Iran offers several types of visas for foreign travelers, each designed for a specific purpose and eligibility category. In 2026, understanding which visa type applies to your trip helps you choose the right application route and avoid delays. This guide covers all Iran visa types available through the eVisa system and beyond.
Overview of Iran Visa Types in 2026
Iranian visa types are classified by the purpose of travel. The main categories are:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Available via eVisa? |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist (T) | Tourism and leisure travel | Yes – primary eVisa type |
| Business (B) | Commercial activities, meetings | Limited – embassy route preferred |
| Medical (M) | Medical treatment in Iran | No – requires consular application |
| Pilgrimage/Ziarat (Z) | Religious travel to holy sites | No – special authorization required |
| Transit (TR) | Connecting through Iran | No – airport transit or embassy |
| Student (S) | Study at Iranian universities | No – university sponsorship required |
| Journalist | Media and press | No – special government authorization |
Iran Tourist eVisa – The Standard Option
The most commonly issued visa for travelers is the Tourist eVisa. Applied for at evisa.mfa.ir, this is the primary option for citizens of eligible countries visiting Iran for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.
Key details of the Tourist eVisa:
- Fee: $75 USD
- Validity: 90 days from issue date
- Maximum stay: 30 days
- Entry: Single entry
- Processing: 5-14 business days
Most business travelers also use the tourist visa, as Iran allows business meetings under tourist visa status for general commercial visits. However, for formal business operations, a business visa is technically required.
Business Visa for Iran
The Iranian Business Visa (Entry Visa) requires:
- An official invitation letter from an Iranian company or business partner
- Application through an Iranian embassy or consulate
- Supporting documents proving the business relationship
Processing is slower than the tourist eVisa. Many short-term business visitors opt to enter on a tourist visa for meetings and negotiations, as this is generally acceptable for non-operational visits.
Medical Visa for Iran
Iran is known for high-quality and affordable medical procedures, attracting medical tourists from the region. A Medical Visa requires:
- Documentation from an Iranian hospital or medical center confirming treatment
- Application via an Iranian embassy or consulate
- Proof of financial capacity to pay for treatment
Iran’s medical tourism industry is particularly strong for cosmetic surgery, orthopedic procedures, and fertility treatments.
Pilgrimage (Ziarat) Visa
Iran hosts major Shia Muslim pilgrimage sites, including the holy shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad and Fatima Masumeh shrine in Qom. The Ziarat visa is issued through specific authorization channels, often via religious organizations or Iranian authorities for pilgrimage groups. Individual applications may be possible through embassies in countries with strong Shia communities.
Transit Visa for Iran
If you are transiting through Iran (connecting flights), you may need a transit visa. Key points:
- Airport transit: may not require a visa if you stay airside and don’t pass through immigration
- Land transit: always requires a transit visa in advance
- Transit visas are valid for 5-7 days and allow passage through Iran en route to another destination
Visa on Arrival – A Special Category
Iran also offers a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at select airports for eligible nationalities. This is a tourist authorization obtained at the airport rather than online. For a full comparison, see our Iran eVisa vs Visa on Arrival page.
Single vs Multiple Entry Iran Visas
The standard online eVisa is single entry. Multiple-entry visas are available but require:
- Application through an Iranian embassy (not the online portal)
- Justification for multiple entries (e.g., business relationships, frequent visits)
- Generally longer processing and higher fees
For most tourists, a single-entry visa is sufficient. If you plan to enter Iran, exit to a neighboring country (e.g., for a side trip to Armenia or Azerbaijan), and re-enter, you’ll need a multiple-entry visa.
Visa Extension in Iran
If you want to extend your stay beyond the 30 days granted by your tourist visa, you must apply for an extension inside Iran. Visit the Police Department of Foreign Aliens Affairs (PDFA) in any major city. Extensions are typically granted for 30 days. See our Iran eVisa Validity page for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common visa type for tourists visiting Iran?
The Tourist eVisa is the most common. It is applied for online at evisa.mfa.ir, costs $75 USD, and allows a 30-day stay within a 90-day validity window.
Can I do business activities on a tourist visa in Iran?
For informal meetings and market research, a tourist visa is generally tolerated. For formal business operations, signing contracts, or employment activities, a proper business visa is required.
How do I apply for an Iran transit visa?
Apply through the nearest Iranian embassy in your home country. Provide proof of onward travel (flight tickets), accommodation details, and a clear itinerary showing Iran is only a transit point.
Is there an Iran eVisa for pilgrimage tourism?
Not through the standard online portal. Pilgrimage visas require special authorization and are typically organized through religious travel agencies or directly with Iranian religious authorities.
