Iraq

Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, crime, health risks, and the U.

to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, crime, health risks, and the U.S. government’s limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq.

Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq due to the safety risks.

The Iraqi government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions 

The Department of State requires U.S. government personnel working in Iraq to live and work under strict security protocols due to serious threats.  

Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees need special authorization to travel to Iraq. Only family members who meet the following requirements may join U.S. government employees working in Iraq:

• Are 21 years of age or older, and
• Are employed by the U.S. government.

Kidnapping

U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping.

Terrorism

There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iraq.   Terrorists, including Iran-aligned militias and ISIS, encourage and conduct attacks against U.S. persons and interests in Iraq.  Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Crime and armed conflict

Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies.  Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas, including major cities.  Targets of recent attacks have included hotels, universities, energy infrastructure, airports, and other locations perceived as affiliated with the United States, including diplomatic facilities.

Health

Emergency and intensive care facilities in Iraq are limited and likely unavailable outside of the largest cities.

If you need emergency medical assistance, hospitals, doctors, ambulances, and medical supplies may be low quality or unavailable.  Problems with transportation, roads, and safety can result in delays if you need medical evacuation.

Aviation safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) and a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) prohibiting certain flights in the region.  This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or near Iraq.

• For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.