Iran Visa Guide 2025: All You Need to Know

Obtaining an Iran visa doesn’t have to be complicated. This streamlined Iran Visa guide covers essential information for travelers planning to visit Iran in 2025.

The visa processing time varies based on your nationality. Most travelers receive their visa authorization code within 3-7 business days. However, citizens from the US, UK, and Canada should plan ahead, as their processing typically takes around 30-45 working days.

This piece walks you through everything you need to know about getting your Iran visa.

Who Needs a Visa to Enter Iran?

Iran’s visa rules depend by a lot on your nationality. The country has expanded its visa-free program to attract more tourists and improve international relations as of February 2024.

Iran has expanded its visa-free entry program to welcome visitors from 42 nations, with varying permitted stay durations. This policy update represents a significant shift from the previous arrangement where only 14 countries enjoyed visa-free access.

People from most other countries (including Europeans) need to get visa before they arrive. Their passports must be valid for at least six months beyond their planned stay.

American, British, and Canadian citizens face special rules. These nationals:

• Cannot get visa-on-arrival
• Must apply early through Iranian authorized travel agencies
• Must book a full-guided tour throughout their trip

Israeli nationals cannot enter or transit through Iran whatever the circumstances. And finally, people with dual Iranian citizenship must use their Iranian passports to enter the country.

Types of Iran Visas: Which One is Right for You?

Your travel goals will determine which Iran visa you need. The Iranian visa system has several categories that match different visit purposes and lengths of stay.

• The Tourist Visa (Type B) is what most international visitors choose. You can stay up to 30 days after entry with this visa. It works well for people who want to see Iran’s cultural and historical sites or visit family. Many people who attend short conferences or have quick business meetings also use this visa.
• The Entry Visa (Type A) is for individuals with professional work like negotiations, sign contracts, or install equipment. Your invitation letter decides how long you can stay. Faculty members, researchers, merchants, and UN staff often use this type.
• Muslim visitors heading to Iran’s holy sites should look at the Pilgrimage Visa (Type C). It works just like the tourist visa but costs less, making it a good choice for Muslim travelers.
• The Education Visa (Type E) is what students and religious scholars need to study in Iran. You’ll need to get approval from the Iranian Science Ministry, Education Ministry, or an approved academic institution first.
• Other visa types include the Work Visa (Type F) if you have job permits, Transit Visa (Type G) to pass through Iran, Press Visa (Type H) for journalists, Medical Visa (Type T) for medical care, and Investment Visa (Type I) for foreign investors.
• If you’re married to an Iranian woman, you and your children can apply for the Marital Visa (Type M).

You should know exactly why you’re traveling before starting your application. Each visa type has its own rules, but most need an application form, passport copies, and recent photos. Student or work visas need extra papers from your sponsoring organizations.

Step-by-Step Iran Visa Application Process

Getting your Iran visa requires several key steps that you must follow precisely. The process begins well before your trip and needs careful attention to timing and documentation.

Before You Apply: Preparation Steps

Most nationalities should start their visa application 3-10 working days before traveling. Passport holders from the United States, Canada, or United Kingdom need to begin much earlier—up to 12 weeks in advance. Your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Iran.

Getting Your Visa Authorization Code

This significant first step can be completed through two main methods:

1. Direct application through Iran’s official e-visa website. This free option usually takes 2-8 weeks with a relatively high rejection rate.
2. Licensed Iranian travel agencies offer a faster service that takes only 3-7 business days and often guarantees visa approval, though with additional service fees.

Your approved visa authorization code (also called “Iran Visa Grant Notice” or “Iran Visa Reference Number”) stays valid for three months.

Submitting Required Documents

Your authorization code approval means you need these items ready when applying for your visa online:

• Original passport, clear passport copy
• Recent passport-sized photos
• Filled out visa application form
• Paying visa service fee when applying via a verified Iranian travel agency

Collecting Your Iran Visa

Upon approval of your visa application and receipt of your grant notice, you may collect your visa at one of two locations: either at the airport when you arrive, or at your selected Iranian embassy or consulate worldwide, based on the collection point you specified during your application process.

Note that Iranian tourist visas stay valid for three months from issuance and typically allow a 30 day stay with extension options. Doing this carefully will give you a smooth application process for your upcoming Iranian adventure.