Can I get a visa on arrival in Iran?

Visa on arrival is available at major airports for many nationalities, but it's unreliable and not available to Americans or British citizens. Getting a visa in advance is strongly recommended.

How long is an Iranian tourist visa valid?

Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days and allow single entry. Extensions are possible once inside Iran through the police foreign nationals office.

Can I travel independently with a tourist visa?

Yes, most nationalities can travel independently. However, Americans, Canadians, and British citizens must travel with a licensed guide and cannot travel independently.

What if I have an Israeli stamp in my passport?

Iran will refuse entry if your passport contains Israeli stamps or evidence of travel to Israel. You may need to get a new passport before applying.

How to Get a Tourist Visa for Iran

Most travelers need a visa to enter Iran, which requires applying through an Iranian embassy or consulate with your passport, photos, application form, and invitation letter. The process takes 2-4 weeks and costs $50-150 depending on your nationality. Americans need a guide and pre-approved tour.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of most countries need a visa. Only Malaysia, Turkey, Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Lebanon, Syria, and a few others get visa-free entry. Americans, Canadians, and British citizens face additional restrictions and must travel with an approved guide.
Get an invitation letter. Contact a licensed Iranian tour agency to obtain an invitation letter (also called authorization code). This costs $15-30 and takes 1-2 weeks. The agency will need your passport copy and basic travel plans. Americans must book a full guided tour through the agency.
Gather required documents. You need: valid passport with 6+ months validity, completed visa application form, 2 passport photos, invitation letter, proof of accommodation, return flight ticket, and visa fee. Some embassies require additional documents like bank statements.
Submit your application. Apply at the nearest Iranian embassy or consulate in person. Some locations accept applications by mail. Processing takes 5-15 business days for most nationalities, longer for Americans and British citizens.
Pay the visa fee. Fees vary by nationality: Europeans pay around $50-75, Americans pay $150, Canadians pay $75. Payment methods vary by embassy - some accept cash only, others take money orders or bank transfers.
Collect your visa. Pick up your passport with the visa stamp in person or arrange postal return if the embassy offers it. Check that all details are correct before leaving the embassy.

Can I get a visa on arrival in Iran?: Visa on arrival is available at major airports for many nationalities, but it's unreliable and not available to Americans or British citizens. Getting a visa in advance is strongly recommended.
How long is an Iranian tourist visa valid?: Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days and allow single entry. Extensions are possible once inside Iran through the police foreign nationals office.
Can I travel independently with a tourist visa?: Yes, most nationalities can travel independently. However, Americans, Canadians, and British citizens must travel with a licensed guide and cannot travel independently.
What if I have an Israeli stamp in my passport?: Iran will refuse entry if your passport contains Israeli stamps or evidence of travel to Israel. You may need to get a new passport before applying.