What should I do if payment verification or a bank security code fails?

Question

Accepted Answer

If your payment verification or bank security code fails, stop and check your bank records before you try again. Failed verification usually happens when your bank flags the transaction as high risk, when two-factor authentication codes expire, or when security pop-up windows cannot open in your browser.

### Steps to resolve payment verification failures

1. Check your bank account or card app first. Look for a pending charge or debit before you enter your details again. If the bank processed the transaction, wait for the portal status to update rather than sending another payment.
2. Confirm your security code settings. Make sure your phone receives text messages from your bank without delay. Many banks now use an authentication prompt inside their mobile app instead of a text message code. Open your banking app to see if an approval request is waiting.
3. Call your bank to approve the transaction. Many foreign card issuers automatically block payments to Iraqi government websites. Ask your card issuer to permit online international charges for the Republic of Iraq, and request that they clear security holds for 3D Secure verification.
4. Allow browser pop-up windows and turn off VPN connections. Bank security screens load in an authentication window or frame. Pop-up blockers, ad blockers, and active VPN services can interrupt the security verification step. Use a clean browser window with pop-ups and cookies enabled.
5. Try an alternative card if the bank block continues. If your bank cannot clear the security verification, try a different international debit or credit card.
6. Check jurisdiction and alternative consular channels. The official [Iraqi Electronic Visa Portal](https://evisa.iq/en) covers entry to Federal Iraq. The Kurdistan Regional Government runs a separate electronic visa service for travel limited to the Kurdistan Region. If online card payment remains impossible, foreign passport holders can consult consular instructions from diplomatic missions such as the [Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in London](https://mofa.gov.iq/london/?page_id=1428) or the [Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Washington](https://www.iraqiembassy.us/page/visas). Consular visas cost $50 USD cash, or $150 USD cash for US citizens, while applicants of verified Iraqi origin receive a fee waiver.

### Fees and refund terms

- Government fee versus extra charges. The standard tourist eVisa for Federal Iraq costs $160 USD, as recorded by the [UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office](https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/iraq/entry-requirements). That amount is the official government charge. Commercial visa agencies add separate service fees, and your bank may add foreign exchange costs.
- No guaranteed refund. Official government visa fees are non-refundable once you submit an application.
- No verified processing deadline. The official portal provides no verified processing deadline. For persistent portal payment failures, contact the Directorate of Residency Affairs at +964 772 111 1434.

Checked on 2026-10-08.