Iraq E‑Visa (March 2025 Update): Complete Guide to Requirements, Eligible Countries & Entry Points
Introduction
As of March 2025, Iraq has replaced visa‑on‑arrival for many nationalities with an electronic visa (e‑visa) system. If you once qualified for visa‑on‑arrival, you now must apply online before arrival. This change streamlines entry—processing takes 1–5 business days—but it’s essential to apply at least 2 weeks before your trip. Below we break down who needs the e‑visa, how to apply safely, where it’s valid, and what to do if you aren’t eligible.
1. The New Iraq E‑Visa System (Effective March 2025)
Who must apply online?
Citizens of countries that previously received visa‑on‑arrival now require an Iraq e‑Visa before departure.
Processing time & recommendation:
Your e‑visa is issued in 1–5 working days, so apply at least 14 days before travel.
Official portal:
▶️ https://evisa.iq/en
Make sure you’re on the real site—look for a “Visa on Arrival” button. If you don’t see it, you’re on the wrong site.
2. E‑Visa Eligible Countries
If you held visa‑on‑arrival before March 2025, you now must apply online. This applies to citizens of:
United States, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates.
3. Where Is Your Iraq E‑Visa Valid?
Your federal Iraq e‑Visa is valid throughout federal Iraq and the Iraqi Kurdistan Region—from Baghdad, Babylon, Najaf, Karbala, and Basra, right up to Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok.
Entry points for your e‑Visa:
Airports (federal entry): Baghdad International, Basra International, Najaf International
Land border crossings (federal control): Mandali (from Iran), Arar (from Saudi Arabia), Bukamal (from Syria), and others
Important: If you land at Erbil or Sulaymaniyah airports—or cross via a KRI‑only land border—you will be issued a Kurdistan‑only visa, which only permits travel within the three Kurdistan governorates. It does not grant lawful entry into federal Iraq; attempting to use it elsewhere can lead to refusal at checkpoints.
4. Not Eligible? Invitation Letter via Registered Travel Agency
If your nationality is not on the e‑visa list, you must apply through a registered Iraqi travel agency (for example, Enlil Travels). Your agency will:
Draft and issue your official invitation letter
Liaise directly with Iraqi immigration authorities
Submit and monitor your visa application until approval
Note: This service carries additional agency fees. You cannot apply on your own at an embassy or online—only through a registered travel agency.
5. Why This Matters for Your Trip
Avoid entry refusals at airports or borders.
Save time by applying through the correct portal.
Travel with confidence knowing your paperwork is in order.
Ready to Explore?
Don’t let visa confusion stand between you and the ancient marvels of Mesopotamia. Whether you’re marveling at Babylon’s ruins, wandering Baghdad’s Al‑Mutanabbi Street, or trekking the mountains of Kurdistan, your e‑visa is your ticket in—just apply at evisa.iq/en.
👉 Need extra help? Contact Enlil Travels for full‑service visa assistance and invitation letters. We’ll handle the paperwork so you can focus on your adventure.