A Guide to UK Visa from Iraq for Iraqi Citizens 2020

This guidance aims at providing an overview of the UK visa from Iraq in 2019 for all types of entry clearance applications, especially for Iraqi citizens and nationals applying for the UK tourist, family and business visitor visa for the very first time. Accordingly, the post provides the details of all types of UK visa application fees and cost in Iraqi Dinar (IQD) and US$ from Iraq. In fact, the post also tries to answer faqs relating to the UK visa requirements, processing time and refusal rates from Iraq. And also explain the usefulness of UK visa priority and TLS Connect added-value services from Baghdad, Basra and Erbil, Iraq.

How many Iraqi citizens apply for UK visa and immigration?

Perhaps, approximately more than 10K Iraqi citizens every year apply for a UK visa. During 2018-19, Iraqi nationals have been granted a UK visa in all the broad categories i.e. temporary visits, spouse and family settlement, study and work.

UK visa applications from Iraqi citizens 2019 Q2

During the Jan-March 2019 quarter, 3,222 Iraqi nationals applied for UK entry clearance applications. Accordingly, 2,897 entry clearance decisions made on the UK visa applications made by Iraqi citizens during the Jan-Mar 2019 quarter. And 1,797 visas granted, 1,059 applications refused. Moreover, 41 applications withdrawn and no application lapsed. Accordingly, so far the UK visa success and refusal rate from Iraq during 2019 has been 62.03% and 36.56%, respectively.

No of Decisions 2016-18

In fact, during 2016-18 the total number of decisions made on the UK visa applications submitted by Iraqi citizens hovers in the range of 9-10K.

Grants 2016-18

Evidently, during 2016-18 the number of UK visa grants to Iraqi nationals hovers in the range of 4.5-6K. And quite clearly, in 2018 the number of grants considerably increased to 6.2K from 4.5K in 2016.

UK visa success rate from Iraq during 2016-18

In fact, the UK visa success rate for Iraqi citizens is showing an upward trend. Accordingly, the UK visa success rate from Iraq during the three year period 2016-18 has increased from 46.52% to 58.02%.

No. of refused application during 2016-18

Evidently, during 2016-18 the number of UK visa applications refused for Iraqi citizens hovers in the range of 4.4-5K. And quite clearly, in 2018 the number of UK visa applications refused from Iraq considerably decreased to 4,436 from 5,102 in 2016.

UK visa refusal rate for Iraqi citizens during 2016-18

Quite indeed, the UK visa refusal rate from Iraq is showing a downward trajectory. Accordingly, during the 2016-18 period, the UK visa refusal rate for Iraqi nationals has considerably decreased from 51.90% to 41.19%.

Broad Categories

In fact, during 2018, 6,248 UK visas were granted to Iraqi citizens in the following broad and sub-categories:

1. Visitor Visa: 4,092
2. Transit: 10
3. Short-Term Study: 124
4. Family Settlement: 741
5. Dependant joining or accompanying: 14
6. EEA Family Permit: 125
7. PBS Tier 1: 88
8. PBS Tier 2: 133
9. Tier 4 Student: 401
10. PBS Tier 5: 28
11. Non-PBS Domestic Worker: 12
12. Non-PBS Other permit-free employment (Main apps): 3
13. Certificate of entitlement to right of abode (Main apps): 1
14. Other Settlement (indefinite leave): 40
15. Other temporary visas: 436

UK visitor visa application fee and processing time from Iraq

In fact, Iraqi citizens and nationals applying for UK visa need to pay the online application charges in US Dollars. However, most of the applicants like to know an approximate equivalent in Iraqi Dinar (IQD). Therefore, the following sections of the post provide the details of the latest UK visa fee from Iraq in 2019: Price in Iraqi Dinar (IQD) and US Dollars. And also the details of the UK visa processing time from Baghdad, Basra and Erbil, Iraq.

Quite clearly, the Home Office normally revise the application charges only one time during the year. Therefore, the charges in GBP usually remain the same during the year. Nevertheless, due to exchange rate fluctuations, the UK Visa Fees in Iraqi Dinar (IQD) (ع.د) may vary during the year. Furthermore, the exchanges rate used for computing application charges is IQD1,190 to a US$.

UK standard visitor visa fee from Iraq

Apparently, applicants can apply for 6 months, 2, 5 and 10 years standard visitor visa from Iraq. Perhaps, the most common and popular application is for 6 months standard visitor visa. The UK visa fee Iraq 2019 for 6 months application is IQD143,990 ($121). Moreover, the charges for 2, 5 and 10 years applications are IQD546,210, IQD990,080 and IQD1,243,550, respectively.

6 months visa charges with priority service

The UK visa cost from Iraq for 6 months with priority service is IQD477,190 (US$401) i.e. application cost IQD143,990 ($121) plus the priority service IQD333,200 ($280). Please note: the charges are non-refundable!

2-year visa application cost with priority service

Quite clearly, the UK visa fee Iraq for 2 years with priority service is IQD879,410 ($739) i.e. application cost IQD546,210 ($459) plus the priority service IQD333,200 ($280).

5-year visa application charges with priority service

In fact, the UK visa price Iraq 2019 for 5 years with priority service is IQD1,323,280 ($1,112) i.e. application cost IQD990,080 ($832) plus the priority service IQD333,200 ($280).

10-year visa application charges with priority service

Finally, the UK visa fees from Iraq 2019 for 10 years with priority service is IQD1,576,750 ($1,325) i.e. application cost IQD1,243,550 ($1,045) plus the priority service IQD333,200 ($280).

Private medical treatment

The UK visa application fees in Iraqi Dinar for more than 6 months but less than 11 months private medical treatment visa is IQD286,790 ($241).

Visiting academics

Moreover, the application charges for visiting academic visa for more than 6 months but less than 12 months is IQD286,790 ($241).

Marriage visitor visa

Quite clearly, the UK visa fee from Iraq 2019 for the UK marriage visitor visa is IQD143,990 i.e $121.

Permitted paid engagement

Furthermore, the application cost for permitted paid engagement (PPE) is IQD143,990 (i.e. $121).

Approved Destination Scheme (ADS)

The application charges under Approved Destination Scheme (ADS) for visiting the UK in a Chinese tour group are IQD143,990 (i.e. $121).

How many Iraqi nationals get the UK visitor visa in 2018?

In fact, 4,092 Iraqi citizens get the UK visitor visa during 2018 with the following breakup:

• Visitors (Main apps) – 3,807
• Visitors (Dep) – 285

UK transit visa application fee from Iraq 2019

Apparently, the UK transit visa fees in Iraqi Dinar for direct airside and landside transit visa are IQD52,360 ($44) and IQD96,390 ($81), respectively. And also IQD96,390 ($81) for the purpose of joining a ship or aircraft as a member of the crew of that ship or aircraft.

How many Iraqi citizens get the UK transit visa?

Quite clearly, 10 Iraqi nationals get the UK transit visa during 2018.

What is the UK transit visa processing time from Iraq?

Perhaps, most of the UK transit visa applications from Iraq usually processed within 10-15 working days. However, at times the decision-making process may take more time.

Short-term study visa

Furthermore, the UK visa fee from Iraq for the short term student visa (aka student visitor visa) for up to six months in Iraqi Dinar is IQD146,370 ($123). However, the charges for a short term study visa up to 11 months is IQD280,840 ($236).

How many Iraqi nationals get the short-term study?

In fact, 124 Iraqi citizens get the short term study visa during 2018. Moreover, the short-term study visa was previously known as the UK student visitor visa.

How to apply for the UK visit visa from Iraq?

An applicant can apply online for any type of UK visitor visa. Perhaps, an applicant can read the questions in different languages. However, can answer only in English. Moreover, after selecting a language for reading the questions, one needs to select Iraq as the country if an applicant is applying from inside Iraq. Perhaps, if an Iraqi passport holder is applying from some other country such as Nigeria then needs to provide the details of the residence.

How to submit UK visa application in Iraq?

An applicant needs to attend an appointment at the following application centres in Iraq:

1. UK Visa Application Centre IZ, Al-Rasheed Hotel, Dijla Hall, Baghdad, Iraq
2. Basra International Hotel, Shatt al-Arab bank in Al Ashar District, Ground Floor, Basra, Iraq
3. Cristal Hotel, 100 Meter Street, Badawa, Ground floor, Erbil, Iraq

What is the UK visitor visa processing time from Iraq?

Perhaps, all the short and long-term visitor visa from Iraq usually processed within 15-30 days i.e. 3 to 6 weeks. Here it is important to note that UKVI’s service standard is to process all visitor visa applications within 12 weeks, respectively. Therefore, if an applicant intends to apply for UK visa from Iraq, then may expect a decision within 1 week with priority service or 3-6 weeks with standard service.

How to fast track UK visitor visa from Iraq?

An applicant can fast track a UK visitor visa application from Iraq by purchasing the priority service. The cost of the priority service is IQD333,200 (US$280). Apparently, the UKVI’s service standard for priority non-settlement visa applications is 5 working days or 1 week for applications from Iraq.

Who can use the priority service?

Perhaps, the priority service is usually for a straightforward case. However, even if you don’t have a straightforward case then no one is going to stop you from not purchasing the service!

How popular is UK priority visa service in Iraq?

Apparently, more than 30% of the business and long term visitor visa applications from Iraq decide within 1 week or 5 working days. Therefore, a large number of Iraqi businesspersons usually opt for UK visitor visa priority service.

Does the priority service guarantee anything?

No, certainly the priority service does not guarantee a favourable result. Moreover, payment for priority service does not even guarantee a quick decision. However, the UKVI usually expedite the processing of priority applications. Moreover, also inform an applicant via email, if the priority visa does process within 5 working days!

What if you experience delays in processing?

Perhaps, at times only a fraction of the applications from Iraq might experience delays in processing. Apparently, there could be a number of different reasons for delays in UK visa processing.

UK settlement visa fee and timelines from Iraq

The details of the UK settlement visa application cost and processing time from Iraq for family settlement applications and also for dependant family members joining in the UK are as under:

UK spouse visa fee from Iraq

The UK spouse, civil, unmarried and same-sex partner visa fees from Iraq is IQD2,302,650 ($1,935). And the fee is also the same for a fiancé(e) and proposed civil partner visa. Finally, the settlement visa charges for the parent and dependant child visa under Appendix FM are also IQD2,302,650 ($1,935).

UK spouse visa priority service from Iraq

Quite clearly, the UK spouse visa fee with priority service in Iraqi Dinar is IQD3,168,970 ($2,663) i.e. UK spouse visa fee IQD2,302,650 plus the UK settlement priority service fee IQD866,320 ($728).

Who should use the priority service?

Furthermore, the settlement priority visa service is for a straightforward case. Therefore, applicants with past refusals, adverse immigration history and complex circumstances may not opt for the priority service. However, if your case is not straightforward, you can purchase the priority service at your own risk and cost!

What is the UK spouse visa processing time from Iraq?

Quite clearly, the service standard of UKVI for settlement or spouse visa from Iraq is to process 95% and 100% applications within 12 and 24 weeks, respectively. However, the service standard for spouse settlement priority visa processing is to decide an application within 30 working days or 6 weeks.

What is the UK spouse visa average processing time from Iraq?

Perhaps, a few spouse visa applications from Iraq conclude even within 15-30 working days i.e. 3 to 6 weeks. However, for most of the applications the processing time is usually 12 weeks or 60 working days. Nevertheless, some applications even remain outstanding after 120 working days!

Other dependant family members

Moreover, the UK visa fees in Iraqi Dinar for an Adult Dependant Relative is IQD4,914,700 ($4,130) per applicant, who requires care, such as a parent, grandparent, brother or sister and son or daughter aged 18 years or over.

Returning residents

Apparently, the application charges for returning residents are IQD780,640 ($656).

Refugee dependant relative

Furthermore, the cost of settlement application for a refugee dependant relative is IQD586,670 ($493).

Application fee: family reunion for asylum seekers

Apparently, there is no fee for Family reunion, under Part 11 of Asylum, Immigration Rules (pre-flight dependants). However, the UK visa fees from Iraq 2019 for the post-flight non-settled person is IQD2,302,650 ($1,935). Moreover, the application charges for the family reunion – other dependent relatives – are IQD586,670 ($493).

Settlement for current and former members of HM armed forces

Furthermore, the application charges for Iraqi citizens nationals for settlement of current and former members of HM armed forces and their dependants are IQD2,302,650 ($1,935) for:

1. Former UK Armed Forces
2. Pre 1997 Gurkhas (outside immigration rules)
3. Overage dependant children of pre-1997 Gurkhas
4. HM Forces dependants applying under part 4,5,7 or 8 of Appendix Armed Forces

How many Iraqi citizens get the UK settlement visa?

In fact, during 2018, as many as 741 Iraqi citizens get the UK family visa with the following breakup:

• Partner i.e. UK visa for Iraqi husband or wife- 636
• Child- 22
• Child (for immediate settlement)- 4
• Other- 78
• Other (for immediate settlement)- 1

Dependant Joining or Accompanying

Evidently, 14 Iraqi citizens get a visa as a dependant partner (2) and child (12) to join or accompany their family members in the UK during 2018.

Family Members of EEA and Swiss nationals

Please note there are no application charges for a family member of an EEA/Swiss national for applying EEA family permit and EUSS family.

How many Iraqi nationals get the EEA family permit?

Apparently, 125 Iraqi get EEA family permits during 2018.

What is the EEA family permits timeline from Iraq?

Perhaps, most of the EEA family permit applications from Iraq decide within 3-6 weeks. However, the average processing time for EEA family permit applications from Iraq is usually 2-3 working days.

Tier 1 visa application charges and processing time

The details of Tier 1 application fees and timelines from Iraq are as under:

Tier 1 Investor application fee

Indeed, the Tier 1 Investor application cost for entry clearance applications from Iraq is IQD2,453,780 ($2,062) for main applicants and dependants.

Tier 1 Entrepreneur

Quite clearly, the UK visa fee Iraq for Tier 1 Entrepreneur entry clearance applications is IQD1,543,430 ($1,297). However, from March 29, 2019, the Innovator visa has replaced PBS Tier 1 entrepreneur.

Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur

Furthermore, the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur entry clearance fees for Iraqi citizens are IQD548,590 ($461). Evidently, the start-up visa under Appendix W has replaced the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur for fresh applications from July 6, 2019.

Tier 1 Exceptional Talent

Apparently, the charges for Tier 1 Exceptional Talent  Stage 1 – endorsement application – main applicant for the Iraqi passport holders are IQD689,010 ($579).

Stage 2 Tier 1 exceptional talent application

Moreover, Tier 1 exceptional talent Stage 2 entry clearance application for the main applicant costs IQD229,670 (US$193).

Subsequent application

Furthermore, the charges for Tier 1 exceptional talent subsequent and dependants applications are IQD919,870 ($773).

Tier 1 General and PSW – dependant applicants only

Apparently, the UK visa fees in Iraqi Dinar for Tier 1 General and PSW dependant applicants are IQD1,543,430 ($1,297) and IQD913,920 ($768), respectively. Please note both these routes are closed for main applicants.

How many Iraqi Nationals get the Tier 1 visa?

Evidently, only 88 Iraqi citizens get the Tier 1 visa during 2018 i.e. Investor (3), Entrepreneur (77), Graduate Entrepreneurs (1), Exceptional Talent (2) and Tier 1 General Dep (5)

What is the processing time for a Tier 1 visa from Iraq?

Perhaps, there are too few PBS Tier 1 applications from Iraq to clearly explain the Tier 1 processing time from Iraq. However, generally speaking, a Tier 1 application usually conclude within 30 working days.

Tier 2 application fee and processing time from Iraq

The details of UK Tier 2 application charges and timelines from Iraq are as under:

What is the UK embassy work visa fees in Iraq?

Perhaps, the Tier 2 visa application cost is generally referred to as UK embassy work visa fees in Iraqi Dinar. Moreover, the Tier 2 visa application fees from Iraq is also erroneously referred to as UK work permit fees in Iraqi Dinar. Please note: PBS Tier 2 replaced the UK work permit route in 2008. Moreover, the Points-based system (PBS) Tier 2 and Tier 5 application fee is also applicable to the Isle of Man. And Council of Europe Social Charter (CESC) discount of US$70/- (£55) applies to PBS main applicants.

Tier 2 General

Quite clearly, the application fee for Tier 2 General, ICT – LT Staff, Sportsperson and Minister of Religion, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for a period of three years or less is IQD922,250 ($775).

Fees for CoS for more than 3 years

Moreover, the charges for Tier 2 General and ICT – Long Term Staff, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for a period of more than three years are IQD1,844,500 ($1,550).

Tier 2 ICT Graduate Trainee

Apparently, the UK work visa fees from Iraq for Tier 2 ICT Graduate Trainee is IQD729,470 ($613) for the main and dependant applicants.

Tier 2 General Shortage Occupation

The UK work visa fees for Iraqi passport holders for Tier 2 General shortage occupation is IQD702,100 ($590) for main and dependant applicants, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for a period of three years or less.

Fees for CoS for more than 3 years

The UK work visa fees for Iraqi nationals for Tier 2 General shortage occupation is IQD1,403,010 ($1,179) where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for a period of 3 years or more, respectively.

How many Iraqi nationals get the Tier 2 work visa?

Evidently, 133 Iraqi citizens get Tier 2 (Pre-PBS equivalent) work visa during 2018 i.e. Tier 2 General (45), Intracompany transfers – long-term (5) and Tier 2 (Deps) (82) and Work permit holders Deps (1)

What is the Tier 2 visa processing time from Iraq?

Perhaps, most of the Tier 2 applications from Iraq usually decide within 15 working days. However, some of the applications conclude within 5-10 working days. Moreover, all the Tier 2 applications from Iraq usually decide within 60 working days.

UK Tier 4 student visa fee and processing time from Iraq

The details of UK Tier 4 application charges and processing time from Iraq are as under:

Tier 4 student visa fee

The charges for Tier 4 students and their dependants are IQD525,980 ($442). Moreover, the application fee is the same for entry clearance as a student to enter the Bailiwick of Gurnsey or Bailiwick of Jersey.

Tier 4 student priority service

The UK visa fee from Iraq 2019 for a Tier 4 student application with priority service is IQD859,180 ($722) i.e. application charges IQD525,980 ($442) plus the priority service cost IQD333,200 ($280).

Parent of a Tier 4 child visa

Moreover, the application cost for Parent of a Tier 4 child visa (up to 12 months) is IQD780,640 ($656).

How many Iraqi nationals get the Tier 4 student visa?

Evidently, 401 students from Iraq get the Tier 4 student visa during 2018 i.e. PBS – Tier 4 General student (Main apps) (292), Tier 4 Child Student (Main apps) (9) and PBS – Tier 4 General student (Deps) (100).

What is the UK Tier 4 student visa processing time from Iraq?

Apparently, most of the Tier 4 applications from Iraq usually conclude within 10-15 days. However, a decision can be as quick as within 5-7 working days. Moreover, a fraction of the applications takes more time. However, such applications also usually conclude within 6 weeks i.e. 30 working days.

Tier 5 work visa applications from Iraq

The details of UK Tier 5 application charges and processing time from Iraq are as under:

Tier 5 work visa fee

The application fee for Tier 5 main applicant and dependants is IQD368,900 ($310) for Charity Worker, Creative and sporting, Government Authorised Exchange, Religious Worker, Youth Mobility Scheme and International Agreement.

How many Iraqi citizens get the Tier 5 work visa?

Evidently, 28 Iraqi nationals get the Tier 5 temporary worker visa during 2018 i.e. Creative and Sporting (5), Government Authorised Exchange (8) and Tier 5 Dependants (15).

What is the Tier 5 processing time from Iraq?

Perhaps, usually, most of the Tier 5 applications from Iraq conclude within 10-15 working days. However, usually, more than 25% of the Tier 5 applications conclude within 10 working days. Moreover, only a small fraction of the Tier 5 applications from Iraq take more than 3-6 weeks to process.

Applications for other work categories from Iraq

The details of the charges for other work categories are as under:

Startup and Innovator visa fee Iraq 2019/20

Apparently, the application charges for the UK innovator visa are IQD1,543,430 ($1,297). However, the cost of applying for a start-up visa is IQD548,590 ($461). Furthermore, if applicable, the charges are subject to a CESC discount of £55 for the main applicant.

UK ancestry visa fee from Iraq 2019/20

Moreover, the UK ancestry visa fees in Iraqi Dinar is IQD780,640 ($656).

Representative of an overseas business

Furthermore, the cost of a representative of overseas business and dependants application is IQD922,250 ($775). Moreover, the application cost is the same for an employee of an overseas newspaper, news agency or broadcasting organisation.

Domestic worker in private household

Apparently, the charges for an overseas domestic worker in a private household is IQD780,640 ($656).

Exemptions

Furthermore, there is no application fee for

1. Turkish businessperson visa
2. Diplomatic Posting to the UK
3. Diplomatic Posting to the UK (Dependant)
4. Members of International Organisations on Official Visits
5. Official Transit through the UK
6. Official Visit to the UK

Right of abode – certificate of entitlement

The UK visa fees in Iraqi Dinar 2019 for the Right of abode – certificate of entitlement is IQD586,670 ($493).

Transfer of conditions (vignette transfer)

Moreover, the fees for vignette transfer (transfer of a valid visa vignette to a new passport or replace a lost/stolen document) are IQD233,240 ($196).

Single-entry visa to replace BRP

Apparently, the UK visa fees in Iraqi Dinar for Single entry visa to replace a biometric residence permit are IQD233,240 ($196).

Enquiry service charges

Additionally, the cost of UK visa enquiry service for knowing the application status is IQD8,330 ($7) and IQD2,380 ($2) for International Contact Centre for Email Service (per query) and Telephone Helpline (per minute), respectively.

Registered traveller

Quite clearly, the cost of registered travellers is IQD76,160 ($64) and IQD35,700 ($30) for an adult and child, respectively. Moreover, the cost of registration of new documents is IQD29,750 ($25).

UK visa from Iraq 2019 FAQs

This covers a few faqs relating to application charges and premium services from Iraq, especially for the first time tourist and family visitor visa applicants.

What is the UK child visitors visa fee Iraq 2019?

Apparently, the application fee for infants and children is the same as that for adults. Therefore, the application charges for 6 months, 2, 5 and 10 years visitor visa application for infants and children are also IQD143,990, IQD546,210, IQD990,080 and IQD1,243,550, respectively.

What is the UK tourist visa fee from Iraq 2019?

Certainly, a fresh applicant needs to apply for the 6 months multiple-entry visitor visa for tourism or family visit. Apparently, the UK tourist visa fees in Iraqi Dinar are IQD143,990 ($121). Moreover, at times applicants also refer the UK 6 months visitor visa as England or London visit visa from Iraq. Perhaps, a repeat visitor can also apply for a long-term visitor visa for tourism and family purpose. Furthermore, the UK tourist visa fees from Iraq for 2, 5 and 10 years visa application are IQD546,210 ($459), IQD990,080 ($832) and IQD1,243,550 ($1,045), respectively.

How much is the UK business visa fee from Iraq 2019?

Furthermore, apart from tourism and family, visiting the UK for a business purpose is quite frequent from Iraq. Indeed, the UK business visa fee from Iraq for 6-months, 2, 5 and 10 years applications is IQD143,990 ($121), IQD546,210 ($459), IQD990,080 ($832) and IQD1,243,550 ($1,045), respectively.

What is the UK priority visa fee Iraq 2019?

Quite clearly, the UK visa fees for Priority non-settlement and settlement (spouse) service in Iraq are IQD333,200 ($280) and IQD866,320 ($728), respectively. If an application is straightforward and the applicant can afford the priority visa charges to fast-track settlement or non-settlement application then it is advisable to opt for the priority or super-priority service from Iraq. However, the priority service does not affect or influence the outcome of the decision.