IRAQ
Last Modified: 14-Feb-17
SECTION I: GENERAL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A. IDENTIFICATION CREDENTIALS FOR OFFICIAL TRAVEL
US Military
No-fee passport and visa required for all travelers when arriving/departing Iraq on commercial aircraft. No-fee passport must have six (6) months validity beyond period of intended stay. Visa must be obtained prior to arrival in Iraq.
(1) Personnel assigned to USDAO Baghdad require a no-fee Diplomatic passport and visa.
(2) Personnel assigned to OSC-I require a no-fee Official passport and visa.
Exception: US military members supporting a Title 10 mission under the authority of the Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTFC-OIR) and/or Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJFLCC-OIR) can enter Iraq using military ID card (i.e., CAC) and travel orders only when arriving AND departing via military aircraft (MILAIR).
Holders of passports that contain an Israeli visa or stamp CANNOT, enter Iraq.
US Government civilians.
No-fee official passport and visa required. No-fee passport must have six (6) months validity beyond period of intended stay. Visa must be obtained prior to arrival in Iraq.
(1) Personnel assigned to the USDAO Baghdad require a no-fee Diplomatic passport and visa.
(2) Personnel assigned to the OSC-I require a no-fee Official passport and visa.
Holders of passports that contain an Israeli visa or stamp CANNOT, enter Iraq.
Eligible family members.
Not authorized.
DoD-sponsored contractors.
Passport and visa required. Passport must have six (6) months validity beyond period of intended stay. Visa must be obtained prior to arrival in Iraq.
US/Iraqi dual nationals (naturalized US citizens of Iraqi origin) on DoD-sponsored travel via military aircraft must enter/exit Iraq using their US passports and proof of Iraqi citizenship (i.e., birth certificate) in lieu of a visa. Travel via commercial air requires a visa.
Holders of passports that contain an Israeli visa or stamp CANNOT, enter Iraq.
Aircrew.
No-fee passport required. No-fee passport must have six (6) months validity beyond period of intended stay.
Visa not required.
Non-US citizens and dual nationals with non-US passports.
Passport and visa requirements may vary for non-US citizens and for dual nationals traveling on non-US passports. Such travelers should check with an Iraqi embassy or consulate to determine what credentials are required for entry.
Consult Section III , below, to ensure compliance with requirements for Country Clearance, Theater Clearance, and Special Area Clearance (if required).
Information on obtaining official "no-fee" passports and visas is available at https://passportmatters.hqda.pentagon.mil/index.aspx (.mil/.gov domain restricted).
B. IDENTIFICATION CREDENTIALS FOR LEAVE TRAVEL
Passport required. Passport must have six (6) months validity beyond period of intended stay. Visa required. Obtain visa from Iraq embassy prior to arrival in Iraq.
Within 10 days of the date of entry into Iraq, most travelers must: 1. Obtain an arrival sticker. 2. Submit a blood test (does not apply to tourist visa holders). 3. Obtain a residency stamp.
Arrival Sticker: The arrival sticker is available at a Residency Office in Iraq. Visitors who exceed the ten (10) day period can be fined $420 USD (subject to change).
Blood Test: All visitors and new residents to Iraq, with the exception of those travelling on a tourist visa, must have a blood test for HIV and hepatitis within ten (10) days of arrival or face a $125 USD fine. The test must then be repeated every 90 days while in Iraq. Guidance on where to go for the blood test is available at the airport upon arrival. In the Kurdistan Region, travelers only need to have this blood test if staying for more than 15 days.
Residency Stamp: Obtain residency stamp within the first ten (10) days of arrival. There is a $420 USD penalty for visitors who do not obtain the required residency stamp within their first ten (10) days in country. Visitors staying less than ten (10) days do not require this stamp. A US citizen who plans to stay longer than two (2) months must apply at the Residency Office for an extension.
US citizens must also obtain an exit stamp at a Residency Office before departing the country. In Baghdad, they are available for all visitors at the main Residency Office near the National Theater. Contractors in the International Zone may also obtain exit stamps at the Karadah Mariam Police Station (available Sunday and Wednesday, 1000-1400). In Erbil, the Residency Office is located on 100 Meter Street, next to the General Directorate of Passport and Nationality, opposite Royal Empire Towers. In Basrah, the Residency Office is located on Kuwait Street in Ashar. Exit stamp fees vary from $20 USD to $500 USD, depending on length of stay, type of entry visa, and other factors. Travelers who hold a tourist passport with no visa or an expired visa are required to purchase an exit visa for $80 USD and pay a fine of $45 USD for a total of $125 USD (subject to change). Visitors who arrive via official aircraft but depart on commercial airlines must pay $82 USD (subject to change) single entry visa departure fee at the airport. Visitors who intend to return to Iraq will require a re-entry visa, also available through a local residency office.
Immigration officials in the provinces of Dahuk, Erbil, and Al-Sulayimaniyah, which make up the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR), routinely allow US citizens to enter Iraq without a valid Iraqi visa; however, the airport-issued IKR visa is not valid outside the IKR, and US citizens are not permitted to travel within the rest of Iraq with only the IKR-issued visa. This visa is valid only in the IKR for a period of 15 days. US citizens who plan to stay for longer than 15 days require an extension to their visa which can be obtained by visiting the local residency office. Failure to do so will result in significant fines. In addition, it is difficult for US citizens to obtain residency authorization outside the IKR without first obtaining a valid Iraqi visa.
Holders of passports that contain an Israeli visa or stamp CANNOT, enter Iraq.
Visit the embassy of Iraq for the most current visa information. The embassy is located at 3421 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007; phone number is 202-742-1600; the fax is 202-333-1129.
Requirements to register with the US Embassy: For information on registration, see VII.A, below.
Consult Section IV , below, to ensure compliance with any requirements for Country Clearance, Theater Clearance, and Special Area Clearance (if required).
C. IMMUNIZATIONS AND OTHER MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
For current information on DoD immunizations requirements and recommendations, visit the Defense Health Agency website, http://www.health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Health-Readiness/Immunization-Healthcare/Vaccine-Recommendations/Vaccine-Recommendations-by-AOR .
For CENTCOM individual protection and individual/unit deployment policy see CENTCOM MOD 12.
Travelers arriving from infected areas must provide proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Anthrax vaccinations may be required.
Polio and anthrax vaccinations are mandatory (unless medically exempted) for the following personnel if staying in country for 15 or more consecutive days:
(1) US military personnel.
(2) DoD personnel classified as emergency-essential (EE) civilians.
(3) Contractor personnel classified as mission-essential (ME), if vaccination is a requirement of the applicable contract.
Vaccinations can begin 120 days prior to departure for personnel who are on orders or have been designated to deploy. For anthrax vaccinations, make every effort to receive at least three doses prior to deployment.
The polio and anthrax vaccines are voluntary for the following individuals if staying in country for 15 or more consecutive days:
(1) Adult dependents of military members.
(2) Non-EE DoD civilians (including non-appropriated fund employees).
(3) Adult dependents of DoD civilians (EE or non-EE).
(4) Non-ME contractor personnel, if vaccination is permitted in the applicable contract.
Combatant command-, service-, or agency-specific policy or guidelines for implementation may exist. Details can be found on the website for DoD’s Polio Vaccination Program:http://www.vaccines.mil.
Iraq has imposed HIV/AIDS travel restrictions on all visitors and new residents must have an HIV blood test during their first ten (10) days in country or face a $125 USD fine. At this time, there is no waiver available for this ineligibility. Verify this information with the US Embassy of Iraq before traveling.
D. IMMIGRATION, CUSTOMS, OR QUARANTINE INSPECTIONS
The government of Iraq immigration and customs procedures at the Iraqi port of entry at the Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center are noted in the following US Embassy Staff Notice. All personnel entering and exiting Iraq must follow the attached guidelines. Personnel should read and carry a copy to the Staff Notice with them. US Embassy Staff Notice on Iraqi immigration and customs procedures. (Click here for Iraqi Immigration and Customs Procedures).
Visitors who arrive via military aircraft but depart on commercial airlines must pay a $80 USD departure fee at the airport.
E. UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS
CENTCOM dress requirements for all travel to or from the CENTCOM AOR except the R&R leave travel discussed below under I.E.2.
Individuals or small groups traveling on commercial air or rotator flights must wear civilian clothing.
Groups or units authorized to travel in prescribed uniforms must carry appropriate conservative civilian clothing for use during extended transit delays at commercial airports.
Aircrew may wear flight suits provided they do not depart the installation or the terminal area of a commercial airport.
CENTCOM dress requirements for R&R leave travel to or from the CENTCOM AOR.
Troops departing from or arriving in the AOR on contract R&R leave flights must wear desert battle dress uniforms (DBDUs). Those departing the AOR may change into civilian attire once they reach the first aerial port of debarkation (APOD) outside the AOR, whether in CONUS or outside CONUS.
DoD personnel must travel in conservative “civilian” clothing and maintain a low profile when on non-contract commercial flights. Military themed patches, logos, name tapes and military style (camouflaged/olive drab/coyote) luggage and clothing should not be worn. In general, DoD personnel are not authorized to travel commercially with a weapon, part of a weapon, ammunition, or other military equipment such as body armor. DoD personnel anticipating the need to travel with such items must be given explicit authorization on their orders and comply with country clearance procedures and requirements. Uniforms are not authorized for R&R leave travel on non-contract commercial air originating from the AOR.
F. SAME SEX SPOUSE AND LGBTI INFORMATION
Department of Defense (DoD) PCS SAME SEX SPOUSE ACCOMPANIED TOURS
NOTE 1: SOFA Clarification obtained from DASD (MPP)/OEPM.
DoD Instruction 1315.18, Procedures for Military Personnel Assignments, states that assignments will be made for all Service members without regard to color, race, religious preference, ethnic background, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender, consistent with requirements for physical capabilities, except in cases where SOFA protections are not extended to same sex spouses. The responsible Combatant Commander recommendation on command sponsorship of same sex spouses or domestic partners (civilian) is based upon a host nation determination of whether or not to extend Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) protections to same sex spouse or host nation law, safety, or political concerns that might put a same sex spouse at risk. It is DoD assignment policy that all command sponsored dependents should be afforded SOFA protections. The Combatant Commander’s command sponsorship recommendations can be found on the SOFA Clarification tracker . A Host Nation not listed on this tracker, listed as “Pending”, or determined "No" from a previous recommendation is not authorized same sex accompanied assignments until a country assessment is completed and reflected in this tracker.
Department of State (DOS) LGBTI INFORMATION
Iraqi law prohibits discrimination based on race, disability, or social status, but it does not address the issue of sexual orientation or gender identity. Societal discrimination in employment, occupation, and housing based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and unconventional appearance is common in Iraq. See the LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Human Rights report for further details.
G. DUAL NATIONALS
Iraq recognizes dual nationality. Travelers to Iraq should check the MFA’s website and the Ministry of Interior’s website for the most current information about rights and responsibilities regarding dual citizens and their stay in Iraq.
H. OTHER
The US Embassy has encountered multiple cases of female US citizens whose Iraqi-born husbands will not allow them or the children to depart Iraq and in many cases will hold US travel documents to prevent the women and children from leaving the country. The US Embassy will seek to assist US citizens in these situations, but Iraqi family law differs substantially from US law, and individuals in these situations may find it difficult to obtain legal relief.
Holders of passports that contain an Israeli visa or stamp CANNOT, enter Iraq.
SECTION II: AIRCRAFT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A. CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
Blanket Clearances: None.
One-time Clearances:
Diplomatic clearance is required for all military overflights and landings.
(1) Aircraft on the Air Tasking Order (ATO) do not require diplomatic clearance unless they are landing in Iraq.
(2) All Aircraft Clearances must be submitted via APACS, not through phone calls or e-mails, no exceptions.
(3) Two (2) aircraft flying with the same call sign cannot fly on the same calendar day.
Medical Emergencies:
(1) In case of a medical emergency, USDAO Baghdad has pre-approved clearances for aircraft tasked with transporting patients. The request must still be uploaded into APACS, and the submitter must notify USDAO Baghdad upon completion. A special call sign will be assigned to aircraft tasked with emergency evacuations base on routing and aircraft type. For more information, contact USDAO Baghdad directly.
Aircrews should carry US passports. Visas for aircrews are not required at this time.
Aircrews must remain with the aircraft for duration of time on the ground.
US Government (non-military) aircraft and DoD commercial contract aircraft must use the Appendix for overflight and landing procedures. Do NOT use Section II.
B. LEAD-TIME AND VALIDITY
USDAO Baghdad requires a lead time of 96 hours (four (4) days) in advance of the scheduled flight. The government of Iraq insists on denying flights submitted within 72-hour window. 96 hours (four (4) days) allows USDAO Baghdad enough time to process the required documentation and contact the requestor if any changes need to be made.
The type of cargo determines the level of approval needed.
Aircraft tasked with the surveillance of Iraqi airspace or carrying helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), require approval from the Prime Minister’s office.
Aircraft tasked with aerial cartography, or carrying heavy artillery, require approval from the Ministry of Defense.
Foreign Military Sales (FMS) missions requires approval from the Prime Minister/National Operations Center (PMNOC).
Aircraft carrying ammunition and normal passenger movements require approval by the Iraqi Air Defense Operations Center (ADOC).
Current events in Baghdad and Iraqi weekends/holidays can prolong the time needed to obtain the diplomatic clearance. These offices are not manned during the weekends, holidays, inclement weather, and protests. USDAO Baghdad urges all requesters to submit requests outlined in paragraph II.C as early as possible to ensure the approval code is received in a timely manner.
USDAO Baghdad does not produce the diplomatic clearance approval code; it is generated by the The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA) and has to go through various levels of vetting including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Air Defense Command. In most cases, USDAO Baghdad does not receive the diplomatic clearance approval code until the actual takeoff date.
Once the request is submitted, USDAO Baghdad generates the necessary documents and forwards them to the ADOC.
Once the ADOC verifies the information is correct, they forward it to the appropriate entity if it contains sensitive cargo.
Next, the clearance request is sent to the ICAA who is tasked with generating the approval code.
The approval code is then sent to the ADOC for overflights for accountability purposes.
Finally, the ADOC forwards the approval code to USDAO Baghdad office via e-mail, which is uploaded into APACS.
Diplomatic clearances are valid for a four (4) day period emcompassing the requested calendar date, one (1) day to the left and two (2) days to the right.
If a mission slips outside of the original calendar day, but within the four (4) day validity window, the requesting organization is still required to make changes in APACS in order for USDAO Baghdad and ADOC to maintain accountability.
If the mission is delayed beyond this approved approval window or incurs itinerary changes, an amended APACS submission and a new approval code are required. Receiving the new approval code for these instances can take up to one (1) day, so ensure USDAO Baghdad is provided with enough time to process the required documentation as the office is not manned 24/7.
Frequent and last minute schedule changes lessen the chances of having the approval in place before mission execution.
Requests made during the weekend (Friday-Saturday) can be processed; however, the government of Iraq (GoI) is very slow to respond to requests or inquiries made during this time.
A change in call sign requires a brand new APACS submission and must comply with the four (4) day lead-time clause.
To recap the government of Iraq’s validity window and clearance policy, view the following examples:
An aircraft with a call-sign of EAGLE-11 was approved for 02 January. This aircraft is clear to fly the requested itinerary at any time during this calendar day.
EAGLE-11 now has an early departure of 01 January. The requesting organization must now amend the APACS submission in order for USDAO Baghdad to maintain accountability; however, the same approval code for 02 January will be valid.
EAGLE-11 slips to 03 January or 04 January. The requesting organization must now amend the APACS submission in order for USDAO Baghdad to maintain accountability; however, the same approval code for 02 January will be valid.
EAGLE-11 slips to 05 January or beyond. The requesting organization must amend the APACS submission and provide USDAO Baghdad at least one (1) day to process the new request and inform the ADOC. A new approval code will be provided.
EAGLE-11’s routing/itinerary changes. The requesting organization must amend the APACS submission and provide USDAO Baghdad at least one (1) day to process the new request and inform the ADOC. A new approval code will be provided.
EAGLE-11 changes call sign to EAGLE-12. The requesting organization must submit a brand new APACS submission and provide USDAO Baghdad at least four (4) days to process the new request. A new approval code will be provided.
EAGLE-11 was approved for 02 January; however, the requesting organization has added sensitive cargo (e.g., helicopters, heavy/light artillery). The requesting organization must submit a brand new APACS submission and provide USDAO Baghdad at least four (4) days to process the new request. However, since sensitive cargo has to be routed through the Ministry of Defense, it may take longer than four (4) days to receive a new approval code. A new approval code will be provided.
C. CONTENT OF CLEARANCE REQUEST
Prepare and submit the clearance request through APACS at https://apacs.dtic.mil or if classified, https://apacs.dtic.smil.mil.
All aircraft submissions MUST include the following:
Call sign
Aircraft type
Mission type
Registration number
Entry and exit way points and times
Take-off locations and times
Landing locations and times
Flight route
Flight level requested
Number of passengers
General description of cargo:
(1) Include exact quantities of vehicles, helicopters and other sensitive cargo on board.
DV Visitor information must be e-mailed to USDAO Baghdad personnel on SIPRnet and include the following:
(1) DV’s full name
(2) Rank
(3) Official title
(4) Information listed in section II.C
(5) Any support aircraft that will be used
If the Aircraft Clearance Request is classified, use SIPR APACS and include paragraph markings and downgrade instructions to ensure timely processing.
During contingency operations when APACS is not available reference the Foreign Clearance Manual, Figure C2.F1 for clearance request template and contact the clearance approver directly for instructions on how to transmit the request.
D. ROUTE, FLIGHT, AND OTHER OPERATIONAL INFORMATION
Aircraft are not authorized to RON in Iraq without justification. Include reasoning in the APACS request.
If an aircraft requires repairs and needs to stay overnight in country, USDAO Baghdad must be notified as soon as possible.
There are two (2) flight restrictions concerning flights to and from Israel. One is an Iraq restriction and the other is an Israeli restriction:
US military aircraft on direct flights from Iraq to Israel and direct flights from Israel to Iraq are prohibited from departing, landing or overflying Iraq. An enroute technical stop (i.e., Jordan, Egypt, etc.) is required prior to transiting Iraq's airspace.
In the unlikely event that an aircraft is permitted to file or fly directly from Iraq to Israel, advance approval from the government of Israel must be obtained through USDAO Tel Aviv. For further information see FCG Israel entry II.A.3.
Baghdad (ORBI) is the primary point of entry for aircraft seeking to land in Iraq.
Balad AB (ORBD) is used only for F-16 FMS support flights, no exceptions.
The GoI also permits military aircraft to directly transit to the following airports:
Al Asad Airbase (ORAA)
Al Taji Army Air Field (ORTI)
Al-Taqaddum Air Base (ORAT)
Aircraft are not authorized direct travel to Ebril (ORER).
Use of any other airports require extensive coordination between the GoI and USDAO Baghdad. This process can take more than one (1) week, so requestors should submit requests as early as possible.
Operate only equipment that is required for safe flying.
Do not use any on-board collection or monitoring systems.
Ensure that weapons are unloaded or that they have their safety activated while transiting Iraq.
Aerial photography of any kind is prohibited.
Consult NOTAMs.
E. AIRPORTS
Enter and depart.
Al Asad/Al Asad (ORAA)
AL-Ashraf/Najaf Intl (ORNI)
Baghdad/Baghdad Intl (ORBI)
Erbil/Erbil (ORER)
Kirkuk/Kirkuk (ORKK)
Mosul/Mosul Intl (ORBM)
Sulimaniyah/Sulimaniyah Intl (ORSU)
Taji/Taji (ORTI)
Tikrit/Al Sahra (ORSH)
Baghdad (ORBI), Al Asad (ORAA), Al Taji (ORTI) and Al-Taqaddum (ORAT) are the ONLY Points of Entry in Iraq for flights wishing to proceed onto Erbil (ORER). Baghdad (ORBI) is the ONLY point of entry for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) with the notable exception of Balad AB (ORBD) – used ONLY for F-16 FMS support flights.
Balad AB provided airfield services include:
Serial port, port of entry, cargo, baggage and passenger screening, weather forecasting and fire/crash rescue.
Services are available seven (7) days a week, daytime hours only (other hours by prior notification through the PPR process).
GPU, stairs, and fuel services are not provided at Balad AB.
Balad Tower frequency is 119.875.
Balad AB Base Operations at 571-357-6133 or 0771–238–4553 in an emergency.
All aircraft planning to use Balad AB ramp require an approved PRIOR PERMISSION REQUIRED which can be obtained by contacting: iraqiadoc@yahoo.com and iraqiafaoc@yahoo.com and cc’ing dmichalko@sallyportglobal.com and Jeffrey.Bailey@sallyportglobal.com and rbrueggemann@sallyportglobal.com.
The Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center (BDSC) provides airfield operations, including aerial port, port of entry, weather forecasting, fire/crash rescue, and fuel for authorized users. The Airfield is open seven (7) days a week (excluding from 0500 hours – 2300 hours local time (0200 – 2000 Zulu). Baggage and Passenger Screening hours are from 0500 hours – 2200 hours local time (0200 – 1900 Zulu).
All aircraft planning to use BDSC’s ramp require an approved PPR. PPRs must be obtained from the individual airfields. USDAO Baghdad does not coordinate PPR. Fill out the PPR request form and send it to BDSC_PPR2@state.gov.
A PPR number issued by the airfield is not authorization to enter the ORBB FIR and fly to the requested airport. Clearance to land and depart the airport shall be approved by the tower. Issuance of a PPR number does not imply air control separation, weather conditions, or threat assessment. All flights shall have sufficient fuel and maintenance support to meet their scheduled arrival and departure times. Aircrews should be prepared for minimum ground times. Aircrew's need to consider adequate fuel for potential ground or air delays due to unforeseen events. Aircrews should always check NOTAMs for ORBB.
PPRs should be requested at least 24 hours prior to mission start time and the approved PPR is good +/- one (1) hour from the scheduled time. Any deviations from the approved PPR times must be communicated to the BDSC Airfield Management Office, as soon as possible. Check NOTAMs for each individual airfield.
Fuel (JP8) is provided by Sky-Link Arabia (SKA). Primary fueling hours are 0700 hours local (0400Z) until 1900 hours local (1600Z). Coordination is required for operations outside these hours. Fuel can be purchased by using the multiservice card or cash.
BDSC Airfield Operations monitors VHF 133.5 and UHF 299.625 during operating hours. All aircraft should check in 15 minutes out to update Comanche Ops of aircraft status, number of passengers on board, cargo on board, and fuel requests. The inbound calls will help Airfield Operations ensure Iraqi Customs and Immigration is available and ready for passengers and cargo.
Until further notice, no firearms (official or personal) will be allowed on the airfield or be allowed on Embassy Air, unless the passenger has an US Embassy or OSC-I badge with a Red or White W (Weapons allowed). Carrying or transporting weapons on international flights is prohibited without advance approval of GoI.
Services are available seven (7) days a week during the event of an emergency.
Airport Additional Information:
Unit mission planners and/or aircrews should refer to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Energy AIR Card System website (Agree with the “Usage Alert” statement by clicking “I agree”; then click on the “FBO Locator” menu on the upper right-hand side of the webpage) for available fuel contract merchants who accept the AIR Card for fuel and/or ground services. Every effort will be made to purchase fuel from the designated contract merchants. Any local merchant that accepts the AIR Card may be used for ground-handling services.
SECTION III: PERSONNEL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFICIAL TRAVEL
NOTE 1: In accordance with CENTCOM FRAGO 17-015, DoD or DoD-sponsored personnel intending to travel to Iraq in support of Title 10 operations, must request explicit approval through Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command - Operation Inherent Resolve (CJFLCC-OIR). For further guidance, see III.A.1.c below.
NOTE 2: Command visits to the CENTCOM AOR are not authorized. Travel by commanders or other senior officers and senior enlisted advisors to units deployed in the AOR for purposes of assessing unit deployment preparation and/or assessing/improving morale are not mission essential and visit requests will not normally be approved. For further travel guidance, reference CENTCOM_AOR_Travel_Guidance_231706_OCT_12.
A. CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
COUNTRY CLEARANCE
Required for:
1. DoD-Military:
i. Country Clearance is required.
ii. Request Country Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Country Clearance requirements or the status of the Country Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact OSC-I (Only for travelers with an OSC-I mission set), J1, CJFLCC-OIR (All others, ranks O-6 and below), or DVCC, CJFLCC-OIR (For ranks O-7 and above) with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Exception:
Country Clearance not required for DoD personnel who are assigned duty in Iraq AND are on PCS, TCS or contingency deployment orders (not TDY).
vi. In addition to submitting the APACS request, official travelers must also request Country Clearance separately via the State Department's electronic Country Clearance (eCC) system.
(i) For additional information, e-mail the eCC help desk at ecchelpdesk-dl@state.gov.
2. DoD-Civilian:
i. Country Clearance is required.
ii. Request Country Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Country Clearance requirements or the status of the Country Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact OSC-I (Only for travelers with an OSC-I mission set), J1, CJFLCC-OIR (All others, ranks O-6 and below), or DVCC, CJFLCC-OIR (For ranks O-7 and above) with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Exception:
Country Clearance not required for DoD civilians who are assigned duty in Iraq AND are on PCS, TCS or contingency deployment orders (not TDY).
vi. In addition to submitting the APACS request, official travelers must also request Country Clearance separately via the State Department's electronic Country Clearance (eCC) system.
(i) For additional information, e-mail the eCC help desk at ecchelpdesk-dl@state.gov.
3. DoD-Sponsored Contractor:
i. Country Clearance is required.
ii. Request Country Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Country Clearance requirements or the status of the Country Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact OSC-I (Only for travelers with an OSC-I mission set), J1, CJFLCC-OIR (All others, ranks O-6 and below), or DVCC, CJFLCC-OIR (For ranks O-7 and above) with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Exception:
Country Clearance not required for DoD-sponsored contractors who are assigned duty in Iraq AND are on PCS, TCS or contingency deployment orders (not TDY).
4. Foreign National:
i. Country Clearance is required.
ii. Request Country Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Country Clearance requirements or the status of the Country Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact OSC-I (Only for travelers with an OSC-I mission set), J1, CJFLCC-OIR (All others, ranks O-6 and below), or DVCC, CJFLCC-OIR (For ranks O-7 and above) with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Exception:
Country Clearance not required for DoD personnel who are assigned duty in Iraq AND are on PCS, TCS or contingency deployment orders (not TDY).
vi. In addition to submitting the APACS request, official travelers must also request Country Clearance separately via the State Department's electronic Country Clearance (eCC) system.
(i) For additional information, e-mail the eCC help desk at ecchelpdesk-dl@state.gov.
5. Family Member:
i. Not required.
Additional Information:
1. Do not assume Country Clearance.
2. In accordance with CENTCOM FRAGO 17-015, DoD personnel intending to travel to Iraq under Title 10 must request explicit approval through the CJFLCC-OIR.
(a) Travel requests should be sent through the owning unit’s LNO to the CJFLCC-OIR HQ. If there is not an LNO for the requesting unit, requests can be sent via the movement control center distribution list for action.
4.
(b) Title 22 travelers must adhere to guidance contained in this guide and travel in accordance with their travel orders, current Department of State guidance, and chief of mission policies. Any questions related to tittle 22 travelers should be directed to the Office of Security Cooperation - Iraq.
6. CDR CENTCOM has force protection responsibility for TDY personnel who stay at a US Mission-Iraq facility. However, all TDY personnel must adhere to Chief of Mission (COM) and Regional Security Office (RSO) security guidelines while at a US Mission-Iraq facility. Currently, all travel into, out of, and within Iraq must occur on State (includes military) aircraft in accordance with current COM policies.
(a) Except for Title 10 forces under the operational control of the CJFLCC-OIR, travel in and out of Iraq will be accomplished via commercial aircraft and Embassy Air services. Travel to Iraq requires more coordination relative to other countries in the AOR. The preferred method is to backward plan from Baghdad. A chartered flight is available for transport between Amman, Jordan to Baghdad, Iraq at regularly scheduled times during the week. This chartered flight known as “Embassy Air” must be scheduled via coordination with the travelers DoD sponsor. Recommend scheduling commercial air to arrive in Jordan at least one (1) night prior to the selected scheduled Embassy Air flight. For information on Embassy Air contact embassyair@state.gov or 301-985-8841 ext 7435 / 7455 / 2912.
8. Travelers are subject to Iraq law concerning customs clearance and importation/exportation/re-exportation of goods.
9. US military personnel and DoD civilians deployed or assigned to Iraq in a TDY status will not travel with weapons or Personal Protective Equipment, except Title 10 forces under the operational control of the CJFLCC-OIR.
THEATER CLEARANCE
Required for:
1. DoD-Military:
i. Theater Clearance is required.
ii. Request Theater Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Theater Clearance requirements or the status of the Theater Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact CENTCOM Theater Travel Coordination Cell with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Exceptions:
(i) US Service Members on PCS or deployment orders to the AOR for 60 days or more. This applies to deployment in one (1) country to include transits to and from the destination country. TDYs of less than 60 days require Theater clearance unless otherwise exempted below.
vi.
(ii) US Service Members transiting the AOR one (1) to three (3) days exclusively for the purpose of reporting to a ship.
viii.
(iii) Reservists entering the AOR to conduct Annual Training.
x.
(iv) Aircrew members that are included in aircraft clearance requests.
xii.
(v) US Service Members who are participating in an exercise (Note: Theater Clearance is REQUIRED for personnel attending conferences and/or meetings regarding an exercise or observing an exercise).
xiv.
(vi) US Service Members who are stationed in theater (60 days or more) and performing intra-theater travel.
2. DoD-Civilian:
i. Theater Clearance is required.
ii. Request Theater Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Theater Clearance requirements or the status of the Theater Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact CENTCOM Theater Travel Coordination Cell with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Exceptions:
(i) DoD Civilians on PCS or deployment orders to the AOR for 60 days or more. This applies to deployment in one (1) country to include transits to and from the destination country. TDYs of less than 60 days require Theater clearance unless otherwise exempted below.
vi.
(ii) DoD Civilians transiting the AOR one (1) to three (3) days exclusively for the purpose of reporting to a ship.
viii.
(iii) Aircrew members that are included in aircraft clearance requests.
x.
(iv) DoD Civilians who are participating in an exercise (Note: Theater Clearance is REQUIRED for personnel attending conferences and/or meetings regarding an exercise or observing an exercise).
xii.
(v) DoD Civilians who are stationed in theater (60 days or more) and performing intra-theater travel.
3. DoD-Sponsored Contractor:
i. Theater Clearance is required.
ii. Request Theater Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Theater Clearance requirements or the status of the Theater Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact CENTCOM Theater Travel Coordination Cell with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Exceptions:
(i) Personnel deploying to the AOR for 60 days or more. This applies to deployment in one (1) country to include transits to and from the destination country. TDYs of less than 60 days require Theater clearance unless otherwise exempted below.
vi.
(ii) Personnel transiting the AOR one (1) to three (3) days exclusively for the purpose of reporting to a ship.
viii.
(iii) Aircrew members that are included in aircraft clearance requests.
x.
(iv) Personnel who are participating in an exercise (Note: Theater Clearance is REQUIRED for personnel attending conferences and/or meetings regarding an exercise or observing an exercise).
xii.
(v) Personnel who are stationed in theater (60 days or more) and performing intra-theater travel.
4. Foreign National:
i. Theater Clearance is required.
ii. Request Theater Clearance via APACS. For information on APACS, see III.E below.
iii. For questions concerning Theater Clearance requirements or the status of the Theater Clearance for a submitted APACS request, contact CENTCOM Theater Travel Coordination Cell with the APACS request ID number.
iv. Theater Clearance is required for a Foreign National assigned to a US billet and/or representing a US organization as a DoD-Sponsored Contractor.
5. Family Member:
i. Not required.
Additional Information:
0. CROSS-MONTH TRAVEL. Travel requests under 30 days for US military that span two (2) calendar months, or under 60 days that span three (3) calendar months in the following Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE) eligible countries will not be approved without extremely compelling justification: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, UAE, and Yemen.
1. Do not assume Theater Clearance.
2. CODELs, DVs and other DoD-sponsored travelers must coordinate travel requirements directly with the CENTCOM Theater Travel Coordination Cell.
3. Theater Clearance is REQUIRED for DVs, General Officers, SES or equivalent, Ambassadors, or similar high level travelers. Requests will be reviewed by the Chief of Staff for approval.
(a) All GO/FO travelers should visit the CENTCOM Key Leader Engagement (KLE) for the purposes of receiving the most current information and aligning talking points with CENTCOM’s strategic communication priorities.
5. Intra-theater travel (travel between countries located within the AOR) is required for DVs, General Officers, SES or equivalent, Ambassadors, or similar high level travelers. Theater Clearance is not required for all other travelers.
6. Movement. Due to current operations and security assets throughout the CENTCOM AOR, travel is limited to mission-essential visits only. Essential travel is defined and limited to travel that directly supports current military operations and/or government officials in Afghanistan. Visitors who receive approval to travel to the AOR must maintain flexible itineraries due to changes in aircraft availability and urgent movement of mission essential cargo and passengers. When commercial air is available, travelers must use it unless there is a compelling operational need to use military air.
7. For additional guidance on commercial travel in the CENTCOM AOR, reference Defense Transportation Regulation (DTR) 4500.9-R, Part 1, Chapter 103. US military personnel and DoD civilians are only authorized to fly on "scheduled service" on foreign-flagged air carriers, i.e., but not on charters.
8. Current travel guidance and restriction messages can be found on CENTCOM Theater Travel Coordination Cell’s SIPRnet.
SPECIAL AREA CLEARANCE
NOTE Special Area Clearance is not required.
B. FORCE PROTECTION RESPONSIBILITY
Identify who has Force Protection (FP) responsibility if an incident occurs. Usually, if working in or visiting a US Embassy, choose Chief of Mission (COM), but if TDY/TAD or Combatant Command duties choose CCMD.
Check CCMD/COM agreement for specific responsibilities and consult the FCG contact information section for CCMD FP POC.
C. MANDATORY PRE-TRAVEL TRAINING AND DOCUMENTATION
NOTE 1: Service components may have more restrictive requirements that their military members, civilian employees, and DoD-sponsored travelers must meet prior to submitting a clearance request.
NOTE 2: FAILURE TO COMPLY WILL CAUSE DELAY AND/OR DISAPPROVAL OF TRAVEL REQUEST.
NOTE 3: HTSOS and FACT are mandatory training requirements for travel Under Chief of Mission Authority to Baghdad, Basrah and Erbil, Iraq. Requirements do not apply to those travelers under the command of a US area military commander (i.e., COCOM), or those on the staff of an international organization.
NOTE 4: DOS requirement as per Executive Secretary Memo, Subject: Requirements of US Government Personnel under Chief of Mission Authority in Designated Countries to Complete the Foreign Affairs Counter Threat Course (FACT) or the Distance Learning High Threat Security Overseas Seminar (HTSOS).
AT Level 1 Training: Antiterrorism Level 1 Training.
Applicability:
1. Required for all US military, DoD civilians and DoD-sponsored contractors on official travel.
Validity:
1. Must be completed within 12 months (one (1) year) prior to entry into the AOR.
Instructions:
1. See attached Level_1_AT_Awareness_Training Instructions.
AOR Location Specific Brief: Area of Responsibility location specific brief.
Applicability:
1. Required for all US military, DoD civilians and DoD-sponsored contractors on official travel.
Validity:
1. Within three (3) months prior to travel or deployment.
Instructions:
1. The AOR update will include the current threat brief and any information deemed necessary by CENTCOM. A statement that all training requirements have been met will be included on all travel/deployment orders (this statement is not required to be provided via APACS or conditional to receiving Country/Theater Clearances).
SCI Brief: Sensitive Compartmented Information briefing.
Applicability:
1. All travelers with SCI clearance.
Validity:
1. None reported.
Instructions:
1. Travelers with SCI access shall report anticipated foreign travel IAW DoDM 5105.21, Vol 3.
FACT: Foreign Affairs Counter-Threat.
Applicability:
1. Travelers under Chief of Mission (COM) authority. This requirement does not apply to travelers under the command of a US area military commander (i.e., COCOM), or on the staff of an international organization.
2. Not required for travel for DoD-Military traveling to Iraq and/or Afghanistan.
3. Not required for DoD-Contractors unless specified in the contract or by the respective COTR.
Validity:
1. Required for all travel of more than 45 cumulative days in a single calendar year.
Instructions:
1. See attached HTSOS and FACT Training Instructions and Policy
HTSOS: High Threat Security Overseas Seminar.
Applicability:
1. Travelers under Chief of Mission (COM) authority. This requirement does not apply to travelers under the command of a US area military commander (i.e., COCOM), or on the staff under the command of an international organization.
2. Not required for travel for DoD-Military traveling to Iraq and/or Afghanistan.
3. Not required for DoD-Contractors unless specified in the contract or by the respective COTR.
Validity:
1. Required for all travel of less than 45 cumulative days in a single calendar year.
Instructions:
1. See attached HTSOS and FACT Training Instructions and Policy
Other:
All DoD personnel traveling or deploying to the CENTCOM AOR will receive training through their unit training POC on:
(1) Cultural aspects of host country(ies).
(2) Rules of engagement (when applicable).
(3) CBRN personal protective measures and CBRN defense survival skills as prescribed by Service directives.
(4) Medical threats and appropriate force health protection countermeasures.
(5) Medical self-aid/buddy care as prescribed by Service directives.
(6) Qualify with assigned weapon(s) in accordance with service regulations.
(7) Personnel performing armed security duties (including the AT Officer) traveling to the AOR will also have training on the use of deadly force.
(8) Mine and unexploded ordnance awareness as applicable.
(9) Any additional training as applicable with emphasis on individual protection and cultural education.
(10) In addition travelers must complete all Services related training and requirements (i.e. Completion of Isolated Personnel Report (ISOPREP), SERE, etc.
DoD personnel must review travel limitations established by the DOS Bureau of Consular Affairs for intended countries of transit prior to travel. Information is located at http://www.travel.state.gov. DoD personnel should specifically review travel warnings, travel alerts, entry/exit requirements, and aviation safety oversight sections.
Prior to departure from the CENTCOM AOR, DoD personnel will review and ensure familiarity with US Customs and Border Protection regulations for return entry, located at http://www.cbp.gov/travel/clearing-cbp.
D. LEAD-TIME
30 days.
If lead time requirement is not met, provide justification why the visit cannot be postponed and must occur on requested dates of travel.
APACS requests must be submitted at least 30 days in advance of the travel date. APACS requests not meeting the lead time requirement must include an acceptable justification statement detailing why the visit cannot be postponed to a later date, and should be processed under the 30 day lead time requirement.
Statements such as; “just found out”, “did not know”, “travel just approved”, funding just approved” are unacceptable and will be returned for more information.
Requests for Theater Clearance received within 14 days of the travel date that lack a compelling justification will be denied.
CROSS-MONTH TRAVEL. Travel requests under 30 days for US military that span two (2) calendar months, or under 60 days that span three (3) calendar months in the following Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE) eligible countries will not be approved without extremely compelling justification: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, UAE, and Yemen.
Enter the purpose of travel then enter "JUSTIFICATION FOR CROSS MONTH TRAVEL" followed by the justification statement.
Requests that do not meet the 30 day lead-time requirement for service members being assigned to the CJFLCC-OIR must follow CJFLCC-OIR policies for clearance, and will be considered on a separate basis.
E. CONTENT OF CLEARANCE REQUEST
Prepare and submit the clearance request using APACS at https://apacs.dtic.mil, or if classified, https://apacs.dtic.smil.mil. Complete the APACS request using the following guidance.
MAIN
Subject:
1. In the subject line specify the highest ranked traveler, number of additional travelers, operation and/or exercise name.
Purpose of Travel:
1. Give the 5W’s. (Who, What, Where, When, Why). Be detailed with reasonable specificity; and avoid acronyms. This should be a stand-alone headline version statement that conveys the gist of the event. Do NOT just use wording such as "TDY/TAD" or "Official".
a. Example 1: 2 ea AF Communication personnel for scheduled rotation ISO Network Ops Office, Camp Swampy;
b. Example 2: 2 ea Army Civil Affairs personnel for 2 iterations of 3 day mil to mil event, Buddy First Aid Principles (TCSMIS Event: BWA ###);
c. Example 3: 1 ea Navy logistician for Staff Augmentation to embassy OSC for a ship visit.
2. The purpose statement must provide a mission essential reason for the visit. “Site visit”, “Official business”, and “Mission essential travel” are examples of invalid purpose statements. Command visits are not authorized in the CENTCOM AOR.
3. For any US military member whose travel is under 30 days and crosses months, state justification for the travel. (Note that the justification must be extremely compelling.)
Sponsoring Agency:
1. Select from the drop down menu which agency is paying for this travel.
Notes:
1. If the APACS request is classified, include paragraph markings and downgrade instructions to ensure timely processing.
2. If the 30-day lead time requirement is not met, the submitter must provide compelling mission essential justification why the visit must occur on the dates requested and cannot be postponed.
ITINERARY
Approving Organization:
1. OSC-I processes Country Clearance requests for only travelers with an OSC-I mission set.
2. J1, CJFLCC-OIR processes Country Clearance requests for all others, ranks O-6/GS-15 and below.
3. DVCC, CJFLCC-OIR processes Country Clearance requests for ranks O-7/SES/e