The KRG residency and visa overstay penalties have been temporarily waived for many foreign nationals affected by the recent war conditions, under a new decision by the Kurdistan Regional Government Ministry of Interior.
The ministry said the move is meant to help foreign residents and visitors who were unable to travel, renew residency permits, or leave the Kurdistan Region because of the conflict. The exemptions apply in several cases and remain in effect until 30 April 2026.
Re-Entry Allowed With Expired Residency Cards
Under the first decision, foreign nationals whose residency cards expired on or after 28 February 2026 and who could not return to the Kurdistan Region may re-enter using the same residency card until 30 April 2026.
After returning, they can renew their residency cards through the Residency Directorates under the normal legal process, but without paying late fees. The ministry said anyone seeking entry after 30 April 2026 will need to obtain a new visa.
Exit Permitted Without Penalties
The second decision covers foreign nationals whose residency cards expired on or after 28 February 2026, as well as those whose passports expired or had limited validity during the war period.
The ministry said these individuals may leave the Kurdistan Region without penalties. Those planning to travel abroad before 30 April 2026 can visit Residency Directorates to receive an exit stamp free of charge.
The waiver also applies to people whose passport issuance was delayed because of war-related conditions. In those cases, applicants must present documents showing that their passport request had already been properly submitted. If they do, they will not be charged residency late fees.
Tourist Visa Overstay Fines Also Waived
The third decision applies to foreign nationals who entered the Kurdistan Region on tourist visas and have not been able to leave since 28 February 2026.
According to the ministry, those individuals may now exit through airports or border crossings until 30 April 2026 without paying overstay fines.
The ministry also said that visitors who want to convert a tourist visa into a residency permit may do so under the existing legal rules. In such cases, they will also be exempt from late fees linked to residency issuance.
Relief Measure During a Period of Disruption
The decision offers short-term relief for foreign nationals who faced legal and travel problems because of the war. It also gives residents, visa holders, and tourists a limited window to regularize their status or leave the region without added financial pressure.
The ministry’s announcement sets a clear deadline of 30 April 2026, making it important for affected foreign nationals to complete their travel or residency steps before that date.
Leave a comment