1. What are the safety and security considerations for U.S. citizens and green card holders when travelling in Iraq?

Safety and security considerations for U.S. citizens and green card holders when travelling in Iraq include:

– Avoiding travel to Iraq due to ongoing violence and threats posed by terrorist groups including ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and other armed conflict.

– Staying informed of regional security developments, including following the U.S. Department of State’s country specific information page for Iraq.

– Registering with the U.S. Embassy through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

– Notifying family or friends of travel plans and maintaining regular contact with them.

– Avoiding crowds, gathering places, political rallies, and demonstrations which have the potential to turn violent.

– Abiding by all Iraqi laws and regulations.

– Exercising caution when engaging in financial transactions.

– Carrying proper identification at all times, including a passport with valid visa and Iraqi residency permit when applicable.

– Staying vigilant and avoiding any suspicious people or activities.

2. What are the local laws that U.S. citizens and green card holders should be aware of while in Iraq?

• Local laws in Iraq prohibit activities that are illegal in other countries, such as drug use and trafficking, carrying firearms, and engaging in terrorist activities.

• It is against the law to take pictures of military installations, government buildings, and sites of archaeological or religious importance.

• It is illegal to consume alcohol in public or to drive while intoxicated.

• Eating or drinking during daylight hours in the month of Ramadan is also prohibited.

• Local laws require both men and women to dress modestly in public. Wearing clothing that exposes too much skin is forbidden.

• Respecting the local customs and traditions is important in Iraq. All forms of discrimination and insults against religious beliefs are strictly prohibited.

• It is illegal to engage in any form of gambling or prostitution.

3. Are there any potential areas of Iraq that are considered high-risk areas for safety and security risks?

Yes, there are certain areas of Iraq that are considered high-risk areas due to safety and security risks. These include all areas near the Iraq-Syria border, as well as parts of Anbar, Diyala, Ninewa, and Salah ad Din provinces. Additionally, areas surrounding Baghdad remain high-risk due to ongoing instability and violence.

4. What are the recommended security precautions for U.S. citizens and green card holders visiting Iraq?

The U.S. Department of State recommends the following security precautions for U.S. citizens and green card holders visiting Iraq:

• Monitor local news and security updates to ensure your area of travel is safe;

• Travel with a trusted local guide;

• Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings;

• Refrain from displaying obvious signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry and clothing;

• Only use pre-arranged transportation, such as taxis or public transportation;

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times;

• Use caution when entering markets or crowded places; and

• Avoid traveling after dark.

5. Are there any specific safety and security measures taken by the government of Iraq to protect U.S. citizens and green card holders?

Yes, the Iraqi government has taken a number of steps to protect U.S. citizens and green card holders from security threats. The U.S. Embassy in Iraq has issued travel warnings and advisories to notify citizens of potential threats and how to remain safe while in Iraq. The Iraqi government also provides additional security measures for U.S. personnel visiting Iraq, including additional armored vehicles, a security escort, and other measures. Additionally, the embassy recommends that travelers provide family and friends with their current itinerary and not travel alone while in Iraq.

6. Are there any specific risks for women U.S. citizens and green card holders while visiting Iraq?

Yes, there are specific risks for women U.S. citizens and green card holders while visiting Iraq. Women travelers may face particular risks for harassment and violence in some parts of Iraq, including gender-based violence such as domestic abuse, sexual assault, and harassment in public places. Additionally, women travelers should be aware of tribal customs and traditional attitudes towards women. Women should dress modestly and in accordance with local customs. It is also important to note that kidnappings occur in certain areas of Iraq, so it is important for travelers to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

7. How would a U.S. citizen or green card holder go about obtaining medical assistance in an emergency in Iraq?

In the event of a medical emergency in Iraq, U.S. citizens and green card holders should contact the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad at +964 (0)770-443-1286 or the Consulate General in Erbil at +964 (0)750-600-7090. The Embassy and Consulate can provide advice on where to obtain medical care, provide lists of English-speaking doctors and medical facilities, and contact family or friends on behalf of the affected individual. They may also be able to provide emergency medical evacuation if necessary.

8. Are there any areas of Iraq that are off-limits to U.S. citizens and green card holders?

Yes, U.S. citizens and green card holders are not permitted to travel to the Kurdistan region of Iraq, which includes the provinces of Erbil, Dohuk, and Sulaymaniyah, due to security concerns. Additionally, the U.S. State Department advises against travel to Iraq due to the risks of terrorism, armed conflict, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

9. What is the protocol for reporting a criminal incident involving a U.S. citizen or green card holder in Iraq?

For criminal incidents involving U.S. citizens or green card holders in Iraq, the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Iraq should be immediately contacted. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate can provide assistance and provide information about available resources for victims of crime. Considerations such as the safety of the victim, their family, and U.S. personnel should be taken into account when filing a report. Additionally, a report can be filed with the local police and a request for assistance from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate may also be made if needed.

10. Does the government of Iraq provide consular assistance to U.S. citizens and green card holders if detained in a foreign county?

Yes. The U.S. Embassy in Iraq provides consular assistance to U.S. citizens and green card holders detained in a foreign country. Please visit https://iq.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/arrest-and-detention/ for more information.

11. Does the government of Iraq allow U.S. citizens and green card holders to carry firearms while visiting the country?

No, the government of Iraq does not allow U.S. citizens or green card holders to carry firearms while visiting the country.

12. What are the restrictions on taking photographs in public places in Iraq for U.S. citizens and green card holders?

U.S. citizens and green card holders should exercise extreme caution when taking photographs in public places in Iraq. Taking photos of government facilities, military installations, religious sites, and anything else of a sensitive nature is strictly prohibited. U.S. citizens and green card holders should also refrain from photographing or filming people without their consent, as this could lead to confrontation or harassment by Iraqi security forces. U.S. Embassy personnel are also prohibited from taking photographs in most urban areas outside of their compounds without prior approval from the Regional Security Office (RSO).

13. Does the government of Iraq provide any resources or support to U.S. citizens and green card holders facing local legal issues in the country?

No, the government of Iraq does not provide any resources or support to U.S. citizens and green card holders facing local legal issues in the country. The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad may provide assistance in limited circumstances, but it is not able to provide legal advice or represent individuals in court proceedings.

14. Are there any restrictions on internet use for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Iraq?

Yes, there are restrictions on internet use for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Iraq. According to the U.S. State Department, U.S. citizens should “exercise extreme caution when using any online or mobile services in Iraq,” as the Iraqi government monitors and restricts internet access. Additionally, the Iraqi government may block access to certain websites or social media platforms without prior notice.

15 .Are there any regulations for U.S

. citizens traveling to Cuba?

Yes, the regulations for U.S. citizens traveling to Cuba are subject to U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations, which can be found on the OFAC website. The purpose of travel must fall into one of the 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba, including family visits, official business of the U.S. government, journalistic activity, educational activities, religious activities, etc. In addition, travelers must obtain a license from OFAC prior to their departure and maintain records related to their trip for five years following their return from Cuba.