BAGHDAD (Kashmir English): Iraq has instructed Pakistani pilgrims and pilgrimage group organizers to strictly adhere to Iraqi visa regulations.
According to the Iraq’s ministry, individuals traveling alone on a family visa will not be allowed entry into Iraq.
It said single male pilgrims under 50 years of age will be prohibited from entering Iraq.
It warned that visa fees will not be refunded if the visa is rejected or entry is denied. “The same visa cannot be used for Ashura and Arbaeen.”
The Iraqi visa will be valid for only 30 days, the Iraqi authorities said and added that overstaying will result in fines, deportation, and a lifetime ban from entering Iraq.
The ministry further said that Pakistani pilgrims’ passports will remain in the custody of Iraqi immigration authorities upon arrival in Iraq.
Pakistani pilgrims in Iraq
Under strict new travel regulations for 2026, Pakistani pilgrims visiting holy sites in Iraq must travel exclusively through officially registered Zaireen Group Organizers as solo travel is prohibited for most, and the overland route through Balochistan and Iran has been replaced with mandatory air travel.
All pilgrims must book with licenced Zaireen Group Organizers, who are held accountable for the pilgrims’ safe and timely return. Only individuals holding specific, Iraqi-embassy-issued visas are permitted to travel independently.
