Iraq has abolished visa-on-arrival for citizens of 37 countries. Find out how to apply for an e-visa now, which countries are covered by the new rules, how long it takes to process an application, whether health insurance is required, and what conditions apply to visiting Iraqi Kurdistan

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Iraq has officially abolished visa-on-arrival for citizens of 37 countries, and travelers must now apply for an e-visa before traveling. This change will take effect on March 1, 2025. Let’s take a look at how to apply and what the new rules mean for travelers.

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What is an e-visa?

An e-visa is a digital permit to enter Iraq that can be obtained online. The visa is valid for 30 days and allows for single or multiple entries. To apply, you must have a valid passport and a photograph, and fill out the form on the official online portal. Once your application is successfully processed, your e-visa will be sent to your email. Simply print it out and present it upon entry.

Key changes in Iraq’s visa policy

The Iraqi Ministry of Interior has announced the abolition of visas on arrival as part of efforts to digitize entry procedures and strengthen border controls. The decision comes four years after the introduction of visas on arrival for certain nationalities.

Countries affected by the changes in Iraq’s visa policy

- Europe

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom.

- Americas and Oceania

Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand.

- Asia

China, Japan, South Korea.

The Iraqi authorities strongly recommend that travelers apply for an e-visa prior to departure to avoid travel delays. Citizens of Kazakhstan, Belarus, and all other countries not on the list must obtain an Iraqi visa before traveling.

How to apply for an e-visa to Iraq?

Iraq launched an e-visa system in January 2025, allowing you to complete your application entirely online. To do this, you need to go to the official e-visa portal (evisa.iq) and follow these steps:

- Step 1 - Fill out the online form with your personal details (name, date of birth, contact information).

- Step 2 - Enter your travel information (details of your stay in Iraq).

- Step 3 - Upload a digital copy of your passport and a passport-sized photograph.

- Step 4 - Pay the e-visa fee online.

Medical Insurance for Travel to Iraq

Travelers are also required to pay for mandatory medical insurance of 206,000 Iraqi Dinars (approximately 145 Euros or 158 USD). This insurance will need to be presented upon arrival in Iraq as part of the requirements for obtaining an e-Visa.

Iraq e-Visa Processing Time

The application process usually takes 24 to 48 hours. As there is a possibility of delays, travelers are advised to apply in advance to avoid unforeseen situations.

Visa Regulations for Iraqi Kurdistan

For travelers planning to visit Iraqi Kurdistan, there is the option of obtaining a visa on arrival or applying for an e-Visa in advance. Details can be found on the official website of the Kurdistan Regional Government – gov.krd.

The introduction of the e-Visa system in Iraq changes the process of entering the country. Travelers will now need to plan ahead to obtain an e-visa before traveling. This simplifies the entry procedure, but it also means that the visa will no longer be available on request at airports. It is recommended to carefully check the latest updates on the official website to prepare for your trip.

Get advice from a migration lawyer to find out the current rules for entering Iraq in 2025.

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