What is a Transit Visa?

A Transit Visa is required for travellers who need to pass through Iraq to reach their final destination. This visa allows you to stay in the international transit area or leave the airport for a short period during your layover.

Airport Transit

Stay in international transit area without entering Iraq

Up to 24 hours

City Transit

Leave airport and explore Baghdad during layover

Up to 72 hours

Do You Need a Transit Visa?

Transit Visa Required

  • Layover longer than 8 hours
  • Want to leave the airport during transit
  • Connecting flights on different days
  • Luggage needs to be collected and re-checked
  • Nationality requires visa for Iraq entry

Transit Visa Not Required

  • Layover less than 8 hours
  • Staying in international transit area
  • Same-day connecting flights
  • Through-checked luggage
  • Visa-exempt nationality for short transit

Iraq Transit Airports

Baghdad International Airport (BGW)

Location: Baghdad, Iraq

Transit Facilities: Restaurants, shops, lounges

Free WiFi: Available throughout terminal

Transit Hotels: Available for long layovers

Erbil International Airport (EBL)

Location: Erbil, Kurdistan Region

Transit Facilities: Duty-free, restaurants

Free WiFi: Available in all areas

Transit Tours: Short city tours available

Required Documents

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months

Onward Ticket

Confirmed booking to final destination

Destination Visa

Valid visa for final destination (if required)

Itinerary

Detailed travel schedule and layover duration

Application Process

1

Check Requirements

Verify if you need a transit visa based on your nationality and layover duration.

2

Complete Application

Fill out the online transit visa application form with accurate information.

3

Submit Documents

Upload passport copy, onward ticket, and destination visa (if applicable).

4

Pay Fee

Process payment securely online ($25 for airport transit, $40 for city transit).

5

Receive Visa

Get your approved transit visa via email within 12-24 hours.

Important Guidelines

Transit Visa Conditions
  • Must have confirmed onward travel within specified timeframe
  • Cannot be used for tourism or business purposes
  • Extension not possible - must depart as scheduled
  • Valid only for single transit through Iraq
  • Must enter and exit through the same airport
Important Notes
  • Apply at least 48 hours before travel
  • Ensure your final destination accepts your travel documents
  • Check airline policies for transit passengers
  • Keep all travel documents easily accessible
  • Arrive at airport with sufficient time for transit procedures