Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has introduced new measures to regulate the status of Syrian citizens living in the region without valid residency permits.

The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Interior on Thursday, includes an amnesty for those with expired or missing documentation, waived penalties, and a grace period to legalize their stay or facilitate voluntary return to Syria.

The decisions were issued under a directive from KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the situation of Syrian refugees "in a humane and organized manner," the ministry stated.

Key Measures:

Grace Period for Residency: Syrians with expired or no residency permits will have 60 working days to apply for a new one-year permit or renew existing ones, with all prior fines waived.

Voluntary Return: Those wishing to return to Syria can obtain an exit stamp without penalties and depart via Erbil International Airport.

Travel Assistance: The KRG will cover travel costs for Syrians unable to afford return expenses, with registration available through the Peshawar International Border Crossing.

Special task forces will be set up in residency offices to streamline applications, with implementation starting Sunday, June 15.