The Iraqi government has introduced a series of new and stricter visa regulations for Pakistani pilgrims, considerably tightening entry requirements ahead of major religious gatherings.
The updated rules include restrictions on solo travelers, shorter visa validity periods, and stricter penalties for visa violations, with authorities urging pilgrims and tour organizers to ensure full compliance to avoid fines, deportation, or entry bans.
The Iraqi government has clarified that any individual traveling alone on a family visa will not be allowed to enter Iraq. A complete ban has also been imposed on the entry of unaccompanied male pilgrims under the age of 50.
Under the new policy, the same visa cannot be used for both Ashura and Arbaeen pilgrimages. Iraqi pilgrimage visas will be valid for only 30 days.
In cases where a visa application is rejected or entry is denied at the airport, the visa fee will not be refunded under any circumstances.
The passports of pilgrims arriving from Pakistan will remain in the custody of Iraqi immigration authorities upon arrival in Iraq.
The Iraqi government has warned that overstaying a visa may result in heavy fines, deportation, and a lifetime ban from entering Iraq.
