Iraq entry requirements for Japan 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
Japanese passport holders need an eVisa to enter Iraq for any purpose. You can apply online through the official Iraqi eVisa portal before you travel, which is the most straightforward option for tourism and short visits. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
Apply for Iraq eVisaOfficial portal: Iraq eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Iraq eVisaYou must apply and receive approval for this visa before you travel; it cannot be obtained on arrival. Apply online before travel | Japanese passport holders must obtain an eVisa through the official Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal before arrival. The eVisa is not extendable. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — if it's within 6 months of your arrival, renew it before traveling. At least 6 months | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Iraq. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe immigration officer needs a clean page to stamp your passport. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketImmigration may ask to see proof that you plan to leave Iraq. Proof of departure | Carry a printed or digital copy of a return or onward flight ticket showing your departure from Iraq. | Required |
| Proof of fundsNot always checked, but having proof of financial means can help avoid issues at entry. Sufficient for stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, credit cards) to cover your stay in Iraq. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any additional arrival form beyond the standard immigration procedures. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Japanese citizens entering Iraq. | Not required |
Security situation
Iraq has areas with high security risks. Before booking, read the latest travel advisories from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and register your trip with the embassy if recommended.
eVisa is mandatory
There is no visa-on-arrival for Japanese passport holders. You must get the eVisa approved before you fly. Don't risk showing up without it.
Passport validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. This is strictly enforced, so check your passport now.
What happens at the border
1
Complete the online eVisa application
Go to the official Iraqi eVisa portal (https://evisa.mofa.gov.iq/) and fill out the application form. You'll need to upload your passport photo and provide personal and travel details. Double-check all information before submitting.
2
Pay the eVisa fee and submit
Pay the required fee online using a credit or debit card. After payment, submit your application. You'll receive a confirmation email with a reference number.
3
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 3 to 5 business days. Monitor your email for the eVisa approval notification. If approved, you'll receive an electronic document or a link to download it.
4
Print or save the eVisa
Print a copy of the approved eVisa and also keep a digital copy on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and to Iraqi immigration upon arrival.
5
Arrive in Iraq and go through immigration
At the airport (e.g., Baghdad International Airport), proceed to the immigration desk. Present your passport, the printed eVisa, and any other documents if requested. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · Japan 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 stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$100
Requires invitation letter from Iraqi company and approval from Ministry of Interior.
Multiple-entry visa
Max stay30 days per visit
Validity6 months
Cost$150
For frequent travelers; apply at Iraqi embassy.
work visa
Iraq Work Visa
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
Iraq Student Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (processing fee)
For those enrolled in an accredited Iraqi educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of financial support.
investor visa
Iraq Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For individuals investing a minimum amount (typically $50,000+) in an Iraqi business. Requires proof of investment and business registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Required for Japanese citizens; apply online before travel. | $60 |
| Visa on arrival (if eligible)Available at some ports of entry for certain nationalities; check eligibility. | $60 |
| Extension of stayPossible for up to 30 days; apply at the Residence Directorate. | $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
Japanese citizens transiting through Iraq require a visa, even for airside transit.
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 BRecommendedRabiesConsiderTetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap)RecommendedMeasles-mumps-rubella (MMR)RecommendedPolioRecommendedCholeraConsider
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk
Risk is present in some areas, especially during warmer months; use insect repellent and mosquito nets.
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to contaminated food and water; drink bottled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.
Air pollutionModerate risk
Dust storms and pollution can cause respiratory issues; consider wearing a mask if sensitive.
Malaria risk: moderate
Malaria risk exists in some rural areas, particularly in the north and south. Prophylaxis is 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 Residency Affairs
Al-Karrada, 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 08:00–14:00
Handles visa extensions for visitors in the Kurdistan Region.
Practical information for JP 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 usually takes 3 to 5 business days, but it can vary. It's best to apply at least two weeks before your planned travel to account for any delays.
The fee is set by the Iraqi government and is typically around $50 USD, but it can change. You'll see the exact amount when you apply on the official portal.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you'll have to leave the country and reapply, or check with local immigration authorities for other options before your visa expires.
Yes, you still need a visa to enter Iraq, even for a short transit. The eVisa is the way to go, and it's valid for 30 days, so it covers most transit situations.
You'll likely be denied entry and sent back on the next flight. There's no visa-on-arrival for Japanese passport holders, so you must have the eVisa approved before you land.
The eVisa is generally for tourism and short visits. For business, you may need a different type of visa or additional documentation. Check with the Iraqi embassy or consulate for specifics.
The security situation in Iraq can be volatile. Check travel advisories from your government and consider your personal safety carefully. Always have a plan and stay informed about local conditions.
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.