A spokesperson from Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has confirmed that Iraq will no longer issue pilgrimage visas to men under the age of 50 if they are traveling alone. However, men below 50 years of age can still apply for visas as long as they are accompanied by their families.
These updated guidelines are intended to streamline the pilgrimage process and ensure better arrangements and security at Iraq’s holy shrines. With millions of pilgrims visiting Iraq each year, particularly during significant religious occasions, the new rules are designed to maintain order and help manage the large gatherings more effectively.
The Ministry has urged prospective pilgrims to review the new requirements carefully before applying for visas to avoid complications. Additionally, travel agencies organizing religious tours to Iraq have been instructed to update their guidelines to comply with the new Iraqi government policy.
This decision highlights Iraq’s efforts to balance the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage with the practical need for safety, security, and efficient management of visitors to its sacred religious sites.
