The external iliac vein is a large vein that is a continuation of the femoral vein.

It begins above the level of the inferior margin of the inguinal ligament. It enters the pelvis via the vascular lacuna and then ascends medially along the medial side of the psoas major. Reaching the sacroiliac joint, the external iliac vein unites with the internal iliac vein to form the common iliac vein.

Along their course, the external iliac veins are accompanied by the external iliac arteries. The external iliac vein receives the inferior epigastric vein and the deep circumflex iliac vein, and the pubic vein.

The external iliac vein is responsible for draining blood from the muscles and skin in the lower anterior abdominal wall, pelvis, and lower extremity.