Jules · with Nala (Australian Shepherd, 22kg) “Nala has opinions about layovers.” Meet all guides →
About this guide ↓
This guide was generated by Pawgo's AI using verified data from official sources. Jules is a fictional persona — the data is real.
Iraq is not the pet-travel route you'll find in a glossy brochure, which is exactly why the entry rules deserve your full attention up front. Nala has opinions about layovers, but she has stronger opinions about paperwork that isn't ready — and this is a destination where the health documents carry the whole trip. Sort the certificate and endorsements early and the rest of the adventure opens right up.
Bringing a pet to Iraq requires three documents in the right order: a microchip, a rabies vaccine within the destination's wait window, and a government-endorsed health certificate. The table below lays out exactly what's required, what's not, and where each rule comes from.
How Iraq handles your pet
Each fact comes straight from the operator’s published policy. Tap the to read the exact wording; the opens the source page.
Day -90 microchip implant · Day -30 rabies vaccine deadline · Day -7 health certificate issued · Day 0 arrive at customs
Ports of entry (2)
Erbil International Airport
Baghdad International Airport
verified 2026-10-14
The health certificate needs government endorsement, and the accepted format depends on who signs. USDA-accredited veterinarians can issue and endorse it electronically through the VEHCS system, while an APHIS veterinary medical officer requires an original ink endorsement. Confirm which route applies to the issuing vet before the appointment, so the certificate leaves with the correct signature the first time.
Bring more patience than you think for a route like this, and it pays off — the flight is the easy bit once the documents are locked. Get the endorsement format right, keep copies at hand, and you're golden. Drop your dates into Pawgo's plan-builder for a personalized plan that maps every requirement to a deadline, so Iraq becomes a trip you've actually planned, not one you're improvising.
ISO 11784/11785 — the universal microchip standard.
FAVN
Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization — a rabies serology test required by rabies-free destinations.
Brachycephalic
Snub-nosed breeds (French Bulldogs, Pugs, Persians, Himalayans) with restricted airline acceptance due to heat-stress risk.
AVIH
Animal Vehicle In Hold — IATA's term for cargo pet shipment, with fees that vary by carrier and route.
Auto-generated from verified government data · Last updated: August 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a quarantine period for pets entering Iraq?
No, Iraq does not require quarantine for imported pets, provided all documentation is in order. Verify your requirements at www.pawgo.fr.Build my pet's travel plan →
Does Iraq require a microchip for pets?
Yes, Iraq requires an ISO-compliant microchip. The microchip must typically be implanted before rabies vaccination. Get your full checklist at www.pawgo.fr.Build my pet's travel plan →
What health certificate does Iraq require for pets?
Iraq requires a veterinary health certificate for imported pets. It must be issued within 7 days of travel. Get exact document requirements at www.pawgo.fr.Build my pet's travel plan →
Does Iraq require a rabies titer test?
No, Iraq does not require a rabies titer test. Your transit countries may still require one. Check all requirements at www.pawgo.fr.Build my pet's travel plan →
Do I need a pet import permit for Iraq?
Yes, Iraq requires an import permit for pets. Lead time varies — apply well in advance. Get your full preparation timeline at www.pawgo.fr.Build my pet's travel plan →
What if my flight is delayed past my health certificate validity?
If the certificate window expires before you board, you'll need a re-issue. Build a 1-2 day buffer between the cert date and departure to absorb minor delays.Build my pet's travel plan →
What happens if I forget a document?
At the destination airport: at best, an extended inspection while you produce backup; at worst, the pet is held in quarantine or returned to origin at your cost. Bring printed copies.Build my pet's travel plan →
Traveling to Iraq?
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