The Government of Pakistan has officially suspended the border corridor facility that allowed residents of border areas to travel to Iran without passports or visas. This traditional arrangement, known as the “rahdari system,” enabled local people to cross for trade, family visits, or daily needs.
Affected Border Points
The suspension primarily impacts Taftan and other frontier points in Balochistan. These crossing points were previously active under the corridor system, facilitating free movement for thousands of border residents.
Reason for Suspension
Authorities have cited security concerns and regional tensions as the primary reason for halting the corridor system. No new corridor permits will be issued until officials reassess the situation and ensure safety along the border.
Impact on Local Residents
The decision directly affects border communities in Balochistan, who now must follow formal immigration protocols. Residents who previously relied on the corridor for daily travel must now obtain passports and visas to enter Iran legally.
Current Travel Procedures
While the corridor system is suspended, regular border travel remains operational. Pakistani citizens holding valid passports and visas can still cross into Iran at official checkpoints, but local, visa-free travel is no longer permitted.
Repatriation of Pakistanis from Iran
Despite the suspension, thousands of Pakistanis continue to return from Iran via active border crossings. Authorities have facilitated smooth repatriation amid ongoing regional uncertainties.
No Timeline for Reopening
Officials have not announced when the border corridor might be reinstated. The suspension will remain “until further orders”, with decisions dependent on security and diplomatic evaluations between Pakistan and Iran.