Iraq entry requirements for Malaysia passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 21, 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
Malaysian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Iraq. The application is entirely online and must be completed before travel. Since 2026, the eVisa is the standard entry method for tourism and short visits.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for an Iraqi eVisa at the official portal before departure. The online form asks for passport details, travel dates, and a recent photo. Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, so apply at least a week ahead.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for entire stay | Your Malaysian passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Iraq. Airlines check this at check-in, and immigration at Baghdad or Erbil will deny entry if it expires before you leave. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Iraqi airports routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return flight or a ticket to your next destination ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Carry a hotel confirmation or an invitation letter from your host. Officers at the border may ask where you're staying, especially if you're a solo traveller. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Cash or bank statement | Have a bank statement or enough cash (USD is widely accepted) to cover your stay. Immigration may ask how you'll support yourself, especially for longer visits. | Recommended |
Security situation
Iraq has areas with active conflict and high security risks. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Avoid non-essential travel to regions like Anbar, Nineveh, and areas near the Syrian border.
Currency and cash
The local currency is the Iraqi dinar (IQD). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some restaurants in Baghdad, but cash is king everywhere else. Bring USD in good condition (no tears or marks) to exchange — it's widely accepted.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa
Go to www.evisa.iq and fill out the online application. Upload a passport-style photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee (around $50–$80 USD depending on processing speed). Submit and wait for approval — typically 3–7 business days.
2
Prepare your documents
Print or save digital copies of your eVisa approval, return flight ticket, and hotel booking. Keep them in a folder or on your phone for quick access at check-in and immigration.
3
Arrive at Baghdad International Airport (BGW)
Most flights from Malaysia arrive at Baghdad International. Follow signs to 'Arrivals' and join the queue for foreign passport holders. Present your passport, eVisa, and return ticket. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, head to baggage claim, then proceed through customs. There's usually no customs declaration for personal items. Exit into the arrivals hall where taxis and rideshares are available.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · Malaysia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 21, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, non-extendable
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$75 USD (approx. 315 MYR)
Standard eVisa for tourism; must apply online before travel.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, non-extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$150 USD (approx. 630 MYR)
Allows multiple entries; suitable for frequent travellers.
Business visa
Max stay30 days, extendable once
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$100 USD (approx. 420 MYR)
Requires invitation letter from Iraqi company; extension possible at immigration office.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for tourist eVisa, valid for 30 days. | $75 USD (approx. 315 MYR) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day over the allowed stay, payable at immigration. | $10 USD per day (approx. 42 MYR) |
| Overstay maximum capMaximum fine for overstay, regardless of duration. | $500 USD (approx. 2,100 MYR) |
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
No transit visa needed
Malaysia passport holders transiting through Iraq airports do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Transit without visa allowed for up to 24 hours if staying airside.
- Passengers with a valid visa for a third country may transit without additional documentation.
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 yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, influenza)Essential
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk
Present in some regions, 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
Dust storms and vehicle emissions can cause respiratory issues; wear a mask if sensitive.
Malaria risk: moderate
Malaria risk exists in rural areas, especially in the north and south; prophylaxis recommended for rural travel.
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, near Al-Jadriya Bridge, Baghdad
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Main office for visa extensions and residency matters; bring passport, visa, and two photos.
Erbil
Erbil Immigration Office
60 Meter Road, near Erbil International Airport, Erbil
Sun–Thu 08:30–14:30
Handles visa extensions for Kurdistan Region; less crowded than Baghdad.
Practical information for MY 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 = 1,310.12 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 3–7 business days. Apply at least two weeks before your trip to be safe. There's no rush service option.
The fee is around $50–$80 USD, depending on the processing speed you choose. Payment is online by credit or debit card.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd need to exit and reapply.
If you're staying airside and not passing through immigration, you don't need a visa. But if you leave the transit area, you'll need the eVisa.
Rejections are rare but can happen if your documents are incomplete or your passport has issues. You can reapply with corrected information. There's no appeal process.
No, there is no visa on arrival for Malaysian passport holders. You must have the eVisa approved before you fly.
Contact the Malaysian Embassy in Baghdad immediately. They can issue an emergency travel document. You'll also need a police report.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 21, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.