What is the ruling on the advance and deferred dower in Iraq?

It is permissible for some of the dowry to be paid in advance and some to be deferred, according to what the spouses have agreed upon. This is because the dowry is a consideration in an exchange. If its mention is made absolute, it necessitates immediate payment. If it is stipulated to be deferred to a specific time, then it is due at its appointed time. The woman is entitled to half of the dowry upon the marriage contract, and its entirety upon consummation or valid seclusion. This does not preclude deferring some of it and paying some of it in advance, if agreed upon.