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Iran, a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, has been a burgeoning tourist destination in recent years. However, before packing your bags and planning your Persian adventure, it’s crucial to understand the visa requirements. There are some countries that can travel to Iran without a visa, to guarantee a seamless and trouble-free experience for the citizens of these countries. In this article, we get to know which countries can travel to Iran without a visa and what are the specific guidelines for them. We will also learn about other ways to go to Iran without a visa.
Countries for Visa-Free Travel to Iran
Iran has established reciprocal agreements with several countries, allowing their citizens to enter without a visa or obtain a visa on arrival. Here are the Iran visa free countries:
- Turkey: As a neighboring country, Turkish citizens can enter Iran for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
- Azerbaijan: Azerbaijani citizens can stay in Iran visa-free for up to 30 days.
- Georgia: Iran offers visa-free entry to Georgian citizens for 45 days.
- Malaysia: Malaysian passport holders can enjoy a 15-day visa-free stay in Iran, perfect for a short cultural excursion.
- Oman: Omani citizens can enter Iran without a visa and stay for up to 30 days.
- Venezuela: Venezuelan passport holders can enter Iran visa-free for up to 15 days.
- China: Chinese citizens can stay in Iran visa-free for up to 21 days.
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong passport holders can enjoy a 21-day stay in Iran.
- Macau: Macau passport holders can enjoy a 21-day stay in Iran.
- Egypt: Egyptian citizens can stay in Iran visa-free for up to 20 days.
- Armenia: As a neighboring country, Armenian citizens can enter Iran for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
- Lebanon: Lebanese citizens can stay in Iran visa-free for up to 30 days.
- Bolivia: Bolivian citizens can stay in Iran visa-free for up to 30 days.
- Syria: Syrian citizens can enter Iran for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
- ATTENTION: Travelers originating in Syria are required to enter Iran exclusively via Damascus Airport and cannot arrive from another foreign location.
Additional Countries for Visa-free Travel to Iran
Starting from February 2024, ordinary passport holders from the following 28 countries can stay in Iran for tourism purposes for a non-extendable period of 15 days once every six months:
- United Arab Emirates
- Bahrain
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- State of Kuwait
- Uzbekistan
- Kyrgyz Republic
- Cuba
- Serbia
- Belarus
- Tunisia
- Mauritania
- Tanzania
- Zimbabwe
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Indonesia
- Brunei Darussalam
- Croatia
- Mexico
- Japan
- Singapore
- India
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
- Brazil
- Peru
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
Staying More Than the Allowed Days
If you’re planning to extend your stay beyond the specified duration, all you need to do is apply for a visa, which you can conveniently do on our visa application page, and simply get your visa in a few days.
Important Guidelines for Visa-Free Travel to Iran
While enjoying visa-free travel to Iran is undoubtedly convenient, it’s crucial to adhere to certain guidelines to ensure a smooth journey:
- Passport Validity: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Iran.
- Entry and Exit Points: Be aware of the specific entry and exit points designated for travelers arriving without a visa. Ensure you adhere to these locations to avoid any complications.
- Length of Stay: Respect the maximum stay duration specified for your nationality. Overstaying your welcome could result in fines, deportation, or future travel restrictions.
- Travel Insurance: Consider obtaining comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses, cancellations, or other emergencies during your trip.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Iran has a unique culture and traditions. It’s advisable to dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in religious sites.
Which Individuals Can Travel to Iran Without a Visa?
In addition to the citizens of the mentioned countries, people with the following conditions can travel to Iran without a visa:
Holding Dual Citizenship in Iran and Another Country
If you hold dual citizenship with Iran and another country, you will be considered an Iranian citizen when traveling to Iran. In this case, you’ll only need your Iranian passport; there’s no requirement for a visa.
Individuals Born Abroad with Iranian Parents
Similarly, individuals born abroad to Iranian parents must possess an Iranian passport and are not required to obtain a visa.
Iran Free Trade Zones: Go to Iran Without a Visa
Another choice available is to enter Iran’s free trade zones without needing a visa. You can stay for a maximum of two weeks in these zones. Iran free trade zones are as follows:
- Kish Island
This island ranks second among the islands of the Persian Gulf. Historically, this island has commercial records, so it is considered the center of commercial communication between India, Iran, and Bahrain, and today it plays a significant role in Iran’s tourism with numerous enjoyable attractions.
- Qeshm Island
Qeshm Free Zone is located in the Persian Gulf, 37 kilometers south of Bandar Abbas and at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz. Qeshm Island is the largest island in the Persian Gulf, which, in addition to the advantages of the free zone, has many tourist attractions, such as Qeshm Geopark, Star Valley, mangrove forests, etc.
- Anzali
Bandar Anzali is one of the most important tourist cities, one of the important economic centers, and one of the sports hubs in Iran. It has a humid climate and the rainfall is very high. Anzali is one of the most popular cities in northern Iran in Gilan province.
- Arvand
Arvand Free Zone is located in the northwest of the Persian Gulf at the confluence of two rivers, Arvand and Karun, and has a common border between the countries of Iraq and Kuwait.
- Aras
It is located in the northwest of Iran at the border zero point in the vicinity of the countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan.
- Maku
Maku city is located in the northwest of Iran (West Azerbaijan province). Nestled within its ancient roots and adorned with a tapestry of historical treasures, Mako beckons with boundless potential for intrepid explorers.
- Chabahar
The port city of Chabahar is located in the southeast of Iran, next to the Oman Sea, in the eastern corner of Chabahar Bay.
FAQs about Traveling to Iran Visa Free
Q1: Do I need a visa to visit Iran?
A1: Yes, most travelers need a visa to visit Iran. But citizens of 14 countries, plus dual citizens with Iranian citizenship and people with Iranian parents, can travel to Iran without a visa.
Q2: Can I visit Iran without a visa?
A2: While most travelers cannot visit Iran without a visa, citizens of 14 countries, plus dual citizens with Iranian citizenship and people with Iranian parents, can travel to Iran without a visa.
Q3: Can I get an Iranian visa at the airport?
A3: Yes, in some cases, you can obtain an Iranian visa at the airport, but it depends on your nationality and circumstances.
Q4: Is Iran visa easy to get?
A4: Yes, generally Iran visa is easy to get. Most nationalities can get their visas in 3 to 5 working days.
Q5: Which countries can travel to Iran without a visa?
A5: In 2023, there are 14 countries that can travel to Iran visa free.
Q6: Can I travel to Iran without a visa with a Turkish passport?
A6: Turkish citizens can enter Iran for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Q7: Can Israelis go to Iran?
A7: Israeli citizens are generally not permitted to visit Iran due to political tensions and the lack of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Q8: Can Indian citizens travel to Iran?
A8: Yes! Indian citizens can apply for their visa directly or through a travel agency and get their visa in 3 to 5 working days. For more information read the article about Iran visa for Indian citizens.
Explore Iran with To Iran Tour
Iran’s visa-free travel policy has opened up this enchanting destination to travelers from various corners of the globe. Whether you’re drawn by its ancient history, stunning landscapes, or warm hospitality, Iran offers a wealth of experiences.
If you’re dreaming of exploring the mesmerizing bazaars of Tehran, marveling at the ancient city of Persepolis, or trekking through the pristine landscapes of Mazandaran, we make sure your trip will be flawless and most definitely enjoyable and memorable!
Happy travels to Iran, where history and hospitality await!
