Every traveler entering Iran needs to meet a set of visa requirements before their application is processed. This guide covers all documents, photo specifications, passport rules, and eligibility criteria you must satisfy to obtain an Iranian visa in 2026.
Who Needs a Visa for Iran?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Iran. However, citizens of certain countries can visit Iran without a visa for limited periods:
| Country/Region | Visa-Free Duration |
|---|---|
| Turkey | 90 days |
| Armenia | 90 days |
| Oman | 30 days |
| Syria | 30 days |
| Lebanon | 30 days |
| Azerbaijan | 30 days |
| Bolivia | 30 days |
| Georgia | 45 days |
| Egypt | 20 days |
| Malaysia | 15 days |
| China | 21 days |
| Hong Kong | 21 days |
| Macao | 21 days |
If your country is not listed above, you need a visa. The most common route is the Iran eVisa, applied for online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) portal at evisa.mfa.ir.
Tip: Check our Iran visa-free countries page for the full, up-to-date exemption list.
Stage 1: Online Application Requirements
When you submit your eVisa application on the MFA portal, you must provide the following documents and information:
Personal Information
- Full name (exactly as it appears in your passport)
- Date and place of birth
- Nationality and current country of residence
- Occupation and employer details
- Current residential address
- Email address and phone number
Travel Details
- Planned entry and exit dates
- Intended cities and places to visit in Iran
- Purpose of travel (tourism, business, pilgrimage, transit, etc.)
- Accommodation details (hotel, host, or travel agency reference)
Passport Copy
You need a clear, scanned color copy of your passport’s bio-data page. The scan must show:
- Full name, photo, date of birth, and nationality clearly visible
- Passport number and expiry date legible
- Machine-readable zone (MRZ) at the bottom fully visible
- All four corners of the page included
Accepted formats: JPEG, PNG, or PDF. Maximum file size is typically 500 KB to 1 MB depending on the portal version.
Passport-Sized Photo
A recent passport-style photograph is mandatory for the online application. The exact specifications are:
- Size: 4 x 6 cm (or 3.5 x 4.5 cm accepted for most nationalities)
- Format: JPEG or PNG
- Resolution: minimum 600 x 800 pixels recommended
- Background: plain white or light blue
- Recency: taken within the last 6 months
- Expression: neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and looking directly at the camera
- Head covering: allowed only for religious reasons; face must remain fully visible from chin to forehead
- Glasses: no tinted glasses; regular prescription glasses allowed if no glare and eyes remain fully visible
- File size: typically 50 KB to 500 KB
Optional (but recommended) Documents
- Host invitation letter: if you have a contact in Iran, providing their name, address, phone number, and an invitation letter can speed up processing and reduce the chance of rejection.
- Residence permit copy: if you live in a country different from your nationality, include a copy of your valid residence permit.
- Travel itinerary: a rough day-by-day plan of your trip.
Stage 2: Visa Collection Requirements
After your eVisa application is approved, you receive a Visa Grant Notice (VGN) via email. When collecting your physical visa stamp at an Iranian embassy, consulate, or designated airport, you need:
Visa Grant Notice (VGN)
- Print the Visa Grant Notice that was emailed to you after approval.
- This document contains your approval code and reference number.
- Present it at the Iranian diplomatic mission or airport visa counter.
Travel Health Insurance
Iran requires every visitor to have valid travel health insurance that covers their entire stay. This is a mandatory requirement and is checked at the visa counter and at immigration upon arrival.
- Coverage minimum: EUR 10,000 medical coverage recommended (some embassies require EUR 30,000).
- Must cover: Iran specifically (some global policies exclude Iran; verify with your insurer).
- Validity: must cover your full planned stay in Iran.
- Accepted formats: printed insurance policy document or digital copy printed on paper.
- Cost if purchased locally: EUR 10 to EUR 15 on arrival at Iranian airports, available from booths at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) and other major airports.
Important: US, UK, and Canadian citizens cannot purchase insurance on arrival and must arrange it in advance. See our Iran travel insurance guide for details.
Passport Photos (additional copy)
Bring 2 additional passport-sized photos (same specification as above) when collecting your visa at a consulate or embassy. Not all collection points require them, but having them saves time.
Visa Fee Payment
The visa fee varies by nationality and visa type. Payment methods depend on where you collect:
| Collection Point | Payment Method |
|---|---|
| Iranian Embassy/Consulate | Cash (local currency or USD/EUR) |
| Iranian Airport (VOA) | Cash in EUR or USD (preferred) |
| eVisa online | Credit/debit card through MFA portal |
| Visa Type | Typical Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa (30 days) | EUR 40 – EUR 100 |
| Visa on Arrival (VOA) | EUR 30 – EUR 75 |
| Business Visa | EUR 80 – EUR 150 |
| Transit Visa | EUR 30 – EUR 50 |
| Pilgrimage (Ziarat) Visa | EUR 30 – EUR 60 |
Prices vary significantly by nationality. See our complete Iran visa fee guide for country-specific pricing.
Stage 3: Entry Requirements at Iran Immigration
When you land at an Iranian airport (most commonly Imam Khomeini International Airport, IKA, in Tehran), you must present the following at immigration:
Valid Passport
- Minimum 6 months validity remaining from your date of entry into Iran.
- At least 2 blank pages available for stamps and visa labels.
- No evidence of travel to Israel (entry stamps or Israeli visas) – this can result in denial of entry.
Physical Visa or VOA Approval
- If you collected your visa from an embassy, present the visa sticker in your passport.
- If using Visa on Arrival, present the approval at the VOA counter before passport control.
- If using eVisa, present your printed Visa Grant Notice.
Travel Health Insurance
- Immigration officers may ask to see proof of valid travel insurance covering Iran.
- Carry a printed copy even if you have a digital version.
Return/Onward Ticket
- While not always checked, immigration officers may request proof of a return or onward flight.
- Having a printed or digital confirmation of your departure flight is recommended.
Accommodation Confirmation
- Hotel booking confirmation or host’s address and contact details.
- Some officers ask for the name and address of where you will be staying.
Passport Requirements in Detail
Your passport is the single most important document. Here are the specifics:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity | Minimum 6 months from entry date |
| Blank pages | At least 2 blank pages |
| Condition | No significant damage, tears, or water damage |
| Israeli stamps/stickers | Will result in denial of entry |
| Dual nationality | Declare all nationalities on the application |
| Emergency travel documents | Generally not accepted; use a full passport |
Dual Nationality
Iranian dual nationals (holding both an Iranian passport and another nationality) are treated as Iranian citizens by the Iranian government. This means:
- You must enter and exit Iran using your Iranian passport.
- Iran does not recognize dual nationality consular protection.
- Male dual nationals over 18 may be subject to military service obligations.
If you are of Iranian descent but do not hold Iranian citizenship, mention this in your application, as it may affect processing.
Photo Requirements Summary
The photo is one of the most common reasons for eVisa application delays. Here is a checklist:
- [ ] Recent photo (taken within last 6 months)
- [ ] Color photograph (no black and white)
- [ ] White or light blue background
- [ ] 4 x 6 cm or 3.5 x 4.5 cm size
- [ ] Face takes up 70-80% of the frame
- [ ] Neutral expression, mouth closed
- [ ] Eyes open, looking directly at camera
- [ ] No sunglasses or tinted prescription glasses
- [ ] No hats or head coverings (except religious)
- [ ] No digital alteration or filters
- [ ] Minimum resolution 600 x 800 pixels
- [ ] File format JPEG or PNG
- [ ] File size between 50 KB and 500 KB
Special Requirements by Nationality
US Citizens
US citizens face the strictest requirements for Iran visa applications:
- Must be part of an organized tour or have a verified host/sponsor in Iran.
- Cannot apply for the standard eVisa alone without travel agency sponsorship.
- Visa processing takes 8 to 12 weeks (much longer than other nationalities).
- Visa on Arrival is not available for US citizens.
- Must have pre-arranged travel insurance covering Iran.
- An authorized Iranian travel agency must submit a reference code on your behalf.
See our detailed Iran visa for US citizens guide.
UK Citizens
Similar to US citizens but with slightly fewer restrictions:
- Must be part of a group tour or have an authorized travel agency sponsor.
- No Visa on Arrival available.
- Processing takes 4 to 8 weeks.
- Must have pre-arranged travel insurance.
Canadian Citizens
- Must be part of a guided tour or have an authorized travel agency reference.
- No Visa on Arrival available.
- Processing time: 4 to 8 weeks.
- Must arrange travel insurance in advance.
Indian Citizens
- Can apply through the eVisa portal without agency sponsorship.
- Visa on Arrival is available at designated Iranian airports.
- Processing typically takes 5 to 14 working days.
- Good success rate with complete application documentation.
See our detailed Iran visa for Indian citizens guide.
Pakistani Citizens
- Can apply through the eVisa portal or an authorized travel agency.
- Visa on Arrival is available for Pakistani citizens.
- Processing time: 5 to 14 working days.
- Religious pilgrimage (Ziarat) visas are a common and straightforward option.
See our detailed Iran visa for Pakistani citizens guide.
Common Reasons for Visa Delays or Rejection
Understanding what can go wrong helps you avoid problems:
- Incomplete documentation: missing passport scan or blurry photo.
- Photo not meeting specifications: wrong background color, too old, sunglasses.
- Passport with Israeli stamps: automatic disqualification.
- Inconsistent information: mismatch between application data and passport.
- Insufficient travel insurance: policy does not cover Iran specifically.
- Late application: processing takes time; apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel.
- Previous overstay: if you overstayed a previous Iran visa, new applications may be rejected.
For a complete list, see our Iran visa rejection reasons page.
Processing Time
Typical processing times vary by nationality and visa type:
| Nationality | Standard Processing | Urgent Processing |
|---|---|---|
| EU countries | 7 – 14 working days | 3 – 5 working days |
| US citizens | 8 – 12 weeks | Not available |
| UK citizens | 4 – 8 weeks | Not available |
| Canadian citizens | 4 – 8 weeks | Not available |
| Indian citizens | 5 – 14 working days | Not available |
| Pakistani citizens | 5 – 14 working days | Not available |
| Australian citizens | 7 – 14 working days | 3 – 5 working days |
| Chinese citizens | 5 – 10 working days | Not available |
Learn more about processing times in our Iran visa processing time guide.
How to Apply: Quick Overview
Once you have all your documents ready:
- Visit the official MFA eVisa portal at evisa.mfa.ir.
- Create an account and fill in the application form.
- Upload your passport scan, photo, and supporting documents.
- Submit the application and wait for email confirmation (usually within 24 to 48 hours).
- Track your application status online using your passport number.
- After approval, receive your Visa Grant Notice via email.
- Collect your visa at the designated embassy, consulate, or airport.
For the full step-by-step walkthrough, see our Iran visa application guide or our Iran eVisa overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an Iran visa on arrival?
Yes, citizens of over 60 countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at major Iranian airports including Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran), Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz, Mashhad, and others. VOA is not available for US, UK, and Canadian citizens.
How long does Iran visa processing take?
Standard processing is 5 to 14 working days for most nationalities. US citizens face 8 to 12 weeks of processing. UK and Canadian citizens typically wait 4 to 8 weeks.
What passport validity do I need for Iran?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Iran and have at least 2 blank pages.
Do I need travel insurance for Iran?
Yes. Travel health insurance covering Iran is mandatory for all visitors. Coverage of at least EUR 10,000 is recommended. Insurance can often be purchased on arrival at Iranian airports, except for US, UK, and Canadian citizens who must arrange it in advance.
What photo do I need for an Iran visa?
A recent passport-sized photo (4 x 6 cm or 3.5 x 4.5 cm) with a white or light blue background, taken within the last 6 months, in color, with a neutral expression and no sunglasses.
Can US citizens visit Iran in 2026?
Yes, US citizens can visit Iran but must be part of an organized tour or have a verified sponsor through an authorized Iranian travel agency. Visa on Arrival is not available. Plan 8 to 12 weeks for processing.
What is the minimum passport validity for Iran?
Six months from your date of entry. If your passport expires within 6 months of your planned arrival, you must renew it before applying.
How much does an Iran visa cost?
Costs range from EUR 40 to EUR 150 depending on nationality and visa type. Visa on Arrival costs EUR 30 to EUR 75. See our Iran visa fee guide for exact pricing by nationality.
This page was last updated: July 2026. For the most current information, always check the official MFA eVisa portal at evisa.mfa.ir or consult the nearest Iranian embassy or consulate.
