Due to Iran’s complex political history, visiting this unique country as a tourist hasn’t always been straightforward. Challenges like strict Islamic laws and a massive internet firewall still exist, but things are gradually improving. Despite the difficulties in arranging visas and traveling, Iran is definitely worth the effort.
Since 2016, the Iranian government has made it easier to visit by loosening visa requirements. This is part of a larger plan to boost annual visitors from 5 million to 20 million by 2025. For travelers, obtaining a tourist visa has never been simpler.
However, there have been some changes for American citizens due to a proposed travel ban. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs mentioned that it would take reciprocal actions if Iranians were banned from entering the US. Essentially, if Iranians are restricted from the US, Americans will not receive visas to enter Iran. Always check the latest updates from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US Department of State.
You can get your Iranian tourist visa in two ways:
1. For citizens from certain countries:
– Nationals from the US, UK, and Canada need to travel with an organized tour and can’t explore Iran independently.
– First, find a visa supplier or tour company online.
– Pay them $50-$70 to get a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
– Wait for one to four weeks for approval.
– After approval, you’ll receive a reference number and additional paperwork.
– Bring your paperwork, passport photos (following Iranian dress code for women), and money to the specified Iranian Embassy.
– Provide your reference number, paperwork, and visa fee (ranging from $50-$200) at the embassy.
– After a few hours, you’ll receive your passport with a new Iranian visa.
2. For travelers from other countries:
– Visa on arrival (VOA) is available and is the easiest option.
– Upon arrival at an Iranian international airport, go to the travel insurance desk first to get mandatory insurance.
– With proof of insurance, head to the visa window, present your passport, and booking confirmation.
– You’ll receive a paper with the visa cost, which you must pay in USD or Euros.
– After payment, go back to the visa window with your receipt.
– Wait for your visa, which can take 45 minutes to 3 hours.
For a VOA, you don’t need an LOI. If you prefer to speed up the airport process, an LOI can be sent to the airport instead of an embassy.
Note that both the VOA and embassy tourist visa are valid for up to 30 days, extendable to three months within Iran. VOA is only available at international airports, so if you travel overland, you must get your visa from an embassy.
Non-US citizens traveling to Iran will no longer be eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program but can apply for a US visa. Israeli citizens or anyone with an Israeli travel stamp in their passport cannot enter Iran.
Citizens from Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Egypt, Georgia, Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey don’t need a visa and can stay in Iran visa-free for 15-90 days.
Consider getting a Mah Card, an Iranian prepaid debit card for tourists to avoid currency issues.
Although obtaining an Iranian visa may require some time and money, the experience of exploring Iran’s colorful architecture, stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, along with the exceptional hospitality of its people, makes it all worthwhile. Iran is a destination you shouldn’t miss if you’re looking for authentic travel experiences.