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Types of Iran Visas
Iran provides various visa types to meet different travel needs. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right one.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the official Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-visa portal: ( evisa.mfa.ir ) .
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | For tourism and leisure purposes | Up to 30 days | Available for most nationalities |
| Business Visa | For business-related activities | Up to 90 days | Available for business professionals |
| Transit Visa | For travelers passing through Iran | Up to 7 days | Available for travelers on transit |
| Student Visa | For studying at an Iranian institution | Varies | Available for students accepted by Iranian universities |
Visa-Free Entry (Visa Exemption)
Citizens of the following countries can enter Iran without a visa for a limited period:
- 90 Days: Armenia, Syria, Turkey, Venezuela
- 45 Days: Oman
- 30 Days: Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Egypt, Georgia, Lebanon, Malaysia
- 15 Days: China (including Hong Kong & Macau)
Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Iran
Eligibility for VOA
Iran offers a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for citizens of many countries, allowing travelers to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at major international airports. However, it is important to note that the VOA is NOT available at land borders.
Citizens from numerous countries are eligible to apply for a VOA upon arrival in Iran. However, specific nationalities may face restrictions or may not be eligible for the VOA. It’s essential to verify your eligibility before planning your trip.
Application Process
To apply for a VOA, follow these steps:
- Arrival at Iranian Airports: Upon arrival at one of Iran's major international airports, proceed to the VOA section.
- Required Documents:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the form available at the airport.
- Photograph: Provide recent passport-sized photos as specified.
- Travel Insurance: Present valid travel insurance covering your entire stay in Iran.
- Return Ticket: Show proof of a return or onward travel ticket within the 30-day period.
- Visa Fee: Pay the visa fee in cash (Euros); fees vary depending on nationality.
- Processing Time: The VOA process can be time-consuming, with potential waits of 1-2 hours or more. It’s advisable to arrive with ample time before your flight’s departure.
Important Considerations
- Extension: The VOA is typically valid for 30 days and may be extendable once within Iran, but it's best to confirm the extension process upon arrival.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance is valid in Iran, as it's a mandatory requirement for obtaining the VOA.
- Visa Grant Notice: While not always mandatory, obtaining a Visa Grant Notice before departure can expedite the VOA process upon arrival.
Airports Offering VOA
VOA services are available at several international airports, including:
- Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) – Tehran
- Shahid Dastghaib International Airport (SYZ) – Shiraz
- Isfahan International Airport (IFN) – Isfahan
- Mashhad International Airport (MHD) – Mashhad
- Tabriz International Airport (TBZ) – Tabriz
- Kish International Airport (KHI) – Kish Island
- Qeshm International Airport (GSM) – Qeshm Island
Recommendations
- Advance Application: To avoid potential delays or complications, consider applying for an e-visa or obtaining a visa from an Iranian embassy or consulate before traveling.
- Stay Updated: Visa policies can change; always check the latest information from official sources or reputable travel agencies before your trip.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the official Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-visa portal: evisa.mfa.ir.
Iran e-Visa
Iran offers an electronic visa (e-Visa) system where travelers can apply online before their trip. This helps speed up the visa issuance process.
Official website evisa.mfa.ir.
General Iran Visa Requirements
- A valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond the entry date).
- A completed visa application form.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Proof of travel insurance.
- Visa fee (varies by nationality and visa type).
- Hotel booking or invitation letter (for tourist visas).
Iran Visa Application Process
- Complete the online visa application form via the Iran e-Visa portal.
- Wait for approval (can take a few days to a few weeks).
- Once approved, visit the Iranian embassy or consulate to collect the visa, or obtain a VOA if eligible.
Iran Visa Restrictions
Visitors with an Israeli passport stamp may be denied entry to Iran. It is advised to check with the nearest Iranian embassy before traveling.
It is recommended to check the latest visa policies before traveling, as regulations may change.
Iran Visa for Pakistani, Canadian, American, and British Citizens
Iran Visa for Pakistani Citizens
- Visa Requirement: Pakistani citizens require a visa to enter Iran.
- Visa Type: Tourist, Business, Medical, and Pilgrimage visas are available.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Not available for Pakistani passport holders.
- Application Process: Apply through the Iranian embassy or consulate in Pakistan.
- Processing Time: Typically takes 5-10 working days.
- Visa Fee: Approximately **$40-$80 USD** depending on visa type.
- Documents Required: Passport (valid for at least 6 months), visa application form, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, hotel reservation, and proof of sufficient funds.
Iran Visa for Canadian Citizens
- Visa Requirement: Canadian citizens require a visa before traveling to Iran.
- Visa Type: Tourist, Business, Student, Medical, and Work visas are available.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Not available for Canadian passport holders.
- Application Process: Canadians must apply for an Iran visa through an authorized travel agency or the Iranian Interests Section at the Pakistan Embassy in Washington, D.C.
- Processing Time: Usually takes **4-6 weeks** due to additional security checks.
- Visa Fee: Around **$100 USD**.
- Special Requirements: Canadian travelers must be part of an organized tour with a licensed Iranian guide.
- Documents Required: Passport (valid for at least 6 months), visa application form, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, hotel booking, and an invitation letter from an authorized Iranian host or tour operator.
Iran Visa for American Citizens
- Visa Requirement: American citizens require a visa before traveling to Iran.
- Visa Type: Tourist, Business, Student, Medical, and Work visas are available.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Not available for American passport holders.
- Application Process: U.S. citizens must apply through an **authorized travel agency** or the Iranian Interests Section at the Pakistan Embassy in Washington, D.C.
- Processing Time: Typically takes **6-8 weeks** due to additional security screenings.
- Visa Fee: Approximately **$160 USD**.
- Special Requirements: Americans must travel as part of a **guided tour** with a licensed Iranian operator.
- Documents Required: Passport (valid for at least 6 months), visa application form, passport-sized photos, detailed travel itinerary, hotel reservations, and an official invitation from an Iranian travel agency.
Iran Visa for British Citizens
- Visa Requirement: British citizens require a visa before entering Iran.
- Visa Type: Tourist, Business, Student, Medical, and Work visas are available.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Not available for British passport holders.
- Application Process: British applicants must apply via an **authorized travel agency** or the Iranian embassy in the UK.
- Processing Time: Usually **6-8 weeks** due to additional screening.
- Visa Fee: Around **$250 USD**.
- Special Requirements: British tourists must be part of a **guided tour** with an authorized Iranian agency.
- Documents Required: Passport (valid for at least 6 months), visa application form, passport-sized photos, detailed travel itinerary, hotel booking, and an invitation letter from an Iranian tour operator.
Important Notes
- Travel Restrictions: U.S., UK, and Canadian citizens must have a **government-approved guide** for the duration of their stay.
- Visa Extensions: Available in Iran, but approval depends on the authorities.
- Entry Points: American, British, and Canadian travelers must enter via **airports** and cannot use land borders.
- Visa Rejections: Incomplete documents or lack of an authorized guide may lead to visa denial.
Exceptions & Realities of Overland Travel
British Nationals Traveling Overland
Some UK travelers have successfully entered Iran by land via Turkey and Armenia using their own cars or motorcycles. However, they typically:
- Obtain their visa in advance.
- Travel with a registered Iranian guide, as required by regulations.
- Follow a pre-approved itinerary.
Iranian authorities may permit land entry if all conditions (visa, guide, itinerary) are met. However, entry approval remains at the discretion of border officials.
US & Canadian Travelers: Stricter Regulations
- Americans and Canadians face tighter restrictions and are almost always required to enter Iran by air.
- Many overland travelers have been denied entry at land borders, even with a valid visa.
- Exceptions may apply for travelers on official guided tours booked through a licensed Iranian agency.
Conclusion: What to Expect
- UK citizens have a higher chance of land entry, but approval depends on their visa, guide, and border control discretion.
- US & Canadian travelers should plan to fly into Iran to avoid visa complications and entry denial.
Iran Visa Fees by Country
| Country | Tourist Visa Fee (USD) | Visa on Arrival (VOA) Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | $250 | Not Available |
| United States | $160 | Not Available |
| Canada | $100 | Not Available |
| Germany | $75 | $75 |
| France | $75 | $75 |
| Italy | $75 | $75 |
| Spain | $75 | $75 |
| India | $40 | $40 |
| China | $50 | $50 |
| Russia | $70 | $70 |
| Japan | $60 | $60 |
| South Korea | $50 | $50 |
| Turkey | Visa-Free (90 Days) | Not Applicable |
| Malaysia | Visa-Free (30 Days) | Not Applicable |
| Oman | Visa-Free (45 Days) | Not Applicable |
| Brazil | $80 | $80 |
| Australia | $145 | $145 |
| UAE | $85 | $85 |
Note: Visa fees may change based on bilateral agreements and diplomatic relations. It is advised to confirm with the Iranian embassy before applying.
