The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Ministry of Interior has announced a set of measures aimed at facilitating procedures for foreign nationals who were unable to travel, renew residency permits, or complete related formalities due to war conditions.
Under the new decision, foreign nationals whose residency cards expired on or after 28 February 2026 and who were unable to return to the Kurdistan Region will be allowed to re-enter using the same residency cards until 30 April 2026. After their return, residency permits will be renewed at the Residency Directorates in accordance with existing regulations, without late fees. After 30 April 2026, entry will require a new visa.
The Ministry also stated that foreign nationals whose residency cards or passports have expired, or have limited validity, and who were unable to travel due to the war, will be permitted to leave the region without penalties. Those wishing to depart by 30 April 2026 can obtain a free exit stamp from the Residency Directorates. Individuals whose passport issuance was delayed due to the conflict will also be exempt from residency late fees, provided they can present proof of application processing.
In addition, foreign nationals who entered the Kurdistan Region on tourist visas and have overstayed due to inability to leave since 28 February 2026 will be allowed to exit through airports or border crossings without incurring fines until 30 April 2026. Those wishing to convert their tourist visas into residency permits may do so under applicable regulations and will also be exempt from related late fees.
The Ministry emphasized that these measures are intended to ease legal and administrative burdens on foreign residents and visitors affected by exceptional circumstances.
