UNHCR welcomes Kurdistan Regional Government’s Decision to Facilitate Legal Stay for Syrians in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Erbil – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, extends its appreciation to the Government of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq following the recent announcement to grant a 60-day grace period for all Syrians residing in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, including refugees and asylum seekers, to regularize their stay without incurring any penalties.

This significant decision which came into force on 15 June, allows Syrians who have overstayed their visas, failed to renew their residency permits on time, or entered the region irregularly, to regularize their status. Overstay fines will be waived during this period, removing a significant barrier for many individuals and families.

Approximately 300,000 Syrian refugees are registered with UNHCR in Iraq, including 260,000 in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Following registration with UNHCR, Syrian refugees and asylum seekers can approach Residency Departments to secure government-issued documentation, enabling access to a range of public services and assistance during their stay in Iraq. The ability of all Syrians, including asylum seekers and refugees to obtain this documentation without facing any penalties is an important development.

The new decision also addresses the challenges faced by Syrians wishing to return to Syria but previously unable to do so due to unaffordable overstay fines. Since the beginning of 2025, over 2,500 Syrian refugees registered with UNHCR in Iraq have voluntarily returned home. These new provisions will ease the process for more Syrians to return voluntarily home, including through Erbil International Airport by providing them a free exit permit or by facilitating transportation assistance to the Peshkhabour border-crossing for those willing to return via land.

Following the announcement of the decision, UNHCR has been sharing information with refugee communities so that they are fully aware of the new procedures and able to take advantage of the 60-day grace period.

UNHCR commends the Kurdistan Regional Government and the people of the Kurdistan Region for their continued generosity and steadfast support for displaced populations. This decision reflects a strong commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of refugees and asylum-seekers.

UNHCR stands ready to further support the implementation of this decision and continues to work closely with the Kurdistan Regional Government to support the protection and well-being of all refugees and asylum-seekers in the Region.