Iraq entry requirements for Ghana passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 29, 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
Ghanaian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Iraq. The process is entirely online, and you must apply before you travel. As of 2026, the eVisa is the only option for tourism or business visits.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply for an eVisa before travel | You must obtain an eVisa from the official Iraq eVisa portal before departure. The application is processed online and you will receive an approved visa electronically. Print a copy to present at immigration upon arrival.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of stay | Your Ghanaian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Iraq. Airlines and immigration officers enforce this strictly — no exceptions. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Iraq | Immigration officers at Baghdad and Erbil airports routinely ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy of your itinerary ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Iraq. Immigration may ask for this at the border. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show sufficient money for your stay | Have bank statements or cash equivalent to at least $500 USD to cover your expenses. Immigration officers may request proof of funds on arrival. | Recommended |
Apply early — no visa on arrival
Ghanaian passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival in Iraq. You must have an approved eVisa before you board your flight. Apply at least a week in advance.
Keep digital copies of everything
Save your eVisa, passport, and booking confirmations as PDFs on your phone and in cloud storage. If you lose your printed documents, you'll still have access.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Iraqi eVisa website (evisa.iq) and fill out the application. Upload a digital passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee online with a credit or debit card.
2
Wait for approval
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. You'll receive the eVisa by email as a PDF. Print a copy and also save it on your phone.
3
Prepare your documents for travel
Before heading to the airport, gather: your passport (valid 6+ months), printed eVisa, return ticket, hotel booking confirmation, and travel insurance documents. Keep them in your carry-on.
4
Arrive at an Iraqi airport
Most flights arrive at Baghdad International Airport (BGW) or Erbil International Airport (EBL). At immigration, present your passport and eVisa. The officer will stamp you in. Have your return ticket and hotel address ready if asked.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · Ghana Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 29, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa single entry
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
Cost$50 USD (approx. 300 GHS)
Standard option for tourism; extension possible at immigration office.
Tourist visa multiple entry
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue date
Cost$100 USD (approx. 600 GHS)
Allows multiple visits within validity; extension possible.
Work visa
Max stay1 year, renewable
Validity1 year from issue date
Cost$200 USD (approx. 1,200 GHS)
Requires employer sponsorship and approval from Ministry of Interior.
work visa
Iraq Work Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~$200 USD (approx. 1,200 GHS) plus employer fees
For foreign nationals employed by an Iraqi company or organization. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Interior. Allows long-term residence and multiple entries.
student visa
Iraq Student Visa
Duration of study program, renewable
~$100 USD (approx. 600 GHS) plus university fees
For individuals enrolled in an accredited Iraqi educational institution. Requires acceptance letter from the institution and proof of financial support. Allows stay for the duration of studies.
investor visa
Iraq Investor Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~$500 USD (approx. 3,000 GHS) plus investment proof
For foreign investors with a minimum investment of $50,000 USD in an Iraqi business. Requires proof of investment and business registration. Allows long-term residence and work.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa feeStandard single-entry eVisa fee for Ghana passport holders. | $50 USD (approx. 300 GHS) |
| Overstay fine per dayApplied for each day over the authorized stay. | $10 USD per day (approx. 60 GHS) |
| Overstay maximum capMaximum cumulative fine for overstay. | $500 USD (approx. 3,000 GHS) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
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
Ghana passport holders generally need a transit visa to change planes in Iraq, even if staying airside. However, if you have a valid visa for a third country and a confirmed onward flight within 24 hours, you may be allowed to transit without a visa at Baghdad International Airport.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid visa for the United States, United Kingdom, or Schengen area may transit without a visa for up to 24 hours.
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports may be exempt.
Transit hubsBaghdad International Airport (BGW) · Erbil International Airport (EBL) · Basra International Airport (BSR)
Health & vaccines for Iraq
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderTetanus-diphtheria-pertussisEssentialMeasles-mumps-rubella (MMR)Essential
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk
Present in some areas, especially during warmer months; use insect repellent and mosquito 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 urban areas may affect respiratory health.
Malaria risk: moderate
Malaria risk exists in some rural areas, especially in the north and south. Prophylaxis recommended for travelers visiting these 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 residence permits.
Erbil
Erbil Immigration Office
60 Meter Road, Erbil, Kurdistan Region
Sun–Thu 08:00–14:00
Handles visa extensions for visitors in the Kurdistan Region.
Practical information for GH 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 = 1,308.8 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 typically takes 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. There is no expedited option.
The official eVisa fee is around $80 USD, but it can vary slightly. You pay online with a credit or debit card during the application.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave Iraq and reapply for a new eVisa.
If you are transiting and not leaving the airport, you generally do not need a visa. But check with your airline — some carriers may require a visa for any stopover.
You will be denied boarding by the airline and refused entry at immigration. There is no visa on arrival for Ghanaian passport holders. You must have the eVisa before you travel.
Yes, the eVisa is valid for all entry points, including Erbil and Baghdad. Just make sure your eVisa is approved before you fly.
It is not a formal requirement, but it's wise to carry some cash (USD or IQD) or have a credit card available. Immigration officers rarely ask, but it's better to be prepared.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 29, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.