COVID-19 Information
Last updated: 12/9/2020
The United States Government does not plan to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to private U.S. citizens overseas. Please follow host country developments and guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination.
Country-Specific Information:
Iraq has confirmed cases of COVID-19 within its borders. National airports are open. Direct Flights to/from Kuwait, and Bahrain are not operating as of October 27. On September 20, the Government of Iraq lifted the curfew and restrictions on public gatherings. Social distancing rules remain in place but are not evenly followed or enforced. The Iraqi Government does not place any restrictions on travel between provinces. Entry to Iraq for tourism and religious purposes is now allowed. Restaurants, auditoriums, places of worship, and hotels are open. Government departments are permitted to resume working, with full staffing. Malls and shops are open with social distancing and hygiene measures in place, and cafes and restaurants are now open. Schools reopened on November 29, 2020. Entry to Iraq is permitted exclusively through Iraqi international airports. Land borders are open to commerce and trade only.
In the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR), Decree #52 (October 26, 2020) imposes a 20,000 Iraqi dinar fine (approximately 17USD) on individuals “seen outside” without a mask. The decree also obligates public and private sector institutions to require employees to wear masks and requires masks of passengers in vehicles. Conferences, weddings, funerals, and gatherings are banned; violators face fines of 2,000,000 Iraqi Dinars. Markets or shops where customers do not adhere to prevention guidelines may be closed.
Entry and Exit Requirements:
- Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes
- Airports throughout Iraq are open. Travelers should be aware that a flight suspension may be implemented at any time and on short notice.
- Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes
- The PCR and/or serology must be completed less than 72 hours before departure to Iraq.
- Are health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry? Yes
Movement Restrictions:
- Is a curfew in place? No
- Are there restrictions on intercity or interstate travel? No
Quarantine Information:
- Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? No
COVID-19 Testing:
- Public hospitals throughout Iraq are offering COVID-19 testing in country. In addition, the following private labs offer testing and are authorized by the Government of Iraq to provide tests to those intending to travel:
The Al-Istishari Medical Lab
Located next to Al-Yarmook Hospital, Baghdad
0771 100 0881
8:00am to 5:00pm except Fridays, by appointment only
Approximately $110.00 per exam
Molecular Biology Specialized Lab
Alwathiq Square, Salman Faeq Street, Baghdad
0771 391 0521
Closed on Fridays, by appointment only
Zanko Health Clinic
Near 18 Shubat Street, opposite Muhameed Majidi School, Erbil
0750 146 8484
Transportation Options:
- Are commercial flights operating? Yes
- Is public transportation operating? Yes
- Taxis, trains and public buses are operational, as are some mini-buses.
Fines for Non-Compliance:
- Individuals not complying with curfew, social distancing, or masking requirements may be subject to fines. Those not complying at the airport may be denied boarding.
Consular Operations:
- Emergency services for U.S. citizens are offered at the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil. Please contact ErbilACS@state.gov to request an emergency appointment.
- Visa services are suspended countrywide.
Local Resources:
Other links:
