Iraq Opens 15,000 Arbaeen Visa Quota for Afghan Pilgrims

DID Press: Registration has begun for Afghan pilgrims seeking to attend this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage after Iraq activated a quota of 15,000 pilgrimage visa authorizations, with applications being processed through authorized travel agencies and the Iranian Embassy’s online system.

According to reports from Iraq, 15,000 pilgrimage visa approvals have been allocated to Afghan nationals for the 2026 Arbaeen pilgrimage.

Officials from licensed Afghan pilgrimage and tourism companies said the quota has been received and that authorized agencies can now register applicants through the online system of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Kabul to obtain an Iranian transit visa.

The Iranian Embassy had previously stated that Arbaeen visas for Afghan pilgrims would be issued only after applicants secured an Iraqi pilgrimage visa.

Under the updated procedures, licensed pilgrimage companies must provide formal guarantees to the embassy to ensure pilgrims return after completing their journey. Pilgrims are also required to submit financial or legal guarantees to the authorized travel agencies as part of the application process.

Despite the start of registration, travel operators say the limited Iraqi quota continues to pose significant challenges for many Afghans wishing to participate in one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.