IRAQ
What one should know before going to Iraq
Dress Code in Iraq
Failure to comply with dress code rules is punishable by law!
For MEN, there are no strict requirements. You can wear shorts. However, when visiting religious sites, long pants are required, especially in the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.
For WOMEN, the requirements are stricter. You should always dress modestly and respectfully. It is recommended not to wear clothes that do not cover your shoulders or legs, nor tight clothes that accentuate body lines. Jeans are acceptable. Women are not required to always wear a headscarf, but it is advised to carry one with you. You will need to cover your hair when visiting mosques. In Najaf and Karbala (especially around the holy shrines), women must wear an abaya. If you cannot purchase an abaya before the trip, you will be able to buy one on the first day of your trip. In Najaf and Karbala, makeup and earrings are not allowed. You will not be allowed to enter religious sites barefoot, so be sure to have socks with you.
For WOMEN, the requirements are stricter. You should always dress modestly and respectfully. It is recommended not to wear clothes that do not cover your shoulders or legs, nor tight clothes that accentuate body lines. Jeans are acceptable. Women are not required to always wear a headscarf, but it is advised to carry one with you. You will need to cover your hair when visiting mosques. In Najaf and Karbala (especially around the holy shrines), women must wear an abaya. If you cannot purchase an abaya before the trip, you will be able to buy one on the first day of your trip. In Najaf and Karbala, makeup and earrings are not allowed. You will not be allowed to enter religious sites barefoot, so be sure to have socks with you.
Security Situation in Iraq
Foreign ministries and government-controlled websites advise against any travel to Iraq due to the security situation in the country. They state that the security situation in Iraq is unpredictable, unstable, and potentially dangerous.
They mention that Iraq is a war zone, and as a foreigner, you should not travel anywhere without military escort. Some websites highlight the dangers for women in Iraq and the high risk of pickpocketing. And of course, there are many other reasons why you should avoid traveling to Iraq.
Additionally, if you read or listen to the news, you might get the impression that Iraq is a dangerous country to visit.
Note that many websites may not be up to date. However, the security situation in Iraq can change quickly. The best way to get the most current information about the security situation in Iraq is to consult local residents, which can easily be done through social media.
Finally, if you speak with Iraqis, they will tell you that southern Iraq is dangerous for independent travelers, especially women. However, several independent travelers have reported always feeling safe in Iraq.
I can confirm this, as well as everyone who traveled with me. We felt completely safe throughout the country, from south to north, even when walking late in the evening in various cities.
Security tips:
They mention that Iraq is a war zone, and as a foreigner, you should not travel anywhere without military escort. Some websites highlight the dangers for women in Iraq and the high risk of pickpocketing. And of course, there are many other reasons why you should avoid traveling to Iraq.
Additionally, if you read or listen to the news, you might get the impression that Iraq is a dangerous country to visit.
Note that many websites may not be up to date. However, the security situation in Iraq can change quickly. The best way to get the most current information about the security situation in Iraq is to consult local residents, which can easily be done through social media.
Finally, if you speak with Iraqis, they will tell you that southern Iraq is dangerous for independent travelers, especially women. However, several independent travelers have reported always feeling safe in Iraq.
I can confirm this, as well as everyone who traveled with me. We felt completely safe throughout the country, from south to north, even when walking late in the evening in various cities.
Security tips:
- Do not make photos of women, police, military, governemental buildings
- Be mindful of local traditions, especially regarding dress codes for both men and women. Always dress modestly and respect cultural norms.
- Be cautious about pickpockets, especially in crowded places like markets. Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public.
- Have a card of you hotel with you when going to walk in a city
Visas of Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan
There are some differences between the Iraq visa and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa. First, I will explain about the Iraq visa. Secondly, you will learn about the Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa. Finally, you will find out if an Iraq visa is valid for travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and whether a Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa is valid for travel to the rest of Iraq.
VISA FOR TRAVEL TO IRAQ
One of the main requirements for entering Iraq is a valid visa, which is required for citizens of many countries. Also, the passport should not contain any Israeli stamps or stamps from neighboring countries (e.g., Jordan, Egypt) indicating a border crossing with Israel.
Starting from March 2, 2025, it will no longer be possible to obtain a visa on arrival in Iraq.
This applies to citizens of the Schengen Area, the USA, the United Kingdom, Canada, South Korea, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, Australia, and Russia.
Instead of a visa on arrival, citizens of these countries must obtain an electronic visa in advance through the official website: https://evisa.iq/en.
The visa fee is 170 USD.
VISA FOR TRAVEL TO IRAQ WITHOUT FEE
Citizens of the following countries can obtain a visa on arrival free of charge at Baghdad International Airport, Al-Najaf International Airport, and Basra International Airport:
Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
VISA FOR TRAVEL TO THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
PAID VISA FOR THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Kuwait, Qatar, South Korea, Iran, Turkey, and Brazil can obtain a visa on arrival to enter the Kurdistan Region of Iraq by both land and air.
The visa on arrival for the Kurdistan Region of Iraq can be obtained at the Turkey-Iraq Kurdistan border point of Ibrahim Khalil.
The visa fee is typically 75 USD, and it is valid for 30 days.
This Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa on arrival can be obtained at international airports, the Turkey-Iraq Kurdistan land border point, and the Iran-Iraq Kurdistan land border points.
KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ VISA FOR OTHER IRAQI REGIONS
Your Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa is only valid within the Kurdistan region.
Legally, with a Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa, you cannot enter the rest of Iraq, including the Arab-controlled part (Southern Iraq).
If you first enter Kurdistan and later wish to travel to federal Iraq, there is a solution. You will need to fly from Erbil to Baghdad to obtain an Iraq visa at Baghdad International Airport, which will be valid throughout Iraq.
And no, you cannot travel by car or bus from Erbil to Baghdad, as you will not be able to obtain an Iraq visa at the Kurdistan-Iraq land border.
IRAQ VISA FOR TRAVEL TO THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
Under current visa rules, you can travel to the Kurdistan region of Iraq with a valid Iraq visa.
CAN YOU OBTAIN AN IRAQ VISA WHEN ENTERING IRAQ BY LAND?
Many Europeans travel to Iraq by their own vehicles or public transport from Turkey, Iran, or Jordan.
No, you can't obtain an Iraq visa any more when crossing the land border. It is known that citizens of many nationalities, including EU citizens, should order eVisa on eVisa website in advance.
VISA FOR TRAVEL TO IRAQ
One of the main requirements for entering Iraq is a valid visa, which is required for citizens of many countries. Also, the passport should not contain any Israeli stamps or stamps from neighboring countries (e.g., Jordan, Egypt) indicating a border crossing with Israel.
Starting from March 2, 2025, it will no longer be possible to obtain a visa on arrival in Iraq.
This applies to citizens of the Schengen Area, the USA, the United Kingdom, Canada, South Korea, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, Australia, and Russia.
Instead of a visa on arrival, citizens of these countries must obtain an electronic visa in advance through the official website: https://evisa.iq/en.
The visa fee is 170 USD.
VISA FOR TRAVEL TO IRAQ WITHOUT FEE
Citizens of the following countries can obtain a visa on arrival free of charge at Baghdad International Airport, Al-Najaf International Airport, and Basra International Airport:
Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
VISA FOR TRAVEL TO THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
PAID VISA FOR THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Kuwait, Qatar, South Korea, Iran, Turkey, and Brazil can obtain a visa on arrival to enter the Kurdistan Region of Iraq by both land and air.
The visa on arrival for the Kurdistan Region of Iraq can be obtained at the Turkey-Iraq Kurdistan border point of Ibrahim Khalil.
The visa fee is typically 75 USD, and it is valid for 30 days.
This Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa on arrival can be obtained at international airports, the Turkey-Iraq Kurdistan land border point, and the Iran-Iraq Kurdistan land border points.
KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ VISA FOR OTHER IRAQI REGIONS
Your Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa is only valid within the Kurdistan region.
Legally, with a Kurdistan Region of Iraq visa, you cannot enter the rest of Iraq, including the Arab-controlled part (Southern Iraq).
If you first enter Kurdistan and later wish to travel to federal Iraq, there is a solution. You will need to fly from Erbil to Baghdad to obtain an Iraq visa at Baghdad International Airport, which will be valid throughout Iraq.
And no, you cannot travel by car or bus from Erbil to Baghdad, as you will not be able to obtain an Iraq visa at the Kurdistan-Iraq land border.
IRAQ VISA FOR TRAVEL TO THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
Under current visa rules, you can travel to the Kurdistan region of Iraq with a valid Iraq visa.
CAN YOU OBTAIN AN IRAQ VISA WHEN ENTERING IRAQ BY LAND?
Many Europeans travel to Iraq by their own vehicles or public transport from Turkey, Iran, or Jordan.
No, you can't obtain an Iraq visa any more when crossing the land border. It is known that citizens of many nationalities, including EU citizens, should order eVisa on eVisa website in advance.
Money in Iraq
The official currency of Iraq is the Iraqi Dinar.
1 EUR is approximately 1500 Iraqi Dinars.
DO YOU NEED TO BRING CASH FOR THE ENTIRE TRIP TO IRAQ?
You do not need to bring cash for the entire trip to Iraq.
There are many ATMs in the major cities of Iraq. You can withdraw money from ATMs in the larger cities. Most travelers usually withdraw 200,000, 250,000, or 300,000 dinars at a time.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
If you want to exchange money, you can do so at exchange offices in major Iraqi cities.
When traveling to Iraq, you can easily exchange euros for Iraqi dinars. You will only need dollars for paying for your Iraq visa at the airport ($77).
In major cities (Baghdad, Karbala, Basra, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok), you will easily find places to exchange money in the city center and shopping malls.
In Erbil, you can find random stalls in the main market where you can exchange money. You will see small kiosks with a lot of money, with no protection or surveillance cameras.
In central Baghdad, you can also find a few places where you can exchange money.
The euro exchange rate is quite poor and matches the dollar rate. Therefore, it’s worth exchanging euros for dollars in your country and bringing dollars to Iraq.
CREDIT CARDS
When traveling to Iraq, it’s better to have both VISA and MasterCard cards. If you have both, that’s the best option. This is because there may be situations where the nearest ATM only accepts MasterCard.
By the way, the Revolut card doesn't work everywhere in Iraq.
PAYMENT WITH A CREDIT CARD
In major cities, modern shopping malls, luxury restaurants, and cafes in Iraq, you can pay with a bank card.
Budget hotels only accept cash, but expensive hotels accept cards as well.
However, everywhere else, you will need cash. In any case, always have cash with you. Do not rely on card payments in Iraq.
ATM MACHINES
In major Iraqi cities such as Baghdad, Nasiriyah, Basra, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok, you will easily find ATMs. When in one of these cities, withdraw money. It’s better to do this in advance rather than wondering whether you’ll find an ATM in a smaller town you’re traveling to.
ATMs are also available at airports.
Bank fees for transactions typically range from 4,000 to 7,500 dinars (~3–5 EUR). The cheapest places charge around 1 EUR per transaction.
WITHDRAWING DOLLARS FROM ATMs
If you want to withdraw US dollars, look for the "International Development Bank." If you are traveling to another country from Iraq, such as Iran or Jordan, make sure to bring dollars with you, as they are better than having Iraqi dinars.
1 EUR is approximately 1500 Iraqi Dinars.
DO YOU NEED TO BRING CASH FOR THE ENTIRE TRIP TO IRAQ?
You do not need to bring cash for the entire trip to Iraq.
There are many ATMs in the major cities of Iraq. You can withdraw money from ATMs in the larger cities. Most travelers usually withdraw 200,000, 250,000, or 300,000 dinars at a time.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
If you want to exchange money, you can do so at exchange offices in major Iraqi cities.
When traveling to Iraq, you can easily exchange euros for Iraqi dinars. You will only need dollars for paying for your Iraq visa at the airport ($77).
In major cities (Baghdad, Karbala, Basra, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok), you will easily find places to exchange money in the city center and shopping malls.
In Erbil, you can find random stalls in the main market where you can exchange money. You will see small kiosks with a lot of money, with no protection or surveillance cameras.
In central Baghdad, you can also find a few places where you can exchange money.
The euro exchange rate is quite poor and matches the dollar rate. Therefore, it’s worth exchanging euros for dollars in your country and bringing dollars to Iraq.
CREDIT CARDS
When traveling to Iraq, it’s better to have both VISA and MasterCard cards. If you have both, that’s the best option. This is because there may be situations where the nearest ATM only accepts MasterCard.
By the way, the Revolut card doesn't work everywhere in Iraq.
PAYMENT WITH A CREDIT CARD
In major cities, modern shopping malls, luxury restaurants, and cafes in Iraq, you can pay with a bank card.
Budget hotels only accept cash, but expensive hotels accept cards as well.
However, everywhere else, you will need cash. In any case, always have cash with you. Do not rely on card payments in Iraq.
ATM MACHINES
In major Iraqi cities such as Baghdad, Nasiriyah, Basra, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok, you will easily find ATMs. When in one of these cities, withdraw money. It’s better to do this in advance rather than wondering whether you’ll find an ATM in a smaller town you’re traveling to.
ATMs are also available at airports.
Bank fees for transactions typically range from 4,000 to 7,500 dinars (~3–5 EUR). The cheapest places charge around 1 EUR per transaction.
WITHDRAWING DOLLARS FROM ATMs
If you want to withdraw US dollars, look for the "International Development Bank." If you are traveling to another country from Iraq, such as Iran or Jordan, make sure to bring dollars with you, as they are better than having Iraqi dinars.
Mobile Connection in Iraq
SIM CARDS
The three main mobile operators in Iraq are "Zain Iraq," "Asiacell," and "Korek Telekom." Most of their services are provided using 3G, 4G, and LTE technologies.
"Zain Iraq" and "Asiacell" are actually the best of the three operators.
You can easily find these operators in shopping malls such as Baghdad Mall or Zayoon Mall in Baghdad, or Family Mall in Erbil. If you need to top up your account, you can do it almost anywhere, even in small stores.
ZAIN
SIM card price: 1,500 dinars (1 EUR)
"Super Card 35,000": 20 GB of data, 720 minutes of calls, 720 SMS: 42,000 dinars (30 EUR) including taxes.
"Super Card 25,000": 8 GB of data, 500 minutes of calls, 500 SMS: 25,000 dinars + taxes.
These packages are valid for 30 days.
Facebook traffic is not counted against your data usage. Therefore, 8-10 GB should be enough for your 7-14 day trip.
ASIACELL
Currently, the price difference between Zain and Asiacell is very small.
The three main mobile operators in Iraq are "Zain Iraq," "Asiacell," and "Korek Telekom." Most of their services are provided using 3G, 4G, and LTE technologies.
"Zain Iraq" and "Asiacell" are actually the best of the three operators.
You can easily find these operators in shopping malls such as Baghdad Mall or Zayoon Mall in Baghdad, or Family Mall in Erbil. If you need to top up your account, you can do it almost anywhere, even in small stores.
ZAIN
SIM card price: 1,500 dinars (1 EUR)
"Super Card 35,000": 20 GB of data, 720 minutes of calls, 720 SMS: 42,000 dinars (30 EUR) including taxes.
"Super Card 25,000": 8 GB of data, 500 minutes of calls, 500 SMS: 25,000 dinars + taxes.
These packages are valid for 30 days.
Facebook traffic is not counted against your data usage. Therefore, 8-10 GB should be enough for your 7-14 day trip.
ASIACELL
Currently, the price difference between Zain and Asiacell is very small.
Arab Language
Arabic is spoken in Iraq. Locals don't speak much English, so it's worth having a translation app on your phone for communication.
It’s a good idea to learn to recognize Arabic numerals and basic phrases in Arabic.
Every time I travel to Iraq, I review the basic phrases using mobile apps on my phone.
Learning to read and write in Arabic is not easy, as you have to learn different letters and read (write) from right to left. Books and magazines are also printed from the other end than we are used to.
It’s a good idea to learn to recognize Arabic numerals and basic phrases in Arabic.
Every time I travel to Iraq, I review the basic phrases using mobile apps on my phone.
Learning to read and write in Arabic is not easy, as you have to learn different letters and read (write) from right to left. Books and magazines are also printed from the other end than we are used to.
Travel to Iraq with me
An intensive 10-day trip to Iraq, covering all the country's main attractions. Traveling with a small group.
Write to me: vladas@spacetravel.lt