Iraq Begins Issuing Electronic Visas to Turkish Nationals

The Republic of Iraq has officially introduced an electronic visa (e-visa) system for Turkish nationals, starting with a targeted rollout for investors and business professionals. The announcement was made during a formal ceremony at the Iraqi Embassy in Ankara on Wednesday.

The event was attended by Iraqi Ambassador to Türkiye, Majid Abdul-Ridha Hassan Al-Lajmawi, along with senior officials, including Nashat Al-Khafaji, Director General of Civil Status and Passports, and Abbas Al-Bahadli, spokesperson for Iraq’s Ministry of Interior.

Ambassador Al-Lajmawi said the e-visa system marks a new chapter in Iraq–Türkiye relations and reflects close cooperation between the Iraqi Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Interior. 

Nashat Al-Khafaji described the move as a “radical transformation” in Iraq’s visa management. He emphasized that the system is already active in Ankara and will expand to Istanbul next week. He also highlighted that the new system will significantly reduce processing times and improve overall efficiency.

Abbas Al-Bahadli noted that the e-visa will be limited, for now, to Turkish investors and businesspeople. He said visa application results could be issued within 24 hours and will include benefits such as extension options. The aim, he added, is to support economic engagement and attract more commercial activity from Turkish enterprises.

As of now, Türkiye maintains strong air connectivity with Iraq, with 17 weekly flights from Istanbul to both Baghdad and Erbil, along with additional flights to Basrah and Najaf. With the new visa changes, the number of Turkish visitors is expected to rise in the coming months, particularly among the business community.

The electronic visa rollout signals Iraq’s push to modernize its border systems and stimulate investment in key sectors, with Turkish nationals among the first to benefit from the streamlined process.