If you live in Pakistan and want to visit Iran, you will need an Iran Visa. A visa is a special permission to enter another country. Here’s how to get an Iran visa and what you need to know about the fees.
Types of Iran Visas
There are different types of visas for visiting Iran:
- Tourist Visa: This is for people who want to visit Iran for fun and sightseeing.
- Ziarat Visa: This visa is for people visiting important religious sites.
Iran Visa Fees for Pakistanis
The cost of getting a visa can change. Here’s what you can expect:
- Tourist Visa Fee: It usually costs between $30 and $80.
- Ziarat Visa Fee (2023): This visa costs about $40 to $100.
Make sure to check with the Iranian embassy for the latest prices.
Steps to Apply for an Iran Visa
- Gather Documents: You will need:
- A passport that is valid for at least six months.
- A filled-out visa application form.
- Recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of where you will stay, like hotel bookings.
- Your travel plans (itinerary).
- Bank statements to show you have enough money.
- A receipt for the visa fee.
- Submit Your Application: Take all your documents to the Iranian embassy or consulate in Pakistan. It’s a good idea to call ahead and check how to submit them.
- Possible Interview: Sometimes, you may have to answer questions about your trip during an interview.
- Wait for Processing: The visa can take a few days to a few weeks to process. It’s best to apply early.
- Collect Your Visa: Once your visa is ready, you will be told when to pick it up. Check that all the details are correct.
Tips for Your Trip
- Health Insurance: It’s smart to have travel health insurance in case you need medical help while in Iran.
- Know the Culture: Learn about Iranian customs to be respectful during your visit.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Iran?
Most people from other countries need a visa to visit Iran. However, there are a few countries whose citizens do not need a tourist visa. These countries are Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Georgia, Lebanon, Malaysia, Syria, Turkey, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Ecuador.
Iran E-Visa vs. Visa Reference Number
You might hear different names for the Iran visa, like e-Visa, electronic visa, or authorization code. Don’t worry! They all mean the same thing—a visa that allows tourists to enter Iran.
What is an Iran E-Visa?
To visit Iran, most travelers need an authorization code (also called a visa reference number). To make it easier for tourists, Iran created the E-visa in 2017. This allows people to apply for their visas online.
How to Get an Iranian Visa in Advance
Getting your visa is simple with a service like 1stQuest. Here’s how it works:
- Fill out an online application form.
- Pay a service fee.
- They will handle the paperwork for you and get your authorization code from the Iranian government.
Once you get the code, it means your visa is ready! You can pick it up at an Iranian embassy or the airport in Iran. Just remember to say where you want to pick it up when you fill out the application.
Also, see about Qatar Visa For Pakistani
Other Ways to Obtain the Visa
You can also go to an Iranian embassy in person or check the Iranian government’s website. However, this can take a long time and sometimes people get their applications denied.
How to Get an Iran Visa on Arrival (VOA)
If you’re from one of 180 countries, you can get a visa when you arrive in Iran. Since August 2017, you need to apply online at least 2 days before you arrive. When you land, show your submission receipt to the visa officer, and you will get your visa.
Best Time to Apply for an Iranian Visa
It’s a good idea to start your visa application 3 to 4 weeks before your trip. You will usually get your authorization code in just a few days. If you want to collect your visa from the airport, that’s even easier!
Duration and Validity of Iranian Tourist Visa
The tourist visa for Iran is usually valid for 30 days. You can extend it for another 30 days while you are in Iran if you need more time. The visa is valid for up to 3 months after it is issued.
To extend your visa, go to the Police Department of Aliens Affairs. Make sure to go early because it can get crowded!
Visa Information for American, Canadian, British, and Irish Citizens
People from the USA, Canada, the UK, and Ireland need to travel with a licensed tour guide. But don’t worry, you’ll still have free time to explore on your own! Hiring a tour guide is easy and can be done through services like 1stQuest.
Visa Requirements for Pakistani Citizens
Pakistani citizens cannot get a visa on arrival. They must apply through an agency, just like everyone else. Check our blog for more details on what documents are needed.
Entering Iran Without a Visa: Visa-Free Zones
There are some special areas in Iran where travelers from eligible countries can enter without a visa. These areas include Kish Island, Qeshm Island, and a few others. You can stay there for up to 14 days. However, you will need a visa to leave these zones and enter the rest of Iran.
U.S. Visa Waiver Program and New Iran Visa Policy
Some people wonder if visiting Iran will affect their ability to travel to other countries, especially the U.S. The answer is no! Iran updated its visa policy, so travelers won’t get a stamp on their passport. This makes it easier to travel to other places later.
Conclusion
Getting a visa to visit Iran can be simple if you follow the steps. Make sure to check what kind of visa you need and gather your documents. Safe travels!
