Covid-19 testing for, and in, Iraq
Exquisite detail at Baghdad’s al-Mustansiriyya Madrasa.
Pre-arrival PCR testing
If you’re flying to Iraq, you’ll need a negative PCR result, from a test taken within the 72 hours before your flight departure (or within 48 hours if you’re flying into Iraqi Kurdistan).
If you’re London-based, we recommend Elite Safety Clinic. With a fast and reliable turnaround of results, it offers a collection service within Central London’s Zone One and a walk-in option in the rear section of Queens Health Food store which, if you’re picking up a pre-travel visa, is conveniently located one minute’s walk from the Iraqi Consulate and a five-minute stroll from the Iraqi Embassy.
You should print out a copy of your PCR test results. You will need to show this when you’re checking in and again at Baghdad airport.
There is also an online portal which should be completed prior to arrival. This is relatively straightforward, although one section did not seem applicable to us so we just pressed the “completed” option and successfully submitted the form. Completing this form does not (to date) generate a QR code or any kind of acknowledgement. We took a screenshot but, in our experience, no-one asks for any evidence that this form has been completed.
PCR testing in Baghdad
You also need a negative PCR test for flying out of Iraq. Although many pharmacies offer PCR tests, we understand that, for travel purposes, a Ministry of Health-approved test centre should be used.
In Baghdad, we use the National Laboratory for Pathological Analysis, which provides a decent service and is also used by many international organisations. Located in Baghdad’s Harathia district (business card below), the facility has good hygiene protocols and some English is spoken.
This walk-in service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you arrive at an inhospitable time and find the doors locked and the whole place shrouded in darkness, rest assured, someone is inside. Phone the number on the door and a nurse will answer, take your details (you should have your passport with you) and do the PCR test. The facility is well-staffed and more active during normal working hours.
For internationals, prices are:
PCR for travel (VIP service - 4 hours) - IQD110,000
PCR for travel (ordinary service - 24 hours) - IQD85,000
[PCR tests for reasons other than travel are slightly cheaper, and all tests are considerably cheaper for Iraqis.]
We have only used the VIP service, to date, and have found it efficient and fairly timely, although once our results were a couple of hours later than expected. The certificate, which should be collected in person, has a functioning QR code and is stamped, signed, embossed and presented in a plastic sleeve.
Showing test results at Baghdad Airport
Entering Iraq, you will need to show your negative PCR certificate as soon as you enter the terminal building. It is preferable to carry a paper copy.
Leaving Iraq, your negative PCR certificate will probably be visually checked at one or more of the security points on the way into the airport. Inside the terminal, the QR code will be scanned (and the name checked against your passport) before you can enter the check-in area. The check-in desk will also likely ask to see the PCR certificate, along with - for UK travellers - proof of booking and payment for any mandatory post-arrival tests.
Information was correct in March 2021. Before confirming travel plans, we advise you check current regulations with your nearest Iraqi embassy, as well as your own government’s foreign ministry advice.
