Iran visas
Whether you need a visa for Iran, and which type, depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip: some nationalities enter visa-free or can obtain a visa on arrival, while others must apply in advance and, for several nationalities, travel as part of a guided tour arranged through a registered agency. Most visas are issued electronically through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which operates the official e-visa portal; work permits, long-term residence and citizenship involve additional authorities (the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour and Social Welfare, and the Ministry of Interior). Always confirm the current rules for your nationality against the official government sources before booking travel.
Iranian visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Iran โ tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.5 visas
- Work visasComing to Iran to work โ the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Iran โ student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Iran.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Iran as a highly skilled individual.2 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Iran long term โ residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.2 visas
Iranian visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Iran โ key facts
- Visa authority
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Electronic Visa system)
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Iranian rial (IRR)
- Time zone
- Iran Standard Time (IRST, UTC+03:30)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources ยท last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only โ not legal advice.
