Afghan Pilgrims Denied Arbaeen Visa amid Rising Travel Barriers

This year, Afghan Shia devotees and followers of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) were unable to participate in the Grand Arbaeen pilgrimage to Karbala because Iraqi authorities did not issue visas, according to Shia Waves Persian. The restriction sparked widespread dissatisfaction among religious activists and the public in Afghanistan.

Despite extensive efforts by religious groups and travel agencies, issuance of Arbaeen visas by Iraq remained unfulfilled. As a result, thousands were deprived of the spiritual journey to Karbala’s holy gatherings. Some local sources described the exclusion as unjust and discriminatory. Plans to enable pilgrimage after Arbaeen are now underway, but no clear explanations have been provided for the visa denials.

Afghan pilgrims also reported that procedural obstacles from Iranian embassies and consulates added further complications. Many cited cumbersome directives from Iran’s diplomatic missions as contributing factors to their inability to travel.

This is not an isolated occurrence. In past years, visa obstacles, security restrictions, and limited border capacity have prevented portions of Afghan pilgrims from attending Arbaeen, though typically some manage to travel after the main event. Yet, this year’s exclusions appear broader than in prior years, affecting far larger segments of prospective pilgrims.

According to Afghan Voice Agency, stringent new requirements from Iran and Iraq have introduced heavy financial and administrative burdens. Pilgrims must now provide property deeds, secure endorsements from two influential figures and a lawyer, and deposit $500 as a guarantee—amounts many find prohibitively expensive.

Furthermore, although Iraqi directives traditionally include free Arbaeen visa services for pilgrims from Afghanistan, uncertainties persist. Some visa issuance is believed to be offered only on an individual basis, leaving group caravans particularly disadvantaged.

Each year, tens of thousands of Afghans register for Arbaeen through pilgrimage companies, especially in Kabul and Herat. In 2024, about 80,000 Afghanistanis participated. But this year, the restrictive environment has left many stranded at home and frustrated.