The Ministry of Interior in the Kurdistan Region has issued a new decision granting a 90-day grace period to assist foreign nationals who entered the Region on official visas but have been unable to regularize their residency status.

According to the decision, which is based on the powers granted under Law No. 6 of 2009, foreigners who failed to extend their stay, did not obtain residency permits, or whose permits have expired are now given an opportunity to resolve their legal status under eased conditions.

Individuals wishing to remain in the Kurdistan Region and obtain a new residency permit or renew their existing residency cards are required to visit one of the Region’s residency offices within 90 working days. They will be required to pay only 25% of the total accumulated late fines imposed on them.

The same procedure applies to those who prefer to leave the Region and return to their home countries. In such cases, exit visas will be issued through the same residency offices upon payment of the reduced fines.

The Ministry confirmed that the decision takes effect immediately from the date of issuance and will remain valid for a period of ninety days. After the expiration of this grace period, all residency violations will be handled in accordance with Instructions No. 1 of 2021.