Which Iraq visa rules apply to a British citizen born in Iraq with Iraqi heritage?

Your entry rules depend on whether you travel on an Iraqi travel document or on your British passport.

1. Travel with an Iraqi passport. If you hold a valid Iraqi passport, you enter Iraq as an Iraqi citizen without a visa. If your Iraqi passport is expired or lost, you can apply for a six-month transit document at the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in London before you travel.

2. Travel with a British passport. If you travel only with your British passport, you must meet foreign visitor rules. Your British passport must have at least six months of validity remaining after arrival. Apply for an electronic visa at least 24 hours before departure through the Iraqi Electronic Visa Portal. You must also carry a confirmed return or onward ticket.

3. Airline boarding and heritage rules. Official Iraqi consular rules state that persons born in Iraq who hold foreign passports do not require a visa to enter Iraq, as published in Iraqi consular guidance. However, commercial airlines check passport nationality at departure. Airlines can require travellers of Iraqi origin to obtain an entry visa when boarding or transiting to prevent boarding refusal. Consular visa fees are waived for applicants of Iraqi origin who submit proof of Iraqi origin, such as a copy of the Iraqi identity card or nationality certificate of either parent.

If you are not sure how entry requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in London. When returning to the United Kingdom, dual nationals must carry a valid British passport, as outlined by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Checked on 2026-10-06.