Iraq

The security situation in Iraq is unstable and could deteriorate with little warning.

If you're in Iraq, you should leave immediately by commercial means if it's safe to do so. If there are no commercial options for leaving Iraq, the Australian Government can't help you leave.

Curfews and other security conditions can change at short notice.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Iraq:

• get professional security advice and regularly review your security measures
• have contingency plans
• never visit areas of military activity, including border areas
• obey restrictions set by local authorities
• monitor the media for new safety or security threats
• always be alert to your surroundings

Australian officials have adopted enhanced security measures.

There's a risk of terrorist attacks in Iraq. 

Attacks can occur at any time, but there's an increased risk during religious events. Attacks may also occur during political events, including international meetings, conferences or political rallies.

Targets for terrorist attacks include:

• Iraqi security forces
• government facilities
• checkpoints
• police stations
• recruiting centres
• military establishments
• civilians in remote areas

Terrorists may also target:

• Baghdad International Airport
• the International Zone in Baghdad
• public transport (and transport hubs)
• protests
• mosques and churches
• markets
• foreign-affiliated commercial businesses, including cafes, hotels and restaurants
• schools and universities
• funerals and religious gatherings
• foreign embassies
• other civilian infrastructure

The International Zone in Baghdad and Baghdad International Airport have been targeted by rocket attacks and drones in the past.

Avoid potential targets. If you must visit them, always have an exit plan. 

Attacks using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) occur throughout Iraq, including in Baghdad.

Iraqi security forces often conduct security operations across the country with little warning.

Armed groups are active throughout Iraq. They have conducted major coordinated attacks against the Iraqi Government and civilians.

There has also been fighting between armed groups and security forces in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. 

A number of areas in the Kurdistan region remain susceptible to attacks by artillery, drones and rockets.

More information:

• Terrorism

There's a high, ongoing threat of kidnapping throughout Iraq.

Sources report that terrorists and criminal groups continue to look for opportunities to kidnap expats and Westerners throughout Iraq. Kidnappers have targeted:

• academics
• journalists
• people working for NGOs
• people working for foreign companies

Criminal gangs and terrorists demand large ransoms for releasing hostages. 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to breach Australian anti-terrorism financing laws.

If despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited. 

You are responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of being kidnapped:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings - avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don't set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• If you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse 

Regularly re-assess your security arrangements and carefully consider any travel. Using professional security providers is important but does not completely protect you.

More information:

• Kidnapping
• Scams that affect travellers
• Reducing the risk of piracy

Political rallies and protests regularly occur in Baghdad and other regions of Iraq.

Large crowds can quickly gather and turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings. Security restrictions, including curfews and interruption to internet and social media services, may occur with little notice.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Iraq, monitor the media and other sources about possible unrest.

In Baghdad, most rallies and protests are held in Tahrir Square, or in Karhkh, near the entrance to the International Zone or government buildings.

There have previously been violent clashes in and around the International Zone in Baghdad as well as other governorates of Iraq.

• In July 2023, protestors breached and set fire to the Swedish Embassy over the burning of the Qur’an in Stockholm by anti-Islam activists.  Subsequent Qur’an burnings by far-right extremists in other European nations saw large numbers of protestors attempt to enter the International Zone and breach a number of embassies
• On 29 August 2022, protesters entered the Government Palace and other government buildings in and around the International Green Zone in Baghdad, resulting in violent clashes

Protests can regularly occur in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq due to regional tensions or localised disputes.

If you're in an affected area, stay indoors and follow the advice of local authorities or your security provider.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime, kidnappings, murders and robberies occur. Firearms are common across Iraq. Corruption is common.

Organised criminal gangs, militia and tribal groups are significant threats.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Iraq:

• travel with your vehicle's doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• secure your accommodation, including when you're inside
• always be alert to your surroundings

Scams and fraud 

Some fraudulent websites and Facebook accounts in the past claimed to represent the Australian Government in Iraq. They approached local businesses for tender opportunities or individuals for visa application.

Tell the Australian Embassy in Baghdad if you're contacted by fake sites.

Some Australian businesses have been contacted by companies claiming to be Iraqi importers. They offer to do business in unusual or suspicious ways. Scammers may have knowledge of the industry and appear legitimate.

Get legal advice if you or your company is contacted.

Australian companies have been contacted by people claiming to represent the Government of Iraq. They are looking for payments associated with recently won contracts.

Get advice from the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Canberra before making any payments.

Some individuals offer to produce Iraqi identification cards. These cards are not accepted by local authorities and, if used, you could be arrested. Only obtain identification cards from relevant Iraqi authorities.

People claiming to represent the Australian Government have contacted some individuals to offer visas. To protect yourself from visa scams, you should only deal with official Australian Government channels such as the departmental website, Australian Visa Application Centres, or the Australian High Commission or Embassy in your country. Visit the Australian Government's Visa Scams page for tips on identifying scams.

More information:

• Scamwatch

Drink spiking

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been a victim.

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for comments they've made on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Iraq can experience severe weather and is in an active earthquake zone.

Sandstorms and dust storms are common during the spring and summer months. Where possible, you should remain inside during severe storms. Seek medical advice if you have breathing difficulties. Flights can be delayed or cancelled at short notice during severe storms.

From July to September, daytime temperatures can be over 50°C.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Iraq and there's a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe location
• monitor local media and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• stay in touch with friends and family

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a special insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Iraq.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Iraq. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use only

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Insect-borne diseases are common. Diseases caused by insect bites in some regions of Iraq include:

• Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever
• cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis

To reduce your risks from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• always insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is present. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. Travellers with HIV/AIDs are prohibited from entering Iraq.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

The World Health Organization has confirmed human cases of bird flu in Iraq.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases happen. These include:

• cholera
• haemorrhagic fever
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness and disease:

• drink boiled or bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• don't eat raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If an animal bites or scratches you, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Polio

Iraq is no longer affected by wild poliovirus. However, it's still at risk from international spread of the disease.

Stay up to date with vaccinations against polio (poliomyelitis). Get a booster dose before you travel.

Sandstorms and dust storms 

Sandstorms and dust storms are common. They can cause allergies and breathing problems. During sandstorms or dust storms either stay indoors, wear a mask or seek medical advice.

Medical facilities in major cities are limited. In remote areas, they're very basic or not available. 

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated.

Medical evacuation is very expensive and may be difficult to arrange because of the security situation.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long jail terms and the death penalty.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Death penalty

Iraq applies the death penalty for a range of crimes, including murder, espionage, rape, kidnapping, terrorism, war crimes, smuggling antiquities and drug trafficking.

Other laws

In February 2023, Iraq prohibited the import, manufacture, and selling of alcoholic beverages of all sorts, punishable by fines of up to IQD 25m. Customs officers may also confiscate prohibited goods or items deemed a threat to the peace, security, health, environment, or social order of Iraq.

Commercial or labour dispute cases may take years to finalise. Before entering a commercial contract in Iraq, take legal advice, both in Australia and in Iraq.

More Information

• Going overseas for business

It's illegal to:

• take antiques or artefacts out of the country
• preach anywhere except in a place of worship
• attempt to convert a Muslim
• abandon the Islamic faith if you're Muslim

Unauthorised filming in a public place is against the law. Authorities have arrested several foreign journalists for filming without approval.

It's also illegal to take photos or film government and security buildings, including:

• checkpoints
• military bases
• embassies

In 2024, Iraq criminalised same-sex relationships, changing gender, and the promotion of LGBTQ+ ideology, with large fines and prison terms of up to 15 years. Homosexuality is not socially accepted, and local attitudes towards the LGBTQIA+ community may be hostile. There are no legal protections against discrimination. Violence against LGBTQIA+ people, and their supporters, has occurred.

Local laws can change without notice. Check legal requirements with an embassy or consulate of Iraq.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Family matters

Get professional advice for local legal matters before you travel. Know your rights and responsibilities, especially in family law, such as:

• divorce
• child custody
• child support
• forced marriages

Authorities have stopped Australians and Australian-Iraqi dual nationals from leaving Iraq. Relatives have legally placed border alerts ('stop orders') where there are pending family court matters. Overturning stop orders can be a time consuming and complicated process.

The Australian Government can't prevent or overturn a stop order on an Australian citizen.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• National security
• Staying within the law and respecting customs
• Forced marriage
• Travelling with children

Iraq recognises dual nationality.

If a dual-national child has an Iraqi father and the child wants to leave the country, you may need to provide proof of the father's permission to enable the child to travel.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Hotels may not allow couples to stay unless they can provide proof that they're married.

The holy month of Ramadan is observed in Iraq. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time. 

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking is illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

If, despite our advice, you travel to Iraq, you must apply online at the e-Visa Portal to obtain an electronic visa before your travel to Iraq. Airlines are required to ensure passengers have secured an electronic visa before allowing them to board flights to Iraq.

Authorities may refuse entry to Iraq if your passport contains Israeli stamps or visas.

You require a visa to travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. You can find details and apply on the Kurdistan Regional Government's e-visa portal. If you arrive in Kurdistan without a visa you can apply online using the e-visa portal or obtain a visa on arrival. These visas are valid for travel in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq only. If you plan to travel outside of Kurdistan to other regions of Iraq, you must obtain an Iraqi visa before travelling to Iraq.

Ensure you understand the conditions of your visa, especially if you are travelling as a member of a group.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules, contact either:

• an embassy or consulate of Iraq, or
• the Iraqi Ministry of Interior (Arabic)

If you're in Iraq, you should leave as soon as you're able to do so. If you travel to Iraq despite our advice, contact your travel provider or the nearest embassy or consulate of Iraq for the latest information on entry requirements prior to departure.

For a child travelling without a parent, the guardian must carry documentation saying that the child's parents allow the travel.

If despite our advice, you travel to border areas note that border crossings can close with little or no warning.

Sensitive border areas, especially with Syria and Türkiye, are military targets.

Checkpoints

Security checkpoints are stationed throughout Iraq. 

At these checkpoints:

• follow the instructions of local authorities
• exercise extreme caution

Criminals and terrorists have used false security checkpoints to:

• stage kidnappings, robberies and murders
• launch attacks

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for at least 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who want to use your identity to commit crimes. Always keep it in a safe place.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD).

On exit and entry you must declare all amounts in excess of IQD200,000, US$10,000, or the same value in other foreign currencies. Gems, jewellery or other items valued at US$10,000 or more must be declared.

US dollars and euros are the easiest foreign currencies to exchange at local commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

Road travel

Road travel is dangerous.

Dangers include:

• roadside bombs
• attacks at checkpoints
• robberies
• drivers not following road rules
• poor driving

Drink driving is illegal. See Local laws

If, despite our advice, you need to travel by road, first:

• get professional security advice from a company with a good reputation
• arrange personal security measures
• make contingency plans
• get local advice on possible routes

More information:

• Driving or riding

Air travel

Airport closures or flight suspensions may happen. Double-check your flight arrangements before travelling to the airport.

In the past, some airlines have suspended flights to and from Erbil and Sulaymaniyah International Airports due to political tensions.

Aviation safety and security standards may not meet those set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Iraq's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Iraq

Consular services are severely limited due to the security situation.

The Australian Embassy provides limited consular services by appointment only.

Visit the embassy website to make an appointment.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia