E-Visa Becomes the New Norm: How Countries Like India, Brazil, and Turkey Are Streamlining Travel
In recent years, there has been a significant global shift from traditional visa-on-arrival systems to electronic visa (e-visa) platforms.
In recent years, there has been a significant global shift from traditional visa-on-arrival systems to electronic visa (e-visa) platforms. This transition aims to enhance security, streamline entry processes, and improve the overall travel experience. Countries such as India, Brazil, Turkey, Australia, Kenya, and Sri Lanka have already adopted e-visa systems, and Iraq has recently joined this trend.
Iraq's Transition to E-Visa System
As of March 2025, Iraq has replaced its visa-on-arrival policy with an e-visa system. Travellers from various countries are now required to obtain an e-visa before entering Iraq. This move is expected to reduce waiting times at border crossings and enhance compliance with immigration policies.
Affected Countries
The new e-visa requirement applies to travellers from the following regions:
European Union Nations: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.
Non-EU Countries: Australia, Canada, China, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, South Korea, Russia, United Kingdom, United States.
Travellers from these countries must apply for an e-visa before their journey to Iraq to avoid disruptions at the border.
Global Adoption of E-Visa Systems
Iraq's adoption of the e-visa model aligns with a global trend where several countries have phased out visa-on-arrival systems in favour of digitalized, pre-approved entry permits. Notable examples include:
India: In 2014, India replaced its visa-on-arrival scheme with an e-visa system for over 40 countries to boost tourism and enhance security.
Turkey: In 2013, Turkey eliminated visa-on-arrival, requiring travelers to apply for an e-visa online, thereby streamlining entry for visitors.
Australia: Australia expanded its e-visa access to several key markets, including China, India, and Indonesia, facilitating business and tourism.
Brazil: Brazil introduced an electronic visitor visa (e-visa) system for citizens of Australia, Canada, and the U.S., allowing seamless online applications.
Kenya: In 2021, Kenya discontinued physical visas and shifted entirely to e-visas, requiring all travellers to apply online before arrival.
Sri Lanka: In 2024, Sri Lanka reintroduced its e-visa system, replacing visa-on-arrival and mandating online applications before travel.
This growing shift toward e-visas reflects a global movement to modernize entry procedures, enhance border security, and improve travel efficiency.
Iraq's Efforts to Facilitate International Travel
Despite the recent tightening of entry rules, Iraq remains committed to facilitating smoother travel processes for certain travellers. The government has actively pursued visa exemption agreements with multiple nations. In September 2023, Iraq signed a mutual visa exemption agreement with Indonesia for holders of diplomatic and service passports. This agreement was confirmed after high-level discussions between Iraq's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. Both ministers emphasized the importance of easing entry restrictions to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between their countries, a model that Iraq may extend to other nations in the future.
Impact on Travelers
The transition to e-visa systems has several implications for travellers:
Pre-Travel Preparation: Travelers must apply for and obtain an e-visa before departure, necessitating planning.
Online Application Process: The e-visa application process is conducted entirely online, requiring applicants to have access to the Internet and digital payment methods.
Processing Times: While e-visas are generally processed quickly, travellers should be aware of the processing times and apply accordingly to avoid delays.
Documentation: Applicants must ensure they have all necessary documentation, such as a valid passport and recent photographs, in digital formats suitable for upload during the application process.
