Iran’s Visa on Arrival (VOA) is an alternative to the pre-approved eVisa that allows eligible travelers to obtain entry authorization directly at the airport upon arrival. In 2026, while the VOA remains officially available, there are important caveats – especially since 2022 when some airlines started requiring pre-issued visas for boarding. This guide covers everything about the Iran Visa on Arrival.
What Is Iran Visa on Arrival?
The Iran Visa on Arrival is a tourist visa issued at the immigration counter of select Iranian international airports. Instead of applying online weeks in advance, you simply present your documents at the airport’s visa desk and pay the fee in cash. The visa is typically processed within 1-3 hours of arrival.
Which Airports Offer Visa on Arrival?
VOA is available at the following international airports:
- Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) – Tehran (main gateway)
- Shiraz International Airport
- Isfahan International Airport
- Mashhad International Airport
- Tabriz International Airport
- Qeshm Island Airport
- Kish Island Airport
Note: VOA is NOT available at land borders or sea ports – only at the airports listed above.
Who Is Eligible for Iran Visa on Arrival?
Most nationalities eligible for the eVisa are also eligible for VOA. Exceptions – VOA is NOT available for:
- United States citizens
- United Kingdom citizens
- Canadian citizens
- Israeli citizens (no entry to Iran)
- Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Colombia, Iraq, Jordan, Nepal, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka
See our Iran eVisa Eligible Countries list for full VOA and eVisa eligibility details.
Critical Warning – Airlines May Require Pre-Issued Visa
Important update as of 2022 and ongoing through 2026: While the Visa on Arrival remains technically available at Iranian airports, a number of airlines have begun requiring passengers to show a pre-issued visa before allowing them to board a flight to Iran. This means you could be denied boarding even if you intended to get your VOA at the airport.
Our strong recommendation: apply for the eVisa in advance rather than relying on VOA. The minor convenience of not applying in advance is not worth the risk of being denied boarding. For a full comparison, see our Iran eVisa vs Visa on Arrival page.
Documents Required for Iran Visa on Arrival
- Valid passport (6+ months validity, at least 1 blank page)
- Printed hotel reservation for at least your first night
- Contact details of your host or hotel
- Travel insurance documents
- Cash for the visa fee (euros preferred)
- Passport-size photo (have 1-2 copies just in case)
Iran Visa on Arrival Fee
The VOA fee is paid in cash at the airport. Standard fees:
- Most nationalities: approximately €75
- Australian passport holders: approximately €140 (higher due to reciprocity)
- Euros are the preferred currency; US dollars may also be accepted
If you arrive without travel insurance, you will be required to purchase a basic policy at the airport. This costs approximately €14 for 1-31 days and €34 for 63-92 days (coverage is limited). Compare this to our Iran eVisa Fee page for pre-application costs.
VOA Process Step by Step
- Arrive at an eligible Iranian international airport
- Before reaching passport control, look for the Visa on Arrival desk or counter
- Present your passport, hotel reservation, and travel insurance
- Fill out the VOA application form provided at the desk
- Pay the fee in cash
- Wait for processing – typically 30 minutes to 3 hours
- Receive your visa document (separate from passport – no stamp)
- Proceed to passport control for entry
Kish Island – Special 14-Day Free Visa
A unique rule applies to Kish Island: all nationalities eligible for VOA can obtain a free 14-day tourist visa for Kish Island if they remain on the island. This special rule has been particularly popular with European expats living in Dubai or Doha who fly to Kish for short breaks. However, this free visa does not allow travel to mainland Iran.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Visa on Arrival still available at Tehran airport in 2026?
Yes, technically. However, since 2022, some airlines have started requiring pre-issued visas before allowing boarding. Apply for the eVisa in advance to avoid risk of being denied boarding.
How long does Iran VOA processing take at the airport?
Processing typically takes 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on the queue and the airport’s processing capacity. Arrive prepared and allow extra time on your first day in Iran.
Can I get an Iran Visa on Arrival at a land border?
No. VOA is only available at international airports. If crossing by land, you must obtain a visa in advance from an Iranian embassy or consulate.
What currency should I bring for the Iran Visa on Arrival fee?
Euros are the preferred currency for the VOA fee payment. US dollars are generally accepted too. Bring approximately €80-150 in cash depending on your nationality.
