Iran visa for Canadian citizens: How to apply

If you’re planning a trip to Iran from Canada, you’ll need a visa. While we don’t process Iranian embassy visa applications, we’re here to guide you through the steps and requirements to help you apply successfully.

Do Canadians need a visa to visit Iran?

Yes, Canadians must obtain a visa before entering Iran.

Unlike travelers from some other countries, Iran’s eVisa program is not available to Canadian passport holders. They are required to follow specific entry regulations, including booking through a licensed travel agency and being accompanied by an authorized tour guide throughout their stay.

Independent travel is not permitted for Canadian travelers​.

How to apply for an Iranian visa from Canada

Here’s a detailed step-by-step process for Canadian citizens to obtain an Iranian visa:

1.Book a tour with a licensed travel agency Canadians must find a licensed travel agency recognized by the Iranian Ministry of Tourism. These agencies handle visa applications and provide a structured itinerary with an authorized guide. The agency will arrange your visa invitation and authorization codes.

2.Obtain a visa authorization code The travel agency applies for your visa authorization code through the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). This authorization is mandatory and can take up to two months to process, so plan your trip well in advance​.

3.Complete the visa application form After receiving your authorization code, download and fill out the official visa application form from the Iranian Interests Section’s website. Ensure your information matches what you provided to the travel agency.

4.Prepare the required documents They are listed below.

5.Submit the application and documents Submit the complete application package, including the visa authorization code, to the Iranian Interests Section at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, DC. You can mail the package or submit it in person.

Once you receive your Iranian visa, remember that Canadian travelers must be accompanied by an authorized tour guide throughout their stay. Your tour guide will coordinate entry, accommodation, and excursions to comply with Iranian regulations​.

What documents are required for an Iran embassy visa?

To ensure a successful visa application, Canadian citizens should gather the following essential documents:

• A valid passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

• Two passport-sized photos: Ensure these meet the Iranian government’s requirements.

• A detailed CV: This should include your full education and professional history, as well as any travel to other countries.

• Proof of travel itinerary: Including flight reservations and accommodation bookings.

• Personal cover letter: Briefly explain the purpose and duration of your visit.

iVisa pro tip: Visa approval is not guaranteed, and delays are common, so hold off on purchasing non-refundable tickets or hotel bookings until you receive confirmation of your visa approval. You can instead use refundable options or request “dummy” bookings from your travel agency, which are often enough to fulfill application requirements.

How long does it take to get an Iran embassy visa?

Visa processing for Canadian citizens can take 2 to 3 months, depending on the application details and any additional scrutiny required by Iranian authorities​. Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for unexpected delays.

Can a Canadian resident get an Iran eVisa?

A Canadian resident may be eligible for an Iran eVisa based on their nationality. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended travel date and it should have at least 2 blank pages.

Learn more about the Iran eVisa

Where can I find more details?

For additional assistance, you can contact the Iranian Interests Section at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C.

Address: 1250 23rd Street NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20037, USA

Phone: +1 202 965 4990