Iraq entry requirements for Canada 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
Canadian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Iraq. The official online portal is the only way to apply — there's no visa on arrival. Start your application at least 4 weeks ahead, as processing can take up to two weeks. Your passport must be valid for 6 months from your entry date.
Apply for Iraq eVisaOfficial portal: Iraq eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Iraq eVisaYou need to apply for and receive this electronic visa before you fly to Iraq. Apply online before travel | Canadian 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 validityYour passport must not expire within 6 months of your arrival in Iraq. At least 6 months beyond arrival | Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Iraq. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesIraqi border officials need a clean page to stamp your passport. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketImmigration may ask to see your outbound flight booking. Proof of departure | You must have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Iraq before your visa or permitted stay expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsIt's wise to carry proof that you can support yourself financially during your trip. Sufficient for your stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in Iraq, such as recent bank statements or credit cards. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any extra arrival form beyond standard immigration procedures. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Canadian citizens entering Iraq. | Not required |
Security situation
Iraq remains a high-risk destination. The Canadian government advises against non-essential travel. If you go, have a security plan, avoid conflict zones, and stay informed.
eVisa is the only option
Canadians cannot get a visa on arrival in Iraq. You must obtain the eVisa before you travel. There is no embassy visa process for this route — the online portal is the way.
Apply early
Start your eVisa application at least 4 weeks before departure. Processing can take up to two weeks, and you don't want to be stuck waiting.
What happens at the border
1
Prepare your documents
Gather your passport, digital photo, hotel booking, and itinerary. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity and a blank page.
2
Complete the online application
Go to https://evisa.mofa.gov.iq/ and fill out the application form. Enter your details exactly as they appear on your passport. Upload your photo and supporting documents.
3
Pay the visa fee
Pay online with a credit or debit card. Keep the payment confirmation receipt — you may need it later.
4
Wait for processing
Processing can take several days to a few weeks. Check your email regularly for updates or requests for additional information.
5
Receive your eVisa
Once approved, you'll receive an eVisa document by email. Print a copy and also save it on your phone — you'll need to show it at check-in and upon arrival.
6
Arrive in Iraq
At the airport, proceed to immigration control. Present your passport, printed eVisa, and any other requested documents. Have your accommodation details ready if asked.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · Canada Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$100 (approx.)
Requires a letter of invitation from an Iraqi company and approval from the Ministry of Interior.
Multiple-entry visa
Max stay30 days per visit
Validity6 months
Cost$150 (approx.)
Available for business or frequent travellers; requires sponsorship and prior approval.
work visa
Work Visa (Iraq)
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fees)
For those with a job offer from an Iraqi employer. Requires sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Interior.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$200 USD (processing fees)
For enrolled students at recognized Iraqi institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa fee (single entry)Paid online via the official Iraqi eVisa portal before travel. | $80 (approx.) |
| Visa on arrival (if eligible)Available at major airports and land borders for Canadian citizens, but eVisa is recommended. | $80 (approx.) |
| Extension of stay (up to 30 days)Apply at the Residence Directorate in Iraq before current visa expires. | $50 (approx.) |
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
Canadian citizens transiting through Iraq (e.g., at Baghdad International Airport) must obtain a visa in advance, even for airside transit. There is no visa-free transit facility.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic or official passport holders may be exempt.
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.
Mosquito-borne diseases (malaria, dengue)Moderate risk
Risk present in some areas, especially rural; use repellent and consider prophylaxis.
Road traffic accidentsHigh risk
Poor road conditions and driving standards; avoid night travel.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk exists in rural areas, especially in the north (Kurdistan Region). Prophylaxis recommended for travellers to those areas.
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 Borders
Al-Salhiya, Baghdad, Iraq
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters.
Erbil
Erbil Immigration Office
60 Meter Road, Erbil, Kurdistan Region
Sun–Thu 08:30–14:30
Handles extensions for Kurdistan Region; bring passport and photos.
Practical information for CA 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 times vary, but typically it takes anywhere from a few days to two weeks. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date — at least 3-4 weeks is recommended to account for any delays.
The official fee is set by the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is payable online. The exact amount can change, so check the eVisa portal for the current fee. It's non-refundable, so make sure your application is correct before paying.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave Iraq before the visa expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to exit and re-enter with a new visa, which is not practical for most travellers.
Yes, even for transit you need a visa. The eVisa is the only option for Canadians — there's no visa-on-arrival or transit visa exemption. Apply for the eVisa before you travel.
If your application is denied, you'll receive a notification via email. The fee is non-refundable. You can reapply, but you'll need to address the reason for rejection (e.g., incorrect documents). Contact the Iraqi embassy in Ottawa for guidance if needed.
The eVisa is valid for entry at all international airports and most land border crossings. However, some land borders may have additional requirements or restrictions. It's safest to enter via a major airport like Baghdad International (BGW) or Erbil International (EBL).
The Government of Canada advises against non-essential travel to Iraq due to security risks. If you must go, check the latest travel advisories and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service. Always have a solid security plan.
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.