medical examination, our team is here to guide you.
- Website: https://gamca.co.in
- WhatsApp Support: +91 9488072911
- Email: info@gamca.co.in
We encourage all applicants to verify their visa category and consult with their sponsor or recruitment agency before proceeding with any medical-related procedures.
Final Thoughts
The temporary suspension of block work visa quotas is a procedural adjustment, not a permanent policy. It is driven primarily by logistical and national security concerns around Hajj and is expected to be lifted in the coming weeks.
For Indian applicants, especially those planning to travel under individual visas, it is business as usual. For those affected by the quota suspension, strategic planning and timely medical scheduling will ensure you are ready to proceed once restrictions are lifted.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. Gamca.co.in is here to help you take the next step with clarity and confidence.