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Iraq
Country Specific Information
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October 02, 2008
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
In 2005, Iraqi citizens adopted a new constitution and participated in legislative elections to create a permanent, democratic
government, and in May 2006, a new Government of Iraq (GOI), led by Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, was sworn in. Although
the GOI has made political, economic and security progress, Iraq still faces many challenges, including overcoming three decades
of war and government mismanagement that stunted Iraq's economy, sectarian and ethnic tensions that have slowed progress toward
national reconciliation, and ongoing (even if abating) insurgent, sectarian, criminal, and terrorist violence. Conditions
in Iraq are extremely dangerous. While Iraqi Security Forces now take the lead in providing security in most provinces, Multinational
Force-Iraq (MNF-I) continues to assist the Iraqi government in providing security in many areas of the country. The workweek
in Iraq is Sunday through Thursday. Visit the Department of State Background Notes on Iraq for the most current visa information.
ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: Passports valid for at least six months and visas are required for most private American citizens. An Iraqi visa may be obtained
through the Iraqi Embassy in Washington, D.C. Travelers should not rely on obtaining a visa upon arrival at an airport or
port of entry in Iraq. Visitors to Iraq who plan to stay for more than 10 days must obtain a no-fee residency stamp. In Baghdad,
the stamps are available for all visitors at the main Residency Office near the National Theater. Contractors in the International
Zone may also obtain exit stamps at the Karadah Mariam Police Station (available Sunday and Wednesday, 10:00-14:00.). There
is a 10,000 Iraqi dinar (USD 8) penalty for visitors who do not obtain the required residency stamp. In order to obtain a
residency stamp, applicants must produce valid credentials or proof of employment, two passport-sized photos, and HIV test
results. An American citizen who plans to stay longer than two months must apply at the Residency Office for an extension. Americans
traveling to Iraq for the purpose of employment should check with their employers and with the Iraqi Embassy in Washington,
D.C. for any special entry or exit requirements related to employment. American citizens whose passports reflect travel to
Israel may be refused entry into Iraq or may be refused an Iraqi visa, although to date there are no reported cases of this
occurring.
U.S. citizens who remain longer than 10 days must obtain an exit stamp at the main Residency Office before departing the country. In
Baghdad, they are available for all visitors at the main Residency Office near the National Theater. Contractors in the International
Zone may also obtain exit stamps at the Karadah Mariam Police Station (available Sunday and Wednesday, 10:00-14:00). Exit
stamp fees vary from USD 20 to USD 200, depending on the length of stay, entry visa and other factors. Those staying fewer
than 10 days do not need to get an exit stamp before passing through Iraqi immigration at the airport. Visitors who arrive
via military aircraft but depart on commercial airlines must pay a USD 80 departure fee at the airport.
Note: For information on entry requirements for other countries, please go to the Entry/Exit Requirements section in the Country
Specific Information Sheet for the country you are interested in at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html. You may also contact the U.S. embassy or consulate of that country for further information.
Visit the Iraqi Embassy web site at http://www.iraqiembassy.us for the most current visa information. The Embassy is located at 1801 P Street NW, Washington, DC 20036; phone number is
202-742-1600; the fax is 202-333-1129.
Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our web site. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information sheet.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: The risk of terrorism directed against U.S. citizens in Iraq remains extremely high. The Department of State continues to
strongly warn U.S. citizens against travel to Iraq, which remains very dangerous.
Remnants of the former Baath regime, transnational terrorists, criminal elements and numerous insurgent groups remain active
throughout Iraq. Multinational Force-Iraq (MNF-I) and Iraqi Security Forces (ISF)-led military operations continue, and attacks
persist against MNF-I and the ISF throughout the country. Turkish government forces have carried out operations against elements
of the Kongra-Gel (KGK, formerly Kurdistan Worker’s Party, or Partiya Karkeren Kurdistan (PKK)) terrorist group that are located
along Iraq’s northern border. Despite recent improvements in the security environment, Iraq remains dangerous, volatile and
unpredictable. Attacks against military and civilian targets throughout Iraq continue, including in the International (or
“Green”) Zone. Targets include hotels, restaurants, police stations, checkpoints, foreign diplomatic missions, and international
organizations and other locations with expatriate personnel. Such attacks can occur at any time. Kidnappings still occur;
the most recent kidnapping of an American citizen occurred in July 2008. Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), Explosively
Formed Penetrators (EFPs), and mines often are placed on roads, concealed in plastic bags, boxes, soda cans, dead animals,
and in other ways to blend with the road. Grenades and explosives have been thrown into vehicles from overpasses and placed
on vehicles at intersections, particularly in crowded areas. Rockets and mortars have been fired at hotels, and vehicle-borne
IEDs have been used against targets throughout the country. Occasionally, U.S. Government personnel are prohibited from traveling
to certain areas depending on prevailing security conditions. In addition to terrorist and criminal attacks, sectarian violence
occurs often. Detailed security information is available on the Embassy's web site at http://iraq.usembassy.gov and at http://www.centcom.mil.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State, Bureau of
Consular Affairs’ web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Travel Warnings, including the Travel Warning for Iraq, and Travel Alerts, as well as the Worldwide Caution, can be found. Travelers are also referred to the U.S. Embassy Baghdad’s Warden Notices which are available on the Embassy
web site at http://iraq.usembassy.gov.
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada,
or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m.
to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For
general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the
Department of State's pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad and Tips for Traveling Abroad.
CRIME: The U.S. Embassy and MNF-I are working with Iraqi authorities to establish law enforcement and civil structures throughout
the country. U.S. and British military personnel are providing police protection as well, as the security situation permits. Petty
theft is common in Iraq, including thefts of money, jewelry, or valuable items left in hotel rooms and pick-pocketing in busy
places such as markets. Carjacking by armed thieves is very common, even during daylight hours, and particularly on the highways
from Jordan and Kuwait to Baghdad. Foreigners, primarily dual American-Iraqi citizens, and Iraqi citizens are targets of kidnapping. The
kidnappers often demand money but have also carried out kidnappings for political/religious reasons.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you
are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy
or Consulate for assistance. While U.S. Consular Services in Iraq are limited due to security conditions, the Embassy/Consulate
staff can, for example, assist you to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although
the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help
you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
See our information on Victims of Crime.
There is no 911-equivalent emergency telephone number in Iraq.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Basic modern medical care and medicines are not widely available in Iraq. The recent conflict in Iraq has left some medical
facilities non-operational and medical stocks and supplies severely depleted. The facilities in operation do not meet U.S.
standards, and the majority lack medicines, equipment and supplies. Because the Baghdad International Airport has limited
operations for security reasons, it is unlikely that a private medical evacuation can be arranged.
Iraq does not allow visitors with HIV/AIDS to enter the country. At this time there is no waiver available for this ineligibility. However,
please inquire directly with the Embassy of Iraq at http://www.iraqiembassy.org before you travel for any changes.
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection,
may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP
(1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC’s web site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) web site at
http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith/en.
AVIAN INFLUENZA: The WHO and Iraqi authorities have confirmed human cases of the H5NI strain of avian influenza, commonly
known as the "bird flu." Travelers to Iraq and other countries affected by the virus are cautioned to avoid poultry farms,
contact with animals in live food markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other
animals. In addition, the CDC and WHO recommend eating only fully cooked poultry and eggs. For the most current information
and links on avian influenza, see the State Department's Avian Influenza Fact Sheet.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad
to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation
as well as whether medical evacuation would be possible from Iraq. Please see our information on medical insurance overseas.
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United
States. The information below concerning Iraq is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a
particular location or circumstance.
All vehicular travel in Iraq is extremely dangerous. There have been numerous attacks on civilian vehicles, as well as military
convoys. Attacks occur throughout the day, but travel at night is exceptionally dangerous and should be avoided. There have
been attacks on civilian vehicles as well as military convoys on Highways 1, 5, 10 and 15, even during daylight hours. Travelers
are strongly urged to travel in convoys with at least four vehicles in daylight hours only. Travel in or through Ramadi and
Fallujah, in and between al-Hillah, al-Basrah, Kirkuk, and Baghdad and between the International Zone and Baghdad International
Airport, and from Baghdad to Mosul is particularly dangerous. Occasionally, U.S. Government personnel are prohibited from
traveling to select areas depending on prevailing security conditions. There continues to be heavy use of Improvised Explosive
Devices (IEDs) and/or mines on roads, particularly in plastic bags, soda cans, and dead animals. Grenades and explosives have
been thrown into vehicles from overpasses, particularly in crowded areas. Travel should be undertaken only when absolutely
necessary and with the appropriate security.
Buses run irregularly and frequently change routes. Poorly maintained city transit vehicles are often involved in accidents. Long
distance buses are available, but are often in poor condition and drive at unsafe speeds. Jaywalking is common. Drivers usually
do not yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and ignore traffic lights (if available), traffic rules and regulations. Roads are
congested. Driving at night is extremely dangerous. Some cars do not use lights at night and urban street lights may not be
functioning. Some motorists drive at excessive speeds, tailgate and force other drivers to yield the right of way. Please
refer to our Road Safety page for more information.
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by air carriers registered in Iraq, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) has not assessed Iraq's Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) aviation safety standards. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA web site at http://www.faa.gov/safety/programs_initiatives/oversight/iasa.
There is credible information that terrorists are targeting civil aviation. Military aircraft arriving and departing from
Baghdad International Airport (ORBI) have been subjected to small arms and missile fire. Travelers choosing to utilize civilian
aircraft to enter or depart Iraq should be aware that, although there have been no recent attacks on civilian aircraft, the
potential threat still exists. Official U.S. Government (USG) personnel are strongly encouraged to use U.S. military or other
USG aircraft when entering or departing Iraq. All personnel serving in Iraq under Chief of Mission (COM) authority are prohibited
from entering or departing ORBI on commercial airlines unless they receive COM approval, which is granted on a case-by-case
basis for emergency purposes only. Other personnel not under COM authority must be guided by their own agencies. Personnel
under COM authority assigned to the Erbil and Sulaymaniyah areas are permitted to use commercial flights in and out of Erbil
on a case-by-case basis.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: As of September 21, 2006, Iraqi law prohibits adult Iraqis and foreigners from holding and transporting more than U.S. $10,000
in cash out of Iraq. In addition, it permits adult Iraqi and resident foreigners to hold and transport no more than 200,000
Iraqi dinars to cover travel expenses. Iraqi law also prohibits taking more than 100 grams of gold out of the country. Iraqi
customs personnel are taking action to enforce these laws and may pose related questions to travelers during immigration and
customs exit procedures. (Civil customs personnel also will verify passport annotations related to any items such as foreign
currency, gold jewelry, or merchandise that were declared by passengers upon entry into Iraq on Form-8.)
All U.S. citizens are reminded that it is their duty to respect Iraqi laws, including legal restrictions on the transfer of
currency outside of Iraq. If you are detained at the airport or at any other point of exit regarding your attempt to transfer
currency out of Iraq, you should contact – or ask that Iraqi authorities immediately contact -- the American Embassy.
Transporting large amounts of currency is not advisable. Almost all of the international companies working in Iraq have the
capability to make payments to their employees and at least four Iraqi banks are also able to convert cash into an international
wire transfer directed to a bank account outside Iraq. Branches of the Credit Bank of Iraq on Al-Sa’adoon St., Baghdad (creditbkiq@yahoo.com), Dar Es Salaam Bank (info@desiraq.com), Iraqi Middle East Investment Bank (coinvst@iraqimdlestbank.com) and Al-Warqaa Investment Bank (warkabank@hotmail.com) all have this capability. Please be aware that large wire transfers may require Central Bank of Iraq approval because of
measures in place to combat money laundering. Such approvals can be obtained by the sending bank, if information on the origin
of the funds and the reason for its transfer are provided. Additional information on banking in Iraq is available at the Central
Bank of Iraq web site http://www.cbi.iq/.
Customs and MNF-I officers have the broad authority to search persons or vehicles at Iraq ports of entry. Officers may confiscate
any goods that may pose a threat to the peace, security, health, environment, or good order of Iraq or any antiquities or
cultural items suspected of being illegally exported. Goods that are not declared may be confiscated by an officer. Persons
may also be ordered to return such goods, at their expense, to the jurisdiction from which they came. Please see our Customs Information.
The banking and financial infrastructure has been disrupted and is in the process of rebuilding. Hotels usually require payment
in foreign currency. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are extremely limited but the Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) provides ATM
services in dinars and U.S. dollars at the TBI head office in central Baghdad and two other locations (See http://www.tbiraq.com.)
Telecommunications are very poor. There is limited international phone service in Iraq at this time. Local calls are often
limited to a neighborhood network. There are no public telephones in the cities; however, calls may be made from hotels, restaurants
or shops. Limited cellular telephone service and Internet service are available in Iraq.
Due to security conditions, the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is able to provide only limited emergency services to
U.S. citizens. Because police and civil structures are in the process of being rebuilt, emergency service and support will
be limited.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly
from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for
breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Iraqi laws, even unknowingly,
may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Iraq are severe,
and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using
or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States. Please see our information
on Criminal Penalties.
CHILDREN'S ISSUES: The U.S. and international media have occasionally reported on the difficult situation faced by Iraq's children, and it is
completely understandable that some American citizens want to respond to such stories by offering to open their homes and
adopt these children in need. However Iraqi law does not permit full adoptions as they are generally understood in the United
States. It is not possible to adopt Iraqi children at this time. For more information on this issue, please refer to our flyer
Intercountry Adoptions – Iraq.
Iraq is not party to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, nor are there any international
or bilateral treaties in force between Iraq and the United States dealing with international parental child abduction. The security situation in Iraq limits consular access to children.
For more information see our Office of Children’s Issues web pages on intercountry adoption and international parental child abduction.
REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: The Travel Warning on Iraq urges U.S. citizens to defer travel to Iraq. However, Americans living or traveling in Iraq despite that Warning are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Iraq. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. U.S. citizens may also contact the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq located in the International Zone via e-mail at baghdadacs@state.gov, via landline at 1-240-553-0581, extension 2413 (this number rings in Baghdad) or the U.S. Embassy's web site at http://iraq.usembassy.gov. The after-hours number in case of extreme emergency is GSM 1-914-822-1370 or Iraqna 07901-732-134.
* * * * * *
This replaces the Country Specific Information for Iraq dated January 22, 2008, to update sections on Country Description,
Entry/Exit Requirements, Safety and Security, Crime, Information for Victims of Crime, Medical Facilities and Health Information, Aviation Safety Oversight, and Registration/Embassy Location.
