New instructions issued for pilgrims going to Iraq for pilgrimage

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued new instructions for Pakistani pilgrims going to Iraq for pilgrimage.

According to the instructions issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, entry into Iraq without family for people under the age of 50 has been prohibited.

The instructions clarify that pilgrims under the age of 50 will only be able to go to Iraq with their family, while they will not be allowed to enter if they travel alone.

According to the notification, if a pilgrim under the age of 50 tries to obtain a visa without his family or his application is rejected, the visa fee will not be refunded.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has also directed the pilgrimage group organizers to fully inform the pilgrims about the new conditions so that they do not face any problems before the trip.

The circular further states that pilgrims will be issued a 30-day visa for the pilgrimage to Iraq, however, this visa cannot be used for both Ashura and Arbaeen at the same time.

According to the announcement, families will also be subject to regular verification before issuing visas.

According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, pilgrims over the age of 50 can go for the pilgrimage to Iraq, but they must also fully implement the issued guidelines.

Officials say that the aim of these measures is to make the pilgrims’ journey organized, safe and in accordance with Iraqi laws.