Uk Citizens: Travel To Iraq, Allowed Or Not?

Iraq is a country steeped in history with beautiful landscapes, ancient cities and monuments. However, it has been plagued by political instability and violence for decades, which has discouraged tourism. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), and against all but essential travel to KRI. The threat to foreigners in Iraq remains very high, and travellers are warned of the high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnapping. In this paragraph, we will explore the topic of whether UK citizens can travel to Iraq.

Visa requirements for UK citizens

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Even then, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to KRI. The threat to foreigners in Iraq remains very high.

If you choose to travel despite FCDO advice, you must obtain a visa before you travel. You can apply for a visa at Iraqi missions overseas, such as the Iraqi Embassy in London. The Kurdistan Region of Iraq has introduced a new e-visa process, which you can apply for on the e-visa portal of the Kurdistan Region Government. Visas on arrival are no longer available.

If you are a British or European passport holder, you can get a visa on arrival at any of Iraq's points of entry. However, you must arrive at Erbil or Sulaymaniyah and have the following:

• A passport valid for at least six months on entry with one blank visa page
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Proof of onward/return airline tickets
• Documents showing proof of purpose of trip
• All documents required for the next destination
• Confirmation from your airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa

Visa requirements for business travel include the above, plus:

• An original Business Introduction Letter from your UK employer, printed on company letterhead and dated within one month of application submission
• A letter of invitation from the country of destination, approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• A photocopy of your passport's information page(s)
• A clear copy of an apostilled Medical Certificate
• A completed visa application form

Safety advice for UK citizens

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Even then, it is advised that you only travel to KRI if it is essential. The threat to foreigners in Iraq remains very high.

Current risks

There is a high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnapping in Iraq. In addition, coalition forces, including those from the UK, are still carrying out targeted airstrikes against Islamic State in northern and western Iraq. There may also be unexploded devices and other war remnants in areas previously occupied by Islamic State.

Insurance

Your travel insurance may be invalidated if you travel against the advice of the FCDO. If you do choose to travel to Iraq, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers your itinerary, planned activities, and any emergencies.

Visas

All visitors to Iraq need a visa, which can be obtained at your local Iraqi Embassy prior to arrival. If you are a British passport holder, you can also get a visa on arrival at any of Iraq’s points of entry. However, it is strongly recommended that you obtain your visa before departure, as there is no guarantee that you will be allowed entry without one.

Other entry requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least six months on entry and have at least one blank visa page. You will also need proof of sufficient funds, proof of onward/return travel, and documents showing the purpose of your trip.

Local knowledge

Stay up to date with the local situation before and during your trip, as flight suspensions and regional instability can happen at short notice.

The best time to visit Iraq

Although Iraq is a high-risk destination for UK citizens, with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advising against all travel to most parts of the country, it is still possible to visit. The best months to go are spring and autumn, avoiding the sweltering summer heat and winter chills.

Weather

Late May to early September sees temperatures in Iraq soar above 40°C, so it's best to stick to spring and autumn when the weather is warm and dry. March, April and early May are particularly good months to visit, with the added bonus of wildflowers and the Nowruz spring equinox and Persian New Year celebrations.

Safety

Iraq is the hottest country in the Arabian Peninsula, but it's not just the weather that's extreme. The threat to foreigners is very high, and violence and attacks are frequent. The FCDO advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), and even then, it advises against all but essential travel.

What to do

Despite the risks, Iraq is a big draw for adventurous travellers thanks to its stunning landscapes and ancient cities and monuments. Iraqi Kurdistan is safer than the rest of the country, offering rugged mountain beauty, ancient battle sites, and the city of Erbil, one of humanity's oldest settlements.

What to wear

If you do decide to travel to Iraq, remember to adhere to local traditions and dress modestly. Avoid wearing short or low-cut dresses, shorts, or skirts.

Health

There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter Iraq, but it is advisable to have your universal vaccinations up to date and to get vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis A and B. The risk of cholera is also present, so make sure you wash your hands frequently, drink bottled water, and eat well-cooked food. Protect yourself against mosquitoes.

Visa requirements

A visa is required to enter Iraq, along with a passport valid for at least six months and a return ticket. You must also pay by credit card for your visa on arrival, as cash is no longer accepted.

What to do in Iraqi Kurdistan

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Even so, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to KRI. If you do choose to travel to KRI, you should get appropriate travel insurance and research your destinations.

Now, here is some information on what to do in Iraqi Kurdistan:

Erbil

Erbil is the capital city of Iraqi Kurdistan and has a very pretty historic centre. Here are some of the best places to visit in Erbil:

• Erbil Main Square: This is a good place to get a feel for the city and its locals.
• Erbil Citadel: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the major landmarks in Iraq.
• Qaysari Bazaar: A covered bazaar in downtown Erbil, built in the early 13th century.
• Jalil Khayat Mosque: A beautiful mosque with incredible exteriors and interiors inspired by Islamic, al-Abbasi, and Ottoman design.

Lalish

Lalish is the holiest place for followers of the Yazidi faith and is surrounded by three mountains: Hizrat, Misat, and Arafat. Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the village.

Alqosh

Alqosh is a small village inhabited by ethnic Assyrians and Syriac Christians. It is several thousand years old and is full of old churches.

Rabban Hormizd Monastery

This monastery, founded around 640 AD, is carved into and out of the rocks of a mountain. It belongs to the Chaldean Catholic Church.

Mar Mattai Monastery

The Mar Mattai Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. It is hidden in an epic location on top of Mount Alfaf.

Duhok

Duhok is a good place to mingle with the locals, try restaurants, and shop at the local markets. You can also have a real Kurdish dinner at the Akre Restaurant, where you get tons of appetizers with your main course.

Akre

Akre is a small town located on the road between Erbil and Soran. It was built on the side of a mountain range about 2,500 years ago.

Soran

Soran is a small village surrounded by beautiful mountains. Visitors can wander in the village and discover the incredible landscapes.

Rawanduz

The Canyon of Rawanduz Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Iraqi Kurdistan. There are several viewpoints, and visitors can also hike in the valley.

Bekhal Waterfall

About 7 km from the Rawanduz Viewpoint, this is a super touristy place full of waterfalls, cafes, and restaurants.

Geli Ali Beg Waterfall

The Geli Ali Beg Waterfall is a very touristy place where you can walk barefoot in the cold water.

Halgurd Mountain

Halgurd Mountain is unofficially Iraq's highest mountain. It is a beautiful place that should not be missed while travelling in Kurdistan.

Zoragvan Valley

Getting to Zoragvan was one of the writer's craziest adventures when travelling in Iraqi Kurdistan. They hitchhiked solo from Soran to Az Zibar and stayed with a Kurdish family.

Dore Canyon

Close to the town of Barzan, the impressive Dore Canyon was shaped by the Rubar Shakiu River.

Deralok Dam

The Deralok Dam is a gravity dam built on the Great Zab River. Some parts are popular for swimming and picnics. There are family and men's sections, and visitors can also opt for a private area.

Amediya

Amediya is built on a flat top of a mountain and was constructed by the ancient Assyrian Empire about 5,000 years ago. Its key attraction is the ancient 14-metre-high Bahdinan Gate.

Sulaymaniyah

Sulaymaniyah is the most modern city in Iraqi Kurdistan. There are several universities, and thus, a lot of young people. Here are some things to do in Sulaymaniyah:

• Visiting the Amna Suraka Prison: Amna Suraka, also called Red Prison, used to be one of Saddam Hussein's jails. Today, it functions as a national Museum of War Crimes.
• Visiting the Sulaymaniyah Museum: This is an archaeological museum and the largest museum open in Iraq at the moment.
• Hanging around in cafes and restaurants: There are many modern restaurants and bars where visitors can drink alcohol, smoke shisha, and order Kurdish and international meals.

How to get travel insurance for Iraq

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Even then, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to KRI. This means that many mainstream travel insurance policies will exclude travel to Iraq.

If you choose to travel to Iraq despite the FCDO's advice, you should research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Your insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities, and expenses in an emergency.

High Risk Voyager Travel Insurance provides cover for destinations where the FCDO advises against all travel. Their Iraq policy includes:

• Emergency Medical Expenses - Up to £1,000,000
• Emergency Medical Evacuation/Repatriation - Up to £1,000,000
• PTSD Assessment/Counselling Following a Covered Hostile Event - Up to £25,000
• Personal Accident - Up to £15,000
• Political & Natural Disaster - Up to £10,000
• Hijacking, Mugging, Piracy and Wrongful Detention - Up to £2,500
• Cancellation Cover - Up to £1,500
• Baggage Cover - Up to £1,500

You can get a quote for High Risk Voyager Travel Insurance online or by calling their team directly on +44 (0)1483 806 626.

Direct Travel Insurance also offers low-cost, high-quality travel insurance for Iraq. However, they are unable to offer cover for travel to any area or country which the FCDO advises against.

Frequently asked questions