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Iran Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

Visa Required

UK citizens must obtain an Iran visa before travel via the online e-visa portal; processing times and fees vary by type and are issued by the Iranian MFA; check https://e_visa.mfa.ir/ for current requirements and fees.

Guide last updated September 5, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry to Iran and have at least two blank pages.
  • Forms: apply online via the Iran e-Visa portal at https://e_visa.mfa.ir/; there is no separate DS-160/UK-specific form for the standard tourist visa. If applying at an Iranian mission, use the embassy visa application form provided by the mission.
  • Financial proof: there is no fixed minimum amount published for the e-Visa application; you may be asked to show you can cover the cost of your stay if requested by immigration authorities.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: you should have proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter) and a return/onward ticket or travel itinerary.
  • Photo spec: you will need a recent passport-style photo (digital) and a scanned photo of your passport; the portal will specify exact dimensions; typical requirements are a recent photograph with a white background.
  • Biometrics: biometrics submission is not required as part of the online visa application; border control may verify your identity on arrival.
  • Travel health insurance: travel medical insurance is not mandatory for the visa, but is strongly recommended.

Visa types

  • Tourist visa (Tourist Visa): official name Tourist Visa; typical validity up to 3 months from issue; maximum stay usually up to 30 days per entry; single or multiple entry options available; approximate fee and currency vary by nationality; check the official portal for current amounts.
  • Business visa (Commercial/Business Visa): official name Commercial/Business Visa; validity up to 6 months to 1 year; maximum stay per entry often 30-90 days; single or multiple entry options; fees vary by type.
  • Student visa: official name Student Visa; validity tied to the duration of the course; maximum stay aligned with the course; usually single entry or multiple; fees vary.
  • Work visa (Temporary Work/Work Permit): official name Work Visa; validity 3 months to 1 year; single or multiple entry; permit required from Iranian authorities; fees vary.

How to apply online

  • How to apply online: visit https://e_visa.mfa.ir/ and sign in or create an account; complete the visa application with your personal details and passport information.
  • Upload documents: upload a scanned passport page, a recent digital photo, and any supporting documents such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter.
  • Pay fees: pay the visa fee and any service charges shown on the portal using a bank card; fees are displayed in local currency (IRR) and USD on the portal.
  • Submit and wait: submit the application and monitor the status in your account; processing times vary by visa type and season; you will receive an electronic approval notification through the portal or by email; print the e-Visa approval and bring it with you on travel; upon arrival present the e-Visa and your passport to border authorities.
  • Note: some missions may still process paper visa, but the online e-Visa is the recommended route.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: published amounts vary by visa type and nationality; check the e_Visa portal for the exact figure in IRR and USD.
  • Processing time (online e-Visa): typical processing is 4-15 working days; rush processing (if offered) may be shorter with higher fees.
  • Other fees: there is no separate standard VFS/BLS service fee for e-Visas on the MFA portal; if you apply through a physical Iranian mission, local embassy processing fees may apply.
  • Total cost estimate: depends on visa type and speed; check the e-visa portal for your exact totals.
  • Express/priority option: where available, higher fees apply for faster processing.

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • Plan well in advance: apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel; peak travel periods may require longer lead times.
  • Common rejection reasons for UK applicants: passport validity less than 6 months; insufficient blank pages; inconsistent travel details or purpose; missing accommodation proof or invitation letter; incomplete or inaccurate information on the application; not meeting entry requirements.
  • Application route: the online e-Visa via the MFA portal is the primary route; avoid relying solely on third-party intermediaries; the embassy route may be slower and subject to local processing times.
  • Travel advisories: check the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advisories for Iran and ensure you meet any current entry requirements; check Iranian government updates on visa policies.
  • Extensions inside Iran: extensions may be possible at Iranian Immigration offices for tourism visas, typically by applying before visa expiry; approval is not guaranteed and depends on local authorities; extended stays incur additional fees.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.