Iraq
VERIFIED · MAY 202621 ENTRIESOTHER
Iraq is in Other. Review the laws below before your trip — every entry has a source link, and the verdict layer is sorted worst-first.
HEADS UP
Federal Iraq and Kurdistan Region (KRG) have different practical rules. Several Western governments advise against travel to specific areas. Anti-LGBTQ+ law (April 2024) criminalizes same-sex relations. Photography of military restricted.
DO NOT BRING
Same-sex relations · Drug trafficking · Insulting Islam / blasphemy
Medications
4 entriesSubstances
4 entriesItems
3 entriesActivities
4 entriesDigital
3 entriesCOMMON MISCONCEPTIONS
- Iraq is not a single legal environment — Federal vs KRG differs substantially on alcohol, dress, and licensing.
- April 2024 anti-LGBTQ+ amendments apply across all of Iraq, including Kurdistan.
JURISDICTION NOTES
- Kurdistan Region (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok) operates under autonomous KRG law — alcohol, dress, and tourism rules are notably more relaxed.
- Federal alcohol-sale ban (2023) is unevenly enforced — bars and restaurants in Baghdad still operate but public sale is restricted.
- Several Western governments advise against travel to specific governorates; check current advisories.
OFFICIAL SOURCES
Last verified · May 2026
Information only. Not legal advice. Laws change and enforcement varies — consult a qualified attorney for your jurisdiction before acting.