Iraq entry requirements for Russia passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
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
Russian passport holders need a visa to enter Iraq, and the good news is that Iraq offers an eVisa that you can apply for online. The process is straightforward, but you'll need to plan ahead and have your documents ready. Here's everything you need to know for a smooth entry in 2026.
Apply for Iraq eVisaOfficial portal: Iraq eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Iraq eVisaYou cannot get this visa on arrival; apply online in advance. Apply online before travel | Russian citizens must obtain an eVisa through the official Iraqi eVisa portal before departure. The application is submitted online and the approved eVisa must be presented upon arrival. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — it must not expire within 6 months of your arrival. At least 6 months | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Iraq. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesA blank page is one without any stamps or visas. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least 1 blank page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight itinerary ready to show if asked. Proof of departure | Immigration may require proof of a return or onward flight ticket showing departure from Iraq. | Required |
| Proof of fundsCarry bank statements or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself. Sufficient for stay | You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Iraq. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any additional arrival form. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Russian citizens entering Iraq. | Not required |
Apply early — don't rely on last-minute processing
Iraqi eVisa processing can be unpredictable. Even though it's usually a few days, delays happen. Apply at least 2 weeks in advance, and don't book non-refundable flights until you have your approval.
Use only the official eVisa portal
The only official website is https://evisa.mofa.gov.iq/. Many third-party sites offer to 'help' with the application for inflated fees. Stick to the official portal to avoid scams and extra costs.
No visa on arrival for Russian passport holders
Despite what you might read elsewhere, Russian citizens are not eligible for visa-on-arrival in Iraq. You must have the eVisa approved before you travel. Arriving without one means being sent back.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Iraqi eVisa portal (https://evisa.mofa.gov.iq/) and fill out the application form. You'll need your passport details, a digital photo, and your travel plans. The form is in English and Arabic.
2
Pay the eVisa fee and wait for approval
Pay the fee online (typically around $50–$100, depending on nationality). Processing usually takes a few business days, but it can take longer, so apply at least 2 weeks before your trip.
3
Print your eVisa and pack your documents
Once approved, print a copy of the eVisa. Keep it with your passport, along with your flight itinerary and hotel bookings.
4
Arrive at the airport in Iraq
At Baghdad International Airport (or other entry points), proceed to the immigration counter. Present your passport and the printed eVisa. The officer will check your details and stamp your passport. Have your return ticket ready in case they ask.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · Russia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months
Cost$100
Requires invitation letter from Iraqi company.
Multiple-entry visa
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months
Cost$150
For frequent travelers; apply at Iraqi embassy.
work visa
Work Visa (Employment)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (processing fee, plus sponsorship)
For those with a job offer from an Iraqi employer. Requires sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Labor.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD (processing fee)
For enrollment in an accredited Iraqi educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee, plus investment proof)
For those investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in an Iraqi business. Requires business registration and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa fee (single entry)Official fee for Russian citizens; payable online. | $80 |
| Visa on arrival (if applicable)Available at some ports of entry; subject to change. | $80 |
| Extension of stayFor extensions up to 30 days; apply at the Residence Directorate. | $50 |
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
Transit visa required
Russian citizens transiting through Iraq require a visa, even if staying airside.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic passport holders
Transit hubsBaghdad International Airport (BGW) · Basra International Airport (BSR) · Erbil International Airport (EBL)
Health & vaccines for Iraq
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, influenza)Essential
Health risks
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to contaminated food/water; practice strict hygiene and drink bottled water.
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk
Present in some areas, especially rural; use insect repellent and consider prophylaxis.
Air pollutionModerate risk
High levels of dust and pollution in cities may aggravate respiratory conditions.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk is present in rural areas, especially in the north and south. 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 Passports
Al-Karkh, near Al-Saadoon Park, Baghdad
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Main office for visa extensions and residence permits.
Erbil
Erbil Immigration Office
60 Meter Road, near Erbil International Airport
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00
Handles extensions for visitors in the Kurdistan Region.
Practical information for RU 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 = 1,310.31 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
Processing typically takes 3–5 business days, but it can take longer during peak times or if additional checks are needed. Apply at least 2 weeks before your departure to be safe.
The fee varies by nationality, but for Russian passport holders it's usually around $50–$100. The exact amount is shown during the application on the official portal. You pay online with a credit or debit card.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before the validity period ends. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to exit and re-enter or check with the local immigration office, but extensions are generally not granted.
It's strongly recommended to print a copy. While the eVisa is linked to your passport in the system, having a physical copy helps if there are technical issues at the border. Some airlines also ask to see it before boarding.
You'll be denied entry and sent back on the next available flight. There is no visa-on-arrival for Russian passport holders at Iraqi airports. You must have the eVisa approved before you travel.
The eVisa is valid for entry at all international airports and land border crossings that have immigration facilities. However, some land borders may have additional requirements, so it's best to use an airport if possible.
No, the eVisa is typically single-entry. If you leave Iraq, you'll need to apply for a new eVisa to re-enter.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 7, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.