How many years can I work in Kurdistan

Long term residency is available to foreigners who wish to stay in Kurdistan for between 6 and 12 months.

Residence cards may be retained by holders leaving Kurdistan for short periods.

The requirements for obtaining residency are:

• A support letter form the applicant's employer and the company registration document in Kurdistan.
• A written personal guarantee from a person of Iraqi nationality who is a resident of the Erbil Governorate.
• Evidence that the applicant has undertaken a blood test according to the procedures of the residence office. A form to obtain a blood test appointment can be collected from the residence office as part of the application process. The blood test result can usually be obtained within 2-3 days.
• Applicants who are citizens of some countries must also obtain approval from the KRG Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. Applicants from these countries need approval from KRG security establishments. The Residency office can inform you which nationalities need such approval

Directive No. 18/1987 concerning the employment of foreignersin Iraq empowers the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs to issue work permits to foreigners in light of market needs for foreign workers

Work permits are issued for one year and must be renewed by the foreign employee at least one month before the expiry date.
The Directive also sets out the conditions and procedures for obtaining a work permit whether from within or outside Iraq.