Kurdistan Region Grants 60-Day Grace Period for Syrians to Renew Residency Without Penalties

Welat TV – June 12, 2025

The Ministry of Interior in the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) announced today, Thursday, June 12, 2025, a significant decision aimed at supporting Syrian residents in the region. The decision follows special directives from the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region and reflects a humanitarian and social commitment to Syrians living in the KRG.

Below is the full statement issued by the Ministry:

1. A 60-working-day grace period, starting from the date of this announcement, is granted to all Syrian nationals whose residency permits have expired or who entered the Kurdistan Region without initiating the residency process. During this period, they may apply for or renew their residency permits (Form No. 20) for a one-year term without any late penalties.

2. Syrians covered under item (1) who wish to return to Syria may also do so without being subject to fines, whether for failing to renew or to obtain a residency permit. They must visit the relevant residency offices to obtain a one-time official exit stamp for departure through Erbil International Airport.

3. Syrians unable to afford air travel costs due to financial hardship may also receive an exit stamp and have their names registered on ground transportation lists through the Pishabour border crossing. In these cases, the KRG will cover the cost of their return.

All residency directorates are instructed to form special committees to oversee the implementation of these measures and to ensure prompt execution.

This decision takes effect on Sunday, June 15, 2025.

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