When it comes to hiring non-resident workers for a project in Kurdistan, there’s a lot you’ll need to know beforehand. Firstly, they’ll need to obtain a residency card – and although many nationalities will receive an entry visa upon arrival for 30 days, others (including Singapore, Hong Kong and India) will need to obtain a visa prior to entrance. This necessitates a local guarantor and invitation letter.
In this blog, we explore exactly what’s required to get a visa on a worker’s behalf, along with all the reasons Kurdistan makes for an ideal project location.
Why choose Kurdistan?
Kurdistan appeals to candidates for many reasons, including:
The 13/14th month isn’t applicable
8-hour working day
20 days’ holiday
Sick pay is remunerated at 100% by the employer for 30 days
Minimum wage is 280,000 IQD per month
The taxation system is also an attractive factor:
Kurdistan income tax system: Employees’ salaries have a flat tax rate of 5%, automatically applied.
Income tax: The tax authority will usually levy income taxes on basic salary, along with any allowances that go beyond 30% of this.
Tax-free allowance: There is a tax-free legal allowance of 1,000,000 IQD per month for each individual.
Which visa should you choose?
The Kurdistan region of Iraq differs from many other locations in that there isn’t really a choice when it comes to visa type. However, the programme benefits from being 100% digital.
Through the e-visa programme, visitors can stay for up to 30 days. Though, it’s important to note that this is only for Kurdistan – it can’t be used outside the authorised areas of Erbil, Duhok, and Sulaymaniyah.
It is possible for the e-visa to be extended and converted into a work visa. This will be valid for 45 days from the time of entry to Kurdistan. Overall, there’s the potential for two renewals totalling a combined 90 days of stay.
What documents are required?
To apply for the visa and enter Kurdistan, there are a number of different processes you’ll need to adhere to. For example:
A blood test: This will test for HIV and hepatitis. The worker is required to undertake this within 10 days of their arrival, and it will need to be repeated every 90 days while they are in Kurdistan.
Photo of the contractor’s passport with six or more months validity and at least one blank page.
Photo of the worker.
Sponsor code – this is only for those in country list B.
Manage the Kurdistan work visa process with WRS
Securing a visa for Kurdistan is far from straightforward – but WRS are here to make it simple. We’re incredibly experienced in managing visa processes, especially when challenges inevitably arise.
Speed is at our core. As we’re registered to deliver tax services and payroll in Kurdistan, we can sort any visas, and get workers paid on time – made even easier through our online timesheet portal.
For support with global mobilisation, WRS are the ones to turn to. Talk to our friendly team today.
Disclaimer: Worldwide Recruitment Solutions does not provide visa, immigration or taxation advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended and should not be relied upon for visa, immigration or taxation advice. You should consult with a qualified immigration professional or the official government website of the country you're applying to for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
