The Iran tourist visa is available through three channels: an online e-Visa application via the official MFA portal, visa on arrival at major Iranian airports, or a traditional embassy visa. Fees range from EUR 40 to EUR 80 depending on nationality and processing method, with the standard tourist visa allowing stays of up to 30 days extendable to 90 days. This guide covers every requirement, step, and cost you need to plan your trip to Iran in 2026.
What Is an Iran Tourist Visa?
An Iran tourist visa (also called a Type B visa) is an authorization issued by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) that allows foreign nationals to enter Iran for sightseeing, cultural visits, and recreational travel. It is the most common visa category for travelers visiting Iran’s historic cities, ancient ruins, and natural landscapes.
The tourist visa is issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry document, typically valid for 30 days from the date of entry. Holders can extend their stay twice at local Foreigners Affairs offices, reaching a maximum of 90 days in total.
For a full breakdown of all visa categories, see our Iran visa types guide.
Who Can Apply for an Iran Tourist Visa?
Citizens of most countries can apply for an Iran tourist visa. The eligibility depends on nationality:
| Nationality Category | Application Channels | Special Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Most nationalities | e-Visa, VOA, Embassy | Standard process |
| US, UK, Canada citizens | Embassy only (with MFA code) | Must book through authorized tour operator; no VOA |
| Afghan, Bangladeshi, Colombian, Iraqi, Jordanian, Pakistani, Somali citizens | e-Visa, Embassy | No VOA available |
| Israeli citizens | Not eligible | Iran does not admit Israeli passport holders |
| Visa-exempt countries (e.g., Turkey, Armenia, Georgia, Oman, Syria, Lebanon) | No visa needed | Varies by country, typically 15-90 days |
If you hold a US or UK passport, read our dedicated guide on Iran visa for US citizens for specific requirements and restrictions.
How to Apply for an Iran Tourist Visa
There are three main pathways to obtain an Iran tourist visa. Choose the one that best fits your nationality and travel timeline.
Option 1: e-Visa (Online Application)
The e-Visa is the most convenient option for most nationalities. Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to evisa.mfa.ir and select “Tourist Visa” as your visa type.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
You will need to provide:
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Passport number and expiry date (must be valid for at least 6 months)
- Nationality and date of birth
- Intended entry and exit dates
- Accommodation details (hotel name or host address in Iran)
- Digital passport-size photograph (white background, recent)
Step 3: Upload Documents
Submit scanned copies of:
- Passport information page
- Passport-size photo (JPEG, white background)
- Travel insurance certificate covering Iran
- Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Standard e-Visa processing takes 3 to 10 business days. You will receive a Visa Authorization Code by email once approved. During peak seasons (Nowruz in March, Muharram), allow extra time.
Step 5: Collect Your Visa
With the authorization code, you can:
- Collect your visa at an Iranian embassy or consulate in your country
- Pick it up on arrival at the airport (present the code at the VOA counter)
For a detailed walkthrough of the application process, see our Iran visa application guide.
Option 2: Visa on Arrival (VOA)
VOA is available at major Iranian international airports for eligible nationalities (excluding US, UK, Canada, and several others listed above).
Where to Get VOA:
- Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), Tehran
- Mashad International Airport
- Shiraz International Airport
- Isfahan International Airport
- Tabriz International Airport
VOA Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date
- Completed arrival form (provided on the plane or at the counter)
- Two passport-size photographs
- Proof of accommodation in Iran
- Travel insurance valid in Iran (can be purchased at the airport)
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Visa fee in EUR cash
Processing Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours at the airport counter. During busy periods, waits can be longer.
Important: Even if you qualify for VOA, applying for an e-Visa in advance is strongly recommended. A pre-approved authorization code speeds up the airport process and reduces the risk of unexpected delays or denial at the counter.
For a full comparison of both options, read our Iran eVisa vs Visa on Arrival guide.
Option 3: Embassy Visa
For nationalities that cannot use the e-Visa or VOA (US, UK, Canada citizens, and others), the embassy route is the only option:
- Apply for a Visa Authorization Code through the MFA portal or an authorized travel agency
- Wait for MFA approval (typically 2-4 weeks for restricted nationalities)
- Visit the nearest Iranian embassy or consulate with your passport, authorization code, photos, and fee payment
- Collect your passport with the visa stamp (usually within 1-3 business days)
US citizens must book their trip through an authorized Iranian tour operator, who will arrange the authorization code on their behalf.
Iran Tourist Visa Fees
The cost of an Iran tourist visa depends on your nationality and the application method:
| Fee Type | EUR Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist visa (embassy/e-Visa) | 40-80 | Varies by nationality |
| Visa on Arrival (VOA) | 30-50 | Paid in EUR cash at the airport |
| Travel insurance (mandatory) | 10-15 | For 30-day coverage |
| Visa extension (per 30 days) | ~20-30 | Paid at Foreigners Affairs office in Iran |
| Tour operator fee (US/UK/CA) | Varies | Required for restricted nationalities |
Visa fees are payable in Euros (EUR). ATMs at Iranian airports dispense Iranian Rial, but it is advisable to carry EUR or USD cash for the visa fee. The exact fee depends on your nationality and the reciprocal agreement between Iran and your country.
For a detailed fee breakdown by nationality, see our Iran visa fee guide.
Required Documents for an Iran Tourist Visa
Gather the following documents before starting your application:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and at least 2 blank pages
- Passport-size photographs (2 copies, white background, taken within the last 6 months)
- Completed visa application form (online for e-Visa, paper form for embassy)
- Travel insurance covering Iran for the duration of your stay
- Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from your host in Iran
- Flight itinerary showing your planned entry and exit dates
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement, cash, or credit card statement)
- Visa Authorization Code (if applying at the embassy or collecting at the airport)
For the complete document checklist with specifications, visit our Iran visa requirements page.
Iran Tourist Visa Processing Time
Processing times vary by application method:
| Method | Processing Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| e-Visa (online) | 3-10 business days | Most nationalities, advance planners |
| Embassy (in person) | 5-14 business days | US/UK/CA citizens, complex cases |
| VOA (at airport) | 30 min – 2 hours | Eligible nationalities, last-minute trips |
| MFA Authorization Code | 2-4 weeks | Restricted nationalities (US, UK, CA) |
Apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before your intended travel date. During Iranian holidays (Nowruz in late March, Ramadan, Muharram in July/August), processing times increase significantly.
For more details on timing, see our Iran visa processing time guide.
Extending Your Iran Tourist Visa
If you want to stay longer than 30 days, you can extend your tourist visa while in Iran:
- Where to extend: Foreigners Affairs office at local police headquarters in major cities (Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashad, Tabriz)
- Extension period: 30 days per extension
- Maximum extensions: 2 extensions allowed (total stay up to 90 days)
- Cost: Approximately EUR 20-30 per extension
- Processing time: Same day to 2 business days
Tips for extending:
- Apply for extension at least 3 days before your current visa expires
- Bring your passport, a passport-size photo, and the extension fee in Rial
- The Isfahan and Shiraz offices are generally faster and less crowded than Tehran
- Overstaying your visa results in fines and potential detention at the airport when departing
Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Iran
Travel Insurance
Iran requires all visitors to have valid travel insurance. Many international insurance providers do not cover Iran due to sanctions. Options include:
- Purchasing insurance at the airport on arrival (available at VOA counters)
- Buying from an Iran-specific travel insurance provider online before departure
- Verifying with your existing insurer that Iran is covered
Currency and Payments
International credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) do not work in Iran due to international sanctions. You should:
- Carry sufficient EUR or USD cash for your entire trip
- Exchange currency at official exchange shops (sarafi) for the best rates
- Budget approximately $30-60 per day for mid-range travel
Dress Code
Iran has a mandatory dress code for all visitors:
- Women: Headscarf (hijab) covering hair, loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs
- Men: Long trousers, sleeved shirts (no shorts in public)
Safety
Iran is generally safe for tourists. The country has a low crime rate, and Iranians are known for their hospitality toward foreign visitors. Standard travel precautions apply: keep copies of your passport and visa, avoid photographing military installations, and stay informed about current travel advisories from your government.
FAQs About Iran Tourist Visa
How long is an Iran tourist visa valid?
The standard Iran tourist visa is valid for 30 days from the date of entry. You can extend it twice for 30 days each at the local Foreigners Affairs office, for a maximum total stay of 90 days.
How much does an Iran tourist visa cost?
The visa fee ranges from EUR 40 to EUR 80 depending on your nationality and application method. Visa on Arrival costs EUR 30-50. You also need mandatory travel insurance costing EUR 10-15. Total cost typically ranges from EUR 50 to EUR 95.
Can US citizens get an Iran tourist visa?
Yes, but US citizens cannot use the e-Visa or VOA. They must apply through an Iranian embassy with an MFA Authorization Code, which typically requires booking through an authorized Iranian tour operator. Processing takes 2-4 weeks. See our dedicated Iran visa for US citizens guide for details.
Can I get a tourist visa on arrival at the airport?
Yes, citizens of most countries can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at major Iranian airports. However, US, UK, Canadian, Afghan, Bangladeshi, Colombian, Iraqi, Jordanian, Pakistani, and Somali citizens are not eligible for VOA and must apply in advance.
How long does it take to get an Iran tourist visa?
e-Visa processing takes 3-10 business days. Embassy processing takes 5-14 business days. Visa on Arrival is issued at the airport in 30 minutes to 2 hours. Restricted nationalities (US, UK, Canada) should allow 2-4 weeks for the MFA Authorization Code.
Do I need travel insurance for an Iran tourist visa?
Yes, travel insurance covering Iran is mandatory for all visitors. Many international insurers exclude Iran due to sanctions, so verify your coverage before departure. You can also purchase insurance at the airport on arrival if needed.
Can I extend my Iran tourist visa?
Yes, you can extend your tourist visa twice at the Foreigners Affairs office in major Iranian cities. Each extension adds 30 days, for a maximum stay of 90 days. Apply at least 3 days before your current visa expires.
What is the difference between an Iran tourist visa and a pilgrimage visa?
A tourist visa is for sightseeing and cultural visits, while a pilgrimage visa (Ziarat) is specifically for visiting religious sites such as those in Mashad and Qom. The pilgrimage visa may have different fee structures and is often processed faster for citizens of Muslim-majority countries. See our Iran visa types guide for more details.
Can I apply for an Iran tourist visa online?
Yes, the official e-Visa portal at evisa.mfa.ir allows you to apply online. Fill out the application form, upload your documents, and wait for the Visa Authorization Code by email. You can then collect your visa at an embassy or at the airport on arrival.
What happens if my Iran tourist visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections can occur due to incomplete documentation, passport issues, or national security concerns. If rejected, you can reapply with corrected documents or apply through an authorized travel agency. There is no formal appeal process, but a tour operator may be able to assist with reapplication.
