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How to get a visa for Iran: an ultimate guide to getting a tourist visa for Iran

How to get a visa for Iran: an ultimate guide to getting a tourist visa for Iran

Traveling to Iran will give you a unique experience of meeting friendly Iranians, visiting its outstanding architecture, discovering its rich history and culture, and enjoying its marvelous natural attractions. Though applying for your Iran visa used to be the most stressful part of travel in the past, it is quite easy and straightforward right now. Fortunately, the Iranian government has eased the visa process to make it possible for the majority of nationalities to simply collect their Iran tourist visa and have a memorable journey to Iran. Iran visa-free entry, Iran visa on arrival, and Iran visa in advance are the options that make the visa process as easy as possible.

Iran visa-free entry is dedicated to some lucky citizens who can travel to Iran without applying for any kind of tourist visa. Iran visa on arrival (VOA) is a kind of visa issued at Iran international airports for citizens of more than 180 countries in the world. It means that nationalities eligible to get Iran VOA can travel to Iran and collect their visa at the international airports without spending much time and money for collecting visa prior to their arrival. Iran visa in advance is a kind of tourist visa you need to apply for 60-90 days prior to your departure. US, UK, and Canadian citizens are ineligible to get Iran visa on arrival; therefore, they need to apply for an Iran visa before arrival(Iran airport visa) for traveling to Iran. 

If you still believe that the visa process looks complicated, read the following article to know how to get a visa for Iran. We have provided you an ultimate guide to getting a tourist visa for Iran. 

Table of Contents:

Can I travel to Iran?

Iran is a safe country to travel and the majority of nationalities can travel to Iran if they get an Iran tourist visa. Some citizens are even so lucky that they can travel to Iran without getting any kind of Iran tourist visa. Visa-free nationals are allowed to stay in Iran for a specific period depending on their nationality. At the moment, Israeli passport holders are the only citizens who cannot travel to Iran at all. 

What kind of visa do I need to visit Iran?

You need to apply for an Iran tourist visa if you are willing to travel to Iran-individually or with a tour group- to see Iran tourist attractions or visit friends and relatives. An Iranian tourist visa allows you to stay for a maximum of 30 days in Iran, but it is possible to extend it.

There are two types of Iran tourist visas and you are supposed to apply for one of them regarding your nationality and priorities:

  1. Iran visa in advance (embassy tourist visa or Iran visa before arrival) 
  2. Iran visa on arrival (Iran VOA or Iran airport visa) 

Iran visa in advance:

Iran visa in advance is a kind of tourist visa you need to apply for 60-90 days before your departure. The process takes one to three weeks. If your visa application is approved, you should collect it from a specified Iranian embassy/consulate located in your home country. Iran tourist visa in advance will allow you to stay in Iran for a maximum of 30 days. It is valid only for 90 days from the issuing date; therefore, your Iran visa will be invalid and null if you arrive in Iran 91 days after the day your visa has been issued. 

Iran visa on arrival:

Iran visa on arrival (VOA) is a tourist visa granted to citizens of 180 countries upon their arrival to Iran. VOA is issued for a maximum of 30 days at any international airport in Iran.  Iran VOA allows you to apply for your visa just 48 hours before your arrival. Not all nationalities are eligible to apply for an Iran visa on arrival. Therefore, you should apply for an Iran visa in advance if you want to get an Iran visa as a US, UK, and Canadian citizen. 

How to get a tourist visa for Iran?

Whether you apply for an Iran visa on arrival or Iran visa in advance, there is just a five-step procedure to get your Iran visa successfully. 

  1. Fill out Iran online visa application (e-visa) form and upload your photo and the front page of your passport according to the requirements.
  2. Wait for the visa application receipt confirmation and the reference number (and pay the visa service fee if a visa supplier or tour company helps you to get your Iran visa). 
  3. Wait for the Iranian ministry of foreign affairs (MFA) to assess your visa application form (it usually takes one to three weeks).
  4. Receive your authorization code from Iranian MFA, in case your visa application is approved.
  5. Pay the embassy fee and collect your Iran tourist visa from the Iranian embassy/consulate you have specified in the form or at the airport when you arrive in Iran. 

You have two options to fulfill this five-step procedure to get your Iran visa. The first option is to do it by yourself and the second one is to let a travel agency help you through the visa process. 

  • Do It by Yourself  

Fill out the online visa application form available on the Iran Ministry of Foreign affairs website or the website of the Iranian embassy/consulate in your home country. If all goes well, Iran MFA will forward the authorization code for you and for the Iranian embassy that you have determined in the form. After receiving the authorization code, you will need to take your passport and the other required documents to the embassy/consulate to collect your visa for Iran. You can also send the documents plus your passport to the embassy and wait until your visa is delivered to your registered address. It usually takes about 6 weeks to get your Iran travel visa; therefore, you will need to apply for it at least 45 days prior to your departure or you could ask travel agencies to help you get Iran visa in a shorter period of time.

  • Ask a travel agency to help you get your Iran visa 

If you ask a reliable travel agency or visa supplier to help you through the visa process, you will need to pay the visa service fee (LOI) varying from $30 to $70 with no refund. In fact, you choose to spend more money to save time. Travel agencies claim that they pave the way for you to get the authorization code in less than 7 working days. They might be very helpful to you; however, it is not guaranteed to get your Iran visa soon. Travel agencies would also ask you to fill out an electronic visa form and pay the visa service fee before sending your visa application to the Iranian MFA. If your visa application is approved by the Iranian MFA, the travel agency will forward the authorization number to you and the Iranian embassy/consulate specified in your visa application form. Then, you can go to the embassy/consulate and collect your visa. At the embassy/consulate, your visa is issued in less than 24 working hours. 

Please note that the process would be slower for American, British, and Canadian citizens. They might be required to get ready for an interview at the embassy.  

What is Iran e-visa?  

Iran e-visa or Iran online visa application form is a visa service available both on Iran Ministry of Foreign affairs website (MFA) and on the websites of travel agencies and visa suppliers that help you through the visa process. Whether you wish to apply for a visa in advance or a visa on arrival, you will need to fill out the e-visa before your departure. You should complete the form with your personal information (first name, birth date, place of birth, occupation, etc.), contact information, passport information, and trip details. Trip details are the most important parts of the e-visa form and it requires information such as arrival and departure dates, travel duration and the place you prefer to get your Iran visa from ( at an Iranian airport or from a specified Iranian embassy/consulate at your country of origin). You are also supposed to upload your digital personal photo and your digital image of your passport before submitting the visa application form. After submitting the form, you will receive an email including a link and a verification code.  You should click on the link and confirm your visa request in 12 hours; otherwise, your application form would be removed automatically from the MFA website. After completing the Iran e-visa form, all you need to do is to wait for receiving your authorization number from the Iranian ministry of foreign affairs (MFA). 

What is the authorization code for getting Iran visa?

If you apply for your Iran visa in advance, you need to receive the authorization code directly from the Iranian MFA or the travel agency that has sent your visa application to the Iranian MFA.  Iranian ministry of foreign affairs is responsible for assessing your visa application and informing you of your visa approval or rejection. The authorization code, also called Grant Notice of Iran Visa, Letter of Invitation (LOI) or Reference Number, is the approval number sent by the ministry of foreign affairs in Iran. Receiving the authorization number is the most important step for collecting Iran tourist visa in advance. It takes one to three weeks to receive the authorization code; however, travel agencies claim that they would receive it in less than seven working days. After approving your visa application form, MFA will send the authorization code to you and the Iranian embassy/consulate that you had specified in the visa form. At the next step,  you need to go to the embassy/consulate with your passport, photos, fee, and other documents they determine in order to collect your visa. An Iran tourist visa in advance is issued for up to 30 days and it must be collected before traveling to Iran. 

What documents are required to fill out the Iran online visa application form?

Whether you complete the e-visa form on Iranian MFA website or fill out the online application form provided by travel agencies, you should have the following documents at hand:

  1. Passport
  2. Travel itinerary, if you have already made travel arrangements.
  3. Résumé- you may be asked to explain your education and work history. 
  4. Digital personal photo regarding the requirements.
  5. Digital image of your passport regarding the requirements. 
  6. More Information– you might be asked to provide additional information for filling out the online application.

Can I apply for Iran visa on arrival (VOA)?

Iran visa on arrival (VOA) or Iran airport visa is a kind of tourist visa issued for the majority of nationalities who want to travel to Iran for tourist purposes. Therefore, passport holders with official and diplomatic purposes cannot apply for Iran visa on arrival. The VOA is only issued at Iran international airports and it is valid for 30 days. Therefore, if you plan to enter Iran overland, you cannot receive a VOA. 

Iran visa on arrival is issued for nationalities from approximately 180 countries around the world, but citizens from US, UK, Canada, Colombia, Somalia, Bangladesh, Jordan, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan are not eligible to get a VOA and they need to apply for Iran visa in advance 60-90 days prior to their arrival. 

Iranian VOA makes traveling to Iran much easier than the past, especially for Europeans. However, one might be denied entry at the airport for some reason. 

What documents do I need to get an Iran VOA?

If you are eligible to obtain an Iran visa on arrival, bring along the following documents to receive your visa at the airport. 

The documents required to receive an Iran VOA:

  1. Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity,
  2. Confirmed return ticket within 30 days,
  3. Photos to be attached to the visa application,
  4. Iran visa stamp fee in cash; it varies from €40 to €150 depending on the applicant’s nationality,
  5. A hardcopy of travel insurance valid for Iran,
  6. An invitation letter or hotel reservation voucher containing contact details. Otherwise, you might be waiting at the airport for a long time. 

What documents do I need to get an Iran visa in advance? 

Documents needed to get your Iran visa in advance might differ from one embassy/consulate to another. Therefore, it is better to check the website of the embassy/consulate you have specified in your Iran visa application form to exactly know what to take along. Here, we mention the most common documents needed to collect your Iran visa in advance at the embassy/consulate:

  1. Passport with a minimum of 6-months’ validity,
  2. passport photos (usually 2 photos are required),
  3. Passport copy,
  4. Visa application form. This one is collected and filled out at the embassy/consulate),
  5. Visa fee. The visa fee varies depending on your nationality, 
  6. A hardcopy of travel insurance valid for Iran. 

After receiving your authorization code from the Iranian MFA, take all the required documents to the embassy/consulate you had specified in the visa application. You are supposed to pay the visa fee and leave your passport at the embassy/consulate and wait for your visa to be issued in less than 24 hours. 

When your visa application is approved, you must have travel insurance in order to collect your visa from an Iranian embassy/consulate in your home country or at a specified international airport in Iran. If you do not purchase travel insurance and do not have printed documentation of it, you cannot collect your visa. Moreover, make sure that your insurance covers your whole travel because some travel insurance cover merely limited regions of Iran. Please note that general terms like “middle east” or “Asia” on your insurance printout are not acceptable and the visa officer looks for the word “Iran” mentioned on your travel insurance document.

Why should I use travel agencies’ visa service instead of MFA e-visa service?

Some travelers have used the MFA e-visa service and got their authorization code in 5 business days. However, many travelers have experienced high rejection risk, difficulty in uploading images, and system errors on the MFA website. Since getting the authorization number is the most important step to get your Iran visa, it makes sense to let a reliable travel agency or visa supplier do the visa process on your behalf and receive the authorization code in 3-4 business days. Remember that granting visas is up to the Iranian MFA and there is no guarantee to get your Iran visa if you apply for it via a travel agency. Moreover, the visa agent will still take a visa service fee regardless of whether a visa is issued or not.  

Who can travel to Iran without getting a visa?

Citizens from the Republic of Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Georgia, Armenia, Venezuela, Egypt, and Malaysia are exempt from applying for a visa to enter Iran. Therefore, tourists from the above-mentioned countries are lucky enough to travel to Iran visa-free for a specific period varying from 15 to 90 days regarding their country of origin. Recently, Iran has approved visa-free travel for Chinese tourists as well and it may add more to the list of Iran visa-free nationals in the future. 

Enjoy visa-free travel to Kish and Qeshm Islands

If you are eligible to get an Iran visa on arrival, then you can enjoy 14-day visa-free travel to Kish Island-as one of the most visited holiday destinations in Southwest Asia- and Qeshm Island-as a great eco-tourism destination in Iran. Many of the European expats who live in Dubai or Doha have this chance to spend weekends in Kish or Qeshm Island without being involved in the visa process. However, if you enter Kish or Qeshm Island and decide to explore more in the vast country of Iran, you need to apply for an Iran tourist visa. Fortunately, the visa application is easy in the free trade zones (Kish and Qeshm islands) and it usually takes less than two working days for the Iranian MFA representative offices to issue your visa, unless there is a serious problem. Americans, British, and Canadians are ineligible to obtain Iran VOA. Consequently, they cannot have visa-free entry to Kish and Qeshm islands. They should apply for an Iran visa in advance before planning a trip to these gorgeous islands located in the south of Iran.

How to travel to Iran as an American, British or Canadian passport holder?

Americans, British, and Canadian passport holders can travel to Iran and enjoy their visit; however, it takes longer to get an Iran travel visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen. As a citizen from the above-mentioned countries, you cannot get an Iran visa on arrival. Therefore, you should apply for an Iran tourist visa in advance _ also called embassy tourist visa_ approximately 60-90 days before your departure. As a US, UK, and Canadian traveler, you cannot either travel to Iran without a guide; therefore, it is necessary to book a trip to Iran via a reliable travel agency before applying for your Iran visa. After booking a tour to Iran through a travel agency, you can apply for a tourist visa, receive the authorization code, and refer to a specified Iranian embassy/consulate to collect your Iran visa.  

How to get Iran visa as a citizen of Bangladesh, Afghanistan or Somalia? 

Citizens of Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Somalia can travel to Iran, but they are neither allowed to apply for Iran e-visa nor Iran visa on arrival. If you wish to travel to Iran as a citizen of Bangladesh, Afghanistan or Somalia, you should go to the Iranian embassy/consulate at your home country to apply for your Iran tourist visa in advance.

What nationalities cannot travel to Iran?

All nationalities are welcomed to Iran except for Israeli passport holders. Iran will not issue visas for Israeli passport holders. Regardless of your nationality, you cannot have an Israeli stamp in your passport.  Though Israel does not stamp passports, having any evidence of entry in Israel such as exit stamps at Jordanian or Egyptian border crossings into Israel will turn you away from entering Iran.

How long does an Iran visa last?

Iran visa on arrival and Iran visa in advance, as two types of Iran tourist visas, are valid for a maximum of 30 days in Iran. Depending on your nationality, you are allowed to stay in Iran for 15 days up to a maximum of 30 days. It is also possible to extend your Iran visa and enjoy your visit for up to 90 days.

How to extend my Iran visa?

You can extend your Iran travel visa whether it is a visa on arrival or a visa in advance. Iran tourist visas will allow you to stay in Iran no longer than 30 days, but it is possible to extend your visa twice to stay in Iran as long as 90 days. However, the possibility of visa extension denial still exists. 

You can extend your visa at any Immigration Visa Office in Iran. The process might take about 24 hours and it is up to the visa officer to extend your visa or not. You may obtain a maximum of 14-day extension or more depending on the officer’s decision.  

Why should I apply for Iran visa in advance instead of Iran visa on arrival? 

Iran’s visa on arrival has made the visa process as easy as possible. Over 180 countries are eligible to easily travel to Iran and get their visa on arrival at the airport. However, there are still some reasons to persuade you to apply for an Iran visa in advance instead of an Iran visa on arrival. 

  • Traveling to Iran overland

Iran visa on arrival is only issued at international airports in Iran. If you aim to cross the borders and enter Iran via the neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, Turkey or Turkmenistan, you must apply for Iran visa in advance. 

  • Securing your Iran visa

Though your visa on arrival is rarely rejected, not having a return flight ticket or not being able to contact your host at the airport are the issues that make the authorities deny your visa on arrival application. Therefore, you might prefer to secure your visa by applying for an Iran visa in advance. 

  • Saving time in Iran

If you get your visa in advance before your departure, you can leave the airport just as you arrive in the country. However, if you prefer to get your Iran visa on arrival, you will need to wait some hours in order to get your visa on arrival issued at the airport. Getting your Iran tourist visa in advance will save you from waiting in visa lines at Iran airports. 

  • Being a citizen of Canada, America, UK, or other ineligible countries to get an Iran VOA

Since not all nationalities are eligible for an Iran VOA, you might need to apply for your embassy tourist visa. Moreover, citizens from the US, UK, and Canada are not allowed to travel to Iran independently. Therefore, they should book a tour to Iran through a reliable travel agency before applying for an Iran visa in advance. 

Why do Iran visa applications get rejected?

Fortunately, the majority of applicants get an Iran tourist visa successfully and roughly 5% of Iran visa applications might get rejected. It is possible to reapply for an Iran visa if your visa application gets rejected once. Anyhow, read the followings to get aware of some reasons why your Iran tourist visa application might be rejected and learn how to avoid visa rejection risk: 

  • Israel passport holders and Israeli stamps in passports

Israeli citizens are not allowed to enter Iran. Unfortunately, as a traveler from another country, you will not be able to obtain Iran visa if you have Israeli stamps or any other evidence of visiting Israel in your passport.

  • Occupying some specific job positions

Iranian authorities are very cautious about some job positions. If you are a journalist, media person, or political character, your visa application is likely to get rejected. 

  • Missing Iran visa documents and requirements

If your visa application does not meet the requirements mentioned in the application form, your request might get rejected. Uploading photo or passport copy regardless of the requirements, not filling out visa form correctly and completely, or representing a 60 day Iran travel itinerary while you know that Iran tourist visa is granted for a maximum of 30 days are some of the reasons that increase the risk of Iran visa rejection. Your documents also need to meet the requirements. For instance, your passport needs at least 6 months of validity; otherwise, your visa application gets rejected.

  • Having no good reason for traveling to Iran

To obtain an Iran tourist visa, you need to clarify that you want to visit Iran for sightseeing purposes. Representing a clear and detailed itinerary can help you prove your claim. Please note that the number of days staying in Iran must match the number of days needed to visit tourist attractions. Moreover, you need to explain what cities and places you want to see and how much time you dedicate to each city or attraction.

  • Diplomatic Relations

If you have been involved in any political actions against Iran, it is more possible to get your Iran visa application rejected. 

Tips to remember before applying for Iran visa

  • If you have dual nationality, your nationality in the visa application form must be the same as that shown in your passport. In case your nationality in the visa form is different from the nationality in your passport, the visa would be void.  
  • You should have at least six months’ validity on your passport before you travel; otherwise, Iran tourist visa will not be granted for you.
  • Your digital photo needs to meet all the requirements mentioned in the Iran visa application form.
  • Your digital copy of the passport needs to meet all the requirements mentioned in the Iran visa application form. 
  • If you should apply for your Iran visa in advance, leave 60-90 days to applying for your visa before your departure and do not book flights to Iran before collecting your visa. 
  • Specify the exact embassy/consulate/ or the Iranian airport where you want to pick up your visa. 
  • Travel agencies could help you through the visa process; however, Iranian MFA makes the final decision on allowing you to enter Iran or not. Therefore, asking a travel agency for Iran visa services does not necessarily mean that your Iran visa application will not be rejected at all.  
  • Travel agencies take their visa service fee, no matter whether you get your Iran tourist visa or not.
  • Iran VOA is not issued for all nationalities. Citizens of the US, UK, and Canada cannot get an Iran visa on arrival. Therefore, they should apply for an Iran visa in advance before traveling to Iran or booking flights. 
  • Citizens of the US, UK, and Canada need to book a tour to Iran before applying for an Iran visa. They are not allowed to visit Iran without a guide. Therefore, an approved guide should accompany them from arrival to departure.
  • When the visa application is approved, it is necessary to have travel insurance in order to collect the Iran visa. General terms like “middle east” or “Asia” on your insurance printout are not acceptable and the visa officer looks for the word “Iran” mentioned on your travel insurance document.
  • Tourist passports will not be stamped in Iran and only electronic visas are issued for travelers. Regarding a US law in 2015, travelers who visit Iran and six other countries would be subject to enhanced security for entering the US later. Therefore, tourists and travelers will not be in trouble for entering the US after visiting Iran.

In order to find Iran visa questions and answers, read Iran Visa FAQs as well.

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Top reasons why you should skip the Alps and go on a ski holiday to Iran

Top reasons why you should skip the Alps and go on a ski holiday to Iran

When it comes to skiing and snowboarding at the best ski resorts and off-piste skiing destinations in the world, the picturesque peaks of Iran, its highest ski resorts, and its marvelous powder fields would rarely come across the mind. It is hard to believe that Iran as the land of vast deserts also boasts the greatest untapped skiing destinations most of the passionate skiers and snowboarders have never heard of. The truth is that Iran has ski runs more challenging than the scariest ski runs in the world. Moreover, its high altitude ski resorts overshadow even the highest ski resorts in the Alps. “For experienced skiers who have ticked off many of the resorts in the Alps, exotic skiing destinations renowned for their powder hold a special allure. Kashmir, Japan, Russia, and Chile are among dream destinations but the ultimate edgy ski trip has to be to Iran”, as Guardian describes.

Here, you will find top reasons why you should skip the Alps and go on a ski holiday to Iran so that you could confidently choose Iran as your next ski destination and enjoy your Iran ski holiday.

Table of Contents:

Iran is a mountainous country

Iran is a mountainous country and different mountain chains cover over 50 percent of the land. The highest peak in Iran is Mount. Damavand (5610m) that is just 285m shorter than Kilimanjaro as the highest mountain in Africa. Alborz and Zagros are the two outstanding mountain ranges of Iran embracing hundreds of summits higher than 4000m. They also embrace over 20 high ski resorts with excellent snow conditions, great terrains, and amazing landscapes.  Avid skiers and snowboarders have this great chance to enjoy the well-groomed pistes of Iran ski resorts or seek for more adrenaline skiing through the steep slopes perfect for backcountry skiing.

go on a ski holiday to Iran as a great mountainous country

Iran is a mountainous country

Iran has high ski resorts

Iran’s high altitudes overshadow some of the highest ski resorts in the Alps. They enjoy the perfect snow condition and the best views of the Alborz and the Zagros Mountains. There are plenty of high altitude resorts and off-piste areas in Iran; therefore, you could ideally choose ski resorts that sit around 3000m or higher.

Tochal ski resort as the highest ski resort in Iran boasts slopes starting from an altitude of 3850m and ending at an altitude of 3550m.

Dizin Ski resort as the first and the biggest ski resort in Iran sits at an elevation of 2650m (8694 feet) in the Alborz Mountains.

Shemshak ski resort as a great mogul ski resort enjoys the high altitude of 3050m, and Darbandsar ski resort as a perfect place for backcountry skiing has pistes sitting at an altitude of 3150m.

Alvares ski resort, Sahand ski resort, Pooladkaf ski resort, and Yam ski resort are also the other high ski resorts in Iran offering easy areas with groomed terrains safe for on-piste skiing as well as fresh backcountry opportunities perfect for freeride skiing and snowboarding.

Iran enjoys the long ski season

Iran enjoys long ski season beginning in late November and ending in early May; however, it might last until the end of May or even June depending on the snow condition.

If you want to try the Persian powder, the best period for skiing in Iran is from early January to late March. Moreover, it is better to go skiing from Saturday through Wednesday to avoid crowded ski resorts as Iranian weekends are on Thursdays and Fridays. Iran’s best ski resorts are also overcrowded during the Nowruz, Iranian new year (March 19 to April 3).

Iran is a backcountry paradise

High- altitude ski resorts and untapped off-piste areas covered in light dry powder make Iran a backcountry paradise for adventurous skiers and snowboarders. Mount. Damavand, as the highest peak (5610m) in the Middle East and Iran, is one of the most thrilling off-piste skiing areas in the world. Moreover,  Iran will offer lesser-known ski resorts perfect for freeride skiing and snowboarding if you are confident in tackling black runs, moguls, and steep slopes. Since locals stick to the marked slopes, plenty of fresh tracks at ski resorts await free-riders. Dizin, Shemshak, and Darbandsar as the best ski resorts near Tehran have suburb off-piste areas accessed by lifts.

Damavand, Dena, Alamkuh, Zardkuh, and Binalood are also among the highest summits of Alborz and Zagros mountains and they will provide the most thrilling off-piste adventure experience in Iran. However, the best way to seek fresh powder, avoid avalanche risk, and ensure maximum safety is to ski with a professional guide who knows all about skiing in Iran. Since the rescue operation takes longer in Iran than in the Alps, be cautious and well-equipped to avoid breaking a leg when enjoying off-piste skiing in Iran.

Top reasons why you should skip the Alps and go on a ski holiday to Iran

Iran is a backcountry paradise for adventurous skiers and snowboarders

Iran has deep powder for skiing

Iran Mountains offer perfect powder rivaling that of the Rockies. Huge snowfalls through the winter turn Iran Mountains into the powder paradise. Skiing powder snow usually begins in January and ends in late March or April depending on the weather conditions.  Dizin ski resort and complex is one of the best ski resorts for skiing powder snow. That is the place where adventure lovers enjoy the super dry snow perfect for backcountry skiing.  Since locals prefer skiing within the groomed pistes, free-riders have the opportunity to enjoy the fresh snow and deep powder runs especially from Saturday through Wednesday when the pistes are mostly empty.

Iran is a cheap ski destination

Though skiing in the best of the Alps ski resorts would cost you a lot, it is still possible to ski on a budget and enjoy this exciting winter sport by choosing a different ski destination. Iran as a cheap ski destination will provide value for your money. While the prices of lift passes in many resorts are high, a lift pass will not cost you more than €30 a day in the best ski resorts of Iran. Renting skiing and snowboarding equipment such as goggles, boards, skis, helmets, technical clothes, and boots is also cheaper than that in the European ski resorts. One day rental for equipment packages varies from €20 to €50 depending on the type of equipment you are renting and how long you are renting it for.

Iran offers affordable ski hotels and chalets

You can always find budget-friendly hotels, hostels, apartments, and chalets in Iran. Booking standard hotels in the main cities will cost you about €30 per night while booking hostels will cost you approximately €8 to €15. Though booking hotels or renting apartments in cities far from ski resorts is more budget-friendly, you can still afford ski-in-ski-out hotels such as Dizin hotel and Shemshak hotel costing you €45 to €100 and enjoy watching the picturesque peaks of Alborz while spending the night in a mountainous area mostly covered with snow.

It also makes sense to rent chalets if you are traveling with a group of 6 to 16 people. Dizin ski chalets are located within a walking distance from the skiing area and they will cost the group €150 to €300 per night depending on the group size and the day of the week (chalets are more expensive during Iranian weekends).

There are also luxurious hotels for travelers whose priority is not the budget but the splendor of the lodging. Labeled as the coolest ski hotel in the world, Barin hotel is a stunning work of modern Iranian architecture. That is the right place for skiers and snowboarders to relax in the warm comfort of its cozy rooms and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Alborz Mountains.

Top reasons why you should skip the Alps and go on a ski holiday to Iran

Iran is a cheap ski destination

Iran has international ski resorts

The International Ski Federation has recognized Tochal, Dizin, Darbandsar, and Shemshak ski resorts suitable for hosting global competitions and international league championships. The ski resorts offer different runs for alpine, cross country, and backcountry skiing and snowboarding. That is why they annually welcome many adventurous skiers, snowboarders, and even non-skiers from around the world and let them enjoy various winter sports. However, Iran ski resorts are not confined to winter sports and they offer a variety of other activities. For instance, Dizin ski resort as a year-round recreation center hosts grass skiing competitions in summer.

Iran boasts high ski resorts near Tehran

Dizin, Shemshak, Darbandsar, Tochal, Khor, and Abali are the best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran, the capital of Iran. Fortunately, they are not off-the-radar resorts and it takes a maximum of three hours to get to the high ski resorts near Tehran.

Tochal ski resort as the highest ski resort in Iran is located right in the city and it takes about 15 minutes to get there from Tajrish square in the north of Tehran.

Dizin, Darbandsar, and Shemshak are the three neighboring ski resorts great for one-day ski trips. It takes less than three hours to get to each of the three neighboring ski resorts. Dizin, Shemshak, and Darbandsar are challenging enough for adrenaline-seeking skiers and snowboarders. Therefore, passionate skiers can enjoy deep snow and steep slopes while snowboarders can enjoy the bumpy mogul runs.

After a long day skiing on the slopes near the capital, you have enough time to visit Tehran as well. Dedicate one day (or more) to sightseeing in Tehran, because it has great palaces, museums, cafes, street foods, bazaars, parks, and mountains to entertain you for hours. Golestan palace- as the only UNESCO site in Tehran-, Museum of national jewelry, Iran archeological museum, Si-e-Tir street, Pol-e-Tabiat (nature bridge), Tajrish Bazaar, Tehran Grand Bazaar, Darband, and Darakeh are just some of the many attractions you would love to visit in Tehran.

Iran offers a different après-ski culture

After spending an exciting day hitting the slopes, it is time for a memorable après-ski experience. Though there are many Après-ski drinks, foods, and activities to enjoy in most of the alpine ski resorts, après-ski culture is a bit different in Iran.  Since drinking alcohol is forbidden, you should not drink wine or beer in Iran. Fortunately, Iran has a strong après- ski culture that is not limited to a drink or two after skiing and you will find many other activities and things to do instead.

go on a ski holiday to Iran and enjoy Iranian's apres-ski culture

Experience different après-ski culture in Iran

Many slope-side cafes and restaurants offer foods and drinks that take the chill out of your bones and warm you up from the inside. Ash (Persian thick soup), Adasi (Persian lentil soup), a cup of tea or coffee, and different kinds of Persian foods and fast foods whetting your appetite are some of the après- ski foods and drinks you could enjoy while appreciating the precious moments chatting with your Iranian friends.

Regarding your après-ski outfits, you can look fashionable just like any other place; however, do not forget to observe dressing codes in Iran. Relaxing in spas is another way to enjoy the pleasures of après-ski. For instance, Alvares ski resort is one of the largest ski resorts in Iran and it takes about 30- minute drive to reach Sarein spa where you could relieve muscle soreness after a day skiing on the slopes. Since ski resorts are mostly close to the main cities of Iran, you have this great chance to enjoy sightseeing as well. Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd are the main Iranian cities to absorb you with fantastic UNESCO world heritage sites.

Iran is famous for Iranians’ hospitality

Travel to Iran not only to experience the thrill of the steep slopes but also to discover the remarkable hospitality Iranians are famous for. Iranians are among the most welcoming people on earth. It takes no effort to have a conversation with them and learn about their rich history, know their ideology, or hear their life stories. After skiing all day long, it is likely to be invited by your new Iranian friends to drink some tea or eat some Persian foods such as delicious Ghormeh Sabzi, scrumptious Fesenjoon, or Succulent kebabs and Joojeh Kebabs. The kindness of Iranians will enrich your Iran ski holiday experience and it will make you positively change your point of view. Once back home, you may also love to share your memorable experiences with your friends and families for encouraging them to visit Iran as well.

Ski in Iran and explore Iran’s culture and nature

Iran enjoys great historical and cultural heritage sites. It has 22 cultural sites and 2 natural sites registered by UNESCO. Since ski resorts are mainly close to the cities, it is easy to organize cultural visits to explore the cultural face of Iran as well.

The outstanding architecture of mosques and bazaars, delicious foods, picturesque nature, and friendly people are the attractions that you will enjoy when traveling to Iran.  Visit Persian gardens in Shiraz, wander around Naqsh-e-Jahan square in Isfahan, admire the awesome architecture of Jameh mosque in Yazd, and stroll around Golestan palace in Tehran to have an unforgettable trip to Iran.

While off the slopes you will experience an amazing culture, you have the chance to discover other exotic adventures as well. Rock climbing, ice climbing, desert trekking, canyoning, paragliding, and birdwatching are the adventurous activities you can enjoy to enrich your Iran travel experience.

Top reasons why you should skip the Alps and go on a ski holiday to Iran

Tehran has suburb off-piste areas accessed by lifts

Skiing in Iran in a nutshell

Ski holiday in Iran will give you a memorable experience of Iran’s highest ski resorts, off-piste areas, affordable ski-in/ski-out hotels, cozy mountain cafes, deep ravines, steep slopes, chest-deep powder, and cheap lift tickets. It has slopes higher than that of the most famous ski resorts and ski runs more challenging than the scariest ski runs in the world. Compared to the European ski destinations, Iran has less developed infrastructures; however, Iran ski resorts boast long ski season (late November-mid May) and untapped skiing areas. Skiing in Iran will also allow you to enjoy sightseeing and visiting UNESCO world heritage sites in Tehran and other main cities of Iran.

Whether you are a beginner or a passionate skier or snowboarder questing for backcountry skiing, Iran has various offers to delight you with a unique ski experience. If you wish to skip the Alps and ski in a lesser-known ski destination, all you need to do is to get your Iran visa and pack your bags to go travel to Iran.

 

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Iran Visa FAQs: Frequently asked questions about getting Iran visa

Iran Visa FAQs: Frequently asked questions about getting Iran visa

Many questions cross your mind when you think about applying for your Iran visa. Here, you will find a list of frequently asked questions about getting an Iran visa. Read the article to get all your questions answered. 

Table of Contents:
  1. How can I get visa on arrival in Iran?
  2. How much is Iran visa fee?
  3. Is Iran safe in 2020?
  4. Is Iran safe for US, UK, and Canadian citizens?
  5. Who can travel to Iran?
  6. Which countries cannot get visa on arrival in Iran?
  7. Which countries do not need visa for Iran?
  8. Can you go to America if you have been to Iran?
  9. Can Canadians travel to Iran?
  10. Can Americans travel to Iran?
  11. Can Brits travel to Iran?
  12. Why should I apply for Iran visa before arrival?
  13. How long does it take to get visa for Iran?
  14. Which countries can get visa on arrival in Iran?
  15. Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Iran?
  16. Do British citizens need a visa for Iran?
  17. Do Americans need a visa for Iran?
  18. Can a US, UK or Canadian citizen travel to Iran without a guide?
  19. How can I get an Iran travel visa?
  20. What documents are required to get Iran visa on arrival?
  21. What documents are required to get Iran visa in advance?
  22. How long does an Iran visa last?
  23. Is it possible to extend Iran visa?
  24. Where to collect my Iran visa on arrival (VOA)?
  25. How to get an Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen?
  26. Do you still need more information on how to get an Iran visa?

How can I get visa on arrival in Iran?

An Iran visa on arrival is issued at the international airports in Iran. If you are eligible to apply for Iran airport visa, you need to fill out the visa application form 48 hours before your departure, and then get your Iran VOA at one of the international airports in Iran. Here, you can see the general process of collecting your Iran VOA at the airport: 

  • Get off the flight and go to the travel insurance desk,
  • Go to the visa desk to answer some questions and fill out relevant forms,
  • Get the receipt and go to the payment window,
  • Go back to the visa desk,
  • Take a seat and wait to get your Iran VOA,
  • Check the visa carefully and enjoy your travel to Iran.

How much is Iran visa fee?

Iran visa stamp fee varies depending on your nationality; therefore, it is better to check the latest prices before referring to the embassy/consulate to collect your Iran visa in advance. It might cost you €50 to €150 depending on your nationality. An Iran visa on arrival will usually cost you more than an Iran visa in advance. If you wish to get your Iran visa on arrival, you will need to pay €75 to €145 at the airport.  Remember that the visa fee must be paid in cash. 

Is Iran safe in 2020?

Iran is a safe country to travel and the majority of nationalities can travel to Iran after collecting Iran visa. If you respect local customs, traditional values, and dress code, you will receive the warmest of welcomes in Iran.

Is Iran safe for US, UK, and Canadian citizens?

US, UK, and Canadian citizens can safely travel to Iran as tourists. All you need to do is to book a tour to Iran accompanied by an approved tour guide, get your Iran visa in advance, and enjoy your trip. 

Who can travel to Iran?

As one of the friendliest countries in the world, Iran welcomes the majority of nationalities who love to travel to this ancient country. Some citizens are so lucky that they can travel to Iran without getting any kind of Iran tourist visa. However, the majority of citizens need to get an Iran visa on arrival or Iran visa in advance in order to visit Iran. At the moment, Israeli passport holders are the only citizens who cannot travel to Iran at all. 

Which countries cannot get visa on arrival in Iran?

Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Colombia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Israel, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Jordan, Nepal, and Bangladesh are not eligible to get Iran visa on arrival (VOA). Therefore, they should apply for an Iran visa in advance before planning a trip.     

Which countries do not need visa for Iran?

Citizens from the Republic of Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Georgia, Armenia, Venezuela, Egypt, and Malaysia are exempt from applying any kind of Iran tourist visa. Therefore, nationalities from the above-mentioned countries can travel to Iran visa-free for a specific period varying from 15 to 90 days regarding their country of origin. Recently, Iran has approved visa-free policy for Chinese tourists as well and it may add more to the list of Iran visa-free nationals in the future. 

Can you go to America if you have been to Iran?

Regarding a US law in 2015, travelers who visit Iran and six other countries would be subject to enhanced security for entering the US later.  That is why Iran does not stamp tourist passports and it only issues electronic visas for travelers. Therefore, tourists and travelers can go to America if they have been to Iran.

Can Canadians travel to Iran?

Canadians can travel to Iran if they get their Iran tourist visa in advance. They are ineligible to get an Iran VOA; therefore, they need to apply for an Iran visa before arrival- also called Iran visa in advance- before traveling to Iran. Since ABC nationalities are not allowed to travel to Iran independently, they must book a guided tour before applying for the visa.

Can Americans travel to Iran?

Americans can travel to Iran if they get their Iran tourist visa in advance. They are ineligible to apply for an Iran VOA; therefore, they need to apply for an Iran visa before arrival- also called Iran visa in advance- before traveling to Iran. Since ABC nationalities are not allowed to travel to Iran independently, they must book a guided tour before applying for the visa.

Can Brits travel to Iran?

British citizens can travel to Iran if they get their Iran tourist visa in advance. They are ineligible to get an Iran VOA; therefore, they need to apply for an Iran visa before arrival- also called Iran visa in advance- before traveling to Iran. Since ABC nationalities are not allowed to travel to Iran independently, they must book a guided tour before applying for the visa.

Why should I apply for Iran visa before arrival?

Though getting an Iran VOA is easy and convenient and nationalities from around 180 countries are eligible to apply for an Iran tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days, it is not a  good choice for all. Some nationalities including the US, UK, and Canadians are ineligible to obtain an Iran visa on arrival and they need to apply for an Iran visa before arrival (Iran visa in advance) before traveling to Iran.  Iran visa on arrival is not issued at borders either; therefore, it is out of use for those who plan to enter Iran by land. Moreover, IranVOA is only issued for tourist purposes and it does not work for those who plan to travel to Iran for business or diplomatic purposes. 

How long does it take to get visa for Iran?

How long it takes to get your Iran visa depends on the type of tourist visa you apply for. If you apply for an Iran visa on arrival (VOA), you will need to fill out the e-visa form at least 48 hours before your arrival, and then you can go to the Iranian airport with the Iran visa reference number and pick up your visa. 

It takes longer to get your Iran visa in advance (Iran visa before arrival). You need to apply for your visa at least three months before your departure. Though the visa process takes about 4 weeks, you should consider unpredicted delays. If you plan to travel to Iran in late March and early April, you need to be aware of Nowruz as an Iranian holiday lasting for two weeks. 

Which countries can get visa on arrival in Iran?

Citizens from around 180 countries are eligible to get an Iran visa on arrival or Iran airport visa. It mostly benefits tourists from Europe.

Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Iran?

Yes, Canadian citizens need to apply for Iran visa in advance -also called embassy tourist visa- before planning a trip to Iran. Moreover, they need to book a guided tour to Iran before applying for their travel visa. 

Do British citizens need a visa for Iran?

Yes, British citizens need to apply for Iran visa in advance- also called embassy tourist visa – before planning a trip to Iran. Moreover, they need to book a guided tour to Iran before applying for their travel visa. 

Do Americans need a visa for Iran?

Yes, Americans need to apply for an Iran visa in advance-also called embassy tourist visa- before planning a trip to Iran. Moreover, they need to book a guided tour to Iran before applying for a travel visa. 

Can a US, UK or Canadian citizen travel to Iran without a guide? 

Citizens of the US, UK or Canada need to book a guided tour to Iran before applying for an Iran visa in advance. American, British, and Canadian nationalities cannot travel to Iran without a guide. It means that an approved tour guide must accompany them all through the trip. ABC nationalities need to book the tour, hotels, and guides before applying for an Iran tourist visa. Usually, when they book a tour to Iran, it includes hotels and guides as well. British and Canadian tourists can hire different tour guides for each city they visit. However, only one tour guide who is specially authorized to guide US tourists in Iran must accompany American tourists through their trip. 

How can I get an Iran travel visa?

Follow this five-step procedure to get either your IranVOA or Iran visa in advance:

  1. Complete Iran online visa application form, upload photo and the front page of your passport regarding the requirements,
  2. Get the visa application receipt confirmation and the reference number,
  3. Wait for the Iranian MFA to assess your visa application form,
  4. Get the authorization code from Iranian MFA in case your visa application is approved,
  5. Pay the visa fee and collect your Iran tourist visa from the Iranian embassy/consulate you have determined in the form or at the airport when you arrive in Iran. 

What documents are required to get Iran visa on arrival?

Documents needed to collect an Iran VOA:

  1. Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity
  2. Confirmed return ticket within 30 days
  3. Photos for the visa application
  4. Iran visa stamp fee in cash
  5. An invitation letter or hotel reservation voucher plus contact details
  6. A printout of your itinerary

What documents are required to get Iran visa in advance?

Documents required for getting an Iran visa in advance varies from one embassy/consulate to another; however, the most common documents are listed as follows:

  1. Passport with a minimum of 6months validity
  2. Two passport photos
  3. Copy of passport
  4. Visa application form to get completed at the embassy/ consulate
  5. Visa fee that varies depending on the applicant’s nationality 
  6. A hardcopy of travel insurance valid for Iran

How long does an Iran visa last?

An Iran visa on arrival and an Iran visa in advance as two types of Iran tourist visas are valid for a maximum of 30 days in Iran. However, it is possible to extend them up to 90 days if necessary. 

Is it possible to extend Iran visa? 

You can extend your Iran travel visa- whether it is a visa on arrival or a visa in advance – twice to enjoy visiting Iran as long as 90 days. However, it is also possible to get a visa extension denial. You can extend your visa at any Immigration Visa Office in Iran. 

Where to collect my Iran visa on arrival (VOA)?

You can get your Iran VOA at one of the following international airports in Iran: 

  1. IKA: Imam Khomeini International Airport, Tehran 
  2. THR: Mehrabad International Airport, Tehran 
  3. MHD: Shahid Hasheminejad International Airport, Mashhad 
  4. SYZ: Shahid Dastghaib  International Airport, Shiraz 
  5. LRR: Larestan International airport 
  6. AWZ: Ahvaz international airport 
  7. OMH: Urmia International airport, Urmia 
  8. KER: Kerman International Airport, Kerman 
  9. TBZ: Shahid Madani Airport, Tabriz 
  10. ISF: Shahid Beheshti International Airport, Isfahan 
  11. BND: Bandar Abbas International Airport, Bandar Abbas 
  12. BUZ: Bushehr International Airport, Bushehr 
  13. KIH: Kish International Airport, Kish 
  14. GSM: Qeshm International Airport, Qeshm 

How to get an Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen?

An Iran visa on arrival is not issued for Americans, British, and Canadians. Therefore, for getting an Iran visa as an American, British or Canadian citizen, you need to apply for Iran visa in advance 60-90 days before departure. Since ABC nationalities cannot travel to Iran independently, you should book a guided tour to Iran before applying for an Iran travel visa. Here, you will find Iran visa process for ABC nationalities:

  1.  Book your guided tour to Iran through an authorized travel agency, 
  2. Complete the visa application form, attach your Job CV, and pay the visa service fee,
  3. Get the authorization code in 30-60 working days, 
  4. Go to the Iranian embassy or consulate you have determined in your visa application form,
  5. Deliver the required documents and get your Iran visa. 

Do you still need more information on how to get an Iran visa?

How to get a visa for Iran: an ultimate guide to getting a tourist visa for Iran, how to get an Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen, and how to get an Iran visa on arrival (VOA) will give you more details on Iran visa process. Read the articles carefully so that you could confidently apply for your tourist visa and enjoy your travel to Iran as one of the friendliest countries in the world.  

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How to get an Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen

How to get an Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen

Americans, British, and Canadians can travel to Iran and enjoy their visit if they get an Iran visa before planning a trip. Obviously, applying for an Iran visa is the first step to take whether you want to travel to Iran with the purpose of visiting its UNESCO sites, trekking in its vast deserts and dense forests, mountaineering, or skiing and snowboarding in the best ski resorts of Iran. Though getting an Iran tourist visa as a US, UK, or Canadian citizen is simple, it is time-consuming and takes a lot of patience. Due to the Iranian government’s regulations, the visa process will take longer for ABC nationalities, but it does not mean that they can not travel to Iran.

If you are from the US, UK or Canada, you are ineligible to get an Iran visa on arrival (VOA); therefore, you should apply for your Iran visa in advance 60-90 days prior to your departure. Moreover, as a US, UK or Canadian passport-holder, you must be on an organized licensed tour accompanied by an authorized tour guide in order to visit Iran. Therefore, you should book a tour to Iran and hire a licensed tour guide before applying for an Iran travel visa or booking flights to Iran.  Though many foreign tourists and travelers can explore Iran independently, American, British, and Canadian tourists cannot travel to Iran without a guide. It means that an approved tour guide must accompany them all through the trip. Fortunately, there are many cultural and adventure tours to Iran to satisfy every taste. Moreover, being accompanies by a knowledgeable tour guide will inform travelers of Iranians’ culture and lifestyle and let them see Iran through the eyes of a local.

Read the following article to know how to get an Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen.

Table of Contents:

Is it safe to travel to Iran as an American, British or Canadian citizen?

Before applying for your Iran visa, you need to know whether it is safe to travel to Iran or not. Fortunately, the answer is yes. You will have a safe trip to Iran as an American, British, or Canadian tourist and you will not feel unsafe or threatened because of your nationality. Our advice to you is to avoid making any public political statements. Instead, find out the truth that political problems between the governments have nothing to do with Iranians’ hospitality toward travelers. Iranians have the warmest feelings for western travelers, and they are not anti-Americans either. Travelling to Iran will provide you the chance to socialize with Iranians and see how friendly and well-educated they are. 

How to get an Iranian visa with an American, Canadian, or British Passport?

As it was mentioned earlier, Americans, British, and Canadians can not apply for an Iran visa on arrival. Therefore, they need to apply for an Iran visa in advance (Iran visa before arrival), if they wish to visit Iran. Moreover, the three nationalities need to reserve a full tour to Iran before applying for a visa. In fact, the Iranian ministry of foreign affairs (MFA) makes it necessary for American, British, and Canadian nationalities to make a tour to Iran from arrival to departure. Moreover, tourists from the US, UK, and Canada need an approved tour guide to accompany them all through the trip on a daily basis.

To get your Iran tourist visa as an American, British or Canadian passport-holder, you should ask a reliable travel agency that offers visa services for ABC nationalities to help you through the visa process. The travel agency will ask you to provide the required documents such as your passport copy, passport photos, and some personal information. Then, it will contact the Iranian MFA on your behalf and wait for an authorization code(Letter of Invitation). It takes 30 to 60 working days (it might take more or less time) to receive the LOI. When the travel agency informs you of your authorization code, all you need to do is to collect your visa from an Iranian embassy or consulate.

Please note that you should book the tour, hotels, and guides before applying for an Iran tourist visa. Usually, when you book a tour to Iran, it includes hotels and guides as well. It is also recommended that you book your international flight ticket after receiving the authorization code. In order to understand the visa process for ABC nationalities, see the following five easy steps: 

5 steps to get Iran tourist visa as a US, UK or Canada passport holder:  

  1. Book your tour to Iran through an authorized travel agency (make sure hotels and guides are also booked through the process).
  2. Fill out the visa application form, attach your Job CV, and pay the visa service fee.
  3. Wait for 30 to 60 working days to receive the authorization code. 
  4. Go to the Iranian embassy or consulate you have determined in your visa application form. 
  5. Submit the required documents, get your Iran tourist visa, and get ready to enjoy your tour to Iran. 

 Where to collect Iran visa as a Canadian, British or US citizen?

After receiving an authorization code issued by the Iranian MFA, It is time to collect your Iran tourist visa from an Iranian consulate/embassy in your country of origin. British citizens can collect their Iran visas from the Iranian embassy in London. However, Iran has no embassy or consulate in the USA and Canada. American and Canadian citizens should refer to Iran’s interest section at the Pakistan embassy in Washington DC or the Permanent Mission of IRI in New York to get their Iran tourist visa. It is not necessary to collect the visa by yourself; therefore, it is possible to mail your passport plus the other required documents and wait for delivery.

Another way to collect your visa as an American or Canadian tourist is to get your visa from an Iranian consulate/embassy in another country such as Turkey or France. Your visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue; therefore, you have 90 days to enter Iran after collecting your Iranian visa. 

How long does it take to get an Iran visa in advance?

Apply for your visa at least three months before your departure date. Though the visa process takes about 4 weeks, you should consider unpredicted delays. The season you apply for your Iran visa, the number of applicants and Iranian national holidays are some of the factors that make the visa process take more than 2 months. For instance, if you plan to travel to Iran in late March and early April, you need to be aware of Nowruz as an Iranian holiday lasting for two weeks. Many applicants also prefer to experience Iran in the spring. Therefore, it will take longer to collect your Iranian visa during this time. 

What documents are required to collect an Iran visa as an American, British or Canadian citizen?

The following documents are required to collect your Iranian visa as a US, UK, or Canadian citizen. Please note that each embassy or consulate has its rules and regulations to issue a visa. Therefore, you need to check what exact documents the embassy/consulate you have determined in your visa application form requires for issuing your Iran visa. 

Iran visa requirements for US, UK, and Canadian citizens:

  • Passport with at least 6 months of validity
  • A passport photo to be attached to the Iran visa application form
  • A travel itinerary provided by an approved guide as well as hotel bookings 
  • A  Job CV( including your job details of the last 10 years)
  • A personal information document (including your name, birth date, etc.)
  • The Authorization code or Letter of Invitation issued by the Iranian MFA
  • Visa stamp fee that varies depending on the applicant’s nationality 
  • Travel insurance covering your travel to Iran 

How much is an Iran visa fee for US, UK, or Canadian citizens?

The visa fee must be paid at the Iranian embassy/ consulate upon your visa collection. It might cost you 50 to 150 euros depending on your nationality. Therefore, it is better to check the latest prices before referring to the embassy/consulate.

Can I get an Iran visa on arrival (VOA) as a US, UK or Canadian Citizen?

Regarding the political issues between the governments, getting an Iran travel visa as an American, Britain or Canadian citizen is not as easy as for other nationalities. Americans, British, and Canadians are ineligible to get Iran tourist visa on arrival(VOA), while nationalities from around 180 countries are eligible to get Iran visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days at one of the international airports in Iran. 

Can a US, UK, and Canadian citizen travel to Iran without a guide?

Americans, British, and Canadians are not allowed to travel to Iran without a guide. In order to visit Iran, ABC nationalities are supposed to get an Iran visa before arrival, book a full tour to Iran, and be accompanied by a licensed tour guide on a daily basis. 

 US, UK, and Canadian tourists cannot travel to Iran independently or go around without a guide. The US, UK, and Canada passport holders must book a tour to Iran and be accompanied by an approved tour guide during their travel. While the British and Canadian travelers can have different tour guides for each city they visit, Americans cannot hire several guides through their trip to Iran. Therefore, only one tour guide who is specially authorized to guide US tourists in Iran must accompany US travelers. Maybe you could find a way not to hire a tour guide or join an organized tour to Iran, but we do not recommend it.

Traveling to Iran with a tour group will give you the opportunity to see more cultural and natural attractions based on a perfect itinerary. It also gives you the chance to be in touch with a local guide who gives you a better understanding of Iranians’ culture and lifestyle. 

Tips for getting an Iranian visa as an American, British or Canadian tourist

  • Apply for an Iran visa in advance 60-90 days before departure.
  • Note that the US, UK, and Canadian tourists are ineligible to get an Iran visa on arrival. 
  • Collect your Iran visa from Iran’s interest section at the Pakistan embassy in Washington DC or the Permanent Mission of IRI in New York, if you are American or Canadian.
  • Check what exact documents the embassy/consulate you have determined in your visa application form requires for issuing your visa.
  • Book an organized licensed tour before applying for an Iran visa.
  • Do not travel to Iran without hiring an authorized tour guide.
  • Note that you cannot travel to Iran independently. You should travel based on a detailed itinerary determined by your travel agency. 

Now you know how to get an Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen. Then, all you need to do is to book your guided tour to Iran, get your tourist visa, and travel to Iran to experience a journey of a lifetime. If you still have questions on getting Iran tourist visa, Iran visa FAQs will help you.

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How to get an Iran visa on arrival (VOA)

How to get an Iran visa on arrival (VOA)

Iran is growing in popularity among tourists and travelers who wish to visit Iran and friendly Iranians, trek through Iran’s vast deserts, climb its high mountains or enjoy a great ski holiday in Iran. For the majority of nationalities, getting an Iran tourist visa is the first step to take before traveling to Iran. Fortunately, the Iranian government has made the visa process as easy as possible in order to welcome more foreign travelers to Iran as one of the friendliest countries in the world. Iran visa on arrival (VOA) is a kind of tourist visa with a simple and fast process. Citizens from around 180 countries are eligible to get an Iran visa on arrival; therefore, they do not need to spend much time and effort to get an Iran travel visa before arriving in Iran.

Iran visa on arrival is issued at the international airports in Iran; it means that the majority of nationalities especially EU passport holders can travel to Iran and enjoy visiting its various attractions without much preparation. Here, you will learn how to get an Iran visa on arrival (VOA). Read the article to know who can get an Iran VOA, how to apply for Iran VOA, what documents are required to get a visa on arrival, and also to obtain other helpful information about getting an Iran visa on arrival.

Table of Contents:

What Is Iran Visa On Arrival (VOA)?

There are two kinds of Iran tourist visas. One is called Iran tourist visa in advance and the other one is called Iran tourist visa on arrival (VOA).  Iran visa on arrival (VOA) or Iran airport visa is a kind of tourist visa issued for citizens of approximately 180 countries upon their arrival. Visa on arrival makes the visa process as easy as possible because the visa is granted just as a visitor arrives in one of the international airports in Iran. Filling out a visa application form 48 hours prior to departure is all one needs to do before arriving in Iran.  Getting an Iran visa on arrival costs 10-150 euros, depending on a traveler’s nationality, and it allows to stay in Iran for up to 30 days. However, it is possible to extend the Iran visa. 

What is the difference between “visa on arrival” and “visa-free entry” for traveling to Iran?

Visa-free entry:

It allows citizens of certain countries to travel to Iran visa-free for a specific period varying from 15 to 90 days regarding their country of origin. In other words, citizens of these countries need to obtain neither a tourist visa in advance nor a tourist visa on arrival; all they need to bring along is their valid passports. Visa-free entry is usually determined based on a mutual agreement between two countries for some good reason. 

Visa on arrival (VOA):

It is a kind of tourist visa issued upon arrival at one of the international airports in Iran. It has made the visa process as fast as possible; however, it is different from the visa-free entry that allows eligible citizens to enter Iran without having any kind of tourist visa. A person who needs to get a VOA is not allowed to enter the country visa-free. In order to get an Iran visa on arrival, one needs to fill out the visa application form 48 hours prior to arrival and collect the visa at one of the Iranian airports determined in the visa application form. It is possible to complete the visa application form just upon arrival, but it takes a lot of time. Therefore, our advice is to do it before departure. 

How to get an Iran visa on arrival (VOA)? 

The general process of getting your Iran VOA is the same at all international airports in Iran; however, it might differ from one airport to the other one in some aspects. To secure your visa process, it is better to have all the required documents at hand. Moreover, you need to be patient with the visa process at the airport because the Iranian visa process is not a quick stamp in your passport. It might take your time from 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on your arrival time and the number of people in line applying for an Iran visa on arrival.

Here, we will inform you of the general process of collecting your Iran VOA at the airport: 

  • Get off the flight and go to the travel insurance desk

The travel insurance desk is located in the middle of the hall. You need to get your insurance stamped and verified. Make sure your insurance covers the “Islamic Republic of Iran” because general words such as the Middle East or Asia do not convince the officer to stamp your insurance. It is recommended that you get your travel insurance before arrival to avoid wasting time at the airport and buying Iranian travel insurance with limited coverage. However, if you have no insurance, you can buy it at the counter. 

  • Go to the visa desk to answer questions and fill out relevant forms

The officer might ask whether you have a letter of invitation and your e-visa form (it must be completed and approved at least 48 hours before your arrival). Then, you will need to fill out a form with some basic information such as your name, job (jobs related to journalism and blogging might face some difficulty), passport number, and accommodation in Iran (name and address of your first night stay in Iran). Have your booking confirmation and the phone number at hand. The visa officer might call your host to assure you are staying there. After answering the officer’s common questions and completing the form, you will get a receipt on which the cost of your visa stamp has been written. 

  • Get the receipt and go to the payment window

You should go to the payment window and pay your visa fee in cash (US dollar or Euro, Euro is preferred). Then, you will get a receipt for your payment. Since you cannot pay the price by credit cards, remember to bring enough cash.

  • Go back to the visa desk

Take your payment receipt along with your passport to the visa desk and wait for getting your Iran visa on arrival.

  • Take a seat and wait

Depending on the number of people in line, it might last for 30 minutes or even 4 hours to get your Iran VOA. Therefore, you need to be patient until the officer calls out your name. Now, it is time to go back to the window to collect your passport including a shiny Iranian visa.

  • Check the visa carefully

Check the dates and details of your Iran visa on arrival. If there is a problem, you can fix it only at the airport. For instance, your visa might be granted only for 15 days instead of 30 days. In case, inform the visa officer and ask for help. 

What Documents do you need to get Iran Visa on Arrival (VOA)?

Here, there is a list of documents required to get your Iran VOA at an international Iranian airport:

  • Passport with at least 6 months of validity at the time of departure,
  • A photo to be attached to your Iran visa application form,
  • Iran visa stamp fee, payable to the chosen Iranian consulate or visa and passport office at the airport,
  • A confirmed return ticket within 30 days,
  • A hardcopy of travel insurance valid for Iran, 
  • An invitation letter or a hotel reservation voucher, 
  • A printout of your itinerary.

Helpful tips about getting Iran visa on arrival (VOA) at Iranian airports 

  • When you arrive at the airport, you might need just some of the mentioned documents to get your Iran visa on arrival; however, it is better to have all the required documents to make the process faster and easier. Moreover, you need to have them printed because saving them on your phone is not enough to get your Iran airport visa.  
  • If you do not have any travel insurance, you can buy it at the airport. Since the insurance you purchase at the airport offers very limited coverage, we recommend you buy good travel insurance before your departure.  Please note that general terms like “middle east” or “Asia” on your insurance printout are not acceptable and the visa officer looks for the word “Iran” mentioned in your travel insurance document.
  • Apply for your invitation letter before your arrival at the airport. You can apply for the invitation letter by yourself or through a trustworthy travel agency. All you need to do is to complete the e-visa application available on the website of the Iranian ministry of foreign affairs (MFA). It takes at least 48 hours to get your e-visa approved. Print the visa form and show it to the visa officer at the international airport in Iran.
  • You also need to provide the hotel reservation document. Even if you do not want to spend much on staying at hotels, book one night so that you could receive the booking documents from the hotel or the hostel. Make sure you have the phone number of the hotel or hostel because the officer might call it to confirm your booking. 
  • Though having the itinerary is not necessary, it is better to bring your itinerary with you to assure the visa officer of your travel plan. 
  • Iran visa stamp fee varies depending on your nationality. The fee equals €75 for most of the European nationalities, while it costs €145 for Australians. You need to pay your visa fee in cash. You can pay in Euro or US Dollar, but Euro is preferred.

What airports in Iran issue visa on arrival (VOA)?

Here is the list of Iranian airports where you can get on arrival visa for a maximum of 30 days: 

  1. Imam Khomeini International Airport, Tehran (IKA)
  2. Mehrabad International Airport, Tehran (THR)
  3. Shahid Dastghaib  International Airport, Shiraz (SYZ)
  4. Shahid Hasheminejad International Airport, Mashhad (MHD)
  5. Shahid Madani Airport, Tabriz (TBZ)
  6. Shahid Beheshti International Airport, Isfahan (ISF)
  7. Kish International Airport, Kish (KIH)
  8. Qeshm International Airport, Qeshm (GSM)
  9. Bandar Abbas International Airport, Bandar Abbas (BND)
  10. Urmia International airport, Urmia (OMH)
  11. Kerman International Airport, Kerman (KER)
  12. Larestan International airport (LRR)
  13. Bushehr International Airport, Bushehr (BUZ)
  14. Ahvaz international airport (AWZ)

Please note that the Iran visa on arrival is only issued at the international airports in Iran. Iran visa on arrival is also issued for marine travelers who enter Iran via Shahid Rajaee Port in Hormozgan province.  If you are traveling to Iran by land, make sure to have a visa in your passport before arriving at a land border.

Do You Need a Letter of Invitation to get an Iran Visa on Arrival?

Having a letter of invitation (LOI) will speed up your Iran VOA process at the airport. You can complete an e-visa form on the website of the Iranian ministry of foreign affairs for free and request your letter of invitation to be sent to the Iranian airport instead of the embassy/ consulate at your country of origin. The visa application form needs to be approved at least 48 hours before your arrival. Instead of filling out the application form for free, you can pay the service fee and let a  reliable travel agency do the process on your behalf. It is also possible to ignore the process and spend much time upon your arrival to complete forms at the Iranian airport. However, our advice is to do it before you travel to Iran to speed up the process and save time. 

How much is the fee for Iran visa on arrival?

Iranian visa fee varies depending on your nationality. Typically, the price ranges from 30 to 150 euros for all nationalities eligible to apply for an Iran visa on arrival. While the visa fee equals 75 euros for most of the western nationalities, Australian citizens have to pay 145 euros to collect their Iran visa on arrival. Applying for your e-visa at least 48 hours before arrival would be free unless you ask a travel agency to help you through the process. Usually, travel agencies will charge you for their visa services.  

How long does an Iran visa on arrival last?

An Iranian visa on arrival lasts for a maximum of 30 days. Though it used to be 14 days, in the beginning, it allows you to enjoy visiting Iran up to 30 days now. Therefore, if you noticed that your visa on arrival is issued only for 14 days, ask the visa officer at the airport to correct it. 

How to extend Iran visa on arrival?

You can extend your visa on arrival at an immigration office around Iran. To do so, the officer at the Iranian foreign affairs office should find it necessary. If you need to extend your visa, it is much better to do it in smaller cities rather than big cities such as Tehran, Mashhad, or Isfahan. Extending a visa is easier and more convenient in smaller cities.

Does Iran stamp passports when getting Iran visa on arrival?

Iranian authorities do not stamp tourists’ passports and only electronic visas are issued for travelers. Regarding a US law in 2015, travelers who visit Iran and six other countries would be subject to enhanced security for entering the US later. In order to let foreign travelers visit Iran without getting worried about entering the US, Iran does not stamp travelers’ passports anymore. 

Who Cannot Get an Iran Visa On Arrival (VOA)?

Getting an Iran VOA is really easy and convenient and citizens from 180 countries could apply for Iran visa on arrival. However, Iran VOA is not suitable for all tourists and travelers. Some nationalities including the US, UK, and Canadians are not eligible to obtain an Iran visa on arrival. To get an Iran visa as an American, British or Canadian citizen, one needs to apply for an Iran visa in advance (Iran visa before arrival or an embassy tourist visa) 60-90 days before departure. Iran visa on arrival is not issued at borders either; therefore, it is out of use for those who plan to enter Iran by land. Moreover, an Iran visa on arrival is only granted for tourist purposes and it does not work for those who plan to travel to Iran for business or diplomatic purposes. 

If you fall into one of the following categories, you cannot get an Iran tourist visa on arrival and you need to apply for your Iran visa in advance or refer to the embassy/consulate in your home country to ask for some advice. 

  • Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Colombia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Israel, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Jordan, Nepal, and Bangladesh   
  • Israel passport holders
  • Anyone with an Israeli stamp in their passport (or exit stamps at the relevant Jordanian or Egyptian border crossings into Israel)
  • Journalists and reporters
  • Diplomatic passport holders, official passport holders, and business persons 
  • Applicants whose Iran visa applications have been rejected previously.
  • Iranian nationals holding foreign passports 

Can a citizen of the US, UK, and Canada apply for Iran Visa on arrival (VOA)?

US, UK, and Canada passport holders are not eligible to apply for an Iran visa on arrival, but they can travel to Iran and enjoy its tourist attractions. As an American, British or Canadian tourist, you should apply for an Iran visa in advance at least 90 days before your departure. Regarding the political relations among the countries, you will also need to book a tour to Iran accompanied by a licensed guide all through the travel.

Can I Get an Iran VOA If I Travel to Iran Overland?

Iranian tourist visa on arrival is only issued at the international Iranian airports for a maximum of 30 days. It means that you cannot get an Iranian VOA if you are traveling overland. Instead, you will need to apply for your Iran visa in advance also called Iran visa before arrival, if you are eligible to travel to Iran.

Do I need to apply for an Iran visa in advance instead of an Iran visa on arrival?

  • Iran VOA is not issued for citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Colombia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Israel, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Jordan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Therefore, if citizens of the above-mentioned countries, except for Israel passport holders who cannot travel to Iran at all, wish to visit Iran, they should apply for an Iran visa in advance or refer to the Iranian embassy/consulate at their country to ask about the process of getting an Iran visa. 
  • Iran VOA is only issued for tourist purposes up to 30 days; therefore, travelers with other purposes cannot apply for Iran VOA. 
  • Iran VOA is only issued at the International airports of Iran, so a traveler who plans to travel to Iran by land would need to apply for Iran visa in advance. 
  • Iran VOA is not cheaper than Iran visa in advance; therefore, one may prefer to spend much time rather than much money to get an Iran visa in advance. 
  • Iran VOA has a minimum risk of rejection. However, if a traveler’s application for an Iran VOA is rejected at the airport, he/she would have to buy a return flight and pay for the extra costs. Though VOA rejection occurs in rare cases, some people prefer not to risk it and apply for an Iran visa in advance instead.

Iran Visa on Arrival Tips and Guides

Applying for a visa is the most difficult part of a trip to any country including Iran. Fortunately, traveling to Iran as a safe country has been growing among tourists and travelers over the past few years. To welcome more visitors in Iran, the Iranian government has made the visa process as easy as possible, Iran visa on arrival as a kind of tourist visa issued at International airports in Iran allows citizens from around 180 countries to collect their visa upon their arrival at the Iranian airports and enjoy their journey for a maximum of 30 days. Though Iran visa on arrival has an easy process, there are some tips and guides about collecting an Iran VOA:  

  • If your Iran visa application has been rejected previously, you cannot apply for an Iran visa on arrival.
  • Iranian visa on arrival is issued only for tourist purposes; therefore, it is not helpful for those with business or diplomatic purposes. 
  • Journalists and reporters on a mission cannot get an Iran visa on arrival.
  • Bloggers might face difficulty in the process of getting Iran visa on arrival. It is better to mention online marketing as your job instead of blogging. 
  • US, UK, and Canada passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival for Iran.  
  • You need to fill out the e-visa form at least 48 hours before your arrival, and then you can go to the airport with the Iran visa reference number and pick up your visa. If you forget to do so, you will have to spend more time at the airport to complete the form.
  • When completing the e-visa form, determine the international airport you will arrive at as the place you want to collect your visa. 
  • Bring along the required documents for getting your Iran VOA and also have the phone number of your host in Iran. The visa officer might call your host to confirm your booking. 
  • Valid Travel Insurance is needed at the Iranian Airports. Make sure “Iran” is mentioned in your travel insurance coverage because the officer will not accept general words such as Asia or the Middle East.  
  • If you have an Israeli stamp in your passport, you cannot apply for an Iran visa on arrival. Therefore, you should ask for a new passport before applying for an Iran visa.

If you have more questions on getting an Iran visa, Iran visa FAQs will help you find the answers.

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Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran

Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran

Iran has the greatest ski resorts and untapped off-piste skiing areas most of the avid skiers and snowboarders have never heard of. It has pistes higher than the top ski resorts in the world and it boasts long ski season starting from November and ending in June. There are more than 20 ski resorts in Iran. Surprisingly, the best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas are near Tehran, the vivid capital of Iran. Dizin, Shemshak, Darbandsar, Tochal, Khor, and Abali are the top ski resorts within a day’s drive of Tehran. These high altitude ski resorts are all nestled in the Alborz Mountains and they have a picturesque view of Mt. Damavand-as the highest peak (5620 M) in the Middle East and one of the most thrilling freeride skiing and snowboarding destinations in the world.

Though the ski resorts try to keep up the demand by adding hotels, chalets, restaurants, and après-ski entertainment, the snow quality is what matters for the skiers and snowboarders. The resorts offer easy areas with groomed terrains as well as fresh backcountry opportunities perfect for freeriding. Moreover, the challenging backcountry terrains, excelled snow conditions, long ski season, cheap accommodation, and satisfactory lift access put the top ski resorts near Tehran on passionate skiers and snowboarders’ bucket list. Here, we will introduce you the best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran so that you could confidently choose Iran as your next ski destination, get your Iran travel visa, and enjoy a memorable ski holiday in Iran as one of the friendliest countries in the world.

Dizin International ski resort

Dizin international ski resort is the first and the biggest ski resort in Iran and it is famous as a round-year destination for outdoor recreation activities. Dizin ski resort is nestled in the Alborz Mountains at an elevation of 2650m and it boasts long ski season starting from late November and ending in early May. It offers up to 18 kilometers of slopes perfect for one-day skiing near Tehran. Dizin resort has green, blue, black and double black diamond runs that satisfy skiers and snowboarders with different ski levels.

Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran - Dizin

Dizin ski resort – Tehran (Photo by Alisamii [CC BY-SA 2.0])

Dizin complex has several gondolas and chairlifts; the highest lift reaches an altitude of 3600m that is much higher than many other ski lifts in Europe or North America. As a great winter-summer resort, Dizin offers various sports activities such as grass-skiing, tennis playing, mountain climbing, hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking. Dizin is also a great resort for backcountry skiing in Iran. Since locals stick to the marked slopes, plenty of fresh tracks are left for avid freeriders searching for untapped steep slopes and deep powder snow. It also boasts a vertical drop of 850m; however, it is highly recommended that you go off-piste skiing with experienced ski guides.

Dizin ski resort is an ideal place for single day skiing, but if you prefer to spend more time at the resort, you will have some good ski accommodation choices there. Dizin hotel as a ski-in-ski-out hotel is a perfect choice to spend a night in the heart of mountains and enjoy the picturesque peaks of Alborz. Dizin chalets are also great for those who prefer to ski on a budget.

To get to Dizin ski resort from Tehran, you should take a ride through the Chalus route or Shemshak route. The best way for you as a tourist is to take a taxi from Tajrish square in Tehran and reach Dizin ski resort in 2 hours. Do not forget to check the weather before planning a single day trip to Dizin or booking a ski tour.

Darbandsar international ski resort

Darbandsar international ski resort is a private ski resort sitting on the slopes of Mount Seechal 60 km northeast of Tehran. Darbandsar ski resort offers trails for beginners, intermediate skiers, and advanced skiers and snowboarders from early December until late April or early May. It will also let you enjoy summer skiing in July when the other ski resorts offer summer activities such as grass skiing or tennis playing. After Dizin, Darbandsar is the largest ski resort in Iran. The lowest piste in Darbandsar has an altitude of 2650m and the highest one has an altitude of 3150m.

Darbandsar is also the most challenging ski resort in Iran after Shemshak. It offers plenty of untouched powder perfect for opp-piste skiing and it is possible to ski from Dizin to Darbandsar without losing time in lift queues.

Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran - Darbandsar

Darbandsar Ski Resort – TEHRAN (Photo by Mohsen Rajabi)

Though Darbandsar ski resort is an ideal destination for one day skiing, you can rent suites or book hotels in Darbansar village and spend a night there instead of heading back to Tehran. You can also book hotels in Shemshak or Dizin ski resort, as the three ski resorts are very close to each other. In order to get to Darbandsar, you need to have a road trip lasting for one hour and a half. When you reach there, you have the chance to experience other sports activities such as hiking, mountain biking, ice climbing, alpine scrambling, and rock climbing as well.

Shemshak international ski resort

Shemshak international ski resort is one of the best mogul ski resorts in Iran located in the heart of Alborz Mountains. As the most challenging ski resort in Iran, Shemshak ski resort offers the steepest slopes and it boasts bumpy mogul runs and spine-tingling slopes tackling for avid snowboarders and skiers. Cross-country opportunities, thrilling mogul runs, and good powder have made Shemshak ski resort an ideal place for skiing and snowboarding from November to April.

Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran - Shemshak

Shemshak Ski Resort, Tehran (Source: Tasnimnews)

Shemshak ski resort has double and triple black diamond runs at high altitudes of 2500m to 3000m and that is the reason why Shemshak is a perfect place for backcountry skiing and snowboarding. Shemshak ski resort is equipped with good lighting so that passionate skiers and snowboarders could enjoy night skiing as well. Shemshak resort is also a great place for one single day skiing, but if you prefer to spend a night in a mountainous area, ski accommodation is also provided for you.  Shemshak Barin hotel as one of the coolest ski resorts in the world is a luxury ski hotel that makes memorable accommodation for you and gives you the chance to enjoy the scenic scenery of Alborz Mountains.

If you prefer to ski on a budget, Shemshak tourist hotel as the nearest hotel to the ski fields is a good ski-in/ski-out hotel for you. Shemshak ski resort is one of the best ski resorts for a weekend ski holiday and it just takes a 90-minute ride to get there from Tehran.

Tochal international ski resort and complex

Tochal international ski resort is one of the 10 highest ski resorts in the world. It is located right in Tehran, the vivid capital of Iran. Its high slopes start from the foot of Tochal peak at an altitude of 3850m and end at an altitude of 3550m near Tochal Hotel as a wonderful ski-in-ski-out hotel where you can enjoy the extraordinary panorama of the Alborz Mountains. Tochal resort boasts long ski season beginning from November and ending in June. It also has 6km of slopes suitable for skiing and snowboarding. Tochal ski resort is a perfect choice for on-piste and off-piste skiing eight months of the year.

Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran - Tochal

Tochal Ski Resort, Iran – Tehran (Photo By Aida Daneshmand)

The skiing area is accessed by Tochal gondola lift that is based at an altitude of 1900m and reaches the last station at an altitude of 3740m. Therefore, experienced skiers and snowboarders have the chance to take a 50-minute gondola ride to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a perfect winter day at Tochal ski resort. As one of the nearest high ski resorts to the capital, Tochal ski resort and complex is a great place for skiing, snowboarding, and acclimatization before skiing in Damavand Mountain. It is not confined to winter sports and there are many other activities to enjoy at Tochal complex.  Tennis courts, skate rinks, paintball arenas, ski school, shooting club, summer sled, fitness clubs, and zipline are the facilities provided for your leisure time at Tochal complex.

Though you will not find beers or wines in Iran, you still can enjoy après-ski culture there. There are many cafes, restaurants, and fast foods at the Tochal complex to warm you up with different après-ski foods and drinks.

Tochal ski resort is very popular with ski day trips as it is the highest ski resort in Iran and the most easily accessed ski resort in Tehran. It takes just 15 minutes to take a taxi from Tajrish square and get to the Tochal ski resort and complex.

Khor ski resort 

Khor ski resort is close to Khor village and it is located 65km northwest of Tehran. The ski resort sits at an elevation of 3000m and it offers two ski routes with a length of 1850m and 350m. The ski season at Khor resort runs from mid-January until March; therefore, skiers and snowboarders could enjoy planning a short ski break near Tehran. High slopes of Khor ski resort provide a picturesque view of the mountains. If you do not have ski equipment, you can rent skiing and snowboarding gear at Khor ski resort. If you prefer to spend a night in the mountains, you can rent a three-bedroom villa at the resort; however, you can head back to Tehran and book one of the budget-friendly hotels or hostels there around.

Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran - Khor

Khor ski resort, Tehran (Source: khor-ski.com)

In order to get to the Khor ski resort, you should go through Karaj-Chalus road as one of the most spectacular roads in the world. It is a short drive away and it makes a memorable ski holiday for you.

Abali ski resort

Abali ski resort is the oldest ski resort in Iran, built in 1953. In fact, Abali ski resort has been the birthplace of the ski as a winter sport in Iran. The first mechanical lifts in Iran were installed in Abali ski resort.  The lowest piste at Abali is located at an altitude of 2,400m while the highest piste has an altitude of 2650m. The slopes of Abali are good for beginner skiers, snowboarders, and Alpine skiers. It also has a ski school with experienced coaches who teach skiing to newcomers. Though snowboarding, off-piste skiing, and ski mountaineering are the popular winter activities in Abali, many Iranians get there to have a great winter picnic in the snow.

The ski season in Abali starts in December and ends in March. There are no hotels or chalets in Abali ski resort; then it is better to head back to Tehran or rent suites in the beautiful village of Mosha that is a 5-minute drive away from Abali ski resort. Horse riding, hiking, trekking, and tennis playing are the summer activities at Abali resort. Usually, people spend weekends there to enjoy the good weather, eat delicious foods in its many traditional restaurants, and have its popular drink called Dough-e-Abali as a famous carbonated yogurt drink in Iran.

Best ski resorts and off-piste skiing areas near Tehran - Abali

Abali ski resort, Tehran (Source: Mehdi [CC BY-SA 3.0])

Abali ski resort is located 75 km far from Tehran and it takes about an 80-minute drive to go to Abali ski resort through Haraz road. However, note that Haraz road is over-crowded on weekends and it might take much longer to get there. Abali ski resort is also the nearest ski resort to Damavand.

If you wish to skip the Alps and go on a ski holiday to Iran as a cheap ski destination, you can have a great winter holiday skiing at the highest ski resorts in Iran. Dizin, Shemshak, and Darbandsar are the three neighboring ski resorts near Tehran. They offer steep slopes challenging enough for those looking for adrenaline ski experience. Chair lifts and gondolas provide access to the high altitude slopes and new lifts might eventually link the neighboring resorts and turn them into one of the best ski destinations in the world. Tochal ski resort as one of the top 10 highest ski resorts in the world has a lot to amaze ski lovers. Abali ski resort as the oldest ski resort in Iran attracts many locals to enjoy their vacation and Khor ski resort located in the winding Chalus road is a great weekend ski resort near Tehran.

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Is Iran safe to travel? guides and tips about safety in Iran

Is Iran safe to travel?

*** Before reading this article please consider warnings of your own country about traveling to Iran.  Your own country’s travel advice for or against traveling to Iran has priority and should be taken seriously. If there is no warning, keep reading this article. 

All guides and tips you need to know about safety in Iran:

Is it safe to travel to Iran? How safe is Iran for western tourists? Is Iran safe for solo travelers? Is it safe to visit Iran at all? These are some of the many questions that occupy your mind before traveling to Iran. Then, it makes sense to ask about safety in Iran before getting an Iran visa , dreaming of meeting its friendly people, visiting its UNESCO sites, hiking across its vast deserts, skiing at its best ski resorts, climbing its high mountains or exploring its deepest caves and canyons. Here, you will find all the guides and tips you need to know about safety in Iran. Read the article, get all your questions answered, and then pack your back for going on a wonderful trip to Iran as one of the friendliest countries in the world.

Table of Contents:

Is Iran safe to travel?

The short answer is yes! Iran is safe and Lonely Planet describes it in the best way possible, “Iran is generally a very safe place to travel, so much so that many travellers describe it as the safest country I’ve ever been to.”

It is a must to feel safe when visiting the historical sites of Pasargadae and Persepolis, strolling along fragrant Persian gardens or wandering around Iran’s crowded bazaars.

Is Iran safe to travel?

Milad Tower, Tehran – Iran

Is it safe to visit Iran?

It is time to challenge your preconceptions and your pre-trip mindset about Iran. Iranians are neither terrorists nor anti-tourist persons. Iran is safe for tourists and travelers if they take normal travel precautions. As a traveler, you will receive the warmest of welcomes in Iran, provided you respect local customs, traditional values, and dress code. Therefore, tourists with different religions and beliefs can travel to Iran, have fun, and feel its friendly atmosphere. Michael shares his Iran travel experience as he says, “Iranians are not only some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, but most people don’t realize that they are also some of the most highly educated.”

Is Iran safe for US citizens, British citizens, and Canadian citizens?

US citizens, British citizens, and Canadian citizens can safely travel to Iran as tourists. Though the political issues between the Iranian government and the governments of the above-mentioned countries have affected tourism and brought about some complexity, it does not mean that you cannot travel to Iran and enjoy your journey as a US, UK or Canadian tourist.  If you wish to have a trip to Iran, all you need to do is to book your guided Iran tour, and then get your Iran visa as a US, UK or Canadian citizen. To avoid making sensitivity, do not make any public political statements. Iranians mostly have the warmest feelings for western tourists. Therefore, it is not odd if they invite you to their homes for having dinner or lunch together and exchanging attitudes toward various issues.

Is Iran safe for women travelers?

When it comes to traveling alone, safety gets much more important. Some women travelers believe that Iran is the best option in the Middle East for a woman to travel alone; however, as a woman, you need to take more precautions and know some issues before beginning your journey to Iran.

Is Iran safe to travel?

A woman trekking in beautiful Deilamdeh, Iran

In Iran’s most popular cities for tourists such as Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Yazd where one can visit UNESCO heritage sites as well as other cultural or natural attractions, you will see many solo female travelers around and there is no reason to worry about safety. One important issue to consider is the outfit. Women in Iran should wear a long tunic over their regular clothes and are obliged to cover their heads with a scarf. A suitable outfit for women differs from one city to another or even from one district in a city to another district in the same city. In some cities, you can wear colorful tunics while in some conservative cities or villages, it is better to avoid wearing tight and revealing clothes to switch the attention of the surroundings from your appearance. Iranian women know what outfits are suitable for different places not to get harassed; however, as foreigners, you do not have enough time to explore every corner of Iran to discover what to wear. Therefore, our advice to you is to wear long and loose tunics.

Another issue to consider is that public displays of affection between men and women are not allowed in Iran and it is good for you to feel safer. Local people do not tolerate it if you receive inappropriate contact or experience harassment. They would soon react and do their best to help you if you inform them of the problem.

Public transportation within cities is also completely safe for women. Subways have cars at both ends dedicated to women; moreover, men and women are supposed to sit separately on buses. Usually, men are supposed to sit in the front of the bus and women at the back of the bus or vice versa. Moreover, for traveling from one city to another one, a man is not allowed to sit by a woman unless she is willing to. Fortunately, the number of caring men is considerably more than the number of men who are sexually ill; however, the transportation system in Iran pays more attention to women’s safety and comfort.

Is Iran safe to travel? guides and tips about safety in Iran

A traditional bazaar in Qazvin, Iran

In crowded places such as bazaars-unfortunately like anywhere else in the world-, you might experience groping. Then, be more cautious and ask the locals or the police to intervene if you could not manage the situation.

Avoid traveling alone to abandoned places or far villages. Though there are many Iranian women and foreign solo female travelers who have travelled through Iran and have described Iran as one of the safest destinations for women, we prefer to inform you of all possible dangerous situations.

Is crime a serious issue in Iran?

According to Lonely Planet, “Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare and, indeed, if you do your best to fit in with local customs, you are unlikely to be treated with anything but courtesy and friendliness – that applies to Americans, too.”

Is Iran safe to travel? guides and tips about safety in Iran

The vivid bazaar of Masuleh village, Iran

Therefore, if you take the normal precautions, you can safely wander around city attractions, hitchhike across deserts, trek through forests, stay in the homes of strangers, and make the most out of your Iran journey.

In crowded areas such as subway stations or bazaars, keep your valuables in your inside zipper pocket to avoid getting pickpocketed. Though hotels are quite safe in Iran, lock your bags not to worry about anything. Our advice to you is to protect your belongings especially your passport, cellphone, tablet, laptop, camera, and wallet or purse and keep them with you at all times.

Is it safe to travel within the borders of Iran?

The fact is that Iran is a vast country and safety varies from one city to another or even from one district to another district. Generally, it is safe to travel to the majority of cities and villages of Iran without confronting any difficulty. Anyhow, most of the government travel advisory services would advise against traveling within the areas close to the borders between Iran and Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan, and so forth. It makes sense to be more cautious about traveling in such areas; however, it is safe to travel within the borders of Iran under some circumstances.

For instance, the province of Sistan and Baluchestan has some of the most astonishing attractions and, more significantly, some of the friendliest people on the earth. You will regret it if you miss the chance to visit such an amazing province in Iran just because it is located close to the borders between Iran and Pakistan. Many Iranians travel to this wonderland and enjoy its amazing attractions. Since you are not well-informed about safety within Sistan and Baluchestan, it is better to avoid traveling alone. Instead, ask reliable tour operators or local tour guides to accompany you and show you the hidden beauties such as Darak beaches, mud volcano, and Tang port in the heart of this wonderful place. For me, traveling to Chabahar was the most amazing travel experience I have ever had in Iran. It is a big miss not to explore this great part of Iran, while it might be the best piece of your Iran travel puzzle.

Is Iran safe to travel?

Beris, a piece of paradise in Chabahar, Iran

Do Iranian police and security forces harass the tourists?

You will find uniformed police everywhere especially in cities such as Tehran, Shiraz, Esfahan, and Mashhad. They could be helpful to you as tourism police to make sure you have a safe journey in Iran. Michael says, “no one watched me while I was there, including my guide. I didn’t have anything but positive interactions with police officers (who were always helpful when I asked for directions).”

Is it safe to travel to Iran with kids and Family?

Iran is not a challenging country to travel with children. High hygiene standards, excellent public transport, delicious foods, amazing parks and playgrounds, and more importantly welcoming Iranians make it quite possible to travel to Iran with kids and families.

It might be interesting to know that Iran is very family-oriented. Iranians give high value to their families and it is quite casual to see Iranian families gathering together at the weekends in the parks or at each other’s homes to spend time together, play together, have fun together, and more enjoyably share lunch or dinner together. The fact that Iranians go on the picnic with their kids and families indicates that Iran is a safe country and there is no reason to avoid traveling with kids.

Is Iran safe to travel? guides and tips about safety in Iran

Travel to Iran with kids and families

Kidnapping is not a concerning issue; however, our serious advice is to take care of your kids. Keep an eye on your kids and ask them to stay close to you especially in crowded places such as bazaars or amusement parks. It is even better to hold your child’s hand. Traveling to Iran with children may turn into a great and unforgettable memory for you and your cute kids just as it did for Thomas and Anna.

Is it safe to drive on Iran roads?

To be honest with you, driving on the roads of Iran or crossing the street could be a real problem for tourists and travelers. People usually do not obey driving rules and they pay less attention to the traffic lights. Iranians’ driving is unpredictable on roads; however, traffic rules and regulations have got stricter over recent years to decrease the dangers of driving on roads or crossing streets. If you want to cross the street, wait until the traffic light turns red and the pedestrian light turns green. Keep an eye on the motorbikes because they are careless about traffic lights and they might bring about the difficulty for you when crossing the street.  Moreover, when crossing the street, watch the opposite direction as well. Some motorbikes might drive in the opposite direction of the street. If your taxi driver drives fast and does not pay attention to the rules, ask him/her to slow down. The police control bus drivers regularly; therefore, you will feel more comfortable if you travel by bus. Then, we recommend that you not drive on the roads of Iran. Instead, leave it to someone who knows Iran roads well.

What are the wrong things that attract the police’s attention in Iran?

Photographing the wrong thing or the forbidden place:

Taking photos is forbidden at some places such as embassies of foreign countries, some military buildings, and some governmental buildings. Usually, there are banners or signs to inform you of this issue. Then, avoid taking photos at these places. If you took a photo of something wrong and the police noticed you, let them know you are a tourist and did not know you cannot take a photo, and then delete the photo and avoid arguing in these situations.

On roads, the police take part in drug trafficking control. Therefore, it is normal to see them stop cars and buses, especially near borders to do their job. Carrying or drinking alcohol is also banned in Iran and it is an issue to keep in mind during your travel.

Is Iran safe to travel? guides and tips about safety in Iran

Enjoy hiking in Darakeh, Tehran-Iran

Moreover, you are supposed to carry your passport at all times. Since hotels keep the passengers’ passports for police inspection, you need to have some copies of your passport and visa not to get in trouble. Then, be aware of the rules and regulations in Iran and behave according to them to fully enjoy your travel.

Is Iran safe?

If you respect Iranians’ culture and customs and take the above-mentioned precautions, you will have a fantastic travel experience. However, before traveling to Iran make sure to consider your own country’s advice for or against traveling to Iran and take it seriously.

 

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