Australian citizens need a visa to visit Iran. The tourist visa allows for a maximum 30-day stay in Iran, with the possibility of an extension. A valid Australian passport at least 6 months past your intended arrival and 1 blank page for the visa stamp are required to apply. Both documentation of further travel, such as a return ticket, and comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical costs are required.
2 current passport-sized photos are required; however, some consulates might not need them. An Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) visa authorization code is essential and is usually acquired through a sponsor, such as a licensed travel agency like Irun2Iran.
Iran does not recognize dual citizenship; hence, dual citizens of Iranian ancestry must enter using an Iranian passport. Australia recommends against traveling to Iran owing to safety concerns, so make sure your documents are written in English or translated and look for any travel warnings.
Visa Application Process
Australians can apply in advance or receive a visa on arrival (VOA) at some Iranian airports, and the visa application procedure consists of many phases. It is advised to apply ahead of time to prevent delays or rejection risks. Let’s check out the visa application process:
Step 1: Gather Documents
Get your travel insurance, passport, photos and proof of further travel ready. Applying through a travel agency will help you fill out other documents, such as the visa application form, which asks for your personal information, travel itinerary and planned entry points.
Step 2: Obtain Authorization Code
Your application for an authorization code (visa approval notification) is sent to the MFA by a sponsor, usually a travel agency. Either 3 to 7 working days (normal) or 1 to 3 days (urgent) are needed for this process.
Step 3: Submit Application
You can get your visa along with the authorization code at the Iranian Embassy in Canberra, the Iranian Consulate in Sydney or when you finally arrive at an Iranian airport. Provide your passport, application form, authorization code, photos and a letter from your sponsor with travel information for embassy collection.
The cost of a visa stamp is AUD 130 in Australia and €60 (in euros only) at consulates overseas. The cost for VOA is €90, which must be paid in euros at the visa desk at the airport. Verify document requirements at all times because they might change.
Step 4: Collect Visa
After being accepted, you will either receive a physical copy of your visa to keep with you until you leave Iran or an electronic copy (without a passport sticker) through email. Show your documents and permission code at the visa desk before immigration at the Iranian airport for VOA.
Step 5: Costs and Payment Details
The authorization code service price (€36 for standard and €54 for urgent requests) and the visa stamp fee (€60 at foreign consulates, €90 for VOA or AUD 130 in Australia) are included in the visa cost. Due to Iran’s cash-based economy, credit cards are not accepted at consulates or airports. Instead, payments must be in cash (Euros).
There may be additional fees (up to 50% more) for urgent embassy processing. Consider these fees and bring extra cash because international cards might not be accepted by ATMs. Converting AUD to EUR might make payments easier before your travel.
Tips for a Smooth Visa Process
The tips provided below are great to consider if you are willing to experience a smooth visa process:
Apply Early
Begin the procedure 1 to 2 months before departure to prevent delays, especially during the busiest seasons (spring and autumn). Although VOA is more convenient, it is quite risky since airport refusal might cause plans to be disrupted.
Use a Travel Agency
Travel agencies act as sponsors, managing MFA documentation and lowering the likelihood of rejection. They give precise instructions and guarantee adherence to rules and regulations.
Check Consulate Details
The visa procedure may differ; therefore, check requirements with the Iranian Embassy in Canberra or the Iranian Consulate in Sydney. Some even accept submissions by mail.
Travel Insurance
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance and have evidence of coverage on hand, as Iranian medical providers may demand payment in advance.
Safety Awareness
Check Australia’s travel advisories carefully, paying particular attention to the curfew (10 PM until 2 AM) and the fines for violating it. Be sure to respect the nation’s dress code, which mandates that women cover their heads.
Currency Planning
As mentioned before, credit cards are rarely accepted, so make sure to bring euros for visa fees and Iranian Rials for expenses. Exchange money at authorized Exchange (Sarrafi) offices for better rates.
