The Iraq on-arrival visa is a specific type of visa granted to foreign nationals upon arrival at certain airports in Iraq. It is designed to facilitate tourism and business by reducing the time and complexity of obtaining a visa before travel. This visa is particularly advantageous for spontaneous travellers, business professionals with last-minute meetings, or anyone who missed the opportunity to apply for a visa in advance.
Like most visas, the Iraq on-arrival visa has its rules and requirements, which are subject to change. Therefore, staying updated with the latest information this guide aims to provide is essential. Additionally, this guide will offer practical advice and tips to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.
While the prospect of obtaining a visa on arrival can seem daunting, the process is straightforward with the right preparation. Careful planning and understanding of the requirements can greatly enhance your chances of approval and ensure a hassle-free entry into Iraq.
Check if your country supports Iraq Evisa or Visa or Visa on Arrival
| Afghanistan | visa required |
| Albania | visa required |
| Algeria | visa required |
| Angola | visa on arrival |
| Antigua and Barbuda | e-visa |
| Armenia | visa required |
| Australia | e-visa |
| Bahamas | visa required |
| Bahrain | e-visa |
| Barbados | visa required |
| Belarus | visa required |
| Belize | visa required |
| Benin | e-visa |
| Bhutan | visa required |
| Bolivia | visa on arrival |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | visa required |
| Botswana | visa required |
| Brazil | visa required |
| Burkina Faso | visa required |
| Burundi | visa required |
| Cambodia | visa on arrival |
| Cape Verde | visa on arrival |
| Central African Republic | visa required |
| Chad | visa required |
| China | visa required |
| Colombia | e-visa |
| Comoros | visa on arrival |
| Congo | visa required |
| Costa Rica | visa required |
| Croatia | visa required |
| Cuba | visa required |
| Djibouti | e-visa |
| Dominican Republic | visa required |
| DR Congo | visa required |
| Ecuador | e-visa |
| Egypt | visa required |
| El Salvador | visa required |
| Equatorial Guinea | visa required |
| Eritrea | visa required |
| Ethiopia | e-visa |
| Gabon | e-visa |
| Gambia | visa required |
| Ghana | visa required |
| Grenada | visa required |
| Guatemala | visa required |
| Guinea | e-visa |
| Guinea-Bissau | visa on arrival |
| Guyana | visa required |
| Honduras | visa required |
| India | visa required |
| Iran | e-visa |
| Ireland | visa required |
| Ivory Coast | e-visa |
| Jamaica | visa required |
| Jordan | visa required |
| Kenya | visa required |
| Kiribati | visa required |
| Kosovo | visa required |
| Kuwait | visa required |
| Kyrgyzstan | e-visa |
| Lebanon | visa on arrival |
| Lesotho | e-visa |
| Liberia | visa required |
| Libya | visa required |
| Madagascar | visa on arrival |
| Malawi | e-visa |
| Maldives | visa on arrival |
| Mali | visa required |
| Mauritania | visa on arrival |
| Mexico | visa required |
| Moldova | e-visa |
| Morocco | visa required |
| Mozambique | visa required |
| Myanmar | visa required |
| Namibia | visa required |
| Nauru | visa required |
| Nicaragua | visa required |
| Niger | visa required |
| Nigeria | visa on arrival |
| North Korea | visa required |
| North Macedonia | visa required |
| Pakistan | visa required |
| Palau | visa on arrival |
| Palestine | visa required |
| Panama | visa required |
| Paraguay | visa required |
| Peru | visa required |
| Qatar | e-visa |
| Rwanda | visa on arrival |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | e-visa |
| Saint Lucia | visa required |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | visa required |
| Samoa | visa on arrival |
| Sao Tome and Principe | e-visa |
| Saudi Arabia | visa required |
| Senegal | visa on arrival |
| Serbia | visa required |
| Sierra Leone | visa required |
| Singapore | e-visa |
| Slovakia | visa required |
| Slovenia | visa required |
| Somalia | visa on arrival |
| South Africa | visa required |
| South Sudan | e-visa |
| Sudan | visa required |
| Suriname | e-visa |
| Swaziland | visa required |
| Syria | visa required |
| Tajikistan | e-visa |
| Tanzania | e-visa |
| Togo | visa on arrival |
| Tonga | visa required |
| Trinidad and Tobago | visa required |
| Tunisia | visa required |
| Turkey | visa required |
| Tuvalu | visa on arrival |
| Uganda | visa on arrival |
| Ukraine | visa required |
| United Arab Emirates | e-visa |
| United Kingdom | visa required |
| Uzbekistan | e-visa |
| Vanuatu | visa required |
| Venezuela | visa required |
| Yemen | visa required |
| Zambia | e-visa |
| Zimbabwe | e-visa |
Requirements for obtaining an Iraq on-arrival visa
The requirements for an Iraq-on-arrival visa vary according to the applicant’s nationality, the visit’s purpose, and the stay’s duration. However, there are some general requirements applicable to all applicants. Firstly, a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining is mandatory. The passport must have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
Secondly, applicants may need proof of return or onward travel, such as a confirmed flight ticket. This ensures that the traveller does not intend to overstay their visa. Additionally, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Iraq may be required. This could be bank statements or a letter from your employer.
Lastly, depending on the current health and safety regulations, you may need proof of relevant vaccinations or a negative COVID-19 test. Be sure to check the latest health advisories before your travel. The requirements can vary, and verifying the specifics from an official source or trusted travel advisor is essential.
Types of Iraq arrival visas
There are several types of Iraq on-arrival visas, each catering to different travel purposes. The most common is the tourist visa, issued to foreign nationals visiting Iraq for leisure or personal reasons. This visa typically allows a stay of up to 30 days.
For business travellers, there is a business visa. This visa is designed for individuals visiting Iraq for professional purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or business negotiations. The duration of stay under this visa can vary but is often longer than the tourist visa.
Then there’s the transit visa, intended for travellers passing through Iraq en route to another destination. This visa usually allows a short stay of up to 72 hours. Finally, there are visas for religious pilgrimages and those visiting family or friends in Iraq.
It’s important to note that the type of visa you apply for should align with your purpose of visit. Misrepresentation can lead to visa denial or complications during your stay.
Read: How to apply for Iraq eVisa
How to apply for an Iraq on-arrival visa
Applying for an Iraq-on-arrival visa is a relatively simple process, but it requires careful preparation. Upon arrival at the airport in Iraq, look for the visa-on-arrival counter. You must complete an application form with your personal information, visit purpose, and intended stay duration.
Ensure you carry all necessary documents, including your passport, proof of onward travel, and any other documents required for your specific visa type. You will need to submit these along with your application form. You must pay the visa fee after submitting the form and necessary documents. This fee can vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa.
Once the fee has been paid, your application will be processed, and if approved, the visa will be stamped on your passport. The processing time can vary but usually takes a couple of hours. It’s essential to factor this into your travel schedule.
Tips for a successful visa application
A successful visa application often comes down to careful preparation and attention to detail. Firstly, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months and has sufficient blank pages. Secondly, have all your supporting documents ready and organized. This helps you and makes the process easier for the immigration officer handling your application.
Another tip is to be clear and honest about your purpose of visit. Misleading information can lead to complications and potentially a denial of your visa. Additionally, ensure you have enough funds to cover the visa fee. This fee must typically be paid in cash, so be prepared.
Lastly, be patient and courteous with the immigration officers. They are there to assist you, and a positive attitude can go a long way in ensuring a smooth process.
Important information for travellers with an Iraq on-arrival visa
As a holder of an Iraq on-arrival visa, it’s crucial to abide by the conditions of your visa. Overstaying your visa or violating terms can lead to penalties, including fines or deportation. Also, this visa does not grant you the right to work in Iraq.
It’s also important to adhere to the local laws and customs throughout your stay in Iraq. Respect for cultural norms and practices is a legal requirement and a way to ensure a pleasant and memorable travel experience.
Lastly, remember that your visa is your responsibility. Please keep it safe and make a photocopy or digital copy of it. A copy can simplify obtaining a replacement in case of loss or theft.
Frequently asked questions about the Iraq on-arrival visa.
Travellers often have some common questions about the Iraq on-arrival visa. Here, we aim to answer some of these to provide further clarity.
Question: Can I extend my Iraq on-arrival visa?
Answer: The possibility of extending your visa depends on the type of visa and the discretion of the Iraqi immigration authorities. It’s best to inquire about this upon arrival.
Question: What happens if I overstay my visa?
Answer: Overstaying your visa is a serious offence and can result in fines, deportation, and even a ban from future travel to Iraq. Always ensure you leave the country before your visa expires.
Question: Can I work in Iraq with a visa on arrival?
Answer: No, the visa on arrival does not permit you to take up employment in Iraq. To work in Iraq, you need a specific work visa.
Common mistakes to avoid when applying for an Iraq on-arrival visa
When applying for an Iraq-on-arrival visa, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Firstly, do not leave your application to the last minute. Even though the visa is issued on arrival, preparing all necessary documents well in advance is crucial.
Another common mistake is not having sufficient funds to cover the visa fee. Make sure you carry enough cash to avoid any inconvenience. Furthermore, providing incomplete or incorrect information on the application form can lead to delays or even rejection of your visa.
Lastly, ensure that your passport is in good condition. A damaged passport can be a ground for visa denial.
Alternatives to Iraq on-arrival visa
If the Iraq on-arrival visa does not suit your travel needs or you prefer to have your visa sorted before your travel, alternatives are available. One option is to apply for a visa at an Iraqi embassy or consulate in your home country.
This option offers you the peace of mind of getting your visa approved before you embark on your journey. However, it does require more time and paperwork than the on-arrival visa.
Another alternative is the e-visa, which can be applied online. This convenient option allows you to submit your application and receive your visa electronically.
In conclusion, the Iraq on-arrival visa is a convenient and straightforward option for many travellers visiting Iraq. However, like any visa process, it requires careful preparation and understanding of its requirements and procedures.
Following the tips and advice in this guide, you can easily and confidently navigate the visa application process, ensuring a successful and hassle-free entry into Iraq. Remember, the key to a smooth visa process is preparation, honesty, and respect for the rules and regulations.
Read: How to apply and get Israel Visa on Arrival
Travelling to a new country is always an exciting adventure. So, prepare well, travel responsibly, and enjoy your journey to Iraq’s beautiful and historic land.