1. Contact a KRG liaison office

The KRG has regional liaison offices all over the world to facilitate communication between interested investors and appropriate KRG contacts in Kurdistan. KRG representations abroad will disseminate crucial sectoral information relevant to investors’ interests.

2. Visit the Kurdistan Region

Kurdistan has largely been insulated from the violence in Iraq. The KRG has created a stable security situation where foreigners are welcomed. With incomes on the rise, Kurds are eager to forge long-lasting business partnerships with international investors. In order to clear up any misconceptions about the Region, the KRG strongly recommends that interested investors meet with local government and business leaders, and witness Kurdistan’s outstanding economic progress first-hand.

Currently, airlines provide flights into Erbil and Sulaimania International Airports from Europe and the Middle East, and the Department of Foreign Relations will be happy to organize your visit.

3. Submit an application to the Board of Investment

The Board of Investment is the KRG institution that reviews and processes investment applications. Its “one-stop-shop” design eliminates bureaucratic hassle and provides a decision within 30 days of submission. At this stage, the Investment Board grants all relevant permits and licenses.

An application can be found on the Investment Board’s website: www.kurdistaninvestment.org

4. Talk to other investors in the Kurdistan Region

The KRG Department of Foreign Affairs plays an intermediary role by connecting interested investors with existing investors and local business leaders who have experience in the Region.

5. Set-up shop

The KRG works alongside foreign investors to create a mutually beneficial economic relationship. While our relatively untapped markets show promise for investors who arrive early, foreign direct investment is also essential for advancing Kurdistan’s economic development and integration into the world economy.