Iraq

It is a legal requirement to carry some form of photographic ID in Iraq. Always carry your passport or residence permit. The authorities may stop people for ID checks at checkpoints within cities and on main roads across the country. You should cooperate with officials conducting checks.

It is a legal requirement to publish the details of your lost or stolen passport in two local newspapers, after reporting the incident to the police. You may be refused an exit stamp until you have done so.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:

• drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
• be patient and show tolerance

The Arba’-een, an annual pilgrimage that attracts millions of pilgrims to Iraq, usually occurs between August and September.

If you travel to Iraq during the pilgrimage, ensure that your belongings are secure at all times. Keep copies of your passports, visas and other important documents.

Iraqi family law is very different from UK law. Male heads of household can impose ‘travel bans’ on family members. Even if you, or your child, hold a British passport, you may be subject to Iraqi laws.

If you are leaving Iraq with a child that has an Iraqi or dual-national Iraqi father you may need to show proof of parental permission to travel. This applies even if their mother is with them.

Authorities may detain journalists using allegations of inadequate paperwork. Journalists should be extremely cautious and take adequate security measures.

The import, manufacture, or selling of alcoholic drinks is punishable by fines of up to 25 million Iraqi dinars (IQD). FCDO is not aware of any instances of Iraqi officials stopping travellers carrying alcohol for personal use.

Iraq continues to practise the death penalty for a range of crimes including:

• drug trafficking
• espionage
• kidnapping
• murder
• rape
• smuggling antiquities
• terrorism
• war crimes

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) prohibits sharing footage of drones being launched or target locations with media outlets or on social media, and violations may result in legal action.

In July 2024, the Iraqi Parliament updated its Anti-Prostitution and Homosexuality Law which criminalises same-sex relationships, any promotion of same-sex relationships or behaviours, and bans people from changing gender. Under the amendment, same-sex relationships are now illegal and sexual acts could lead to a prison sentence between 10 to 15 years. If the Iraqi authorities consider your actions, clothing or other items to promote LGBT+ identities or prostitution,  you could be imprisoned for up to seven years and fined between 10 to 15 million Iraqi dinars.  

Under the new law, it is illegal to have or perform gender changing surgery, unless you have approval from the courts. You could be imprisoned for up to three years.

There is an increased risk of violence and threats (such as blackmail and intimidation) against anyone being thought to be part of the LGBT+ community or supporting their rights. There have been attacks against the LGBT+ community and its supporters.  

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers

Flash floods are common between November and March. Expect disruption to travel. Exercise caution in areas of heavy rainfall, as floods have caused loss of life.

Earthquakes are a risk in Iraq.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Sand and dust storms are common during the spring and summer months. Poor visibility can create difficult driving conditions and affect flights.