Iran

🇮🇷

Phone Code

+98

Capital

Tehran

Population

89 Million

Native Name

ایران

Region

Asia

Southern Asia

Timezone

Iran Daylight Time

UTC+03:30

On This Page

Money & CurrencyVisa OverviewVisa TypesImportant NotesCitiesEmbassies abroadEmbassies in country

Iran (formerly Persia) is a Middle Eastern country with 2,500 years of history, home to ancient Persian civilization, stunning Islamic architecture, hospitable people, and diverse landscapes from deserts to mountains. Tehran is the capital and largest city. Iran features UNESCO World Heritage sites (26 total), magnificent mosques with intricate tilework, bazaars, Persian gardens, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors are drawn to Isfahan's Naqsh-e Jahan Square and mosques, Shiraz's Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) and Persepolis ruins, Yazd's desert architecture and Zoroastrian heritage, Tehran's museums and Golestan Palace, Persian carpets and cuisine, and welcoming Iranian hospitality despite political tensions. Iran offers authentic travel experiences off the beaten path.

Visa Requirements for Iran

Iran requires visas for almost all foreign visitors, but the process has been simplified with e-visas and visa on arrival options for many nationalities. Most travelers can apply for e-visas online before travel or obtain visa on arrival at major Iranian airports. However, citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada face additional restrictions and typically must travel with organized tours and cannot use visa on arrival. Processing times vary, and travelers should check current political situations and sanctions before traveling. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months. Note: Israeli passport stamps or evidence of travel to Israel may result in entry denial.

Common Visa Types

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

30 days typically; available at Imam Khomeini Airport (Tehran) and other international airports; costs approximately €50-75; requires travel insurance, hotel booking.

For tourism for most nationalities (except US, UK, Canada, others) arriving at major airports.

E-Visa (Tourist)

30 days typically; apply online at evisa.mfa.ir; processing 5-7 days; costs €50-100; requires travel insurance, hotel reservations, invitation if required.

For tourism, applied for online before travel for most nationalities.

Tourist Visa (Embassy Application)

30 days typically with tour group; apply through Iranian embassy with tour company confirmation; US/UK citizens must be accompanied by guide; more expensive.

For tourism, especially for US, UK, Canadian citizens who cannot use VOA; requires organized tour.

Business Visa

30-90 days; requires invitation letter from Iranian company; apply through embassy; processing times vary; subject to sanctions considerations.

For business meetings, conferences, or commercial activities in Iran.

Important Travel Information

US/UK/Canada citizens: Face strict restrictions. Must travel with organized tour and licensed guide. Cannot use visa on arrival. More expensive and complex process.

Israeli connections: Any Israeli stamps or evidence of visiting Israel will result in entry denial. Use separate passport if previously visited Israel.

Travel insurance: Mandatory for all visitors. Must cover Iran specifically. Can be purchased at airport on arrival if needed.

Cities with missions

Where this country maintains embassies or consulates

Tehran
Diplomatic Network

Iran Embassies Worldwide

Popular Destinations

Top destinations with verified missions

United Kingdom
View accredited embassy and consulate details

All Countries by Continent

Hosted missions

Embassies in Iran

These foreign embassies and consulates are based here. Choose a mission to open its in-depth guide and contact details.

Germany

Iran

Tehran
View mission
United Kingdom

Iran

Tehran
View mission

Planning Iran travel?

Check visa requirements