Iraq Visa Requirements
For 馃嚭馃嚫 United States passport holders
United States passport holders must apply for a visa at a Iraq embassy or consulate before traveling.
CRITICAL WARNING: The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq's limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Visa required. Can apply at Iraqi embassy or some land borders. Kurdistan Region of Iraq has separate visa procedures.
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay with at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps
Completed Visa Application Form
Fill out the official visa application form from the embassy or consulate
Passport-size Photos
Two recent color photos (2x2 inches or 35x45mm) with white background, taken within last 6 months
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter with host address
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Recent bank statements (last 3 months), credit card statements, or sponsorship letter
Round-trip Flight Itinerary
Confirmed return or onward flight booking showing departure from the country
Employment or Business Letter
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and approved leave dates, or business registration documents
Travel Insurance Recommended
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation
Cover Letter Recommended
Personal letter explaining purpose of visit, itinerary, and ties to home country
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
毓.丿 Iraqi Dinar (IQD)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $50 路 Mid: $100 路 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) 路 Basra (BSR) 路 Erbil (EBL) 路 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掳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.