Here Is a Complete Guide About Iraq Visa and Immigration
Step into the Heart of Mesopotamia — Discover Iraq with the Right Visa!
Iraq, the land of ancient civilizations, awe-inspiring ruins, and spiritual significance, is finally re-emerging as a powerful cultural and business destination in the Middle East. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, pilgrimage, business, or even planning a long-term stay, getting your visa is the first step in experiencing the warmth and richness of modern-day Iraq.
As a visa and immigration expert, I’m thrilled to bring you this comprehensive and updated guide to the Iraq visa process and immigration policies — including how to get an Iraq visa, how to apply online, eligibility, visa fees, types, requirements, and visa duration.
Why Visit or Move to Iraq?
Iraq is more than just history; it’s a land where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet ancient ruins, spiritual shrines, bustling markets, and a population eager to share their rich heritage. Iraq is home to:
-
Baghdad – The historic capital and intellectual heart of the Arab world.
-
Najaf and Karbala – Important pilgrimage sites for millions of Shia Muslims.
-
Erbil (Kurdistan Region) – A thriving, safer hub for business and tourism.
-
Basra – The gateway to the Arabian Gulf and commercial trade.
Let’s get you ready with the right visa!
🛂 How to Get an Iraq Visa?
Iraq offers different visa options based on your nationality, purpose of travel, and the region you plan to visit. There are two primary zones:
-
Federal Iraq (central and southern regions, including Baghdad, Basra, Karbala, Najaf)
-
Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) (includes Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok – semi-autonomous with separate visa rules)
💻 How to Apply for an Iraq Visa Online?
Yes, Iraq now offers an eVisa system for select countries — making the process faster, more secure, and digital-friendly!
🌐 How to Apply Online for an Iraq Visa:
-
Visit the Official Portal:
👉 https://evisa.iq -
Select Visa Type:
Choose based on your visit (Tourist, Business, Pilgrimage, etc.) -
Fill the Application Form:
Provide accurate personal, passport, and travel details. -
Upload Required Documents:
-
Passport (scanned copy)
-
Recent passport-size photo
-
Travel itinerary or invitation letter (if applicable)
-
-
Pay the Visa Fee Online
-
Wait for Approval:
Most applications are processed within 3–5 working days. -
Download the eVisa Approval Letter and present it at the Iraqi border or airport.
📌 Note: Not all nationalities are eligible for eVisa. Some still require an embassy visa.
✅ Iraq Visa Eligibility
You are eligible to apply for an Iraq visa if:
-
Your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
-
You are from a country approved by Iraq’s visa policy.
-
You have a clear purpose of travel (tourism, business, work, pilgrimage).
-
You can demonstrate accommodation and return plans.
-
You are not subject to Iraqi travel restrictions or sanctions.
🔐 Citizens of GCC countries and several EU, Asian, and African countries are eligible for visa-on-arrival or eVisa. Check eligibility at https://evisa.iq.
💰 Iraq Visa Fee
Visa fees vary by type and nationality. Here's an estimate:
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (eVisa/Embassy) | $50 – $75 |
| Visa on Arrival (Federal Iraq) | $77 |
| Kurdistan Region Visa | Free or up to $70 (depending on nationality) |
| Business Visa | $100 – $150 |
| Work Visa | $200 – $300 |
| Pilgrimage Visa | Often subsidized or free for registered religious travel groups |
💡 Always check the current fees on the eVisa website or at your nearest Iraqi embassy.
📄 Iraq Visa Requirements
Prepare these documents before applying:
✈️ For Tourist or Visit Visas:
-
Valid passport (6+ months validity)
-
Digital photo (passport-size)
-
Travel itinerary (hotel booking or invitation)
-
Return flight ticket
-
Travel insurance (recommended)
🧾 For Business or Work Visas:
-
Invitation letter from an Iraqi company
-
Company registration documents
-
Employment contract (for work visa)
-
Security clearance (in some cases)
🕋 For Pilgrimage Visas:
-
Religious group registration (if traveling in a group)
-
Letter of sponsorship from religious authority or host
🗂️ Iraq Visa Types
Iraq offers a variety of visa types to suit your travel or stay purposes:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Tourism, leisure | 30 days (extendable) |
| Business Visa | Meetings, trade, investment | 30–90 days |
| Work Visa | Employment in Iraq | 1 year (renewable) |
| Student Visa | Study in Iraqi universities | Duration of study |
| Transit Visa | Passing through Iraq | Up to 7 days |
| Religious/Pilgrimage Visa | Religious visits to holy cities | 30 days (renewable during events) |
| Family/Visit Visa | Visiting relatives in Iraq | 30–60 days |
✨ Some visas may be converted into residence permits upon approval and proper documentation.
⏳ Iraq Visa Duration
Visa validity depends on the type of visa:
-
Tourist Visa: 30 days (can be extended within Iraq)
-
Business Visa: 30 to 90 days (single or multiple entry)
-
Work Visa: Issued for 1 year, renewable annually
-
Kurdistan Region Visa: 30 days, extendable once
-
Residence Visa: 1–3 years depending on sponsorship or investment
🛬 Iraq Immigration: Long-Term Stay and Residency
If you're planning to work, invest, study, or live in Iraq, here are your long-term options:
🔹 1. Work Visa and Residency Permit
-
Apply via an Iraqi employer
-
Requires Ministry of Labor approval
-
Renewable and leads to temporary residency
🔹 2. Investor or Business Residency
-
Set up a registered company or invest in Iraq
-
Eligible for 1–3 year residence permit
-
May qualify for longer stays or permanent residence
🔹 3. Family/Marriage Residency
-
For spouses/children of Iraqi citizens or residents
-
Apply for family reunification visa
-
Renewable residence permits available
🔹 4. Student Residency
-
Must be enrolled in a recognized university
-
Requires educational documentation and sponsor approval
🎉 Final Thoughts: Start Your Iraq Journey Today!
Iraq is a land waiting to be rediscovered. From sacred shrines and ancient ruins to vibrant cities and economic opportunities, Iraq is open, welcoming, and ready to impress. With improved digital infrastructure and expanding visa policies, getting your Iraq visa has never been easier.
Whether you're visiting for a short pilgrimage, a business mission, or planning to live in Iraq, this guide provides everything you need for a successful visa experience.
✅ Visa Expert Tip: Apply at least 2–3 weeks in advance to avoid last-minute delays, especially for embassy or work visas.
📌 All in One:
Iraq visa guide, Iraq eVisa online, how to get Iraq visa, Iraq visa application, Iraq visa eligibility, Iraq visa fee, Iraq tourist visa, Iraq business visa, Kurdistan visa, Iraq visa types, Iraq visa requirements, Iraq work visa, Iraq immigration process, how to apply for Iraq visa.