Iraq (Kurdistan Region) Visa
Iraqi Kurdistan — Discover the KRG's Ancient Cities
The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRG) is a semi-autonomous region in northern Iraq with its own government, security forces, and international airports — offering a travel experience markedly different from federal Iraq. Erbil (Hawler), one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, boasts a UNESCO-listed citadel, a vibrant bazaar, and modern amenities. Sulaymaniyah is known for its arts scene, mountain landscapes, and warm hospitality. The KRG welcomes international visitors and issues its own visa on arrival at its airports.
How it works
- 1Submit your passport details and travel dates through our secure form — takes about 10 minutes.
- 2We review your application and submit it to the Kurdistan Region eVisa portal, or confirm visa-on-arrival procedures for your itinerary.
- 3Receive your approved KRG eVisa or visa-on-arrival confirmation — valid for entry at Erbil or Sulaymaniyah airports.
FAQs
Is Iraqi Kurdistan different from federal Iraq?
Yes, significantly. The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRG) is a constitutionally recognized autonomous region with its own government (the Kurdistan Regional Government), its own visa policy, and its own international airports in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah. Travel within the KRG is governed by different rules and conditions than federal Iraq. This service covers KRG entry only.
How much does the Kurdistan Region visa cost?
The Kurdistan Region visa on arrival costs approximately $75 USD, payable at the airport immigration counter in Erbil (EBL) or Sulaymaniyah (ISU). A KRG eVisa is also available in advance through the official portal at evisa.gov.krd. Fees may be subject to change — eGovRush will confirm the current fee as part of your application.
Is it safe to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan?
The U.S. State Department rates the Kurdistan Region at Level 3 — Reconsider Travel — as of 2026, reflecting security concerns from regional tensions, occasional cross-border military activity near the Turkish and Iranian borders, and proximity to federal Iraq. The cities of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah are comparatively stable and frequently visited by international travelers and NGO workers. Travelers must remain vigilant, avoid outlying border areas, and monitor current advisories closely before and during travel.
Can I travel from the Kurdistan Region into federal Iraq?
No. We strongly advise against attempting to travel from the Kurdistan Region into federal Iraq. The U.S. State Department rates federal Iraq at Level 4 — Do Not Travel — due to terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, and kidnapping risks. The KRG visa does not grant access to federal Iraq, and attempting to cross into non-KRG areas poses extreme risk.
Iraq (Kurdistan Region) visa — join the waitlist
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