India entry requirements for Iraq passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 2026·View sources
Visa 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
Iraqi passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to India. There is no visa-on-arrival or e-Visa option for Iraqi nationals, so you'll need to apply for a paper visa at an Indian embassy or consulate. The process involves submitting a completed application and supporting documents, and it can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Indian visaYou cannot get a visa on arrival or use the online eVisa; you must get the visa stamped in your passport before flying. Apply at an Indian embassy or consulate | Iraqi passport holders must obtain a valid Indian visa before travel. The eVisa program is not available for Iraqi nationals, so you must apply through an Indian diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in person or via a visa application center. Submit your application well in advance of your planned departure. | Required |
| Passport validityIndian immigration will refuse entry if your passport is not valid long enough. At least 6 months beyond your intended stay | Your Iraqi passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India. If your passport expires sooner, renew it before applying for the visa or traveling. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe entry stamp needs a clean page; a full passport will cause problems at the border. At least 1 blank page for the entry stamp | Your passport must have at least 1 completely blank page (not including the endorsement pages) for the Indian immigration officer to affix the entry stamp. If you have fewer than 1 blank page, get a new passport before traveling. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketA confirmed outbound flight is commonly checked to ensure you won't overstay. Proof of departure from India | Carry a printed or digital copy of your return ticket to Iraq or an onward ticket to another destination. Indian immigration may ask to see it as proof that you will leave India before your visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsImmigration officers may ask how you will support yourself; having proof avoids delays. For your stay in India | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your time in India, such as recent bank statements, credit cards, or cash. The amount is not fixed but should match your planned length of stay and activities. | Recommended |
| Accommodation detailsKnowing where you'll stay helps immigration officers process you faster. Hotel booking or host address | Have the address and contact details of where you will stay in India, such as a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host. This is often requested at immigration. | Recommended |
| Travel insuranceMedical costs in India can be high for foreigners; insurance protects you financially. Medical and trip coverage | Although not mandatory for entry, travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended for all travelers to India. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any extra form before landing. Not required for Iraqi passport holders | No separate arrival declaration or customs form is required for Iraqi citizens entering India. You will only need to complete the standard immigration and customs procedures upon arrival. | Not required |
No e-Visa or visa-on-arrival for Iraqi citizens
Even though India offers e-Visas to many nationalities, Iraqi passport holders are not eligible. Do not attempt to apply for an e-Visa — you will be rejected and lose the fee. You must go through the embassy/consulate process.
Apply well in advance
Visa processing can take longer than expected, especially during peak travel seasons or if your application triggers additional security checks. Start the process at least 4–6 weeks before your intended departure.
Overstaying is serious
Indian visas are not extendable for Iraqi citizens. Overstaying even a few days can lead to heavy fines, detention, and a ban on re-entering India. Keep track of your visa expiry date and book your return flight accordingly.
What happens at the border
1
Determine your visa type
Decide if you need a tourist, business, medical, or other visa. Tourist visas are the most common for short visits. Check the Indian embassy's website for the specific requirements for your purpose.
2
Complete the online application
Go to the Indian Visa Online portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in), fill out the application form, upload your photo and passport bio page, and submit. After submission, you'll get a reference number and a printable application form.
3
Gather your documents
Collect all required documents: passport, photos, proof of residence, travel itinerary, bank statements, and the printed application form. Make copies of everything — the embassy will keep the originals of some documents.
4
Submit your application at the embassy or consulate
Visit the Indian Embassy in Baghdad or the Consulate in Erbil (if applicable) in person, or send your application by mail if the embassy allows it. Bring all documents and pay the visa fee. You may be asked for a brief interview.
5
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 5–10 working days, but can take longer during peak seasons or if additional checks are needed. Check the embassy's website for current processing times or call to inquire.
6
Collect your passport with visa
Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the visa. Collect it in person or have it mailed back to you. Verify that the visa details (dates, duration) are correct before you travel.
Download India Entry Checklist
PDF · Iraq Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa
Max stayUp to 5 years (multiple entry)
Validity1-5 years
Cost$150-$250
Requires invitation letter from Indian company.
Employment visa
Max stayUp to 5 years (multiple entry)
Validity1-5 years
Cost$200-$300
Requires employment contract and approval.
Student visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 5 years
Cost$100-$200
Requires admission letter from recognized institution.
student visa
Student Visa (India)
Duration of course, up to 5 years
₹15,000 (~$180 USD) plus tuition
For full-time students at recognized Indian institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
Apply work visa
Employment Visa (India)
1 year, renewable
₹20,000 (~$240 USD) plus processing
For skilled professionals with a job offer from an Indian company. Requires employment contract and company sponsorship.
Apply business visa
Business Visa (India)
1 year, extendable
₹10,000 (~$120 USD)
For business visits, meetings, or trade. Requires invitation letter from Indian business partner.
Apply investor visa
Investor Visa (India)
5 years, renewable
₹50,000 (~$600 USD) plus investment
For foreign investors meeting minimum investment thresholds (e.g., $100,000 USD). Requires proof of investment and business plan.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Indian Visa (regular, single entry, up to 6 months)Fees vary by duration and nationality; check with Indian mission. | $100 (approx.) |
| Indian Visa (multiple entry, 1 year)Longer validity options available. | $150 (approx.) |
| Indian Visa (5-year multiple entry)For eligible categories. | $200 (approx.) |
| Visa extension (in India)Rarely granted; apply to FRRO. | $50 (approx.) |
| Exit permit (if overstay)Penalty for overstaying visa. | Fine varies |
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 India
Transit visa required
Iraqi citizens require a transit visa even for airside transit through Indian airports.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports may be exempt.
- Those with a valid Indian visa do not need a separate transit visa.
Transit hubsIndira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) · Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) · Kempegowda International Airport (BLR)
Health & vaccines for India
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialTetanus-DiphtheriaRecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderJapanese EncephalitisConsider
Health risks
Dengue FeverHigh risk
Mosquito-borne disease common in urban and rural areas, especially during monsoon season.
MalariaHigh risk
Present in most parts of India, especially rural areas; prophylaxis recommended.
Traveler's DiarrheaHigh risk
Common due to contaminated food/water; practice good hygiene and drink bottled water.
Malaria risk: high
Risk is present throughout India, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis recommended for most travellers.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
New Delhi
Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO)
Level 2, East Block 8, Sector 1, R.K. Puram, New Delhi
Mon–Fri 09:30–17:30
For visa extension and registration. Bring passport, visa, and proof of stay.
Mumbai
FRRO Mumbai
Annexe Building, 1st Floor, S.B. Marg, Near Churchgate Station, Mumbai
Mon–Fri 09:30–17:30
Handles visa extensions and re-entry permits.
Practical information for IQ travellers
Country basics
CapitalNew Delhi
LanguageHindi, English (22 official)
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceIDP required alongside US license.
Money
CurrencyIndian Rupee (INR)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 95.39 INR
Time zone
Local timeUTC+5
vs New York+10.5h (EST) / +9.5h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+13.5h (PST) / +12.5h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,D,MType C, D, M — US plugs do not fit. Bring a universal adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Do not drink tap water anywhere in India. Use sealed bottled water.
Emergency numbers
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to India — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No. Iraq is not on India's visa-on-arrival list. You must obtain a visa from an Indian embassy or consulate before you travel.
No. Iraqi passport holders are not eligible for India's e-Visa program. You must apply for a paper visa at an Indian embassy or consulate.
Processing typically takes 5–10 working days after you submit your application. However, it can take longer if additional security checks are required. Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your planned travel date to be safe.
The fee varies by visa type and duration. For a standard tourist visa, expect to pay around $80–$120 (or equivalent in Iraqi dinars). Fees are non-refundable and must be paid at the embassy or consulate when you submit your application.
You apply at the Embassy of India in Baghdad. There may also be a consulate in Erbil — check the embassy's website for the latest information. You may need to appear in person for biometrics or an interview.
No. Indian visas are generally not extendable for Iraqi citizens. You must leave India before your visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, or a ban on future visits.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. If it expires during your stay, you'll need to renew it at your embassy in India before you can leave — this can be complicated. Always ensure your passport is valid well beyond your travel dates.
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.