Visitors to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq can now benefit from a new electronic visa system (e-Visa Portal) launched by the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) Ministry of Interior, which simplifies the visa application process and makes it easier for travelers to obtain a visa prior to their arrival.

The process is fast and efficient, with most applications being processed within 72 hours. This new system is part of the KRG's efforts to promote tourism and encourage more visitors to the region, by making it easier for them to experience all that the Kurdistan region has to offer.

According to Hiwa Afandi, Deputy Minister and Head of the Department of Information Technology, “the e-Visa Portal is one of five key components of the recently implemented digital Border Crossing Control System, which enables smoother economic interaction between KRI and the world by providing an end-to-end digital solution for visa applications, particularly for citizens of countries eligible for visas on arrival.”

The e-visa system allows travelers to apply for a visa through the KRG's official website (https://visit.gov.krd) and receive their visa via email. The e-visa is valid for a period of 30 days and can be used for a single entry. Visitors can also extend their visa if they need to stay in the region for a longer period of time.

According to Dr Hemn Merany, general director of the Ministry of Interior, the introduction of the e-visa system is a positive development for visitors to the Kurdistan region. "It simplifies the visa application process, makes it more efficient, and encourages more people to visit this beautiful part of the world,” Merany said.

The new e-visa system is particularly beneficial for travelers from European countries, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the Gulf Countries. Citizens of these countries can also obtain their visas upon arrival at the Kurdistan Region’s airports and borders.

The Kurdistan region is home to stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people. With this new e-visa system, it is now easier than ever for visitors and tourists to explore and experience all that the region has to offer. The KRG hopes that this initiative will help to boost tourism in the region, promoting economic growth and creating more opportunities for the local population and international visitors.

According to Brigade Kamil M. Baqr Barznjy, the director of Erbil Residency, there has been a significant increase in the number of people who are interested in visiting the Kurdistan Region. “The good news is that the new e-visa system has made the process much more convenient for visitors. In just four months since the e-visa's introduction, over 40,000 foreign nationals from different parts of the world have already visited the Kurdistan Region”, Barznji said. 

The KRG has been making significant strides towards digitalizing its various systems, including tourism, banking, and government ministries. The government's efforts to modernize and streamline these areas are aimed at improving efficiency and accessibility while also increasing transparency and accountability. 

In addition to e-Visa Portal, the KRG is working on digitizing its banking systems to provide faster and more secure financial transactions. The government is also focused on transforming its ministries into more efficient and technology-driven organizations, allowing them to better serve the needs of the Kurdish population. These initiatives demonstrate the KRG's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and creating a more advanced and prosperous Kurdistan region.