Iraq is an ancient land rich in history and culture, offering unique experiences with its various archaeological sites and natural scenery. Explore its diverse landscapes and immerse yourself in the local traditions.
CapitalBaghdad
Population40,222,493
Official language(s)Arabic
CurrencyIraqi Dinar
Time zoneUTC+3
Try the local cuisine at traditional markets. Always heed the advice of locals for safety.
Visa requirements for tourist entry to Iraq vary significantly by nationality; some travelers must obtain a visa in advance, while others may qualify for a limited visa-on-arrival or visa-free stay depending on their passport. Check the latest rules for your nationality before departure. Electronic travel authorizations (such as ESTA, eTA, K-ETA, UK ETA, or Australia ETA) are different from online arrival/declaration systems; Iraq is not generally known to operate a widely used separate pre-arrival online registration system for ordinary tourists. Paper arrival cards or customs forms may be used depending on the airport and airline, so follow the instructions given at the checkpoint.
Check visa and documents
Verify your passport, visa, and entry conditions for tourism before you travel. The rules can differ by nationality, so do not assume that a ticket alone guarantees entry.
Answer immigration questions
An immigration officer may ask about your purpose of stay, accommodation, length of stay, and return flight. Keep your itinerary and hotel details ready and answer clearly and consistently.
Follow biometric screening
Depending on the airport, additional steps such as fingerprinting or a photo may be required. Follow the instructions, queue as directed, and cooperate if you are asked to remove or adjust items briefly.
Declare restricted items
Meat, dairy, fruit, seeds, and plants may be subject to quarantine or customs restrictions, so check before bringing them in. If you have anything to declare or that may be prohibited, tell customs to avoid confiscation or penalties.
Prepare departure documents
Recheck any registration papers received during your stay, along with your passport, hotel receipts, and ticket, before departure. If you extended your stay or received a special permit, keep those documents ready too.
Complete departure control
At departure control, present your passport and boarding pass, and receive any exit stamp or additional verification if required. You may be asked to confirm the purpose and length of your stay, so answer consistently with your entry details.
Check cash and customs declarations
If you are carrying a large amount of cash or valuables, follow the local rules on whether a declaration is required. The reporting threshold in Iraq can vary by circumstance, so if you are unsure, check with customs or airline staff.