- The best travel insurance plans for Iraq
- Current travel safety in Iraq
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Iraq?
- Why take out travel insurance for Iraq?
- What should travel insurance for Iraq cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Iraq
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Iraq
- Your current insurance coverage in Iraq
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Iraq: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Iraq covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and provides assistance during your trip.
2. Warning: The Australian Government advises 'Do Not Travel' to Iraq due to extreme security risks.
3. Key protection: Health insurance is legally mandatory for Australian travellers to enter the country of Iraq.
4. Minimum coverage: A specific Iraqi policy is required; no minimum dollar coverage amount is publicly specified.
5. Good to know: This mandatory insurance must be purchased through Iraq's official e-visa application platform before travel.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 38 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Iraq.
The best travel insurance plans for Iraq
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.7M | The best option for high-risk destinations like Iraq. - maximum medical cover - repatriation - crisis management |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.7M | Designed for travel to conflict zones and hazardous regions. - 24/7 helpline - evacuation - solid medical limits |
| Tourist Card | AUD 850,000 | Practical for essential emergencies in Iraq. - good medical ceiling - emergency assistance - quick activation |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.2M | A balanced solution for demanding trips. - hospital and evacuation - wide cover - trusted overseas partnerships |
| Globe Partner | AUD 500,000 | Reliable for international stays in Iraq. - simple claims - repatriation - essential medical protection |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 850,000 | For shorter and lower-risk stays in Iraq. - required minimum includes medical - speedy reimbursement - clear terms |
- maximum medical cover
- repatriation
- crisis management
- 24/7 helpline
- evacuation
- solid medical limits
- good medical ceiling
- emergency assistance
- quick activation
- hospital and evacuation
- wide cover
- trusted overseas partnerships
- simple claims
- repatriation
- essential medical protection
- required minimum includes medical
- speedy reimbursement
- clear terms
Current travel safety in Iraq
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises do not travel to Iraq due to armed conflict, the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. The entire country, including the Kurdistan Region, is considered highly dangerous for travellers from Australia.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and armed violence are frequent, especially in cities like Baghdad, Basra, and Mosul. Movement restrictions are common, and curfews may be imposed without notice.
- Health risks: serious outbreaks of cholera, typhoid, and other communicable diseases occur regularly. Medical facilities are limited, and evacuation for critical care is often needed, particularly outside Baghdad or Erbil.
- Legal constraints: entry may be refused if your passport contains Israeli stamps. Mandatory health checks are carried out on arrival, and travellers with HIV/AIDS are prohibited from entering Iraq.
- Environmental and cultural risks: summer temperatures can exceed 50°C, and water shortages are frequent throughout central and southern Iraq. Travellers should also respect conservative customs, particularly during religious festivals.
Travel insurance is legally mandatory to enter Iraq. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Iraq?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Australian travellers to enter Iraq.
All visitors must purchase Iraqi health insurance through the National Electronic Insurance platform when applying for the e-visa. A printed insurance certificate must be shown at immigration on arrival. This insurance must cover at least medical care and repatriation costs throughout the entire stay.
Why take out travel insurance for Iraq?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Iraq.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Iraq.
Iraqi hospitals such as Ibn al-Nafees Hospital in Baghdad or private facilities in Erbil often require full payment for care, and facilities may be basic outside major cities. Medical evacuation to Dubai or Amman is frequently necessary and can be extremely expensive.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Iraq.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Ibn al-Nafees Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 3,400,000 IQD (3,300 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 2,900,000 IQD (2,800 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
| I need to be repatriated | 48,000,000 IQD (46,500 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 11,000,000 IQD (10,700 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Iraq cover?
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Iraq.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Legally required |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital care, medical consultations, medications, and surgery in private and public Iraqi hospitals. Minimum recommended reimbursement limit: AUD 250,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Covers evacuation to Australia or another safe country in case of serious illness, injury or political unrest. Minimum recommended reimbursement limit: AUD 800,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Includes urgent air or ground transfer to regional medical hubs, such as Dubai or Amman. Minimum recommended reimbursement limit: AUD 250,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🧳 Baggage and personal belongings | Covers theft, loss or damage to luggage during your stay or transit. We recommend at least AUD 5,000 per person. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 👨🦽 Personal liability | Protects against claims if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Recommended minimum: AUD 1,000,000. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 💼 Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses travel and accommodation costs if your trip is cancelled or cut short by unforeseen events. At least AUD 10,000 cover for bookings. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 📞 24/7 assistance | Provides 24/7 English-speaking helpline for emergencies, advice and support. Always ensure unlimited access in Iraq. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
Minimum recommended reimbursement limit: AUD 250,000.
Minimum recommended reimbursement limit: AUD 800,000.
Minimum recommended reimbursement limit: AUD 250,000.
We recommend at least AUD 5,000 per person.
Recommended minimum: AUD 1,000,000.
At least AUD 10,000 cover for bookings.
Always ensure unlimited access in Iraq.
Important information
Travel insurance is required for the e-visa application to Iraq regardless of the trip duration. The policy must cover at least medical expenses, hospitalisation, and repatriation during your full stay. Bring a printed English certificate and check all entry requirements before departure.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually has limited coverage, low benefit limits, and many exclusions. Choosing a comprehensive policy from a recognised insurer is the safest approach. Compare top offers on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Iraq
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 148 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 196 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 284 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 520 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
Your travel insurance cost for Iraq depends on factors like your age, trip duration, and required coverage level. As Iraq is a high-risk destination, expect higher premiums. Remember, specific Iraqi health insurance is mandatory with your e-visa. Keeping these points in mind is crucial for securing appropriate cover and managing your travel budget effectively.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Iraq
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Iraq while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | You pay based on the number of days covered, regardless of destination. | Choose only the dates you need, as extending coverage adds unnecessary cost. |
| 🚶 Traveller's age | Older travellers often pay higher premiums, which can be significant for Iraq. | Compare policies, as Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, unlike other insurers. |
| 🎒 Level of coverage | Iraq has high medical and evacuation costs, making sufficient cover essential. | Select a plan with high medical and evacuation cover, but avoid extras you don’t need for your trip. |
| 👫 Number of travellers | Family or group rates help reduce costs compared to individual policies. | Take advantage of family or group insurance to lower per-person premiums. |
| 🎯 Activities planned | High-risk activities can increase your premium, and some may require extra cover. | Only declare activities you are certain to do, and skip unnecessary sports or adventure coverage. |
| 🏥 Existing medical conditions | Premiums rise significantly if you declare pre-existing illnesses. | Shop around for insurers specialising in travellers with medical conditions for the best rates. |
| ⏳ Deductible/excess chosen | A higher excess lowers the upfront premium but leads to larger out-of-pocket expenses. | Choose a higher excess only if you are comfortable paying more yourself in the event of a claim. |
Important
Travel insurance is mandatory to enter Iraq from Australia. You must present a certificate that covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, and repatriation for your whole trip. Minimum limits should be at least AUD 250,000 for medical and evacuation cover.
Your current insurance coverage in Iraq
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage like credit card insurance or private or public health systems can protect you during a trip to Iraq. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. For Australian travellers, travel insurance is mandatory for entry to Iraq, as only it meets embassy requirements. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Iraq? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | May cover emergencies in Australia only, with no overseas or evacuation coverage. | Travel insurance can reimburse up to AUD 1,000,000 for medical and evacuation. Covers repatriation and travel disruption. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Some plans cover overseas hospitalisation up to AUD 50,000, but do not always include repatriation or emergencies. | Travel insurance provides higher limits (up to AUD 1,000,000), and includes evacuation, theft, and all medical incidents. |
| Classic credit card (ANZ, Westpac, NAB) | Limited coverage | May offer basic travel health and baggage cover, up to AUD 100,000, excludes high-risk countries and pre-existing conditions. | Travel insurance offers up to AUD 1,000,000 for medical, theft, evacuation, and includes travel to high-risk destinations. |
| Premium credit card (American Express Platinum, CBA Diamond, Citi Prestige) | Limited coverage | Often includes higher limits (up to AUD 500,000) for medical and delayed flights. Usually excludes chronic illness and war zones. | Travel insurance usually reimburses up to AUD 1,000,000, including high-risk cover, extended medical, and lost documents. |
Example
After a car crash in Baghdad, Liam needed urgent medical evacuation costing AU$90,000. His CommBank card's insurance was void due to the 'Do Not Travel' warning. The mandatory local Iraqi insurance only covered AU$2,000 for initial treatment, leaving him to fund the massive AU$88,000 shortfall himself.
Expert advice
Trip interruptions, like a relative's illness, are often excluded from credit card and health fund policies. Scrutinise your existing cover to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, taking out dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip is safer and more reassuring.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Iraq?
Yes, Australian citizens must obtain an electronic visa (e-visa) for travel to Iraq. You need to apply online before departure, as airline staff will not allow you to board without a valid e-visa. Visa-on-arrival is not available for Australians.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Iraq?
Start by comparing offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check cover and exclusions relevant to Iraq, such as war risks and medical evacuation. Purchase your chosen policy online, then make sure to download and print your insurance certificate, as you may be asked to present a hard copy at the border.
What documents do I need to present on arrival in Iraq?
To enter Iraq, you must show a valid Australian passport, a printed e-visa, and a hard copy of your travel health insurance certificate. You will also need to visit the Immunodeficiency Screening Centre in Iraq for mandatory health checks within 10 days of arrival. Entry may be refused if your passport contains Israeli stamps or visas.
Are there any specific risks that make travel insurance especially important in Iraq?
Yes, Iraq poses significant security risks such as terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict, in addition to widespread disease risks and poor medical infrastructure outside major cities. Travel insurance is legally required and should include cover for medical costs, emergency evacuation, and personal accidents to provide adequate support in this high-risk destination.
How much does travel insurance for Iraq usually cost for Australians?
Insurance for Iraq is typically more expensive than for other destinations, due to the high-risk environment. Expect to pay at least AUD 180 to AUD 350 for a two-week policy, depending on the level of cover, your age, and whether you include coverage for war and terrorism. Prices vary by provider, so always compare policies carefully.
Do I need a visa to travel to Iraq?
Yes, Australian citizens must obtain an electronic visa (e-visa) for travel to Iraq. You need to apply online before departure, as airline staff will not allow you to board without a valid e-visa. Visa-on-arrival is not available for Australians.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Iraq?
Start by comparing offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check cover and exclusions relevant to Iraq, such as war risks and medical evacuation. Purchase your chosen policy online, then make sure to download and print your insurance certificate, as you may be asked to present a hard copy at the border.
What documents do I need to present on arrival in Iraq?
To enter Iraq, you must show a valid Australian passport, a printed e-visa, and a hard copy of your travel health insurance certificate. You will also need to visit the Immunodeficiency Screening Centre in Iraq for mandatory health checks within 10 days of arrival. Entry may be refused if your passport contains Israeli stamps or visas.
Are there any specific risks that make travel insurance especially important in Iraq?
Yes, Iraq poses significant security risks such as terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict, in addition to widespread disease risks and poor medical infrastructure outside major cities. Travel insurance is legally required and should include cover for medical costs, emergency evacuation, and personal accidents to provide adequate support in this high-risk destination.
How much does travel insurance for Iraq usually cost for Australians?
Insurance for Iraq is typically more expensive than for other destinations, due to the high-risk environment. Expect to pay at least AUD 180 to AUD 350 for a two-week policy, depending on the level of cover, your age, and whether you include coverage for war and terrorism. Prices vary by provider, so always compare policies carefully.
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