Visa-on-arrival program launched, available for some business travel

Iraq has launched a visa-on-arrival program for nationals of a number of countries.

Key Points:

• Sixty-day visas on arrival are now available to nationals of Australia, Canada, China, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States and European Union member states.
• The visas are available for a fee of US$52.
• The visas can be used for a limited number of business activities, including:
  • Attending internal company meetings or negotiating contracts.
  • Attending conferences or seminars.
  • Exploring business or investment opportunities.
  • Receiving training.
  • Receiving legal services for help in forming new business entities.
• Visas on arrival are non-transferrable.
• Visas on arrival are not available for defense contractors.
• The program covers Federal Iraq. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) runs a separate visa regime.

Analysis & Comments: The change could ease visa procedures for some travelers and may prove an easier option than the consular visa process for some travel. Officials implemented the program in hopes of drawing more business and investment to Iraq. There are limits on the program, however, and employers are encouraged to work closely with Deloitte if they have questions about which visa is the best option for employees visiting Iraq.

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