Persons violating Iraqi laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs in Iraq are severe, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. The U.S. does not have diplomatic relations with Iraq, and there is no U.S. Embassy in Iraq. Payments for hotel, renting a taxi, etc. must be paid in foreign currency. No ATM machines exist.
Telecommunications are very poor.
Calls may be monitored. The categories of individuals eligible for consideration for a special passport validation are set forth in 22 C.F.R. 51.74. The request must be accompanied by supporting documentation according to the category under which validation is sought. Professional reporters or journalists on assignment are specifically exempted from the passport restriction for Iraq and need not apply for a passport validation. Applicant establishes that he or she is a representative of the American Red Cross or International Red Cross traveling pursuant to an officially-sponsored Red Cross mission.