Iraq: Authorities maintain COVID-19 domestic and entry restrictions as of Oct. 18 /update 99

Event

Iraqi authorities are maintaining ongoing restrictions as of Oct. 18 to curb the spread of COVID-19. A nightly 00:01-05:00 curfew remains in place until further notice. All large gatherings remain banned. Authorities are also maintaining mandatory social distancing protocols and the use of facemasks in public.

All tourists remain banned from entering the country until further notice. Iraqi citizens are permitted to return, subject to a 14-day quarantine upon arrival. Individuals authorized to travel to Iraq, including diplomats, government officials, pilgrims, and individuals working in international organizations, must present a negative COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours before arrival. All arrivals are required to quarantine for 14 days. Authorities will exempt those who are traveling on a short stay.

Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG)
Authorities have restricted movement between the Kurdish region and the rest of Iraq to curb the spread of COVID-19. Individuals who test negative for COVID-19 upon arrival are exempt. The wearing of facemasks remains mandatory in all public places and vehicles when there are other passengers. All large gatherings, including funerals, weddings, concerts, sporting events, and conferences, are banned. Restaurants and cafes may operate using outdoor spaces. Cinemas, commercial centers, and markets are closed regionwide. Individuals who do not adhere to the measures are subject to fines.

Those traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan require a negative PCR test result taken less than 48 hours before their arrival. Official delegations, business travelers, and tourists on short-stay trips are not required to self-isolate if the PCR test is negative.

Airports in the region are operational; all outbound and inbound travelers must prove that they tested negative for COVID-19 no more than 72 hours before their flight. Outbound passengers who wish to take the COVID-19 test must arrive at government-designated clinics with passports, facemasks, and at least IQD 100,000; authorities will only accept Iraqi currency for payment. Test results are likely to arrive within 24-48 hours. Travelers intending to take the test at the airport for outbound flights may face delays. Authorities will exempt officials, business travelers, and tourists on a short stay.

Authorities could ease restrictions related to COVID-19 or implement additional preventative measures, depending on the disease activity in the coming days and weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

Government of Iraq
Kurdistan Regional Government
World Health Organization (WHO)