Iraq Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Iraq ports of entry.
Spanish citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Baghdad and Basra airports for tourism. Kurdistan Region (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah) issues its own visa on arrival. Due to security concerns, check current advisories before traveling.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and visa fee in USD.
Fines and potential detention.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Iraq's safety varies dramatically by region. Kurdistan Region (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok) is relatively safe with its own security forces. Federal Iraq including Baghdad has improved but risks remain. Areas near ISIS activity or Iranian border are dangerous. Always check current advisories.
Money & Costs
Currency
ع.د Iraqi Dinar (IQD)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $50 · Mid: $100 · Luxury: $200+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated. 10% in restaurants. Tips for guides expected.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, D, G, 230V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
104 (Police), 115 (Ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Baghdad (BGW) · Basra (BSR) · Erbil (EBL) · Sulaymaniyah (ISU)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is October to April when temperatures are moderate. Summers are extremely hot (45°C+) in most of the country. Kurdistan Region in the north has cooler summers. Spring (March-April) is pleasant.
Cultural Notes
Iraq is the cradle of civilization, home to ancient Mesopotamian cultures including Sumer, Babylon, and Assyria. The country has Arab, Kurdish, and minority cultures including Yazidis and Christians. Islam is predominant (Shia majority). Hospitality is valued. Iraqi cuisine features kebabs, masgouf fish, and dolma.
Insider Tips
Arabic is the official language; Kurdish in Kurdistan Region. The Iraqi Dinar is the currency; USD widely accepted. Kurdistan is more accessible for tourists with better infrastructure. Federal Iraq requires more caution. Ancient Mesopotamian sites are remarkable when accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kurdistan safer than the rest of Iraq?
Yes, the Kurdistan Region (KRI) is significantly safer than federal Iraq. It has its own government, security forces (Peshmerga), and visa system. Erbil and Sulaymaniyah are relatively safe cities with growing tourism. The region has been largely peaceful while the rest of Iraq faced conflict. It's often visited separately from federal Iraq.
Can I visit ancient Babylon?
Yes, Babylon is accessible and being developed as a tourist site (UNESCO World Heritage since 2019). It's about 85km south of Baghdad. The ruins include Ishtar Gate remnants, palace foundations, and the famous lion. Saddam Hussein built a palace on the site. Security conditions in the region should be verified before visiting.
What ancient sites can I see in Iraq?
Iraq has extraordinary archaeological sites: Babylon, Ur (birthplace of Abraham with its ziggurat), Samarra (spiral minaret), Hatra, Nimrud, Nineveh, and countless others. Many suffered damage during recent conflicts. Kurdistan's Erbil Citadel is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited sites. Access depends on security conditions.
How do I get a visa for Kurdistan Region?
Kurdistan Region issues its own visa on arrival at Erbil and Sulaymaniyah airports for most nationalities including Spanish citizens. It's free or low-cost and valid for 30 days in the Kurdistan Region only. This is separate from federal Iraq visas. Many tourists visit only Kurdistan without entering federal Iraq.
Is Baghdad safe to visit?
Baghdad has improved significantly since the ISIS conflict but remains a city requiring caution. The Green Zone (government area) is heavily secured. Ordinary neighborhoods have varying safety. Tourist infrastructure is limited. The National Museum has reopened with Mesopotamian treasures. Travel with local guides and monitor security developments.