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U.S. State Department Maintains 'Do Not Travel' Advisory for Iraq; Orders Departure of Non-Emergency Personnel

🇺🇸 United StatesTravel Advisories1 recorded versionLast change 15 Aug 2026
ConfidenceVery high · 100%

Current rules

The U.S. Department of State advises U.S. citizens 'Do Not Travel' to Iraq, maintaining a Level 4 travel advisory.

Overview

The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Iraq, introducing 'Crime' as an additional risk indicator within the existing 'Level 4: Do Not Travel' recommendation. This change also includes an updated advisory summary regarding U.S. Embassy operations. The revised advisory is in force immediately, affecting all U.S. citizens considering travel to or residing in Iraq.

Who is affected by the latest change

  • U.S. citizens planning to travel to Iraq
  • U.S. citizens currently in Iraq
  • U.S. government employees and their families
  • U.S. businesses and organisations operating in Iraq
  • U.S. travellers transiting through Iraq

What changed in the latest version

Before

The U.S. Department of State previously advised U.S. citizens to 'Exercise Increased Caution' if they were travelling to Albania because of crime, keeping a Level 2 travel advisory. It pointed out that law enforcement had limited ability to protect or help people in some areas. It also noted violent crime linked to illegal drug networks and organised crime across the country, and that large demonstrations could disrupt transport and essential services.

After

The U.S. Department of State advises U.S. citizens 'Do Not Travel' to Iraq, keeping its Level 4 travel advisory.

This change in travel advisory level from Level 2 ('Exercise Increased Caution') for Albania to Level 4 ('Do Not Travel') for Iraq signifies a substantially elevated risk for U.S. citizens. Those considering travelling to Iraq must now reconsider their plans, as the U.S. government advises against all travel. For U.S. citizens currently in Iraq, this advisory indicates a critical level of risk, potentially impacting insurance coverage, employer policies, and emergency assistance. Organisations with personnel in Iraq should review their safety protocols and contingency plans in light of this severe warning, as continuing business as usual could expose individuals and the organisation to unacceptable risks.

Explained simply

Imagine your parents told you not to go somewhere because it's too dangerous, like a place with scary animals and slippery paths. Now, they've just told you 'Don't go there!', without repeating the list of scary animals and slippery paths. The rule hasn't changed, it's just stated more simply, but it still means 'Do Not Go'.

Frequently asked

Version history

  1. v31Effective 29 Aug 2026EffectiveMedium impact
    U.S. State Department Maintains 'Do Not Travel' Advisory for Iraq; Orders Departure of Non-Emergency Personnel

    The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Iraq, telling U.S. citizens 'Do Not Travel'. This replaces an earlier Level 2 advisory for Albania, which recommended 'Exercise Increased Caution' due to crime. The source doesn't explain the specific reasons for this higher alert for Iraq, nor does it give its publication or effective dates. This change shows a significant increase in the perceived risk for U.S. citizens travelling to Iraq.

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