Iraq Visa for Indian - Definitive Guide
Despite its glorious ancient history, Iraq has been in turmoil due to its recent events. In fact, a large part of the country is still considered extremely dangerous. However, the Iraq visa is issued to let visitors enter the safe regions including the Iraqi Kurdistan. Despite all the ugliness on the other side of the country, the safe areas in Iraq are amazing destinations.
What is Iraq Visa?
The Iraq visa for Indians is an endorsement that lets Indian nationals enter the country for various purposes. Nationals from almost every country require a permit to enter Iraq. Although, a few Arab countries do possess visa-free entry, and certain other countries can get an Iraq visa on arrival in selected airports. However, India isn’t among them. As a result, the Iraq visa for Indian citizens is mandatory.
How to Apply for Iraq Visa from India?
The application for an Iraq visa from India is a complicated process. In fact, due to the complex Iraq visa requirements for Indian citizens, it is strictly advised to use the services of a travel agent to apply for the permit. However, before starting the process, you will need to check if you are eligible to apply for a particular category. After that, you can proceed to make the application as follows -
- Obtain approval from the Ministry of External Affairs in Iraq. Since you will not be able to do this on your own, you must use professional help.
- Fill in the Iraq visa application form obtained from the embassy of Iraq.
- Provide all the relevant details including the purpose of your visit.
- Acquire all the necessary documents.
- Along with the documents and the application form, visit the embassy/consulate of Iraq to submit.
- Pay the fees at the embassy.
Iraq Visa Types
Based on the purpose of the visit, the Iraqi permits can be classified into the following types -
- Tourist - This category is issued for visitors traveling to the country to take part in tourism-related activities.
- Visit - This is issued solely for individuals traveling to Iraq for religious purposes.
- Business - This type is for people entering the country to engage in business-related activities.
- Employment - This is granted for people who are entering the nation to take part in paid work.
Documents Required for Iraq Visa from India
As per the Iraq visa application requirements, the following are the list of general documents you must submit for your application. However, based on individual categories, there may be additional requirements.
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry in Iraq.
- Passport size photos as per the specifications.
- Confirmed flight bookings.
- Bank statements to show possession of sufficient funds.
- Medical test reports.
Iraq Visa Photo Size
- Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
- Colour: Coloured
- Head must occupy the central position
- Must be recently captured within the last 3 months
- Background: Solid, plain white or grey
- 80% face coverage
- Neutral expression
- Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription are permitted
- Headgears are allowed only for religious reasons
- Facial hair - permitted
Processing Time
The processing time for the Iraq visa is in two phases. The time taken to get approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can take around 15-20 working days. This can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. After that, after your submission at the embassy/consulate, it will take around a week to process your application. This again can depend on the exact type of the permit, the number of entries, and so on. As a result, it is advised that you apply well in advance.
Iraq Visa Fees for Indian Nationals
The fees for the Iraqi permit depends on several factors. It is dependent on the exact type of the visa, the number of entries, as well as on the foreign exchange rate. You may also have service charges for getting the approval and some charges levied by the travel agency. As a result, you must ensure that you check the exact amount before starting your application.
| Entry | Purpose | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Normal | Business | 90 days | 3 months | 0.0 |
| Single Entry | Work | 90 days | 3 months | 10080.0 |
How to Check Visa Status?
Since the application for visas is made offline, it is not possible to track them online. However, once you have submitted the application at the embassy/consulate, you can contact them to know the status. Alternately, you can contact your travel agency to have them track the status for you.
Where Do I Get a Visa for Iraq?
Getting a visa for Iraq is a tedious process. Although the visa applications have to be made at the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in New Delhi, or at the Consulate of the Republic of Iraq in Mumbai, you will need prior approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Iraq. For this, someone living in Iraq will need to make an application. As a result, you will need the services of a travel agency. They have set up various task forces to make applications from Iraq as well as help in your application in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Extend My Iraq Visa?
As a result of its initiatives to increase the number of visitors, the Iraqi ministry allows for visa extensions in certain cases. You can do this by visiting the nearest department of immigration and applying for an extension. In case you are unable to get the extension, you must leave the country.
What is the medical Test for Iraq Visa?
In order to ensure the safety of the traveller as well as the people living in Iraq, the government has made it mandatory for visitors from specific countries to get a medical test done. If you are travelling from India, you will need a medical report stating that you are clear of HIV and from different types of Hepatitis. You may also need to show that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever and certain other diseases as per the requirements.
How Much Bank Balance is Required to Get an Iraq visa?
There is no steadfast rule on the exact amount you must possess. As per the requirements, you are expected to hold enough funds in your bank to support your entire stay duration. You must also be able to use these funds whenever necessary. While showing the bank statements, the transactions should be steady. Any unusual transactions may require explanations.
How many days before the trip should I apply for an Iraq Visa?
Although it only takes about 7 working days from the date of application at the embassy to get your visa, it can take almost 20 working days to get an approval from the ministry in Iraq. As a result, it is suggested that you apply at least one month in advance. A standard recommended time would be to apply about 5-8 weeks before your date of travel.
What is the rejection percentage of Iraq visa?
The chances of your application getting rejected are dependent on how well you can follow the instructions and how well you understand the process. Since the procedures and document requirements are extremely confusing for individuals, there can be chances that your application will get rejected. As a result, it is recommended that you use the services of a travel agency to apply.
