Work visas
Iraqi Work Permit and Work Residency
The route for foreign nationals to work legally in Iraq, combining an employer-sponsored work permit with a residency permit.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Deadline to register for residency after arrival and the exact 50% employer quota are drawn from legal-practitioner summaries of Labour Law No. 37 of 2015; confirm current figures with the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. No official Ministry of Labour English URL verified.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Iraq government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Work permit (Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs) with residency permit
- Route type
- Work / employment
- Legal basis
- Labour Law No. 37 of 2015 (Articles 30–31)
- Sponsorship
- Employer-sponsored
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals with a job offer from an Iraqi employer
- Skilled workers and professionals sponsored by a company operating in Iraq
Requirements
- Valid passport with sufficient validity
- Entry visa and residency permit
- Authenticated educational and professional certificates
- Medical examination report from an approved clinic
- Police clearance certificate from the home country
- Signed and authenticated employment contract
What you can do
- Work legally for the sponsoring employer in Iraq
- Reside in Iraq for the duration of the permit
How to apply
- Enter on the appropriate visa, then apply for a residency permit at the Directorate of Residency within the required period after arrival
- The employer applies for the work permit through the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.