Official Import Rules
Iraq requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate, and an import permit from the General Veterinary Directorate. Microchip recommended. Documents may need to be in Arabic or accompanied by certified Arabic translations. Arrival through Baghdad International Airport (BGW) or Erbil International Airport (EBL) in Kurdistan Region. Requirements and enforcement may vary between federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Free route planner
Turn these rules into your dog's step-by-step planCabin/cargo call, breed check, crate size and paperwork timing.Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip fitted before the rabies vaccination. The microchip number must match every certificate.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination must be valid before travel. Most routes require at least 21 days after a primary vaccination.
Health certificate or pet passport
Use an EU pet passport where accepted, or a government-endorsed animal health certificate for this route.
Rabies titer test
Build in the approved-lab antibody test and any mandatory waiting period before booking the flight.
Travel day
Carry originals, confirm airline pet acceptance, and keep the official authority page saved offline.
Breed & Public-Space Rules
No major national breed ban found
Still check airline policies, local rules, insurance requirements and any transit-country restrictions before booking.
Flying In: Cabin, Hold or Cargo
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
Varies
City & Housing Notes
Baghdad and Erbil are the main cities. The Kurdistan Region (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah) is generally more stable and has better infrastructure for expats. Pet culture is limited but growing in urban areas. Security conditions vary significantly by region.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Limited vet care. Erbil and Baghdad have a few adequate clinics. The Kurdistan Region generally has better services. For serious cases, Amman (Jordan) or Istanbul are referral options.
Leaving Iraq With Your Dog
Exit requires a health certificate. Processing and requirements may vary by region.
Videos & Route Walkthroughs
Use videos as lived-experience context, not as legal authority. Search for recent dog-owner route reports, airport collection walkthroughs, crate-loading examples and relocation-agent explainers, then verify every rule against the official source above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kurdistan Region different from federal Iraq?
Yes. The Kurdistan Region has its own governance and generally better security and infrastructure. Erbil is more practical for expats with pets.
Is vet care available?
Limited but available in Baghdad and Erbil. The Kurdistan Region has better services.
Is it safe to bring a dog?
Depends entirely on the region. Erbil and Sulaymaniyah are relatively stable. Other areas require careful security assessment.
Community Tips & Nearby Routes
Community reports are useful for practical details such as which cargo desk answers the phone, how long collection took, or whether a landlord asked for insurance. Treat them as tips, then verify rules with the authority and airline.