Iraq has announced new visa regulations for Pakistani pilgrims planning to visit religious sites in the country. Iraqi authorities have directed both pilgrims and pilgrimage tour operators to strictly follow the updated visa requirements.
Solo Travel and Age Restrictions
Under the revised rules, individuals travelling alone on a family visa will not be permitted to enter Iraq. Additionally, single male pilgrims below the age of 50 will not be allowed entry into the country. The guidelines also state that visa fees will not be refunded in cases where an application is rejected or a traveller is denied entry upon arrival.
Visa Validity and Usage
Authorities further clarified that a single visa cannot be used for both the Ashura and Arbaeen pilgrimages. According to Iraqi officials, the visa will remain valid for only 30 days. Pilgrims who stay beyond the approved period may face penalties, deportation and even a lifetime ban from entering Iraq.
Passport Retention
The statement also mentioned that the passports of Pakistani pilgrims will be retained by Iraqi immigration authorities upon their arrival in the country.
