U.S. Embassy Baghdad
Al-Kindi Street
International Zone
Baghdad, Iraq

Business Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday
Telephone: +964-760-030-3000 or +1-301-985-8841 from the United States
Emergency after-hours telephone: +964-760-030-3000 or +1-301-985-8841, and ask for the duty officer
Email: BaghdadACS@state.gov

U.S. Consulate General Erbil
413 Ishtar, Ankawa
Erbil, Iraq
Business Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday through Thursday
Telephone: +964-66-211-4000 or +1-240-264-3467, ext. 4554, from the United States
Emergency after-hours telephone: +964-66-211-4000 or +1-240-264-3467, ext. 4554, and ask for the duty officer
E-mail: ErbilACS@state.gov

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Iraq for information on U.S.-Iraq relations.

Iraq has a strict entry and exit system:

• Visa requirements depend on your citizenship, Iraqi ancestry, purpose of travel, and duration of stay.
• Your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you submit the visa application.
• Your passport must have at least 1 blank visa page.
• Don’t leave Iraq without an exit stamp in your passport.

Visa Requirements

You must apply and obtain an e-Visa through the Iraq e-Visa Portal prior to arrival.

For travel into the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, you have 3 visa options:

1. Apply and obtain an e-Visa through the Iraq e-Visa Portal prior to arrival. You must use this option to travel to other areas of Iraq from the Kurdistan Region.
2. Apply and obtain an e-Visa through the Kurdistan Regional Government’s e-Visa Portal prior to arrival.
3. Apply for a visa upon arrival at Erbil International Airport or other entry points in the Kurdistan region.

Residency stamps and blood tests may be required for long-term residents and if you plan to seek employment.

You can be fined, detained, or deported for violating Iraqi immigration rules, including overstays or working without authorization.

You may be detained if you:

• Bring a weapon to Iraq or carry one without authorization.
• Pass through checkpoints without proper documents or a clear purpose of travel.

Visit the Embassy of Iraq website for the most current visa and travel information.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: Iraq has imposed HIV/AIDS-related travel restrictions on all visitors and new residents. Please verify this information with the Embassy of Iraq before you travel.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.

Iraq has a strict entry and exit system:

• Visa requirements depend on your citizenship, Iraqi ancestry, purpose of travel, and duration of stay.
• Your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you submit the visa application.
• Your passport must have at least 1 blank visa page.
• Don’t leave Iraq without an exit stamp in your passport.

Visa Requirements

You must apply and obtain an e-Visa through the Iraq e-Visa Portal prior to arrival.

For travel into the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, you have 3 visa options:

1. Apply and obtain an e-Visa through the Iraq e-Visa Portal prior to arrival. You must use this option to travel to other areas of Iraq from the Kurdistan Region.
2. Apply and obtain an e-Visa through the Kurdistan Regional Government’s e-Visa Portal prior to arrival.
3. Apply for a visa upon arrival at Erbil International Airport or other entry points in the Kurdistan region.

Residency stamps and blood tests may be required for long-term residents and if you plan to seek employment.

You can be fined, detained, or deported for violating Iraqi immigration rules, including overstays or working without authorization.

You may be detained if you:

• Bring a weapon to Iraq or carry one without authorization.
• Pass through checkpoints without proper documents or a clear purpose of travel.

Visit the Embassy of Iraq website for the most current visa and travel information.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: Iraq has imposed HIV/AIDS-related travel restrictions on all visitors and new residents. Please verify this information with the Embassy of Iraq before you travel.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack American citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets.

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria—also known as ISIS, ISIL or Da’esh—is a designated terrorist organization active in Syria and Iraq. ISIS and its associated terrorist groups indiscriminately commit attacks and violent atrocities in Iraq despite improved Iraqi government control. ISIS, militia groups, and criminal gangs target U.S. citizens for attacks and hostage-taking. Additionally, Iran-aligned militia groups encourage and conduct attacks against the U.S. presence in Iraq.

Iraq’s northern borders are especially dangerous due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, aerial bombardment, and civil unrest. Avoid all areas near armed groups in northern Iraq, which have been targeted with military strikes by neighboring countries.

Due to security and safety threats, U.S. government employees working in Iraq live and work under strict security restrictions, which limit their movements and interactions.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Carjacking is common, even during daylight hours, and particularly on the highways from Jordan and Kuwait to Baghdad. Kidnappings of foreign nationals, Iraqi citizens, and dual U.S.-Iraqi citizens can occur for ransom or political/religious reasons. Many hostages have been killed. The murder rate remains high due to terrorism, tribal and family disputes, and religious/sectarian tensions. Sexual assault and domestic violence are common. Petty theft is common in Iraq, including pickpocketing and theft of valuables from hotel rooms and private residences.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Scams: Internet romance and financial scam are prevalent in Iraq. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact U.S. Embassy Baghdad or U.S. Consulate General Erbil for assistance.

Report crimes, fires, and accidents to local authorities by dialing:

• 104 for police
• 115 for fire
• 112 for the national emergency hotline
• 139 for sexual assault or domestic violence

Contact the U.S. Embassy at +964-760-030-3000. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is not well regulated. Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. Dangerous areas/activities are not always labeled properly. Staff may not be trained or certified by the host government or recognized authorities. If you get injured, you will likely only find appropriate medical treatment in or near major cities. First responders cannot reach areas outside major cities to provide urgent medical care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.

See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or detained. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.

See our webpage for further information.

Property Disputes: Land disputes are common in Iraq and are often difficult to resolve through the legal system. The U.S. Embassy cannot take sides in a legal dispute. Those involved in a court dispute risk having claims filed against them, arrest, and being jailed.

Special Circumstances: Iraq lacks many public services. Electricity often fails. Fire and rescue services are inadequate, and hotels may not have fire safety equipment. Landline telephone service is limited, while cellular service reliability varies by region. The banking and financial infrastructure is underdeveloped. Transactions are largely cash-based. Hotels usually require payment in foreign currency. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are rare.

Customs officers have broad authority to search you and your vehicle at Iraqi ports of entry. Officers may confiscate any goods deemed a threat to the peace, security, health, environment, or social order of Iraq. Antiquities, cultural goods, and undeclared items for export may be confiscated. You may be ordered to return such goods, at their expense, to the jurisdiction from which they came.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries. They may be illegal according to local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States.

See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGB Travelers: Discrimination based on sexual orientation and unconventional appearance is common. In April 2024, the Iraqi Council of Representatives passed an amendment to Iraq’s existing Anti-Prostitution Law which bans same-sex relations with fines ranging from 10 to 15 million IQD and jailtime for 10 to 15 years. The law punishes any persons or organizations that “promote homosexuality.”

See our LGB Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Iraq prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, but the law is not widely enforced. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

See our Travelers with Disabilities page.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips for U.S. students.

Women Travelers: Female U.S. citizens have been subject to threats, kidnappings, abuse, and extortion by family, including loss of custody of children and forced marriage. U.S. laws do not protect U.S. citizens when they are outside of the United States. The Iraqi police and legal system may offer little protection.

See our travel tips for Women Travelers. 

Basic, modern medical care and medicines are not widely available in Iraq and do not meet U.S. standards. A limited number of companies facilitate medical evacuations. Blood banks exist in Iraq, though the blood supply may not be sufficient in the event of an emergency and likely has not been tested under U.S. standards for infectious disease. Mental health and psychiatric care is limited in Iraq.

For emergency services in Iraq, dial 122.

Ambulance services are:

• Not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas.
• Not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.

See our Health Abroad page for more information.

• Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler Advice for Iraq.
  • Review all sub-sections. These include Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health page. CDC Traveler Advice provides advice on medical considerations including:
  • Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
  • Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
  • General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.

See our Insurance Overseas page for more information on insurance providers with overseas coverage.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Insurance page for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

·        World Health Organization Travel advice page

·        U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page

Air Quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Iraq. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you. Consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, teens, and older adults.
• People with heart disease and lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas. Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast, which uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Iraq. For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Water Quality & Food Safety

In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. You should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Adventure Travel website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Road Conditions and Safety: Vehicular travel in Iraq can be extremely dangerous. There have been attacks on civilian vehicles and on Iraqi military and security convoys on roads and highways throughout Iraq, both in and outside metropolitan areas. Attacks can occur at any time—day or night—and have involved small arms fire and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) capable of destroying vehicles.

Traffic Laws: Drivers usually do not yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and ignore traffic lights (if present), traffic laws, and regulations. Jaywalking is common. Roads are congested. Some cars do not use lights at night and urban streetlights may not be functioning. Some motorists drive at excessive speeds, tailgate, and force other drivers to yield the right of way.

Iraq has many government checkpoints scattered throughout the country.  New ones may be placed randomly, particularly after terrorist attacks. Navigating checkpoints may take a long time in heavy traffic, and some may shut down altogether at certain hours. Have your car registration and ID documents ready and always be very patient and polite.

Public Transportation: Buses run irregularly and frequently change routes.  City transit vehicles are often poorly maintained and can be involved in accidents. Long-distance buses are available but are often in poor condition and drive at unsafe speeds.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Iraq’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Because of the risks to civil aviation in the vicinity of Iraq, the FAA has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that prohibits U.S. operators and codeshare flights from operating in Iraqi airspace below 32,000 feet. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices. 

Maritime Travel:

Mariners planning travel to Iraq should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings.

The Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Iraq ports. Therefore, the Commandant has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports, after visiting Iraq ports. Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Iraq should exercise caution.