Get Your Iraq Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for exploring ancient Mesopotamia, religious sites, and historic landmarks
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Iraq Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-7 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details, passport information, and intended travel itinerary. Our system validates each section against Iraq's visa requirements, ensuring accuracy before submission to minimize processing delays.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan with clear bio page, recent passport photograph meeting Iraqi specifications, invitation letter if required, and proof of accommodation. Our visa specialists thoroughly review each document for compliance with Iraqi immigration standards.
3
We submit to Iraqi authorities
Your verified application is processed through official Iraqi visa channels. We maintain communication with immigration offices, monitor your application status, and promptly notify you of any updates or additional documentation requests.
4
Receive your visa approval
Upon approval, you'll receive your Iraq visa authorization by email. Print the approval letter to present at Iraqi immigration along with your passport. Ahlan wa sahlan — welcome to the land of ancient Mesopotamia!
Iraq Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 30 days
For visiting historic sites, religious pilgrimage, and tourism
Business Visa
Up to 30 days
For commercial meetings and business activities in Iraq
Visa on Arrival
Up to 30 days
Available at airports for eligible nationalities
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers connecting through Iraqi airports
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from sponsor
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance strongly recommended for all visitors
Tourist & Entry Visa Options
Iraq offers several visa options for international visitors seeking to explore one of the world's most historically significant regions. As the heart of ancient Mesopotamia, Iraq attracts visitors interested in archaeological sites, religious pilgrimage, and cultural heritage.
Tourist Visa — Single Entry
The standard Iraq tourist visa allows a single entry with stays up to 30 days. This visa suits travelers visiting ancient sites like Babylon, Ur, and the marshlands of southern Iraq. Tourists can explore Baghdad's museums, visit Erbil's ancient citadel, and experience Iraqi hospitality. The tourist visa is appropriate for leisure travel, cultural tourism, and visiting friends and family.
Tourist Visa — Multiple Entry
For travelers planning extended exploration or multiple visits, Iraq offers multiple-entry tourist visas. These provide greater flexibility for comprehensive itineraries covering multiple regions. Multiple-entry visas are particularly useful for travelers combining visits to federal Iraq with the Kurdistan Region.
Kurdistan Region Visa
The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) operates a separate visa system with more relaxed entry requirements. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Erbil and Sulaymaniyah airports. However, this visa is only valid within the Kurdistan Region — separate authorization is needed to travel to federal Iraq.
Business & Religious Visas
Business Visa
Iraq's growing economy and reconstruction efforts attract business professionals from around the world. The business visa permits stays up to 30 days for commercial activities including attending meetings, exploring investment opportunities in Iraq's oil and infrastructure sectors, establishing trade connections, and participating in trade exhibitions. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from an Iraqi company, company registration documents, and a detailed business itinerary. Some business travelers require additional security clearance.
Religious Pilgrimage Visa
Iraq holds immense religious significance for Shia Muslims worldwide. Cities like Najaf (Imam Ali's Shrine), Karbala (Imam Hussein's Shrine), Kadhimiya, and Samarra attract millions of pilgrims annually. Religious pilgrimage visas are available for those visiting holy sites, with special arrangements during major religious observances like Arbaeen. Tour operators specializing in religious tourism can facilitate visa arrangements.
Transit Visa
Travelers connecting through Baghdad International Airport or other Iraqi airports can obtain a transit visa allowing stays up to 72 hours. This permits airport transfers and brief city visits during extended layovers.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Essential Requirements
All Iraq visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Invitation letter: For tourist visas, this may come from a licensed Iraqi tour operator; business visas require company invitations
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmations or sponsor's address in Iraq
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Iraq
• Financial evidence: Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay
Kurdistan Region Requirements
The Kurdistan Region has simpler requirements for many nationalities. Visa on arrival is available at Erbil (EBL) and Sulaymaniyah (ISU) airports for citizens of numerous countries. Requirements include a valid passport, return ticket, and hotel booking. Processing typically takes 15-30 minutes at the airport.
Security Considerations
Some nationalities or travelers with specific passport stamps may require additional security clearance. Processing times vary based on individual circumstances. Apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Entry Points & Processing Times
Entry Points & Immigration
Iraq visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Baghdad International Airport (BGW), Erbil International Airport (EBL), Sulaymaniyah International Airport (ISU), Basra International Airport (BSR), and Najaf International Airport (NJF)
• Land borders: Ibrahim Khalil (Turkey), Al-Qa'im (Syria — status varies), Shalamcheh and Mehran (Iran), Safwan (Kuwait), Trebil (Jordan), and Rabia (Syria)
• Seaports: Umm Qasr Port (limited passenger entry)
Processing Times
Standard visa processing takes 5-7 business days, though some applications may require longer due to security clearance procedures. During peak pilgrimage seasons (especially Arbaeen in the Islamic month of Safar), processing may take additional time. We recommend applying at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.
Travel Advisory Notes
Security conditions vary significantly across Iraq. The Kurdistan Region (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok) is generally considered safe for tourism. Other areas require careful research and potentially security arrangements. Check your government's travel advisories before planning your trip, and consider engaging reputable local tour operators with security expertise.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
96%Approval rate
"Excellent service for my Iraq visa. The team handled the invitation letter requirements perfectly. Visited Karbala and Najaf without any issues at immigration."
"Applied for Kurdistan Region visa and received approval quickly. Erbil was amazing! Would recommend DoVisa for anyone visiting Iraqi Kurdistan."
"As a business traveler to Baghdad, I was worried about the visa process. DoVisa made it straightforward and kept me informed throughout. Very professional service."
"Pilgrimage visa for Arbaeen was processed smoothly. The team understood the urgency and delivered on time. Alhamdulillah for a blessed journey!"
"Visited Babylon and the Mesopotamian sites. The visa took a bit longer than expected but DoVisa kept me updated. Worth the wait for such an incredible experience."
"First time visiting Iraq to see my relatives. The visa process was much easier than I expected thanks to DoVisa's guidance on documentation."
"Archaeological research visa for Ur was complicated, but DoVisa navigated all the requirements expertly. Highly recommend for academic travelers."
"Good service overall. Had to provide some additional documents but the team was helpful in explaining what was needed. Visa approved within a week."
"Kurdistan visa on arrival was simple, but I used DoVisa for the federal Iraq extension. Professional handling of a complex situation."
"Family pilgrimage to the holy shrines organized perfectly. All five visas processed together and approved same day. Wonderful experience!"
"Business visa for oil sector meetings in Basra. DoVisa handled the corporate invitation letter verification efficiently. Good communication throughout."
Iraq Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Iraq?
Iraq offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days for visiting historical sites, cultural tourism, and family visits. Business visa permits commercial activities including meetings, trade exploration, and investment discussions. Religious pilgrimage visa is available for those visiting holy sites in Najaf, Karbala, and other religious cities. Transit visa allows stops up to 72 hours for travelers connecting through Iraqi airports. Work visa is required for employment with Iraqi companies. The Kurdistan Region also has its own visa system with visa on arrival available for many nationalities.
What is the difference between federal Iraq visa and Kurdistan Region visa?
Iraq has two distinct visa systems. Federal Iraq visa: Required for visiting Baghdad, Basra, Najaf, Karbala, and southern/central Iraq. Must be obtained in advance through Iraqi embassies or authorized agents. More documentation required including invitation letters. Kurdistan Region visa: Valid only within the Kurdistan Region (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok provinces). Many nationalities can obtain visa on arrival at KRI airports. Simpler requirements but does not permit travel to federal Iraq. Important: If you plan to visit both regions, you need both visas — a Kurdistan visa alone will not allow entry to Baghdad or southern Iraq. Apply for federal Iraq visa first, which is generally valid throughout the country.
Who needs a visa to visit Iraq?
Most international visitors require a visa to enter Iraq. Visa required: Citizens of almost all countries need prior visa approval for federal Iraq. Visa-free for Kurdistan Region: Citizens of EU countries, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and approximately 40 other countries can receive visa on arrival at Erbil and Sulaymaniyah airports for stays up to 30 days — but this is only valid within the Kurdistan Region. GCC nationals: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council countries have simplified entry to some parts of Iraq. Always verify: Visa policies can change. Check current requirements with Iraqi embassies or authorized visa agents before traveling.
What documents do I need for an Iraq visa application?
Standard requirements: Valid passport with 6+ months validity and at least two blank pages; recent passport photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed application form. Tourist visa additions: Invitation letter from a licensed Iraqi tour operator or sponsor; detailed travel itinerary; hotel reservation or sponsor's address; proof of funds; travel insurance. Business visa additions: Invitation letter from Iraqi company on official letterhead with company registration number; your company's registration documents; letter from employer confirming purpose of travel. Pilgrimage visa: May require documentation from religious tour operator or pilgrimage organization. All documents should be clear scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long can I stay in Iraq with a tourist visa?
A standard Iraq tourist visa allows stays of up to 30 days per entry. Single entry: One entry within the visa validity period (typically 90 days from issue). Multiple entry: Allows multiple entries during validity period, with each stay limited to 30 days. Extensions: Visa extensions are possible through the Iraqi Residence Office (Iqama) but require valid reasons, additional documentation, and processing time. Apply before your current visa expires. Overstaying: Results in fines and potential detention. Always ensure compliance with visa conditions. Kurdistan Region: The 30-day visa on arrival can sometimes be extended at local KRI immigration offices in Erbil or Sulaymaniyah.
Can I extend my Iraq visa once I arrive?
Yes, Iraq visa extensions are possible but require advance planning. Where to apply: The Residence Office (Iqama) in Baghdad or the relevant office in the province where you're staying. In Kurdistan Region, extensions are handled by KRI immigration offices. Requirements: Valid passport, current visa, completed extension form, passport photos, proof of accommodation, justification for extension, and fees. Processing: Can take several days to weeks depending on workload. Limitations: Not all extensions are granted — tourism visas may have stricter extension limits than business or family visas. Recommendation: If you anticipate needing more than 30 days, apply for a longer validity visa initially or arrange for multiple entry to exit and re-enter.
Can I work in Iraq with a tourist visa?
No, Iraq tourist visas do not permit employment. Working illegally can result in fines, deportation, and future visa bans. Legal work requirements: Work permit from the Iraqi Ministry of Labor; work visa or residence permit; employer sponsorship from a registered Iraqi company. Process: Your employer must initiate the work permit application before you can apply for a work visa. The process involves multiple government departments and can take several weeks to months. Kurdistan Region: Has its own work permit system for employment within KRI — this is separate from federal Iraq permits. Contractor exception: Some international contractors working on major projects may have special visa arrangements through their companies.
Do I need to print my Iraq visa approval?
Yes, you should print a clear copy of your Iraq visa approval letter on A4 paper. At immigration: Present the printed approval along with your passport. Immigration officers will verify the approval and issue the entry stamp. Print quality: Ensure all text and any QR codes or barcodes are clearly legible. Print in color if the document contains color elements. Digital backup: Keep copies on your phone and email as backup, though the printed copy is officially required. Kurdistan VOA: If obtaining visa on arrival in Kurdistan Region, no prior printing is needed — the visa sticker is applied at the airport. Throughout your stay: Keep your visa approval accessible as you may need to show it at hotels or checkpoints.
How long does Iraq visa processing take?
Iraq visa processing times vary based on visa type and individual circumstances. Standard processing: 5-7 business days for straightforward applications with complete documentation. Business visas: May take longer (7-14 days) due to additional verification of company invitations. Security clearance: Some applications require additional security checks that can extend processing to 2-4 weeks. Pilgrimage season: During Arbaeen and other major religious events, processing volumes increase significantly — apply 4-6 weeks in advance. Kurdistan visa on arrival: Processed immediately at the airport (15-45 minutes depending on queue). Recommendation: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel for federal Iraq visas.
What happens if my Iraq visa application is rejected?
Iraq visa rejections can occur for various reasons. Common rejection causes: Incomplete documentation; passport validity issues; concerns about travel purpose; previous immigration violations; security-related flags; insufficient financial evidence. If rejected: You typically receive notification without detailed explanation. You may reapply with improved documentation addressing potential issues. Appeals: Formal appeals are possible but time-consuming — reapplication is usually faster. Prevention: Ensure complete documentation; provide genuine invitation letters; demonstrate clear travel purpose; show sufficient funds; have valid return tickets. Professional assistance: Working with visa specialists familiar with Iraqi requirements significantly improves success rates.
What is the best time to visit Iraq?
Iraq has a desert climate with significant seasonal variations. October-April (Best Season): Mild, pleasant temperatures of 15-25C (59-77F) ideal for exploring archaeological sites and cities. December-February can be cool, especially in the north. Spring (March-April) offers beautiful weather and green landscapes. May-September (Hot Season): Extremely hot, regularly exceeding 45C (113F) in southern Iraq. Not recommended for extensive sightseeing unless visiting only the cooler Kurdistan mountains. Arbaeen (Islamic calendar): If visiting for pilgrimage, plan around religious dates which shift annually. Arbaeen attracts millions of pilgrims to Karbala. Kurdish New Year (Nowruz): March 21 brings celebrations in Kurdistan Region — a vibrant time to visit.
Is Iraq safe for tourists?
Safety conditions vary significantly across Iraq. Kurdistan Region: Generally considered safe for tourists with stable security. Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok welcome visitors with developed tourism infrastructure. Federal Iraq: Conditions vary by location and time. Baghdad has improved significantly but requires awareness. Southern religious cities (Najaf, Karbala) see millions of peaceful pilgrims annually. Areas to avoid: Border regions, certain rural areas, and anywhere with active advisories. Recommendations: Check your government's travel advisory; use reputable tour operators; register with your embassy; have contingency plans; consider security briefings for business travel. Many tourists visit Iraq safely, particularly the Kurdistan Region and organized pilgrimage routes.
What currency should I bring to Iraq?
Iraq uses the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). Cash: US Dollars are widely accepted and easily exchanged. Bring clean, undamaged bills (2009 or newer). Euros also accepted but USD is preferred. Exchange at banks, licensed exchange offices, or hotels. ATMs: Available in major cities and Kurdistan Region but may not always accept international cards. Don't rely solely on ATMs. Credit cards: Limited acceptance — major hotels and some businesses in Erbil and Baghdad accept cards, but cash is king elsewhere. Tipping: Appreciated in restaurants and for services. Bargaining: Expected in markets and bazaars. Budget: Carry sufficient cash for your entire trip as access to funds can be challenging outside major cities.
Can I travel between Kurdistan Region and federal Iraq?
Yes, but with important visa considerations. Federal Iraq visa holders: Can travel throughout the country including Kurdistan Region. Your visa covers all of Iraq. Kurdistan-only visa holders: Cannot enter federal Iraq. The KRI visa on arrival is only valid within the three Kurdistan governorates (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok). Checkpoints: Security checkpoints exist between Kurdistan and federal Iraq. You may need to show passport and visa. Disputed territories: Some areas (Kirkuk, parts of Nineveh) have complex jurisdiction — check current situations. Practical advice: If planning to visit both regions, obtain a federal Iraq visa which provides access everywhere. Keep visa documents accessible when traveling between regions.
Do children need their own Iraq visa?
Yes, every traveler including children requires their own Iraq visa. Requirements: Valid passport in child's name with 6+ months validity; passport photograph meeting specifications; completed application form with child's details. Accompanying adults: Children must travel with parents or authorized guardians. If traveling with one parent, a consent letter from the other parent may be required. Fees: Same visa fees apply to children as adults. Kurdistan VOA: Children also need individual visa on arrival stamps at KRI airports. Family applications: Submit all family members' applications together for simultaneous processing.
What vaccinations do I need for Iraq?
While no vaccinations are mandatory for entry from most countries, several are strongly recommended. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A and B; typhoid; tetanus-diphtheria; measles-mumps-rubella (MMR); seasonal influenza. Consider also: Rabies (especially if traveling to rural areas); polio (check current CDC/WHO advisories). Yellow fever: Certificate required only if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission. COVID-19: Check current requirements as policies may change. Medical consultation: Visit a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice. Medications: Bring adequate supplies of personal medications with prescriptions; verify legality of any controlled substances.
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