Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced that all Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq will be registered through a formal system, effective January 1, 2026.
Speaking at a trilateral conference in Tehran with Iranian and Iraqi officials, Naqvi stated that specialized agencies will be responsible for the transportation and safe return of pilgrims under a new regulatory framework. The conference culminated in a unanimous agreement among Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq to establish a joint working group. This group aims to address long-standing challenges faced by pilgrims and enhance coordination among the three nations.
“Pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq are of great importance to us. We are committed to providing them with maximum facilities,” Naqvi emphasized. He clarified that only pilgrims registered through licensed group organizers will be permitted to travel to Iraq. These organizers will bear full responsibility for the repatriation of all group members, ensuring that no pilgrim overstays their visa or travels without proper authorization.
New Visa and Registration System Introduced
Under this revamped system, only individuals granted a special visa by the Iraqi Embassy will be allowed to travel. The registration process for group organizers has already commenced, and both Iran and Iraq have expressed full support for Pakistan’s revised model for managing pilgrimages.
Naqvi unequivocally stated that individual travel will not be permitted, and no Pakistani will be allowed to reside separately from their registered group. He instructed authorities to identify and prevent illegal travelers, urging strict enforcement to avoid overstays or unauthorized movement. “We are taking every measure to ensure that the pilgrims who receive visas return safely to Pakistan,” he affirmed. “Such groups will be obligated to bring back every pilgrim who travels under their supervision.”
Pakistan Stands in Solidarity with Iran Amid Regional Tensions
Addressing regional security matters, the minister condemned Israel’s recent attack on Iran, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for Iran’s right to self-defense.
“Pakistan has always raised its voice in support of Iran at every forum,” Naqvi asserted. “We stood with the Iranian people during difficult times and will continue to do so. Pakistan and Iran are brothers — and will remain brothers.”
He also extended his gratitude to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and the Iraqi government for their efforts in accommodating the millions of pilgrims who visit their countries annually. Naqvi acknowledged that managing such large crowds presents significant logistical challenges and commended both countries for their exemplary efforts in hosting pilgrims.
