The Iraqi government has introduced a set of new and stricter visa regulations for Pakistani pilgrims, requiring both travelers and pilgrimage group organizers to ensure full compliance with the updated rules.
The new policy includes restrictions on family visas, age-related entry conditions, separate visa requirements for major religious events and severe penalties for visa violations.
According to instructions issued by Iraq’s authorities and communicated through relevant channels, pilgrims and pilgrimage group organizers have been directed to strictly follow the newly announced visa regulations.
The measures have been introduced to regulate the movement of pilgrims and strengthen immigration controls during major religious gatherings.
Officials have warned that violations of the new rules could result in serious consequences.
Solo travelers on family visas barred
Under the revised policy, individuals traveling alone on a family visa will not be permitted to enter Iraq.
The Iraqi government has made it clear that family visas must be used in accordance with their intended purpose and cannot be utilized by a single traveler seeking entry independently.
Authorities have instructed pilgrimage organizers to ensure compliance before departure.
Entry ban on single male pilgrims under 50
One of the most significant changes introduced under the new policy is a complete ban on the entry of single male pilgrims under the age of 50.
According to the new regulations, such travelers will not be allowed to enter Iraq. The measure is part of broader efforts by Iraqi authorities to tighten entry requirements for foreign pilgrims.
Separate visas required for Ashura, Arbaeen
The Iraqi government has also clarified that the same visa cannot be used for both Ashura and Arbaeen pilgrimages.
Pilgrims intending to participate in both religious events will be required to obtain separate visas in accordance with the updated immigration policy. Authorities have urged travelers to carefully plan their visits and ensure they possess the correct travel documents.
Pilgrimage visa validity
Under the new rules, pilgrimage visas issued by Iraq will remain valid for a period of 30 days only. Pilgrims have been advised to strictly observe the validity period and complete their travel within the authorized timeframe.
Failure to comply could result in legal and immigration consequences.
The updated policy also states that visa fees will not be refunded if an application is rejected or if a traveler is denied entry upon arrival at an Iraqi airport.
Authorities have emphasized that applicants should ensure all requirements are fulfilled before applying for a visa. The rule applies regardless of the reason for rejection or refusal of entry.
Passports with Iraqi immigration authorities
Another major requirement under the new policy is that the passports of pilgrims arriving from Pakistan will remain in the custody of Iraqi immigration authorities after entry into Iraq.
The measure is part of the country’s immigration management procedures for pilgrims visiting during religious occasions. Travelers have been advised to cooperate fully with immigration officials upon arrival.
Heavy penalties for overstaying visas
The Iraqi government has issued a strong warning against overstaying pilgrimage visas.
According to the new regulations, pilgrims who remain in Iraq beyond their authorized stay may face substantial fines, deportation and a lifetime ban on future entry into the country.
Officials have urged pilgrims to respect visa conditions and leave Iraq before their visa expires.
With Ashura and Arbaeen drawing large numbers of visitors every year, Iraqi authorities are calling on Pakistani pilgrims and pilgrimage organizers to ensure strict adherence to all visa requirements.
The new measures are intended to streamline pilgrimage travel, strengthen immigration oversight and prevent violations that could affect future religious travel arrangements.
