Visitors require a passport (must be valid at least six months after period of intended stay). Visitors must hold return or onward ticket and all documents required for next destination and sufficient funds. Some nationalities (none mentioned above) requiring a visa can obtain it on arrival provided the visit is for tourist purposes for a maximum of 15 days and holding a photo and US$50 for the holder of the passport and U$10 for each of the companions (if any) to cover visa fees. Otherwise a 72-hour visa can be issued on arrival, if passenger has been introduced by means of a letter from valid
organization or government at least two days prior to arrival. The fee is US$30. The passenger must report to police within eight days after arrival. Visitors should be aware that if their passport contains an Israeli stamp, or any evidence of an intended or past visit to
Israel, entry to
Iran will be refused even if in possession of a valid visa.
Americans: United States nationals require a passport and visa to enter Iran.
UK nationals: British nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Iran.
Canadians: Canadian nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Iran.
Australians: Australian nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Iran.
South Africans: South African nationals require a passport and visa to enter Iran.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Iran.
New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Iran.
Health
Travelers are recommended to be vaccinated against polio and typhoid. Malaria is a risk in some parts of the country, but travelers should check before travel whether they need to take prophylaxis or not. Cholera outbreaks occur. Avian Influenza was detected in the north, but no human infections have been reported. Yellow fever certificates are required by those arriving from an infected country in
Africa or the Americas. Tap water should not be drunk, including ice in drinks, and food precautions should be taken. Health care in the cities in Iran is good, but is generally insufficient in rural areas. Travelers are advised to have full medical insurance and to consult with their medical practitioner prior to travel.
Safety
Travelers should exercise caution throughout the country, especially in the southeastern region where Westerners have been victims of criminal gangs often involved in the smuggling of drugs and other contraband. Crime is relatively low in the cities, but there have been an increasing number of robberies by young men on motorbikes who snatch items from pedestrians. Anti-Western sentiment among certain elements of the population has resulted in violent demonstrations outside foreign representations based in the country. Travelers are advised to avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings. Increased tension between Iran and the West over the past several years is a cause of concern for American travelers.
