Iraq entry requirements for Finland passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Finnish passport holders can get a visa on arrival when entering Iraq. This process is straightforward at major airports like Baghdad and Erbil, but you'll need to have your documents ready. As of 2026, the visa on arrival is the standard entry method for tourism and short business trips.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply for an eVisa before travel | Iraq offers an eVisa for Finnish passport holders. Apply at the official eVisa portal before departure. Processing times vary — submit at least 2 weeks ahead.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of stay | Your Finnish passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure from Iraq. Airlines check this at check-in. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Iraq | Immigration officers at Baghdad and Erbil airports routinely ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or show it on your phone. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host. Officers may ask where you're staying, especially if you arrive without a pre-arranged tour. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can cover your stay | Have bank statements or a credit card ready. Immigration may ask how you'll support yourself, though they rarely check a specific amount. | Recommended |
Cash is king at the visa counter
The visa on arrival fee must be paid in cash (USD or IQD). There are no ATMs or card facilities before immigration. Bring enough cash to cover the fee and any unexpected expenses.
eSIM saves time at the airport
Instead of queuing for a local SIM at the airport, get an Airalo eSIM before you travel. It activates the moment you land, so you have data for maps, ride-hailing, and messaging immediately.
Visa on arrival is straightforward at major airports
At Baghdad and Erbil airports, the process is well-established. Have your documents ready, pay the fee, and you'll be through in 15–30 minutes.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at the airport
Fly into Baghdad International Airport (BGW) or Erbil International Airport (EBL). These are the main entry points for visa on arrival. At the airport, follow signs to 'Visa on Arrival' or 'Immigration'.
2
Queue at the visa on arrival counter
Join the queue at the designated counter. Have your passport, return ticket (printed or on phone), and accommodation confirmation ready. The officer will process your application and collect the fee (typically around $75 USD, paid in cash).
3
Receive your visa and proceed to passport control
Once approved, you'll get a visa sticker in your passport. Then go to the passport control booth, where an officer will stamp you in. Keep your boarding pass handy in case they ask.
4
Collect luggage and exit
After passport control, pick up your bags from the carousel and head to the arrivals hall. If you arranged an eSIM, it should activate automatically as soon as you connect to the local network.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · Finland Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable
Validity3 months from issue
CostFree (USD 0) for Finnish citizens
Available on arrival at major airports and land borders. Extensions possible at immigration offices.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
CostFree (USD 0) for Finnish citizens
May be issued on arrival for multiple entries; confirm with Iraqi embassy for specific conditions.
Long-stay visa (work/student)
Max stay1 year, renewable
Validity1 year from issue
CostVariable (approx. USD 100–200)
Requires sponsorship from employer or educational institution in Iraq.
work visa
Work Visa (Iraq)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (employer-sponsored)
For foreign nationals with a job offer from an Iraqi employer. Requires sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Labor. Allows long-term residence.
student visa
Student Visa (Iraq)
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (university-sponsored)
For those enrolled in an accredited Iraqi educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of financial support.
investor visa
Investor Visa (Iraq)
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (investment-dependent)
For individuals investing a minimum amount (typically $50,000+) in an Iraqi business. Requires proof of investment and business registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival (single entry)Finnish passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival at certain entry points, typically free of charge for a limited stay. | Free (USD 0) |
| Overstay fineOverstaying the permitted period incurs daily fines. Pay at immigration before departure to avoid penalties. | Variable (approx. USD 10–20 per day, max cap unknown) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Iraq
No transit visa needed
Finnish passport holders transiting through Iraq airports do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration. However, due to security concerns, direct transit is recommended.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Transit without visa is allowed for up to 24 hours if holding a confirmed onward ticket and staying in the international transit area.
Transit hubsBaghdad International Airport (BGW) · Erbil International Airport (EBL) · Basra International Airport (BSR)
Health & vaccines for Iraq
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderTetanus-diphtheria-pertussisRecommendedMeasles-mumps-rubella (MMR)Recommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (malaria, dengue)Moderate risk
Malaria risk exists in rural areas, especially in the north and south. Use insect repellent and consider prophylaxis.
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to poor sanitation. Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid street food.
Road traffic accidentsHigh risk
Poor road conditions and reckless driving pose significant risks. Avoid travel at night.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk is present in rural areas, particularly in the northern governorates (e.g., Erbil, Dohuk) and southern marshes. Prophylaxis recommended for rural travel.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Baghdad
Directorate of Residence and Borders
Al-Salhiya, Baghdad, Iraq
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters. Bring passport, visa, and proof of accommodation.
Erbil
Erbil Immigration Office
60 Meter Road, Erbil, Kurdistan Region
Sun–Thu 08:30–14:30
Handles visa extensions for the Kurdistan Region. Expect shorter queues than Baghdad.
Practical information for FI travellers
Country basics
CapitalBaghdad
LanguageArabic, Kurdish
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 3 months, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyIraqi dinar (IQD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1,311.01 IQD
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h
vs Los Angeles+11h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,D,GTypes C (Europlug), D (old British), and G (British) are used.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
The visa on arrival fee is typically around $75 USD, but it can vary slightly depending on the airport and your nationality. Bring cash in USD or local currency (Iraqi dinar). Credit cards are not accepted at the visa counter.
The visa on arrival usually allows a stay of up to 30 days. It is not extendable, so if you need to stay longer, you'll need to apply for a different visa type before you travel.
It's possible at some land borders, but it's less reliable than at airports. The process and requirements may differ. For the smoothest experience, fly into Baghdad or Erbil.
If you're transiting and not leaving the airport, you generally do not need a visa. But if you plan to exit the transit area, you'll need a visa on arrival or a pre-arranged visa. Check with your airline for specific transit rules.
You will likely be denied entry. The 6-month validity rule is strictly enforced. Renew your passport before traveling.
Safety conditions vary by region. The Kurdistan Region (including Erbil) is generally considered safer than other parts. Check your government's travel advisories before booking. Always have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
No, a Finnish driving license is not valid in Iraq. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your Finnish license. Even then, driving conditions can be challenging. Consider hiring a driver or using ride-hailing apps.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.