Iran Offers Free Double-Entry Visa to Pakistanis for Arbaeen

In a major development ahead of this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage, Iran has announced that Pakistani pilgrims may obtain free double‑entry visas valid for Arbaeen Chehlum. The new policy, effective from 1 to 16 Safar in the Islamic calendar, covers all visa fees, including the double‑entry option—a significant gesture to ease pilgrimage arrangements.

• Zero fee visas: Pakistanis can now apply for Iranian visas with no charges, extending this to double‑entry cases for the first time

• Validity period: Visas are issued between 1 and 16 Safar (approx. July 25 – August 9, 2025).

• Double‑entry benefit: Pilgrims can re‑enter Iran during their journey—a first under this policy shift

• Insurance discount: Travel insurance costs have been halved for this group 

• Pilgrims must travel via officially registered caravans and arrange their overland transport, typically bus convoys via the Iran‑Iraq border crossings

• Holding a valid Iraqi Arbaeen visa is mandatory before applying for the Iranian visa 

• Standard pilgrimage rules apply: group registration, vehicle documentation (Carnet de Passages), and international driver permits are required 

• Strengthening Pakistan–Iran ties: The move follows key discussions during the Pakistan interior minister’s visits to Iran and Iraq 

• Ease of pilgrimage: With visa fees waived and free re‑entry, more Pakistanis can plan multi‑stop journeys—likely through cities like Mashhad or Qom.

• Facilitating Arbaeen observance: The gesture supports the massive annual Husainiya pilgrimage, enhancing spiritual accessibility for Pakistani devotees.

• Issuance window: 1‑16 Safar (approx. July 25 – August 9).

• Allowed stay: Double‑entry visas valid for 45 days, with each stay permitted up to 15 days 

• Entry rules: Pilgrims must enter via approved crossings via the Iran and Iraq land borders. and follow approved caravan transport routes .

• Regional cooperation: Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq have coordinated to ease religious travel bottlenecks .

• Pilgrim safety and comfort: Group travel ensures better security, coordination, and oversight.

• Symbolic unity: Sharing visa privileges during sacred months fosters religious and cultural solidarity.

• Diplomatic circles: Minister Naqvi’s meetings in Tehran helped secure travel convenience increases .

• Pilgrim organisations: Safer, cheaper access is praised as “a long‑standing need addressed at last.”

• Analyst’s view: This policy helps Pakistanis bypass travel middlemen and reduces individual costs, making travel smoother.

• Cost savings: Eliminates visa fee burden at a time of rising travel costs.

• Access flexibility: Double‑entry visas empower pilgrims to plan rest stops, detours, or tours in Iran.

• Streamlined process: Direct issuance from Iranian missions reduces bureaucracy and reliance on agents.

Iran’s free double‑entry visa scheme represents a forward‑thinking, pilgrim‑friendly initiative. Coordinated with Iraq, it reflects stronger religious diplomacy and eases travel hurdles for Pakistani pilgrims during one of Islam’s largest foot‑pilgrimages—Arbaeen.

By waiving fees, offering re‑entry flexibility, and simplifying processes, the policy encourages deeper spiritual participation while reducing costs. Pakistanis interested in attending should act quickly, ensuring Iraqi visas first and caravan bookings before 1 Safar.