β Welcome to VISA Portal with Policies & Travel Guidelines
π Why Travel to Iraq in 2025?
Once known solely for its historic struggles, Iraq is now opening its doors to travelers, investors, and professionals with increasing ease. With rich Mesopotamian heritage, cultural landmarks like Babylon, and business opportunities in cities like Baghdad and Erbil, Iraq is fast becoming a destination worth exploring.
Whether youβre a tourist, journalist, humanitarian worker, or business professional, getting a visa for Iraq is now more streamlined than everβbut there are still critical guidelines to follow.
π Who Needs a Visa to Enter Iraq?
As of 2025, most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Iraq, including travelers from the USA, UK, on arrival or apply for e-visas, depending on their purpose of travel and entry point.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the following countries are allowed visa-free access (usually for up to 30 days):
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Syria
- Iran (under specific agreements)
- Some GCC countries (limited to Kurdistan region)
π§Ύ Types of Iraq Visas in 2025
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Sightseeing, visiting friends/family | Up to 30 days |
| Business Visa | Attending meetings, investments | 30β90 days |
| Work Visa | Employment or NGO work | 1 year (renewable) |
| Transit Visa | Passing through Iraq | 7 days |
| Journalist Visa | Reporting, media coverage | Variable |
| Diplomatic Visa | For diplomatic officials | As per agreement |
π Required Documents for Iraq Visa Application
To apply for an Iraq visa, ensure you have the following documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Visa application form (online or embassy-submitted)
- Passport-sized photographs (recent, white background)
- Invitation letter (for business or family visits)
- Proof of accommodation
- Flight itinerary or booking
- Travel insurance
- Bank statements or proof of financial means
- Visa fee payment receipt
β Pro tip: Always carry photocopies of your visa and passport while in Iraq.
π» How to Apply for an Iraq Visa (Step-by-Step)
1. Online Application (E-Visa Portal)
The Iraqi Ministry of Interior now offers e-visa services for select nationalities.
π Visit the official portal.
π€ Upload documents, pay fees, and receive a visa approval letter via email.
2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Available at major airports like Baghdad, Basra, and Erbilβfor limited nationalities.
β οΈ Be sure to check eligibility before arrival to avoid deportation.
3. Embassy Application
If not eligible for e-visa/VOA, apply through your nearest Iraqi Embassy:
- Submit completed form
- Attend interview (if required)
- Wait for processing (5β15 business days)
π° Iraq Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Processing Channel | Approx. Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Embassy/E-Visa | $52 β $75 |
| Business Visa | Embassy Only | $100 β $150 |
| Work Visa | Embassy Only | $250+ |
| Visa on Arrival | Airport | $75 |
π‘ Fees may vary by nationality and urgency of processing.
π« Travel & Entry Guidelines for Iraq
β Entry Requirements:
- Print copy of visa approval (for e-visa holders)
- Passport with visa sticker (for embassy applicants)
- Health declaration form (available at airport)
π¦ Health & Safety:
- COVID-19 vaccination proof not mandatory in 2025, but recommended
- Carry general vaccinations (typhoid, hepatitis A/B, etc.)
- Avoid travel to high-risk zones (check FCDO or your local advisory)
π‘οΈ Security Tips:
- Register your stay with your embassy
- Avoid public demonstrations
- Use licensed taxis or hotel transport
- Stick to secure hotels in Baghdad, Erbil, or Basra
π¨ Accommodation & Transportation Tips
- Hotels: Ranges from budget guesthouses ($30/night) to 5-star hotels ($120+/night)
- Local transport: Taxis are the normβnegotiate fares beforehand
- Domestic flights: Consider flights between cities like Baghdad β Erbil
π§ Final Travel Tips
- Arabic and Kurdish are the main languages. English is spoken in business settings.
- The Iraqi Dinar (IQD) is the official currency. Carry USD for easy conversion.
- Friday is the weekly holiday. Most government offices are closed.
βοΈ Ready to Travel to Iraq?
Iraq is rebuilding, evolving, and ready to welcome the world. Whether you’re there to explore the Cradle of Civilization or pursue business ventures, understanding the visa application process is the first step.
Bookmark this blog for up-to-date visa information, or consult your nearest Iraqi embassy for detailed advice. Always travel smart, stay updated, and respect local customs to make the most of your Iraq journey.
π£ Need Help With Your Iraq Visa?
Get professional visa assistance, personalized travel planning, and embassy coordination with our expert travel consultants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Tourist Visa
- Business Visa
- Religious Visa (Ziyarat)
- Work Visa
- Student Visa
- eVisa (for eligible nationalities)
- Visa on Arrival (limited nationalities)
Citizens of selected countries can apply online for an Iraq eVisa for tourism or business purposes. Eligibility depends on nationality and passport type.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of accommodation
- Return or onward ticket
- Invitation letter (for business or religious visa)
- Visa fee payment proof
Visa fees depend on visa type and nationality. Tourist visa fees typically range from USD 50 to USD 160.
- eVisa: 3β7 working days
- Embassy Visa: 7β21 working days
Visa on arrival is available for limited nationalities at specific Iraqi airports. Eligibility must be confirmed before travel.
Most tourist visas allow stays of 30 to 60 days, depending on the visa type issued.
Visa extensions may be possible through Iraqi immigration authorities for valid reasons, subject to approval.
No. Employment is strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. A valid work visa and residence permit are required.
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Invalid invitation letter
- Security concerns
- Insufficient travel details
- Previous immigration violations
Note: Iraq visa policies may change. Always verify requirements from official Iraqi authorities before applying.