Traveling to Iran opens a door to ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need—visa types, eligibility, documents, costs, special cases, arrival procedures, extensions, and unique entry rules—to secure your Iran tourist visa with confidence.

Visa Types and Eligibility

Before you start your application, identify which visa fits your trip. Most nationalities require a tourist visa, available as:

• e-Visa: Apply online via the Iranian e-Visa portal
• Visa on Arrival (VOA): Granted at major airports; see the Iran VOA information page for eligible countries
• Visa-Free Entry: Short stays on Kish and Qeshm Islands; refer to the Kish and Qeshm Islands visa-free entry details

Visa Waiver Program

Citizens of certain countries can enter Iran without a visa for up to 15 days, as outlined in the UK Foreign Travel Advice’s entry requirements for Iran. Examples include:

• Turkey
• Malaysia
• Azerbaijan

(See the full list on the UK government’s site.)

Kish and Qeshm Islands Entry

You can visit these free-trade zones for up to 14 days without any visa, letting you explore the islands’ beaches and markets before heading to mainland Iran. Detailed information is available in the Kish and Qeshm Islands visa-free entry details.

Required Documents and Application Steps

Gather these essentials for any tourist visa route:

1. Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2. Recent passport-style photo (35×45 mm)
3. Completed application form (online or paper)
4. Travel itinerary or hotel bookings
5. Travel insurance valid in Iran
6. Travel-sponsor letter or tour-operator confirmation (for US, UK, Canada)

Authorization Code System

An authorization code from Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is mandatory for most visas. Your sponsor or agency requests this code; once issued, you attach it to your application. For detailed steps, see Iran’s online authorization code procedure.

Special Cases: Israeli Stamps & Dual Nationals

According to the US State Department’s country information page for Iran, passports showing Israeli entry or exit stamps face automatic refusal at Iranian borders. Dual nationals of Iran and another country must enter with their Iranian passport only.

Costs, Processing Time, and Political Impact

Visa fees vary by nationality and type; processing times also differ. For a comprehensive breakdown, refer to 1stQuest’s Iran visa fee and processing guide:

• e-Visa: typically USD 50–75
• VOA: USD 75–100 depending on passport

Processing times:
– e-Visa: 3–7 business days
– VOA: immediate on arrival (subject to immigration workload)

Political Relations and Delays

According to a Reuters report, citizens of the US, UK, and Canada often experience longer wait times or extra interviews due to diplomatic tensions. Sanctions can also complicate bank transfers for visa fees.

Arrival, Biometrics, and Local Registration

On arrival, expect fingerprints and digital photo capture, followed by a visa stamp in your passport. In certain provinces, you may undergo temporary residence registration with local police. These procedures are summarized in Persia Digest’s overview of arrival procedures.

Extending Your Stay & Pilgrimage Visas

If you fall in love with Iran and want more time:
– Extend your tourist visa up to 30 additional days at the immigration office in Tehran.
– Pilgrimage (Ziyarat) Visa: For visits to holy sites like Mashhad or Qom, apply through religious tour operators; this visa often allows longer stays and special group rates.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

You now hold the keys to a smooth Iran visa application. With permits in hand, you’re free to wander through Persepolis, cruise the Caspian shores, and savor saffron-infused dishes. Safe travels, and may your journey be as memorable as the land you’ll explore.