Iraq entry requirements for New Zealand 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
New Zealand passport holders need an eVisa to enter Iraq, and you can apply online through the official portal. The process is straightforward, but you'll need to plan ahead and have your documents ready before you fly.
Apply for Iraq eVisaOfficial portal: Iraq eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Iraq eVisaApply for your eVisa well in advance of your trip; it cannot be extended once issued. Apply online before travel | You must obtain an eVisa from the official Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal at https://evisa.mofa.gov.iq/ before departure. The eVisa is required for New Zealand passport holders; it 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 New Zealand passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Iraq. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesA blank page is needed for border officials to stamp your passport. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketCarry a printed or digital copy of your onward travel booking. Proof of departure | You may be asked to show a return or onward ticket proving you will leave Iraq before your visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsBorder officials may ask for proof that you can support yourself financially during your visit. Sufficient for stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Iraq, such as bank statements or credit cards. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out an arrival declaration form. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for New Zealand passport holders entering Iraq. | Not required |
Security situation
Iraq has areas with significant security risks. Check your government's travel advisory before booking, and avoid non-essential travel to conflict zones.
eVisa is the only online option
New Zealand passport holders are eligible for the eVisa. There is no visa-on-arrival for NZ citizens, so make sure you have your approved eVisa before you travel.
What happens at the border
1
Prepare your documents
Scan your passport bio page, have a digital photo ready, and gather your flight and hotel details. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity and one blank page.
2
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to https://evisa.mofa.gov.iq/ and complete the application form. Double-check all spellings and dates before submitting. Pay the visa fee online with a credit or debit card.
3
Wait for approval
Processing times vary, but typically take a few business days. Monitor your email for the visa approval notification. You may be asked for additional documents — respond promptly.
4
Print your eVisa
Once approved, print a copy of the eVisa approval to carry with you. Keep a digital copy on your phone as backup.
5
Arrive in Iraq
At the airport, present your passport, printed eVisa, and any requested documents to immigration. They'll stamp your passport and let you through. Be prepared for possible questions about your itinerary.
Download Iraq Entry Checklist
PDF · New Zealand 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 date
Cost$100 (approx.)
Requires invitation letter from Iraqi company and approval from Ministry of Interior.
Multiple-entry visa
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months
Cost$200 (approx.)
Available at Iraqi embassies; requires proof of purpose and financial means.
work visa
Work Visa (Iraq)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (processing fee)
For foreign nationals with a job offer from an Iraqi employer. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Labor.
student visa
Student Visa (Iraq)
Duration of studies, 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
Investor Visa (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
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa application feeSingle-entry, valid for 30 days from issue date. | $60 (approx.) |
| Visa extension feeFor extending stay beyond 30 days, up to 30 additional days. | $50 (approx.) |
| Exit feeMost airlines collect departure tax at booking. | Included in airfare |
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
New Zealand 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
- Crew members on duty
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 yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, influenza)RecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria)Moderate risk
Risk is present in some areas, especially during warmer months.
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to contaminated food and water; practice strict hygiene.
Road traffic accidentsHigh risk
Poor road conditions and driving standards pose significant risk.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk exists in rural areas, especially in the north and south. Prophylaxis recommended for travel to 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 Affairs
Al-Salhiya, 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 08:00–15:00
Handles visa extensions for visitors in the Kurdistan Region.
Practical information for NZ 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 typically takes 3–5 business days, but it can be longer during peak times or if additional checks are needed. Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to be safe.
The fee is set by the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is payable online. It varies by nationality and visa type, so check the portal for the exact amount. Expect it to be in the range of USD 50–100.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave Iraq before the visa expiry date. If you need to stay longer, you'll have to exit and re-enter with a new visa.
If you're transiting and not leaving the international zone of the airport, you may not need a visa. However, if you plan to enter Iraq, even for a short stopover, you must have the eVisa.
If your application is rejected, you'll receive an email with the reason. You can reapply with corrected information, or contact the Iraqi embassy in your country for assistance. There's no appeal process, but you can try again.
The eVisa is valid for entry through all international airports and land borders. However, always carry a printed copy, as some border posts may not have electronic records.
The standard eVisa is single-entry. If you need multiple entries, you'll need to apply for a different visa type through an Iraqi embassy or consulate.
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.