The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued important guidelines for pilgrims travelling to Iraq, warning that overstaying the permitted period may result in a fine of 500,000 Iraqi dinars.
According to details, the Iraqi government is tightening legal measures to curb misuse of pilgrimage visas and prevent illegal stays. Violations of visa conditions may lead to denied entry into Iraq, with visa fees also subject to forfeiture.
The notification further states that all individuals travelling on family group visas must enter and exit Iraq together. Additionally, men under the age of 50 will no longer be permitted to travel alone for pilgrimage purposes.
It has also been clarified that pilgrimage visas will be valid for 30 days only, and separate visas will be required for Ashura and Arbaeen, as the same visa cannot be used for both occasions.
Under Iraqi law, pilgrims who overstay beyond the permitted period of 60 days will be subject to a fine of 500,000 Iraqi dinars. They may also face detention, deportation, and a permanent entry ban. Furthermore, any future visa applications from violators may be rejected permanently.
The ministry has emphasised that a passport must have a minimum validity of six months at the time of travel. It also stated that each family member must have an individual passport, as the inclusion of children or other relatives on a single passport is no longer acceptable.
Pilgrims are also being instructed to ensure their passports are valid for at least six months from the date of travel. In addition, the notification clarifies that children and other dependents can no longer be included under a single passport, making individual passports compulsory for all travellers.
Read more: Federal govt declares June 25, 26 as public holidays on account of Ashura
