Iran Tourist Visa for Indians 2026: Your Complete Guide to Visiting Iran

Iran has long been one of the most culturally rich destinations for Indian travellers, offering a deep historical connection that stretches back centuries. From the Achaemenid ruins of Persepolis to the exquisite Islamic architecture of Isfahan, from the poetic gardens of Shiraz to the vibrant energy of Tehran — Iran is a destination that surprises every visitor. Because Iran has its own independent visa system, all Indian citizens must obtain a visa before or upon arrival. Before you dive into the detailed sections below, the table here gives you a snapshot of the essentials.

Iran is one of the most rewarding yet underrated destinations for Indian travellers — and here is why more Indians are discovering its magic every year.

A shared heritage spanning millennia. The connection between India and Persia goes back thousands of years. From the Mughal Empire's Persian influences in architecture (the Taj Mahal's gardens draw from Persian paradise gardens) to the Urdu language's Persian script and vocabulary, Indian travellers will find echoes of their own culture everywhere in Iran.

Architecture that defies belief. The Nasir al-Mulk Pink Mosque in Shiraz, the Shah Mosque in Isfahan, and the Golestan Palace in Tehran are among the most beautiful buildings on earth. The intricate tilework, soaring iwans, and mirror-work will leave you speechless.

Ancient history on a grand scale. Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Walking among the columns and reliefs of this 2,500-year-old complex is a humbling experience.

Remarkable hospitality. Iranians are famous for their warmth towards visitors. *Taarof* — the Persian tradition of extreme politeness and hospitality — means you will be invited for tea, offered food, and helped generously wherever you go. Many Indian travellers describe the people as the highlight of their trip.

Affordable travel. The Iranian rial has devalued significantly in recent years, making Iran one of the most affordable long-haul destinations for Indian tourists. A sit-down meal costs ₹200–₹400, mid-range hotels start at ₹2,000–₹3,000 a night, and domestic flights between cities cost as little as ₹1,500–₹3,000.

No passport stamp since 2018. Iran stopped stamping passports in 2018, issuing a separate paper visa instead. This means your visit to Iran will not affect your ability to travel to the United States or other countries later — a critical consideration for many Indian travellers.

Indian food and familiar flavours. Persian cuisine shares surprising parallels with Indian food — saffron, rice dishes (polow), kebabs, yoghurt, and fresh herbs are staples. Indian restaurants are available in Tehran and other major cities.

Iran issues several categories of visa to Indian nationals, and choosing the correct one depends on the purpose and duration of your visit. The application process for all visa types begins at the Iranian e-visa portal.

For a complete breakdown of business, transit, and other visa types, see our [main Iran visa guide](https://btwvisas.com/visa-guide/iran-visa/).

Before you start the application process, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for an Iran tourist visa.

In practical terms, you are eligible to apply if you are an Indian citizen visiting for tourism and you can satisfy the following conditions:

·        A valid Indian passport with at least 6 months' validity from the date of entry into Iran

·        At least two consecutive blank pages in your passport for visa stamping

·        A clear purpose of visit — tourism, sightseeing, or cultural exploration

·        Travel medical insurance covering the entire stay in Iran (minimum €10,000 coverage)

·        Confirmed accommodation for the entire duration of your stay

·        Sufficient financial means to support yourself during the trip

·        A confirmed return flight ticket

Important — Visa-Free Entry Suspended: Since November 22, 2025, the Iranian government has suspended the visa-free entry facility for Indian passport holders. The 15-day visa-free entry that was previously available is no longer in effect. All Indian nationals must now obtain a visa before travelling to Iran.

Passport stamping: Iran has not stamped passports since 2018. You will receive a separate paper visa document at the embassy or airport. This is a significant advantage for Indian travellers who plan to visit the United States, Israel, or other countries that scrutinise Iranian travel.

There is no visa on arrival without a pre-approved Visa Grant Notice (authorization code). You must obtain this code through the e-visa portal before travelling.

Your documents form the basis of your Iran visa application. The process involves two stages — first, a digital application for the authorization code, and second, a physical submission at the embassy or airport for the visa itself.

Stage 1: Documents for E-Visa Application (Authorization Code)

Upload the following to the Iranian e-visa portal (evisa.mfa.ir):

1.      Valid Indian passport scan (bio-page) — minimum 6 months validity, at least 2 blank pages

2.      Recent colour passport-size photograph (white background, 35mm x 45mm) — women must wear a headscarf in the photo

3.      Completed online visa application form

4.      Travel insurance certificate covering your entire stay in Iran

5.      Confirmed hotel bookings or accommodation details for the full stay

6.      Return flight itinerary (confirmed booking)

7.      Bank statements for the last 3 months (as supporting proof of funds)

Stage 2: Documents for Embassy Visa Stamping

Once you receive your Visa Grant Notice (authorization code), take these documents to the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi or Consulate in Mumbai:

8.      Original passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages)

9.      Printed Visa Grant Notice (authorization code)

10.   Two passport-size photographs (35mm x 45mm, white background)

11.   Travel insurance certificate

12.   Hotel booking confirmations

13.   Flight itinerary

14.   Bank statements (last 3 months)

15.   Visa fee in cash — €60 in Euros or US Dollars (exact change preferred)

Stage 2 Alternative: Documents for VOA at Airport

If collecting your visa at the airport instead of the embassy, carry:

16.   Original passport (6+ months validity)

17.   Printed Visa Grant Notice (authorization code)

18.   Two passport-size photographs

19.   Travel insurance certificate

20.   Hotel booking confirmation (first night minimum)

21.   Return flight ticket

22.   €90 in cash (Euros or US Dollars) for the visa fee

A few documents trip up applicants more often than others. The table below summarises the specifications that are most frequently failed:

Pro tip: Women applicants must ensure their visa photograph shows them wearing a headscarf — this is a strict requirement that differs from most other countries. For the exact document specifications, [refer to the Iran visa requirements page](https://btwvisas.com/visa-requirements/iran-visa-requirements/).

Every Iran tourist visa application involves two separate fees — the e-visa service fee for the authorization code, and the visa stamping fee paid at the embassy or airport.

Additional costs (optional):

·        Travel insurance: ₹500–₹2,000

·        Courier charges: ₹200–₹500

·        Document translation: ₹500–₹1,000

·        Visa extension fee (if extending stay): ₹2,000–₹4,000

Payment methods:

·        Embassy service fee (authorization code): Online via credit/debit card at evisa.mfa.ir

·        Embassy stamping fee: Cash only — Euros or US Dollars

·        Airport VOA fee: Cash only — Euros or US Dollars (preferred)

All visa fees are non-refundable regardless of whether your application is approved or refused. Always carry exact change in Euros or USD when visiting the embassy or arriving at the airport.

Iran does not use VFS or third-party visa processing centres for Indian applicants. Instead, applications are handled directly through the Iranian diplomatic missions in India.

For the Visa Grant Notice (Authorization Code):

Apply entirely online at the official Iranian e-visa portal: [evisa.mfa.ir](https://evisa.mfa.ir/). This is the first step for all applicants regardless of whether you plan to collect your visa at the embassy or on arrival.

For Embassy Visa Stamping:

Once you have your authorization code, visit the Iranian diplomatic mission that covers your jurisdiction:

For Visa on Arrival (Airport):

Available at all major Iranian international airports including:

·        Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), Tehran

·        Shiraz International Airport (SYZ)

·        Isfahan International Airport (IFN)

·        Mashhad International Airport (MHD)

·        Tabriz International Airport (TBZ)

You can only use the VOA option if you have already obtained your Visa Grant Notice (authorization code) before travelling. Without it, you will be denied entry.

Applying for an Iran tourist visa is a two-stage process. The stages are sequential — you must complete Stage 1 before you can proceed to Stage 2.

Stage 1: Obtain Your Visa Grant Notice (Authorization Code)

Step 1: Visit the Iranian e-visa portal

Go to evisa.mfa.ir and create an account with a valid email address. The portal is available in English and Persian.

Step 2: Fill in the online application form

Complete the visa application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Every detail must match your passport exactly. Women must confirm they will wear the Islamic headscarf in Iran.

Step 3: Upload your documents

Upload scanned copies of your passport bio-page, passport photograph (women with headscarf), travel insurance, hotel bookings, flight itinerary, and bank statements.

Step 4: Pay the service fee

Pay the e-visa service fee of €25–€30 online using a credit or debit card (Visa or MasterCard). This fee covers the processing of your authorization code only — not the visa itself.

Step 5: Receive your Visa Grant Notice

Your application is reviewed by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Processing takes 3–14 working days. Once approved, you will receive your Visa Grant Notice (authorization code) via email. This document is valid for 2 months from the date of issue.

Stage 2A: Collect Visa at the Embassy

Step 6A: Visit the Iranian Embassy or Consulate

Take your printed Visa Grant Notice, original passport, photographs, and supporting documents to the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi or Consulate in Mumbai. Submit the documents and pay the visa stamping fee of €60 in cash (Euros or USD).

Step 7A: Collect your passport with visa

Standard processing at the embassy takes 3–7 working days. Once ready, collect your passport with the visa paper attached. Iran does not stamp the passport — the visa is a separate document.

Stage 2B: Collect Visa on Arrival at the Airport

Step 6B: Arrive at the airport with your authorization code

After receiving your Visa Grant Notice, book your flights. At the Iranian airport, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter (before immigration).

Step 7B: Submit documents and pay the fee

Present your printed Grant Notice, passport, photographs, travel insurance, hotel booking, and return ticket. Pay the €90 visa fee in cash (Euros or USD).

Step 8B: Receive your visa and proceed to immigration

Processing at the airport takes 30 minutes to 3 hours. Once approved, you will receive your visa document. Proceed to immigration for entry.

Despite the relatively fast processing, apply at least 4–6 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any follow-up requests or system delays. The authorization code is the most time-sensitive step — start this first.

Applications can be submitted up to 3 months before your intended travel date. Never book non-refundable flights or hotels until your Visa Grant Notice is approved and your visa is confirmed.

If you wish to extend your stay beyond 30 days, visit a Police Department of Foreign Nationals office in any major Iranian city before your visa expires. The extension fee is approximately ₹2,000–₹4,000 per extension. You can extend up to twice, for a maximum total stay of 90 days.

Overstaying — even by a day — can result in fines, detention, and complications with future visa applications. Always track your entry date carefully and apply for extensions before your current visa expires.

Demonstrating that you can fund your trip is a standard requirement for any Iran visa application. While there is no fixed minimum amount specified by the Iranian consulate, the following guidelines apply:

If someone else is funding your trip, you must include the sponsor's financial documents and a signed letter confirming their willingness to cover your expenses.

Iran Trip Cost: Daily Expenses in INR

Note: These are daily expenses excluding flights and visa fees. Iran is one of the most affordable long-haul destinations for Indian travellers.

Sample Trip Prices from India

All estimates include round-trip flights from India, accommodation, food, local transport, activities, visa fee, and travel insurance.

Flights from India to Iran

Iran is surprisingly close to India — direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Tehran take just 3.5–4.5 hours, making it one of the nearest international destinations. Air India operates direct flights on both routes.

Iran visa refusals are rarely arbitrary; they almost always trace back to a handful of preventable errors. Understanding these in advance is your best defence against a rejected application.

·        Incorrect photograph (women). The most common rejection reason for female applicants — the visa photo must show you wearing a headscarf. Photos without a headscarf will be rejected outright. Men should ensure a clear, full-face image with white background.

·        Insufficient passport validity. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Iran. Applications submitted with less than 6 months of validity are automatically rejected.

·        Missing or invalid travel insurance. Travel insurance is mandatory and must explicitly mention Iran as a covered destination. Generic travel insurance that excludes Iran will not be accepted.

·        No confirmed accommodation. You must provide hotel bookings or proof of accommodation for the full duration of your stay. Vague or missing accommodation details are a common trigger for rejection.

·        Incomplete application form. The e-visa portal requires accurate completion of every field. Missing information, mismatched dates, or incorrect passport details will lead to rejection.

·        Poor quality document scans. Blurred, cropped, or partial scans of your passport or other documents will be rejected. All uploads must be clear and complete.

·        Inconsistent travel dates. Your flight itinerary, hotel bookings, and application form must all show consistent travel dates. Any mismatch raises suspicion.

·        Previous visa violations in Iran. Any overstay or violation of Iranian visa rules on a previous visit will result in automatic rejection of new applications.

The Iranian visa system is processed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and does not offer a formal appeal process. If your application is rejected, you must identify the issue, correct it, and reapply. The service fee and visa fee are non-refundable.

Beyond the visa process, here is what makes Iran an unforgettable destination for Indian travellers.

·        Persepolis — the heart of ancient Persia — the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, with its towering columns, intricate reliefs, and the grand Gate of All Nations. Standing here connects you to 2,500 years of history.

·        Isfahan — half of the world — the magnificent Naqsh-e Jahan Square (one of the largest squares in the world), the Shah Mosque with its stunning tilework, and the graceful Si-o-se-pol Bridge lit up at night make Isfahan the jewel of Iran.

·        Shiraz and the Pink Mosque — the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, known as the Pink Mosque, is a kaleidoscope of colour when sunlight streams through its stained-glass windows. The nearby Eram Garden and the tomb of poet Hafez are equally enchanting.

·        Tehran's museums and palaces — the Golestan Palace, the National Museum of Iran, and the contemporary art scene make Tehran a surprisingly vibrant and cosmopolitan capital.

·        Persian food — fragrant saffron rice (polow), tender kebabs, hearty stews (khoresht), and the sweetest fresh fruit you will ever taste. Persian cuisine is refined, healthy, and offers excellent vegetarian options.

·        Iranian hospitality — Iranians are among the warmest and most hospitable people in the world. Expect to be invited for tea, offered food, and treated like a guest of honour wherever you go.

Iran Travel Tips for Indian Tourists

·        Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR). Carry Euros or USD for visa fees. Cards issued outside Iran do not work in Iran due to sanctions — bring sufficient cash in USD or EUR

·        SIM card: Buy an Irancell or Hamrahe Aval SIM at the airport (from €5–€10). Internet is available but certain websites (social media) may be restricted — install a VPN before travelling

·        Dress code: Women must wear a headscarf (hijab) in public at all times and dress modestly. Men should wear long trousers and avoid shorts

·        Getting around: Domestic flights are very affordable (₹1,500–₹3,000 between major cities). Long-distance buses and trains are comfortable and cheap. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Snapp, TAP30) operate in cities

·        Food: Persian food is rich in flavours and surprisingly Indian-palate friendly. Vegetarian options are available (kashk-e-bademjan, mirza ghasemi, various stews). Indian restaurants exist in Tehran

·        Safety: Iran is one of the safest countries for tourists, including solo women travellers. Violent crime is extremely rare. Standard precautions apply in crowded areas

·        Weekend: Thursday afternoon and Friday is the weekend in Iran. Many attractions and shops close on Fridays

·        Language: Persian (Farsi) is the official language. English is not widely spoken outside hotels and tourist sites — learn a few Farsi phrases or download a translation app

7-Day Iran Itinerary: Tehran, Isfahan & Shiraz

10-Day Iran Itinerary: The Classic Persian Circuit

Beyond simply meeting the minimum requirements, a few habits and precautions can meaningfully improve your chances and make the whole process less stressful.

·        Start with the authorization code first. The Visa Grant Notice is the most critical and time-sensitive step. Apply at evisa.mfa.ir at least 4–6 weeks before your travel date. Without this code, you cannot get a visa at the embassy or on arrival.

·        Women: prepare a headscarf photo. Female applicants must upload a passport photograph wearing a headscarf. Get this photo taken specifically for the Iran visa — a regular passport photo will be rejected.

·        Ensure your insurance covers Iran. Many standard travel insurance policies exclude Iran due to sanctions. Purchase a policy that explicitly lists Iran as a covered destination. Carry the printed certificate with you.

·        Carry sufficient cash in Euros or USD. Cards issued outside Iran do not work inside the country due to international sanctions. You will need cash for the visa fee (€60 or €90) and for all expenses during your trip. Exchange USD/EUR to rials at Iranian exchange offices (saraafis) for the best rates.

·        Double-check your personal details. Every field on the e-visa application must match your passport exactly. Even a single character error in your name spelling or passport number will cause delays or rejection.

·        Book accommodation for the full stay. Hotel bookings for every night of your trip are required. Use booking websites that offer free cancellation in case of visa delays.

·        Print everything. Carry printed copies of your Visa Grant Notice, hotel bookings, flight itinerary, travel insurance, and passport photocopies. Digital copies alone may not be accepted at the embassy or airport VOA counter.

·        Apply early for the embassy route. If you need your visa stamped before travel (rather than VOA), factor in the additional 3–7 working days for embassy processing. The total time from application to visa in hand can be 3–4 weeks.

Above all, be honest and accurate. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs cross-checks your application details against their database. A truthful, complete application with clear, legible documents is your best guarantee of approval.

Iran offers Indian travellers an unforgettable journey into one of the world's oldest civilisations — ancient ruins, stunning Islamic architecture, incredible food, and the warmest hospitality you will ever encounter. With direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai taking just 4 hours, and visa costs starting at €85 (₹9,000), Iran is more accessible than most travellers realise.

Next steps:

23.   Start early — apply for your Visa Grant Notice at evisa.mfa.ir at least 4–6 weeks before travel

24.   Women: prepare a passport photo with headscarf

25.   Purchase travel insurance that explicitly covers Iran

26.   Once your authorization code arrives, choose embassy stamping (€60) or VOA (€90 at airport)

27.   Carry sufficient Euros/USD in cash — cards do not work in Iran due to sanctions

For a complete overview of all visa types, embassy addresses, and detailed document specifications, [refer to our main Iran visa guide](https://btwvisas.com/visa-guide/iran-visa/).

*Editor's Note: This guide was written by the BTWVisas editorial team. Information is verified against official sources as of July 10, 2026 — including the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (evisa.mfa.ir), the Embassy of Iran in New Delhi, and XE currency exchange rates. Visa fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always verify with official sources before applying. BTWVisas is an independent visa information resource and is not affiliated with the Iranian government or any Iranian authority.*