Iraq entry requirements for France 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

French passport holders need an eVisa to enter Iraq. You can apply online through the official eVisa portal, which is faster and more convenient than visiting an embassy in person. Plan ahead and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date.

Apply for Iraq eVisaOfficial portal: Iraq eVisa Portal

Entry requirements

RequirementDetailsStatus
Iraq eVisaFrench passport holders are eligible for Iraq's eVisa; apply online and receive approval before you fly.
Apply online before travel
You must obtain an eVisa through the official Iraqi eVisa portal before departure. The visa is not extendable.Required
Passport validityEnsure your passport does not expire within 6 months of your arrival date.
At least 6 months beyond arrival
Your 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 travel plans.
Proof of departure
You must have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Iraq before your visa expires.Required
Proof of fundsNot always requested, but having proof avoids delays at entry.
Sufficient for your stay
Be ready to show evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, cash, credit cards) to cover your stay in Iraq.Recommended
Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any additional arrival form beyond standard immigration procedures.
Not required
No separate arrival declaration is required for Iraq for French passport holders.Not required
Security situation
Iraq has areas with high security risks. Always check your government's travel advisory and register with your embassy upon arrival. Avoid non-essential travel to conflict zones.
eVisa is not extendable
Your eVisa is valid for the duration granted at approval. You cannot extend it while in Iraq. Plan your stay accordingly.
Apply early
Start your eVisa application at least 2 weeks in advance. This gives you buffer time for processing and any potential issues.

What happens at the border

1
Prepare your documents
Gather your passport, a digital photo, and details of your accommodation and travel plans. Have these ready before you start the online form.
2
Complete the online application
Go to https://evisa.mofa.gov.iq/ and fill out the application form. Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. Upload your photo and supporting documents.
3
Pay the visa fee
Pay the processing fee online with your credit or debit card. Keep the payment confirmation for your records.
4
Receive your eVisa by email
Once approved, you'll receive your eVisa via email. Print a copy and also save it on your phone as a backup. Check that all details are correct.
5
Arrive in Iraq and show your eVisa
At the airport (e.g., Baghdad International Airport or Erbil International Airport), present your passport and printed or digital eVisa to immigration officers. They will stamp your passport and let you through.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · France Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Download PDF

Staying longer & fees

Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:

Business visa
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
Cost$100

Requires invitation letter from an Iraqi company and approval from the Ministry of Interior.

Work visa
Max stay1 year (renewable)
Validity1 year
Cost$200

Requires employment contract and sponsorship from an Iraqi employer.

work visa
Work Visa for Iraq
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (processing fee)
For foreign nationals employed by an Iraqi company or organization. Requires a work permit and sponsorship from the employer. Allows multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa for Iraq
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (processing fee)
For those enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Iraq. Requires acceptance letter and proof of financial support.
investor visa
Investor Visa for Iraq
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For individuals investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in an Iraqi business. Requires proof of investment and business registration.
Other fees
ServiceCost
eVisa fee (single entry)Standard fee for French citizens; payable online.$80
eVisa fee (multiple entry)Optional for multiple entries.$100
Visa extension feeFor extension of stay beyond eVisa validity; apply at the Residency Directorate in Iraq.$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

French citizens transiting through Iraq require a visa, even for airside transit. An eVisa must be obtained before travel.

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 BRecommendedRabiesConsiderCOVID-19Recommended
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk

Present in some regions; use insect repellent and sleep under nets.

Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk

Common due to contaminated food/water; drink bottled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.

Air pollutionModerate risk

High levels of dust and pollution in cities may aggravate respiratory conditions.

Malaria risk: moderate

Risk is present in some rural areas, especially in the north. Prophylaxis recommended for travelers to those regions.

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-Karrada, Baghdad, Iraq
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00

Main office for visa extensions and residency matters. Bring passport, visa, and proof of accommodation.

Erbil
Erbil Immigration Office
Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00

Handles visa extensions for visitors in the Kurdistan Region. Expect shorter processing times.

Practical information for FR 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
updated Jul 3
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
Police104
Medical122
US EmbassyFind contact

Frequently asked questions

Processing times vary, but typically it takes a few business days. It's best to apply at least 2 weeks before your planned travel to account for any delays.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave Iraq before the visa expires. If you need to stay longer, you'll have to exit and re-enter or contact the Iraqi authorities for other options.
The eVisa covers all of Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. However, entry procedures at Kurdistan airports can differ slightly — always carry your eVisa and passport.
If your application is rejected, you'll receive an email notification. You can reapply, but the fee is non-refundable. Make sure all information is accurate and complete before resubmitting.
The eVisa is the standard method for French citizens. Visa on arrival is not generally available for French passport holders, so apply online before you travel.
The security situation in Iraq is volatile. Check your government's travel advisories before booking. Many areas are off-limits to foreigners. Stick to well-known routes and consider hiring a local guide.
Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. Iraqi authorities are strict about the 6-month validity rule, and you'll be denied entry if your passport doesn't meet it.

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.