Money and duty free for Iraq
Currency and Money
Currency information
Iraqi Dinar (IQD; symbol ID) = 20 dirhams = 1,000 fils. Notes are in denominations of ID25,000, 10,000, 5,000, 1,000, 500, 250 and 50. Coins are in denominations of ID100 and 25.
Note: This information is subject to frequent change in the current conditions.
Credit cards
One of the main Iraqi banks, Warka Bank, has 350 ATMs in 120 branches across Iraq in most cities and towns. The location of their ATMs are listed on their website: www.warka-bank.com.
Note: The banking and financial infrastructure has been disrupted and is in the process of rebuilding. Hotels usually require payment in foreign currency.
ATM
One of the main Iraqi banks, Warka Bank, has 350 ATMs in 120 branches across Iraq in most cities and towns. The location of their ATMs are listed on their website: www.warka-bank.com.
Travellers cheques
Travellers cheques are not generally accepted in Iraq, though it is sometimes possible to do a deal with some merchants in city bazaars. Be warned that the rate will not be a good one. There are also Western Union branches available in main towns.
Banking hours
Sunday to Friday 08:00-12:30, Saturday 08:00-12:00. Banks close at 10:00 during Ramadan.
Currency restrictions
The import and export of local or foreign currency is limited to US$10,000 or equivalent.
Currency exchange
Foreign currency can be used at special duty-free shops in Baghdad up to a value of US$200. To obtain this concession, goods must be purchased within 20 days of arrival and passports must be produced.
Iraq duty free
Overview
The following goods may be imported into Iraq without incurring customs duty:
• 200 cigarettes or 25 cigarillos or 10 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
Since February 2023, a law has banned the import, production and sale of all kinds of alcoholic beverages. Violations are punishable by fines of up to IQD 25 million. Legal action is currently being taken against this law.
Residents of Iraq may import goods up to the value of ID500,000 within a 72-hour period. There is no specific value for non-residents, provided the goods are for personal use.
Banned Imports
Prohibited imports include alcoholic beverages, magazines, films and videos 'contrary to public norms', arms and ammunition, explosives and narcotics.
Restricted imports include non-military explosives, industrial materials used in explosive devices such as fertiliser, and fowl or poultry products from countries with outbreaks of avian influenza.
Banned Exports
Prohibited exports include magazines, films and videos 'contrary to public norms', historical artefacts, arms and ammunition, explosives and narcotics.
Restricted exports include non-military explosives, certain foodstuffs (eg sugar, tea and wheat), animals (excluding household pets), bar soap and detergents (other than for personal use), and certain manufactured goods (eg steel and wood), and date palm seedlings and shoots.
