Pakistan has officially suspended the Rahdari transit facility for travel to Iran in Chagai district, making a valid visa mandatory from April 1, 2026. The move follows a similar decision taken earlier in Gwadar, indicating stricter enforcement of border travel regulations in Balochistan.
According to a notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Chagai, the Rahdari system has been suspended until further notice. Authorities clarified that no new permits will be issued for residents intending to travel to Iran under the previous arrangement.
The Rahdari system allowed residents of Pakistan-Iran border areas to cross the border without passports or visas. Individuals could obtain a special 15-day permit primarily used for visiting relatives and maintaining family ties across both sides of the border.
With the suspension now in effect, all travelers heading to Iran must carry a valid passport and obtain an official visa before crossing. Officials confirmed that the new policy applies immediately and replaces earlier informal travel permissions.
Last month, the Gwadar district administration also halted the Rahdari facility indefinitely. A notification from the Assistant Commissioner’s office stated that no new passes for Iran-bound travel would be granted within its jurisdiction.
The Rahdari system had long served as a convenient travel option for local communities, supporting family visits and limited cross-border trade. Authorities said the decision was implemented following instructions from the Interior Ministry aimed at regulating international travel more strictly.
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