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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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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 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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