In what many are calling a critical development, iSLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs issued a warning to pilgrims going to Iraq and said that a heavy fine of 500,000 Iraqi dinars will have to be paid for overstaying. According to the details, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued very key instructions for Pakistani pilgrims going to Iraq, according to which the Iraqi government has decided to take the strictest legal measures to prevent misuse of pilgrimage visas and illegal stay. Stakeholders across the nation are closely monitoring the situation.

Background

The backdrop to this story helps explain both the urgency and the broader implications.

In case of any violation of visa conditions, visitors may be barred from entering Iraq and their visa fee may be forfeited.

In the notification issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, it will be mandatory for all persons traveling on family group visas to travel and cross the border together, while men below the age of 50 will no longer be able to enter Iraq by traveling alone.

Analysis

Observers say the significance of what has occurred cannot be understated.

The ministry further said that the pilgrimage visa would be valid for only 30 days, and pilgrims would not be able to use the same visa for Ashura and Arbaeen but would have to obtain separate visas for both.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, according to Iraqi laws, if a pilgrim stays there for more than 60 days, he has to pay a heavy fine of 500,000 Iraqi dinars, detention, deportation and permanent ban.

National Impact

The story's impact will be felt at multiple levels — local, national, and beyond.

All future visa applications of violators will be permanently rejected.

In a detail that has not gone unnoticed, the Ministry has made it clear that the minimum validity of the visitors' passports at the time of travel must be 6 months.

What has become increasingly clear is that in addition, names of children or other family members will no longer be acceptable on the same passport, instead separate and individual passports have been made mandatory for each family member.

What Happens Next

With key questions still unanswered and the situation continuing to develop, observers are watching closely for the next steps. This outlet will continue to provide updates as the story progresses.