An Iran visa is a document permitting a foreign national to enter and stay in Iran for a specified period. Iran issues various types of visas, including tourist, business, student, and work visas. The application process involves submitting an online form, providing supporting documents, and paying the visa fee. The processing time can take from a few days to several weeks. Applicants may need to obtain an authorization number from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or an invitation letter from an Iranian entity. Visa regulations and requirements are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the Iranian embassy or consulate website for the most up-to-date information.
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Important informations
Who Needs an Iran Visa?
Citizens of most countries are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Iran. This includes individuals from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and European countries, among others. The type of visa required depends on the length and purpose of the stay. Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days, while business visas can last up to 6 months. It is important to note that obtaining an Iranian visa can be a complex process, as applicants must provide various documents, including a letter of invitation from an Iranian host or tour operator. Additionally, visa applications may be subject to approval by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is recommended that travelers plan well in advance and consult with the Iranian embassy or consulate in their country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements.
Who Can Get an Iran Visa on Arrival?
Citizens from 41 countries are eligible for a visa on arrival in Iran. These countries include: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, China, Cuba, Georgia, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Iceland, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Macao SAR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Syria, Taiwan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tajikistan, Turkey, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Vietnam-occupied Palestine.
The visa on arrival is valid for a stay of up to 30 days, and can be extended for an additional 30 days at the Iranian immigration office. To obtain a visa on arrival, travelers must present a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and proof of accommodation or a confirmed return ticket. The visa fee is typically paid in cash at the port of entry.
It’s important to note that visa policies can change, so travelers should check the latest requirements with the Iranian embassy or consulate in their home country before departing. Additionally, some nationalities may not be eligible for a visa on arrival and must apply for a visa in advance through the Iranian embassy or consulate.
What Airports Can I Get an Iran Visa on Arrival?
Iran offers Visa on Arrival (VoA) at certain airports for citizens of specific countries. The VoA is available at Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran, Shahid Dastgheib International Airport in Mashhad, and Shiraz International Airport. Eligible travelers can obtain this visa upon arrival by presenting a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and proof of accommodation and return or onward ticket. The VoA is usually valid for 15 or 30 days and can be extended once for an equal period. It’s essential to check the Iranian embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information on eligibility and requirements.
How to Apply for an Iran Visa?
To apply for an Iran visa, follow these steps:
1. Determine the type of visa you need based on the purpose of your travel. Iran issues tourist, business, student, and transit visas, among others.
2. Find the Iranian embassy or consulate nearest to you and check their website for the application process and required documents. Generally, you will need a valid passport, completed application form, passport-sized photos, and proof of travel arrangements.
3. Pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the type and length of your stay. You can usually pay online or in person at the embassy or consulate.
4. Submit your application and supporting documents to the embassy or consulate. Processing times can vary, so allow ample time before your travel dates.
5. Once your application is approved, you will receive your visa in the mail or be instructed to pick it up in person. Make sure to double-check all visa details, including the length of stay and entry and exit points.
Note that Iran visa requirements and procedures can change, so always check with the Iranian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
What Types of Iran Visa I Can Apply For?
Iran offers various types of visas to cater to different travel purposes. Here’s a brief overview:
1. Tourist Visa: For individuals planning to travel to Iran for sightseeing, visiting historical sites, or experiencing the country’s rich culture.
2. Business Visa: Intended for those traveling for business activities such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiating contracts.
3. Student Visa: For individuals enrolled in educational institutions in Iran, including universities, language schools, and cultural institutes.
4. Transit Visa: Allows travelers to stay in Iran for a short period while in transit to another country.
5. Pilgrimage Visa: For individuals planning to visit Iran for religious pilgrimage, such as visiting holy sites in Mashhad or Qom.
6. Journalist Visa: For journalists, photographers, and film crews intending to cover news or produce content related to Iran.
7. Medical Visa: For individuals seeking medical treatment in Iran, including surgeries, rehabilitation, or consultations.
8. Conference Visa: For individuals attending scientific, cultural, or sports conferences in Iran.
It’s essential to apply for the appropriate visa based on your travel plans to ensure a smooth entry into the country.
What Are the Iran Visa Requirements?
Iran visa requirements: To obtain a Iranian visa, applicants must first obtain an authorization code from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or through a licensed travel agency. This code is then used to apply for the visa at the Iranian embassy or consulate in their country of residence. Required documents include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, completed application form, two recent passport-size photos, proof of travel arrangements, and payment of the visa fee. The type of visa issued depends on the purpose of travel, such as tourism, business, or student. Visa processing times vary and can take up to two weeks or more. It is recommended to apply well in advance of intended travel dates.
Iran Visa Fee
Iran visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. Generally, applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee, which can range from $25 to $200. For instance, a tourist visa costs around $60 for most nationalities, while business visas can cost up to $200. It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change and it’s best to check the Iranian embassy or consulate website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, some applicants may be required to pay an additional service fee to the travel agency or visa processing company they use.
How Long Does It Take to Receive an Iran Visa?
The processing time for an Iran visa varies depending on the type of visa and the embassy or consulate where the application is submitted. For touristic visas, the application process can take around 2-4 weeks if submitted in person and 4-6 weeks if applied through the post. Business visas and student visas may take longer, up to 1-2 months, due to additional documentation requirements and approval processes. Applicants are advised to submit their applications well in advance of their intended travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. It is important to note that visa regulations and processing times can change, so it is recommended to check with the Iranian embassy or consulate for the most current information.
Iran Visa for US Citizens
US citizens require a visa to travel to Iran. The Iranian visa application process involves several steps. First, applicants must obtain a letter of invitation from an Iranian entity or individual. Next, they need to fill out the online visa application form and submit it along with the required documents, such as a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and the invitation letter. The application is then reviewed by the Iranian embassy or consulate, and if approved, a visa is issued. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes several weeks. US citizens should note that travel to Iran is subject to US sanctions, and they may face complications returning to the US after their trip. It is recommended that they consult with the US Department of State and a travel agent experienced in Iranian travel for the most up-to-date information.
What is the Duration of the Iran Visa?
The duration of an Iran visa depends on the type of visa issued. Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days, but can be extended once for an additional 30 days. Business visas can range from 15 days to 6 months, and can be extended. Student visas are usually valid for the duration of the academic year, while transit visas allow for a stay of up to 5 days. It’s important to note that the processing time for Iran visas can vary, and applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel date.
Can I Extend an Iran Visa?
Extending an Iran visa is possible, but the process must be initiated before the current visa expires. Travelers can apply for an extension at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or through their local Iranian embassy or consulate. The extension fee and required documentation may vary, but typically include a completed application form, passport, and proof of sufficient funds. It is recommended to apply for an extension well in advance of the visa expiration date to avoid any potential travel disruptions. Approval for a visa extension is granted at the discretion of the Iranian authorities.
Eligible countries
- Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Canada, Colombia, India, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Nepal, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, United Kingdom, United States, Yemen: require a visa obtained from an Embassy or Consulate before travel
- Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bolivia, China, Egypt, Georgia, Hong Kong, Iraq*, Lebanon, Macau, Malaysia, Oman, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela: can enter Iran without a visa (conditions apply for some countries, e.g., Iraq)
*Note: Only holders of diplomatic or service passports from Iraq can enter Iran visa-free.
To apply for a visa, you need a sponsor in Iran who can issue a Letter of Invitation. The travel agency, host, or company in Iran will submit an application with the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Once the application is successful, they will send you a visa code, which you have to take to the Iran Embassy/Consulate along with all the other required documents.
You can also apply for the Iran Visa code online through the website of the Iran MFA. In this case, you still need to go to an Embassy to get the actual visa.
To apply for a Visa on Arrival, you have to receive a Grant Notice from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs beforehand. You can apply for the Grant Notice online at the Iranian MFA’s official website. Once you have the confirmation, you can travel to Iran and appear before the VOA counter to receive your visa.
The types of Iran visas you can apply for based on the purpose of your travel are:
- Iran Tourist Visa
- Iran Pilgrimage Visa
- Iran Student Visa
- Iran Work Visa
- Iran Transit Visa
- Iran Media Visa
- Iran Marriage Visa
- Iran Medical Visa
When you apply for an Iran visa, the documents you need will depend on the Embassy as well as the type of visa. However, you can expect to be required to submit your passport, a picture of yourself, a travel itinerary, your CV/resume, travel insurance, and a paid visa fee.
The Iran visa fee changes based on the following factors: the travel agency that will help you with your visa application, the Embassy/Consulate of Iran where you submit your visa application, and the fee for an Iranian Visa on Arrival, which you have to pay in cash at the Visa on Arrival Issuance office and in Euro currency.
The duration of the Iran Visa depends on your nationality as well as the type of visa you receive. Iran Visa and Visa on Arrival are valid for 30 days. Iran visa for residents of Georgia is valid for 45 days. Iran visa for residents of Turkey, Syria, and Armenia is valid for 90 days. Iran visa for residents of Venezuela and Malaysia is valid for 15 days.
Yes, if you have received an Iran visa in advance or on arrival, you can extend it from the Police Department of Aliens Affairs in a major Iranian city. The process usually takes only about one day. The extension of your visa is based on the initial duration: if you had a 30-day visa, you can extend it for an additional 30 days. If you had a 15-day visa, then you can only extend it for another 15 days, and so on.
Summary
* Most people need a visa to visit Iran, but some citizens of specific countries can enter visa-free for certain periods.
* Iran Visa on Arrival is available at certain airports for citizens of non-visa-exempt countries.
* To apply for an Iran visa, applicants need a sponsor in Iran who can issue a Letter of Invitation.
* Applicants can submit the Letter of Invitation and required documents at an Embassy or Consulate of Iran.
* Types of Iran visas include tourist, pilgrimage, student, work, transit, media, marriage, and medical visas.
* Required documents include a valid passport, picture, travel itinerary, CV/resume, travel insurance, and paid visa fee.
* Iran Visa Fee ranges from €10 to €150 depending on the travel agency and Embassy/Consulate.
* Processing time for an Iran visa is around 5-7 working days for the Iran Visa Code and a few days to two weeks for the visa at the Embassy.
* US citizens must apply through the Iranian Interests Section of the Embassy of Pakistan.
* Iran Visa duration varies from 15 days to 90 days depending on nationality and visa type.
* Iran Visas can be extended from the Police Department of Aliens Affairs in major Iranian cities.