Iran is a destination that offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and fascinating history. Afghan citizens who want to visit Iran must apply for a visa.
This guide will help you understand the steps in applying for an Iran visa and what documents you'll need.
Do Afghan citizens require a visa for Iran?
Yes, Afghan citizens require a visa to enter Iran. Unfortunately, you cannot apply for the Iran eVisa through us right now.
However, applying at an Iranian embassy or consulate is straightforward. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
How to apply for an Iran visa in Afghanistan
Applying for an Iran visa as a citizen of Afghanistan involves a straightforward process, but it does require following a few steps.
Here's how to apply:
1. Prepare your documents:
Before visiting the embassy or consulate, gather all the necessary documents, including:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity beyond your stay).
- A passport-sized photo (recent, with a white background).
- Proof of financial means (such as bank statements).
- Travel itinerary or flight bookings (if requested).
2. Visit the nearest Iranian embassy or consulate:
Since you cannot apply for the Iran eVisa online, you'll need to visit an Iranian diplomatic mission. Be sure to check for any specific appointment requirements.
3. Submit your visa application form:
Complete the visa application form provided by the embassy or consulate. Double-check all details to ensure there are no mistakes.
4. Pay the visa fee:
Depending on the embassy, you will need to pay the required visa fee. Make sure to confirm the acceptable forms of payment beforehand (cash, debit/credit cards, etc.).
5. Attend any required interview:
Some Iranian embassies may require an in-person interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and reasons for visiting Iran.
6. Wait for your visa approval:
The processing time may vary after submitting your application. Depending on the embassy's schedule, it could take several days to a few weeks. Once approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport.
Visa entry rules and maximum stay in Iran
The Iran visa for Afghan citizens is typically issued as a single-entry visa. Once issued, you can stay in Iran for up to 30 days. Extensions can be requested from Iranian immigration authorities, but approval is not guaranteed.
How long does it take to process the Iran visa?
Visa processing times for Iran can vary depending on the embassy or consulate handling your application. To avoid delays, we recommend submitting your visa application at least a few weeks before your planned travel date.
Travel tips for Afghan citizens visiting Iran
Iran is a beautiful destination, but it’s essential to be mindful of the cultural norms and dress code. Research local customs for a respectful visit.
Fatima, an Afghanistan traveler, told our travel journalist, Ra'eesah about her experience visiting Qeshm and Hormoz islands in Iran:
“I found Qeshm and Hormoz fascinating. In Qeshm, I hitchhiked to a secluded beach—it was just like any beautiful beach elsewhere. I also visited a more public beach, and both were wonderful.”
"On public beaches, I noticed locals wading with their trousers or dresses pulled up rather than wearing bathing suits—creating a calm and modest beach atmosphere," shared Fatima.
Another traveler chimed in with some context about beach culture in Iran, saying:
“Since the revolution about 45 years ago, wearing swimsuits on public beaches in Iran hadn’t been an option due to modesty laws. While you might occasionally see someone pushing the boundaries, most people prefer to stay within the rules to avoid any issues. Over time, pulling up trousers to wade in the water has become a common and practical way for people to enjoy the beach while adhering to cultural norms.”
You can contact the Iranian embassy or consulate directly if you still have questions about the Iran visa application process. Although we don’t currently offer the Iran eVisa, our customer service team can answer general travel questions via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.