FAQ

Yes, it is possible to travel to Iraq, but it is important to consider the security situation and government recommendations. It is advisable to consult the latest travel alerts and take precautions.

To travel to Iraq, a passport valid for at least 6 months and, in most cases, a visa is required. It is essential to secure all necessary documents prior to travel.

It is also important to contact the Embassy of Iraq in Spain for more up-to-date and specific information. Here are the contact details:

C/ Carril del Conde, 56, Hortaleza, 28043 Madrid

Telephone: +34 913 88 27 24

E-mail: embajadairak@yahoo.es

The specific requirements for obtaining a visa to Iraq may vary depending on the type of visa and the nationality of the applicant. However, general requirements generally include:

Application form, passport, photographs, proof of travel, payment of fees. It is strongly recommended to contact the Iraqi Embassy in Spain for more up-to-date information on the requirements applicable to your particular situation.

Embassy contact details:

C. Carril del Conde, 56, Hortaleza, 28043 Madrid

Telephone: +34 913 88 27 24

E-mail: embajadairak@yahoo.es

Iraq now requires visitors from the following countries to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) before arriving in the country:

• Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, United Kingdom, United States.

Travellers will now have to visit the official website evisa.iq to apply for your electronic entry visa to Iraq.

Applicants must submit online a copy of their passport and a photography passport size.

In addition to the e-visa fee, which must be paid online, there is a health insurance fee, which must be presented on arrival, totalling 206,000 IQD (about 145 Euros / 158 US Dollars).

The announced processing time for electronic visa applications is 24 to 48 hours.

In a country like Iraq, security is the number one priority. Ministry of Foreign Affairs insists on the absolute need to have travel insurance to cover you for the duration of your stay and with a full cover.

I personally advise against travelling alone in Iraq. It is advisable to enlist the services of a travel agency or an expert local guide who knows well the terrain and culture.

Iraq has a rich cultural history with deep-rooted traditions. It is important to show respect for local customs, including dress and etiquette in social interactions.

Iraq offers hotels of all categories, from budget to luxury. The range varies from city to city and region to region, from basic to 5-star full-service hotels.

In addition, Iraq is working to develop and improve its tourism infrastructure. The government is implementing initiatives to promote tourism by restoring historical sites, improving service conditions and expanding accommodation options to attract international tourists. This effort is part of a broader strategy to diversify the economy and tap the country's tourism potential.

In Iraq the use of cameras and drones is permitted but subject to strict regulations. It is important to obtain official permissions especially for drone use, as Iraqi authorities closely monitor airspace and security. Restrictions may vary depending on the area and the political or security situation at the time, so it is recommended to check with local authorities or travel agencies before filming or flying with drones.

It is forbidden to carry cameras at major religious sites; only mobile phones are allowed to take photos at these sites. Also, out of respect and privacy, do not take photos of children, women, military, police or military bases and vehicles. It is essential to be respectful of local regulations and to take into account the sensitivity of these issues.

The official language is Arabic and Kurdish in Kurdistan. English is also spoken in some tourist areas but is less common outside the major cities.