Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has issued a clear and firm warning to all Pakistani pilgrims travelling to Iraq, stressing that overstaying visas or engaging in any unauthorised activities will not be tolerated. His statement comes at a time when authorities in both Pakistan and Iraq are working to streamline pilgrimage travel, strengthen monitoring systems, and prevent any form of illegal stay by visitors from Pakistan.
During recent high-level discussions with Iraqi officials, Naqvi highlighted that thousands of Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iraq every year for Ziyarat, but a portion of them stay beyond the permitted period. This creates diplomatic issues, legal complications, and security concerns for both countries. He noted that Iraq has repeatedly conveyed its reservations about overstaying, and Pakistan is now determined to address the problem through strict enforcement and a regulated travel framework.
The interior minister made it clear that beginning next year, pilgrims will only be allowed to travel through registered and verified group organisers. This new system will replace the decades-old informal arrangements that previously enabled individuals to travel without proper oversight. Naqvi explained that Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq have agreed to work jointly to create a secure, organised, and transparent pilgrimage system that ensures every visitor returns within the approved timeframe.
Officials further stated that those who violate visa rules or attempt to work illegally while in Iraq will face serious consequences upon their return. The government is also planning to introduce digital monitoring tools to track group movements, ensure group organisers fulfil their responsibilities, and prevent individuals from breaking away from registered groups. These measures are expected to reduce cases of missing or detained pilgrims, a recurring issue reported every year.
Naqvi reiterated that the purpose of the warning is not to create fear but to protect Pakistani citizens from legal trouble abroad. He urged pilgrims to strictly follow visa conditions, cooperate with authorities, and respect the laws of the host country. He added that both Pakistan and Iraq are committed to ensuring smooth, safe, and dignified travel for all pilgrims under the new system
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