Ban on visas to Dutch nationals lifted

IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? Saudi Arabia has lifted its ban on issuing visas, work permits and business contracts to Dutch nationals and Dutch companies.

What does the change mean? Applications by Dutch employers and employees will resume, but delays in consular processing are expected.

• Implementation timeframe:Immediate and ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected:All visas.
• Who is affected:Dutch companies and Dutch nationals working in Saudi Arabia.
• Impact on processing times:Consular processing times will be slightly longer than normal.
• Business impact:The action by Saudi Arabia is a positive development for Dutch nationals and companies seeking business and investor licenses in the kingdom.

Background: Saudi Arabia issued a royal decree in June that banned visas to Dutch nationals in response to a Dutch politician’s printing of anti-Islam stickers. The decree ordered Saudi firms to stop working with Dutch companies and stopped Saudi Consulates from issuing visas or from having to justify visa denials.

BAL Analysis: Dutch employers and assignees may resume visa applications and business projects with Saudi firms.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Saudi Arabia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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