Iraq Ends Visa on Arrival for 37 Countries: E-Visa Now Mandatory

There had been an essential change in Iraq’s visa policy; the country had officially removed its visa-on-arrival feature for travellers from 37 nations, which include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, as well as a few others from several European countries. As of March 1, 2025, all travellers from these countries are required to obtain an e-Visa before entering Iraq.
This step symbolises a digitalised approach to entry processes, an intensified border control, and a traveller-friendly visa system.
The complete guide in this article covers the visa policy background, the e-Visa application process, eligibility criteria, charges, and how Visas Abroad Services LLP, India’s top immigration consulting company, can be a support system to you to cope with the new requirements set for Iraq.

What is an e-Visa?

The Visa is an electronic permit for transit purposes that can be used for travel to Iraq. The applicants can be either single or multiple entry visas, which have a validity of 30 days. The entire procedure is conducted online, offering a time-saving alternative to traditional methods.
Upon obtaining the e-Visa, the Traveller will be sent the e-Visa directly via email. The Traveller needs to print the e-Visa and, on reaching the Iraq border control, show it to the authorities.

Changes in Visa Policy

The Iraqi Ministry of Interior announced the termination of the Visa-On-Arrival service for 37 countries as part of a significant digitalisation effort of the nation’s entry procedures.

The latest action marks the continuation of Iraq’s initial move to introduce Visa-On-Arrival services for select nationalities, which was introduced four years ago.

Countries Affected

The visa requirement for the following countries has now become stricter, and an e-Visa must be applied for before entering Iraq:

• 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 & Oceania: Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand.
• Asia: China, Japan, South Korea. The citizens of these countries are now obliged to complete the e-Visa application before boarding their flight to Iraq to prevent any travel disruptions.

Travel Advisory

The government of Iraq urges travellers to apply for an e-Visa and have it approved before their travel date. Last-minute applications and boarding without an e-Visa may result in a delay in the approval process or a possible refusal of entry.

How to Apply for an e-Visa to Iraq

Iraq e-Visa application is a straightforward process that can be completed entirely online. The e-Visa application is processed exclusively through evi: IQIQ, Iraq’s official e-Visa portal.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the Official e-Visa Portal

• Go to the Iraqi e-Visa application website.

2. Complete the Application Form

• Please enter your personal information details, such as your first name, last name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information, in the application form.

3. Provide Travel Information

• Write down your travel details, including the place where you will stay in Iraq.

4. Upload Documents

• Upload a copy of your passport (ensure the passport is valid for at least six months from your travel date).
• Upload a passport-sized photograph.

5. Pay the Visa Fee

• The application fee is paid online via the secure payment gateway available on the portal.

6. Health Insurance

• Fee: Apart from the visa fee, travellers are also required to pay a compulsory health insurance fee of 206,000 IQD (approximately USD 158 / €145). This fee has to be presented at Iraq’s entry point as one of the e-Visa requirements.

7. Submit and Wait for Processing

• Once you complete the payment and submit the application, your e-Visa will be reviewed and then approved. The e-Visa processing period typically ranges from 24 to 48 hours.

8. Receive Your e-Visa

• Provided your visa application has been accepted, you will be issued the e-Visa, which will be sent to your email. Print the e-Visa and take it with you when you arrive in Iraq.

e-Visa Processing Time

• On the positive side, the processing time for Iraq’s e-Visa is typically 24 to 48 hours.

However, applying in advance would be beneficial to save time. One should use at least 2-3 days in advance of the travel date to allow for a buffer and avoid any entry problems.

Visa Rules for Iraqi Kurdistan

Newcomers to the Iraqi Kurdistan area can choose to obtain a visa upon arrival or opt for the e-Visa. As regards more comprehensive visa information about Kurdistan, tourists are recommended to visit the Kurdistan Regional Government’s official website: gov.krd.

Required Documents Checklist for Iraq e-Visa

To apply for an Iraq e-Visa, you must have the following documents:

• A valid passport (with at least six months left until expiration from your entrance date).
• A passport-sized digital photo
• Information about your travel plans (including lodging details).
• Secure online payment (for visa and health insurance fees).

Fees for the Iraq e-Visa

• The e-Visa fee varies depending on the type of Visa you are applying for, ranging from $50 to $150, with the final figure most likely falling within this interval.

• Mandatory health insurance fee amounting to 206,000 IQD (USD 158 / €145).

Proof of Funds

Although officially, Iraq does not require you to submit a bank statement or an equivalent document to prove that you have enough funds to finance your stay, it is generally a good idea to carry some cash. The amount of $ 5 USD will be enough in most cases. It is also recommended to have a credit card available for emergencies.

How Visas Abroad Services Can Help

The new e-Visa application process for Iraq may be complicated. Still, no worries, Visas Abroad Services LLP, India’s leading immigration consulting company, is there to help you out in obtaining an Iraq e-Visa without stress. Our experienced team ensures that your online application form and supporting documents are completed correctly and submitted, providing you with a personalised service.

Here’s how we can help:

• Visa Eligibility Assessment: Our analysts will evaluate your suitability for the e-Visa from Iraq based on your nationality and the purpose of your travel.

• Document Verification: We ensure that you have all the required documents and have them checked for any inadequacies before submission, so that the application process proceeds smoothly.

• Visa Application Submission: We comprehensively assist in the completion and submission of the e-Visa application form in a secure manner.

• Post-Visa Services: Besides receiving your e-Visa, we are happy to share information on travel tips, health insurance requirements, and any other essential details you should consider.

Being situated in Gaur City Mall, Noida, Visas Abroad Services LLP has been the port of call for numerous visa application boats that have successfully reached their destinations worldwide. The consultancy service guarantees professional, transparent, and straightforward processing.

Final Thoughts

The requirement of an e-Visa application for 37 countries by Iraq is both a breakthrough in making the immigration procedure more effective and secure, as well as a leap forward for the country towards a more technologically advanced nation.

Travellers should note that they need to obtain their e-Visa before heading to Iraq, as the visa-on-arrival option is no longer available for these nationalities.