Iran visa guide for travellers

Getting into Iran is easier than most people think. Many nationalities can travel visa-free for short stays, and almost everyone else can get an electronic visa in a week or two. Rules change often, so always confirm on the official portal of Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (evisatraveller.mfa.ir) before you book.

1. Check if you need a visa at all

Citizens of several countries (for example Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, Lebanon, Syria and, under recent waivers, a number of Asian, Arab and African countries) can enter without a visa for 15 to 90 days. The list is updated regularly — look up your passport before anything else.

2. The e-visa

• Apply online with a passport scan, a photo, your travel dates and an address in Iran (a hostel booking is fine).
• After approval you receive a reference number. Depending on your application you collect the visa at an embassy or at the airport on arrival.
• Standard tourist visas are for 30 days and can usually be extended once inside the country at the police immigration office (the "visa extension" office in big cities).

3. Visa on arrival

Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran and the airports of Shiraz, Isfahan, Mashhad and Tabriz issue visas on arrival to many nationalities. It works, but queues can be long, and having an approved e-visa reference makes it much smoother.

4. US, UK and Canadian passports

Travellers from the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada must travel with a licensed guide or an organised tour for the whole trip. Independent hostel travel is not possible on these passports; a local agency arranges the visa authorisation and the itinerary.

5. Travel insurance

Insurance that covers Iran is compulsory. Many international policies exclude Iran, so check the small print or buy an Iranian policy at the airport desk on arrival.

6. Before you go

• Your passport should be valid for at least six months.
• An Israeli stamp or visa in your passport can lead to refusal.
• Read your government's current travel advice for Iran and register with your embassy.