Yes, you can enter Iraq overland from Kuwait, but only through the designated international crossing between the Abdali border post in Kuwait and the Safwan checkpoint in Iraq. Crossing elsewhere along the border is illegal and strictly prohibited.
Entry is never guaranteed and remains subject to border authority approval. Border operations can change or close without warning. To cross, you need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, an approved Iraqi visa arranged in advance, and legal entry permission for Kuwait. Visas on arrival are no longer issued for general travel to Iraq. You must apply for an electronic visa through the official Iraqi Electronic Visa Portal, print the approved paper eVisa, and present it at border control.
The permitted overland route follows Highway 80 north from Kuwait City past Al Jahra to the Abdali terminal. After completing Kuwait exit procedures, you cross the border corridor to Safwan, which connects north to Basra.
If you fly into Kuwait to travel overland to Iraq, you cannot transit airside. The land border is roughly 100 kilometers north of Kuwait International Airport, so you must clear Kuwait immigration and enter Kuwait landside. Your departing airline will check whether you meet Kuwait entry requirements, not Iraqi rules. If you lack a valid Kuwait visa or eligible visa-on-arrival status with onward tickets, the airline will deny boarding.
Official details are outlined on GOV.UK Iraq Travel Advice and Smartraveller Iraq Advice.
Checked on 2026-11-04.