KEY2PERSIA
Significant Progress in Iran's Visa Policy: A Giant Leap towards Tourism Development
The Islamic Republic of Iran has taken a significant step towards facilitating foreign tourist travel and developing its tourism industry by waiving visa requirements for citizens of many countries. This decision, seen as a crucial step towards international interactions and expanding cultural relations, will have positive impacts on the country's economy and promote Iran's historical and natural attractions.
As you know, Iran previously had bilateral visa waiver agreements with several countries, including Georgia, Armenia, Turkey, Syria, and Kazakhstan. Additionally, citizens of countries such as Azerbaijan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Oman, Egypt, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Malaysia could visit Iran visa-free or with airport visas for specific durations.
Now, with the latest government decree, the list of visa-exempt countries has expanded significantly to include 33 more nations. These countries, which are diverse in terms of geography, culture, and economy, include countries from the Persian Gulf and Middle East, neighboring countries and the Caucasus civilization region, African and Muslim countries, East Asian countries, the Americas, Eastern European countries, and India.
Complete List of Visa-Exempt Countries:
• Persian Gulf and Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Lebanon
• Neighbors and Caucasus Civilization Region: Russia (group tours only), Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan
• African and Muslim: Tunisia, Tanzania, Mauritania, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, and Seychelles
• East Asia: Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Brunei
• Americas: Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Venezuela, and Cuba
• Eastern Europe: Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Belarus
• India: Shares cultural commonalities and is a member of the BRICS organization
Benefits of Visa Waiver:
• Increased Tourist Arrivals: By removing bureaucratic barriers and reducing travel costs, the number of foreign tourists to Iran will significantly increase.
• Tourism Industry Development: The tourism industry, as one of the most important revenue-generating industries, can play a significant role in job creation and economic growth.
