Alright, folks, let’s talk about getting an Iraqi visa online. I just went through the process, and let me tell you, it was a bit of a journey. I decided to document everything, so here’s my step-by-step experience.
First Off, Why Iraq?
Well, I’ve always been fascinated by ancient history and different cultures, and Iraq is just packed with it. I figured, why not? It’s not your typical tourist spot, but that’s part of the appeal.
Starting the Application
First things first, I did a bunch of Googling to see what the deal was with Iraqi visas. It turns out, you need to apply through an online portal. No more trips to the embassy, which is a huge relief. I stumbled upon this site that claimed to be an official e-visa portal. Seemed legit, so I rolled with it. It said “VisitsVisa,” or something like that.

Filling Out the Forms
The application form was pretty straightforward, though I had to dig up a lot of information. They asked for the usual stuff – my passport details, address, all that jazz. But then they wanted a digital photo, which I had to get right. I snapped a few selfies until I got one that looked decent and met their requirements. I also had to provide details about where I’d be staying in Iraq. Luckily, I had already booked a hotel, so I just copied that information over.
Paying the Fee
Next up was the payment. It wasn’t cheap, but hey, it’s an investment in a new adventure. I entered my credit card details, said a little prayer, and hit submit. The site processed it pretty quickly, and I got a confirmation email almost immediately. That was a good sign.
The Waiting Game
After submitting everything, it was time to wait. The website said it could take a few days, even weeks, to process. So, I just had to be patient, which isn’t my strong suit, but I managed. I checked my email like a hawk every day, hoping for some news. Luckily, it took less than two weeks to get a response.
Approval and Printing
One fine morning, I got an email saying my visa was approved! I was so stoked. I logged back into the portal, downloaded the e-visa, and printed it out. The document itself was pretty official-looking, with my photo, a barcode, and all the necessary details.
Double-Checking Everything
Before packing my bags, I double-checked everything. Made sure the dates were correct, my name was spelled right – the whole nine yards. I even contacted the hotel again to confirm they were expecting me. Better safe than sorry, right?
Getting Ready to Go
With the visa in hand, I started getting ready for the trip. I read up on local customs, learned a few basic Arabic phrases, and packed my bags. I made sure to pack light but also had to consider the essentials for a place like Iraq – comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing, and a good hat for the sun.
Final Thoughts
Getting the Iraqi e-visa was a bit of a process, but it was totally doable. Just make sure you have all your information ready, follow the steps carefully, and be patient. It’s definitely worth it for the chance to explore such a historically rich country. I’m super excited for my trip and can’t wait to see what Iraq has in store for me.
If you’re thinking about applying for an Iraqi visa, go for it! Just be prepared for a bit of paperwork and a short wait. Trust me, if I can do it, anyone can.