Iraq entry requirements for Italy 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
Italian passport holders can get a visa on arrival when entering Iraq in 2026. The process is straightforward at major airports, but you'll need to have your documents ready and pay the fee in cash (USD).
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrival Visa on arrival | Get a visa on arrival at major Iraqi airports (Baghdad, Basra, Erbil). Have USD cash ready — the fee is around $75 for a single-entry visa, valid for 30 days. You'll need a sponsor letter or hotel booking confirmation to present at the visa counter.Check visa requirements | Required |
| Valid passport Original passport | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Iraq. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at Iraqi airports routinely ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or a digital booking ready — they may check it before issuing the visa on arrival. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or sponsor letter | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter from your Iraqi sponsor (host). The visa on arrival counter often asks for this — without it, you risk being turned away. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Cash or bank statement | Have at least $500 USD in cash or a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds. Immigration may ask to see proof you can cover your stay — especially if you're arriving without a pre-arranged sponsor. | Recommended |
Cash only for visa fee
The visa-on-arrival fee must be paid in US dollars cash. Bring exact change — $75 per person. No credit cards, no ATMs at the visa counter.
Visa is not extendable
The visa on arrival is valid for up to 30 days and cannot be extended. If you need more time, you'll have to leave and re-enter, or arrange a different visa beforehand.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at the airport
At Baghdad International Airport (BGW) or Erbil International Airport (EBL), follow signs to 'Visa on Arrival' after passport control. There's usually a dedicated counter.
2
Fill out the visa application form
You'll be given a short form asking for your name, passport details, and purpose of visit. Fill it out in English or Arabic.
3
Pay the visa fee
The visa-on-arrival fee is typically around $75 USD (cash only, exact change preferred). Keep your receipt.
4
Submit documents and get visa
Hand over your passport, completed form, payment receipt, and return ticket. The officer will issue a visa sticker valid for up to 30 days.
5
Proceed to immigration
With the visa in your passport, go to the immigration counter. They'll stamp you in. Keep your passport handy for any spot checks.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · Italy 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 30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
CostFree (0 USD)
Available on arrival for Italian passport holders; extension possible at immigration offices.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue date
CostFree (0 USD)
Not typically issued on arrival; may require application at an Iraqi embassy in advance.
work visa
Work Visa (Iraq)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (processing fee)
For foreign nationals employed by an Iraqi company or organization. Requires a job offer and sponsorship from the employer. Allows long-term residence.
student visa
Student Visa (Iraq)
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD (processing fee)
For those enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Iraq. Requires acceptance letter and proof of financial support.
investor visa
Investor Visa (Iraq)
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For individuals investing a significant amount in an Iraqi business or project. Requires proof of investment and business registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival (single entry)Italian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival at certain ports of entry, typically free of charge for short stays. | Free (0 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayOverstaying the permitted period incurs a daily fine, payable at immigration offices. | 10,000 IQD (~7 USD) per day |
| Overstay fine maximum capThe maximum fine for overstay is capped at this amount. | 500,000 IQD (~340 USD) |
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
Italian passport holders transiting through Iraq do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Transit without visa is allowed for up to 24 hours at Baghdad International Airport and Erbil International Airport.
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-pertussisRecommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk
Present in some areas, especially during warmer months; use insect repellent and mosquito nets.
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to contaminated food and water; drink bottled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.
Air pollutionModerate risk
High levels of dust and pollution in urban areas can aggravate respiratory conditions.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk is present in some rural areas, particularly in the north and south. Prophylaxis recommended for travelers to those regions.
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 Affairs
Al-Karrada, Baghdad, Iraq
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters; bring passport, photos, and proof of funds.
Erbil
Erbil Immigration Office
Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Sun–Thu 08:30–14:30
Handles visa extensions for the Kurdistan Region; may have different procedures than Baghdad.
Practical information for IT 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 fee is around $75 USD, payable in cash. Bring exact change in US dollars — credit cards are not accepted at the visa counter.
No, the visa on arrival is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you'll need to leave and re-enter, or apply for a different visa type before travel.
Yes, the same visa on arrival applies for entry via Erbil (EBL) or Sulaymaniyah (ISU) airports. The process is identical to Baghdad.
Visa on arrival is available at most major land borders, but it's less predictable. Stick to airports for the smoothest process.
No. Only cash (USD) is accepted. Bring small bills — $100 notes may be hard to change.
You will be denied boarding by the airline and refused entry by Iraqi immigration. Renew your passport before traveling.
No, it's not required for the visa itself. But given the cost of medical care in Iraq, it's strongly recommended.
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.