Iraq Restricts Travel of Single Afghan and Pakistani Men from Iran to Najaf and Baghdad

Iraq has imposed restrictions on single Afghan and Pakistani men traveling from Iran to Najaf and Baghdad. These individuals are now required to have their visas pre-approved by the immigration department at the destination airport before boarding any flights.

The policy does not affect families, children, or those over fifty years old. Spouses and minors traveling with Afghan or Pakistani passports are exempt from the pre-approval requirement.

The measure stems from a letter dated twenty two July two thousand twenty five issued by the Iraqi Ministry of Interior. This letter was addressed to Najaf International Airport and instructed airlines not to accept Afghan male passengers intending to travel for work.

Although the order was made last year, it has only recently come into effect through enforcement by Iranian airlines. The airlines are acting under pressure to comply with the Iraqi directive.

The restrictions apply to flights from Iran to both Najaf and Baghdad. Their purpose is to prevent entry into Iraq for employment-related reasons.

Travelers subject to the rules must secure the necessary approval from Iraqi authorities in advance. Without this pre-approval, they will be denied boarding at airports in Iran.

This approach allows Iraqi immigration to screen potential workers before they depart from Iran. Officials have clarified that the exemptions cover a range of travelers including those with families and older passengers to minimize disruption to certain groups.