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Iraq Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

South African citizens need an Iraq e-Visa before travel - apply online at evisa.gov.iq; fee around USD 75, processing 3-5 business days, single entry for a 30-day stay.

Guide last updated October 22, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Digital passport-style photo (JPEG, white background, no glasses) uploaded during the online application
  • Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
  • Hotel booking or proof of accommodation in Iraq for the full stay
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement or card statement from the last 3 months)
  • Travel health insurance covering Iraq is strongly recommended, though not always checked at the border
  • No biometrics required for the e-Visa itself; fingerprints may be taken on arrival at some airports

Visa types

  • Tourist e-Visa: single entry, valid 60 days from issue date for use, allows a stay of up to 30 days, fee approximately USD 75
  • Business e-Visa: single entry, requires an invitation letter from an Iraqi company, fee approximately USD 75, stay up to 30 days
  • Multiple-entry e-Visa: available for some business travelers on request through the e-Visa portal, higher fee around USD 150-200
  • Visa on arrival at Baghdad and Erbil airports remains possible for South Africans as a fallback, but the e-Visa is strongly recommended to avoid airport delays

How to apply online

  • Go to the official portal at evisa.gov.iq and create an account
  • Complete the application form with passport details, travel dates, and purpose of visit
  • Upload your passport bio page scan and digital photo
  • Pay the e-Visa fee online by credit or debit card (around USD 75 for tourist single entry)
  • Processing typically takes 3-5 business days; you receive an approval letter by email
  • Print the approval letter and present it with your passport at immigration on arrival - the physical visa sticker/stamp is issued at the airport against the approval
  • Double-check entry point compatibility, as not all land borders accept the e-Visa

Fees & processing time

  • E-Visa fee: approximately USD 75 (paid online, no separate service fee since there is no VFS/BLS intermediary)
  • Total cost estimate: USD 75-80 including minor card processing charges
  • Standard processing time: 3-5 business days
  • No official express service is offered; apply at least 10 days before travel to allow for delays
  • Visa on arrival (if used instead) costs roughly USD 80 in cash (USD only) plus a short queue at the airport

Tips for South Africa travelers

  • Apply for the e-Visa at least 2 weeks before departure to leave room for processing delays
  • Common rejection/delay reasons: blurry passport scans, mismatched names between passport and payment card, and incomplete accommodation details
  • The Iraqi Embassy in Pretoria can assist with business invitation letters but does not issue the e-Visa directly - the online portal is the only route
  • The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation advises checking current travel advisories for Iraq before booking, given the volatile security situation in parts of the country
  • Extensions beyond 30 days must be arranged in person at the Directorate of Residency in Baghdad before the visa expires

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.