ERBIL (Hatha Al-Yaum) - The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has launched an emergency coordination plan to facilitate the return of citizens stranded abroad following the recent regional escalation and the suspension of international flights.
Following directives from the Ministry of Interior and the Department of Foreign Relations (DFR), the KRG has secured an agreement with the Republic of Turkey to grant 5-day transit visas to citizens wishing to return to the Kurdistan Region via Turkish land borders.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
To benefit from these facilities, citizens must follow these specific procedures:
Online Registration: Fill out the official assistance form here: https://forms.gle/E3zcfaVPFzc1VKbx9
Contact Hotlines: For inquiries, dedicated lines are available via WhatsApp, Viber, and Telegram:
+964 750 803 5680
+964 750 803 5681
Visa Issuance: After receiving notification from the hotlines, citizens must visit the nearest Turkish diplomatic mission (Consulate or Embassy) to obtain a 5-day transit visa.
Key Requirements and Restrictions
Airlines: Travel to Turkey must be booked exclusively through Turkish airlines (to any Turkish airport).
Documentation: The facility is strictly for Iraqi passport holders. Citizens holding other passports (e.g., Dominica) must present their Iraqi passport at the Turkish mission.
Legal Status: Applicants must not be on any Turkish "no-entry" lists or have prior legal violations in Turkey.
Validity: The transit visa is valid for only 5 days; travelers are advised to synchronize their flight bookings with the visa issuance.
The KRG emphasized that these measures are temporary and will remain in effect until Iraqi and Kurdistan Region airspace is fully reopened. Specialized teams will be stationed at the Ibrahim Khalil border crossing to assist citizens upon their arrival.