There were no changes to the Travel Advisory Level. The “Crime” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.
Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, crime, health risks, and the U.S. government’s limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq.
Advisory Summary
Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq due to the safety risks.
The Iraqi government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict.
U.S. government employee travel restrictions
The Department of State requires U.S. government personnel working in Iraq to live and work under strict security protocols due to serious threats.
Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees need special authorization to travel to Iraq. Only family members who meet the following requirements may join U.S. government employees working in Iraq:
- Are 21 years of age or older, and
- Are employed by the U.S. government.
Kidnapping
U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping.
Terrorism
There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iraq. Terrorists, including Iran-aligned militias and ISIS, encourage and conduct attacks against U.S. persons and interests in Iraq. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Crime and armed conflict
Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas, including major cities. Targets of recent attacks have included hotels, universities, energy infrastructure, airports, and other locations perceived as affiliated with the United States, including diplomatic facilities.
Health
Emergency and intensive care facilities in Iraq are limited and likely unavailable outside of the largest cities.
If you need emergency medical assistance, hospitals, doctors, ambulances, and medical supplies may be low quality or unavailable. Problems with transportation, roads, and safety can result in delays if you need medical evacuation.
Aviation safety
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) and a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) prohibiting certain flights in the region. This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or near Iraq.
For U.S. citizens in Iraq:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. Embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
- Review the Country Security Report for Iraq, information on Travel to High-Risk Areas, and information on Terrorism.
- Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
- Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad.
- Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout Iraq. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not marked or easy to recognize.
- Establish a personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
- Prepare a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
- Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes.
- Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care or custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
- Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return to the United States as planned.
- Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
- Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.
- Visit the CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
- Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations
- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
