The Ministry of Interior of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has announced new vehicle import regulations for 2026, including safety standards, restrictions on certain vehicle types, and incentives for some models. The rules aim to improve safety, promote environmental sustainability, and streamline import processes across the Kurdistan Region.

According to the new regulations, all vehicles imported in 2026 are required to comply with specific safety standards, including vehicle inspection criteria, the issuance of a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and adherence to additional specific requirements (ABC).

Furthermore, the exhaust system must be in optimal working condition and free from any defects.

2026 Import Restrictions for the Kurdistan Region

The ministry also outlined restrictions for 2026, explicitly prohibiting the import of certain vehicles into the Kurdistan Region, including burnt cars, submerged vehicles, right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles, and low-model cars.

Clarification on Vehicle Mileage and Classification

The ministry has clarified vehicle import regulations, stating that any vehicle covering 200 kilometers or more is considered as having traveled beyond the zero threshold. Specifically, vehicles surpassing 201 kilometers are not classified as zero.

For taxis, only vehicles with zero kilometers are permitted, while private cars must adhere to a model year requirement, with three approved models for the year 2024.

Approved Agricultural and Construction Vehicle Models

Regarding agricultural and construction vehicles, the ministry announced that 16 models manufactured from 2010 onward are eligible for import. For tankers and tow trucks, 11 models from 2015 or later are approved.

Authorized Bus Models for 2026 Import

Buses accommodating more than 25 passengers are limited to nine models from 2017 or newer, while small trucks are restricted to four models from 2017 or later. Large trucks are also limited to nine models from 2017 onward.

Tax Incentives for Eco-Friendly Vehicles in 2026

In a move to encourage environmentally friendly transportation, hybrid and electric vehicles will be exempt from customs duties. Previously, only electric vehicles benefited from such exemptions; under the new guidelines, hybrid vehicles now also enjoy tax incentives, aiming to boost imports of eco-friendly vehicles.

Regulations for Importing Armored Vehicles

The government announced that the import of armored vehicles will be subject to specific conditions, including compliance with applicable year and technical standards. Additionally, once registered in the name of the importer, these vehicles cannot be bought or sold for a period of five years.

Import Ban on Motorcycles

Meanwhile, the Ministry has imposed a four-year ban on the import of motorcycles, with exceptions made for electric motorcycles. The importation of electric motorcycles is permitted exclusively for government agencies and companies involved in delivery and postal services.

Complete Ban on Mini Electric Vehicles

Furthermore, the Ministry of Interior has prohibited the import of mini electric vehicles entirely, which were allowed in the central and southern provinces of Iraq.