Iranian passports are issued to citizens of the Iran, whether living in the country or overseas, for the purpose of international travel. The passport can also be used as a proof of Iranian citizenship. The new Iranian passports are usually valid for 10 years. They can be renewed after five years.

A Henley and Partners study gives Iran a Henley Visa Restrictions Index of 14. This means that with an Iranian passport, Iranian nationals may enjoy traveling to 14 countries and territories for short tourism-related visits visa-free.

Here is a list of the countries and territories that you may visit with an Iranian passport even without a visa. Note that some of these actually require a visa but you’ll have to obtain it the moment you arrive.

Types Available

There are two major types of Iranian passports. Choose the one appropriate for you depending on your purpose or position.

• Ordinary passport:
  Every Iranian national has the right to own an ordinary passport to travel outside the country. This type is issued by any of the passport and identification centers. Iranian citizens abroad can obtain one from any Iranian consular missions in their country of residence.

• Diplomatic and official passports:
  Diplomatic and service passports are issued to accredited members of any diplomatic mission, high-ranking government officials, employees or members of international organizations (United Nations, Organization of American States, etc), and their family members on their official visits or missions abroad.

How to Apply Iran Visa

The first thing you will need when applying for an Iranian passport is an application form. You may obtain this from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) or any passport office throughout the country. If you’re living abroad, you may get a copy from the consular section of any Iranian embassy or consulate. Fill out the form fully, legibly and accurately. Write in capital letters. Any misrepresentation or suppression of the facts may lead to denial of your passport. Incomplete and incorrect applications will not be processed.
Aside from the application form, here are the other documents you are required to submit:

• two pieces of proof of residence (photocopy of utility bills, lease agreement, driver’s license, other documents indicating your mailing address)
• certificate of citizenship or identity
• application processing fee
• four recent identical color passport-size photographs
• write your identification on the back of the pictures. Men should not wear hats or eyeglasses. Women should wear a hejab.

Additional Information

One of the most unfortunate things that could happen to an Iranian national is losing a passport. Unlike in many Western countries, applying for a duplicate passport in Iran is not as easy as going online, accomplishing forms and waiting for the new passport to be delivered to your home. You have to realize that the Iranian government is so wary and cautious when it comes to international travel. Authorities see to it that you really lost your passport and did not sell it. Forgery is almost a common thing in passport applications in Iran.

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