Meeting iran evisa requirements for business from the UK in 2026 requires a valid passport (6+ months validity), an invitation letter from a registered Iranian host company, an MFA authorization code, two passport-size photos, and proof of insurance. The online application takes 1-3 weeks, and the visa must be collected at the Iranian Consulate in London.
UK passport holders applying for an Iran business eVisa in 2026 need an invitation letter from a registered Iranian host company, an MFA authorization code, and a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the travel date. You must also collect the visa stamp at the London consulate.
Written by the UK Travel Visa Editorial Team, with 10+ years of experience guiding British travellers through Iran business visa applications. This guide was last reviewed and updated on 8 September 2026.
What Is the Iran Business eVisa and Who Is It For?
The Iran business eVisa (Entry-Type A) is an electronic visa issued by Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for UK passport holders travelling for commercial purposes. According to visa processing data cited by iranianvisa.com, 96% of UK business eVisa applications are approved, and UK nationals account for 19.7% of all applications submitted through the government portal at evisa.mfa.ir.
The Iran business eVisa covers commercial activities such as contract signings, trade fairs, and institutional visits. UK passport holders must obtain authorisation before travel.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Invitation Letter Required |
|---|---|---|
| Type A (Business) | Commercial activities, meetings, trade fairs | Yes |
| Type B (Tourist) | Tourism and leisure travel | No |
| Type E (Education) | Receiving education in Iran | Yes |
| Type F (Work) | Employment and paid assignments | Yes |
Invitation Letter and Host Company Authorization
The Iran business eVisa requires an invitation letter from the CEO of a company registered in Iran, on company letterhead with seal and signature, addressed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stating purpose, duration, and host responsibility. The host must complete a host specification form, a guest profile form, attach the Rooznameh Rasmi (official newspaper with latest company changes), and provide both sides of the host’s national card.
Host in Iran: Registers on evisa.mfa.ir
Completes host specification and guest profile forms.
Host in Iran: Prepares application letter
On letterhead addressed to MFA, requesting multi-travel visa with reason for invitation.
Host in Iran: Attaches Rooznameh Rasmi
And both sides of national card.
Host in Iran: MFA reviews and issues authorization code
Visa Grant Notice PDF, valid 1 month.
Host in Iran: Forwards code to UK applicant
Code sent to the applicant for portal submission.
Applicant in UK: Enters code in portal
Finalises the Iran business eVisa application.
The Iran business eVisa authorization process depends entirely on the host company completing these steps before the UK applicant can proceed.
Sample Invitation Letter Structure
The Iran business eVisa invitation letter must include: company name and registration number on official letterhead; date and MFA addressee line; guest full name, passport number, nationality; purpose and duration of visit; host commitment statement accepting responsibility for the applicant; signature block with company seal.
Required Documents Checklist for UK Applicants
The checklist below spells out each document required for the Iran business eVisa. Meeting iran evisa requirements for business means preparing all items before starting the online application.
- Passport – colour scan of first page; max 10 MB; PDF or JPEG; valid at least 6 months beyond travel date.
- Two biometric photos – 3×4 cm; full face, no hat, no dark glasses; written on the back; recently taken.
- Invitation letter – formal letter on company letterhead from the CEO of a registered Iranian host company, addressed to Iran’s MFA, stating purpose and duration.
- Authorization code (Visa Grant Notice) – unique code issued by Iran’s MFA after host company submits documentation through evisa.mfa.ir; valid for 1 month.
- Flight itinerary – round-trip booking.
- Proof of accommodation – hotel booking.
- Travel medical insurance – standard UK/EU policies often exclude Iran due to sanctions; specific Iran-covering insurers required.
- Residence permit – optional; important if applying outside country of origin; max 10 MB, 1 file.
The Iran business eVisa portal accepts PDF or JPEG uploads (max 10 MB per file, colour scans for passports).
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide for 2026
Access evisa.mfa.ir and create an account
UK phone, Iran phone, email.
Select Entry-A Business visa type
Choose the correct visa category.
Complete the online form
Name, gender, father’s name, birthplace, passport details, visa collection point, entry date, itinerary, duration.
Upload required documents
Passport scan, photos, invitation letter, insurance, itinerary.
Pay the MFA processing fee
Fee payable through the portal.
Receive confirmation with your reference number
Keep this number for tracking.
Receive the authorization code from your Iranian host company
Code issued by MFA after host submits documentation.
Enter the code in the portal to finalise submission
Completes the online application.
Receive the eVisa approval notification
Confirmation that your visa is approved.
Collect the Iran business eVisa stamp in person
At the Iranian Consulate in London.
Mon-Wed 09:00-12:00
Email only: [email protected]
Bring your passport (valid 6+ months), 2 recently taken photos, the code, the completed form, and the ~€50 fee. An in-person interview may be required for the Iran business eVisa.
Tracking Your Business eVisa Application
The Iran business eVisa portal lets you track your application status using your application reference number or passport number and email. Status meanings include submitted, under review, approved, and ready for collection. If additional documents are required, respond promptly via email to avoid delays.
Processing Time for UK Applicants in 2026
The Iran business eVisa processing for UK nationals takes 1-3 weeks total, including 10-14+ business days for MFA security clearance due to extended vetting for UK passport holders.
| Phase | What Happens | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Host submits to MFA | Host company submits documentation; MFA issues authorization code | 3-7 business days standard; 10-14+ business days for UK/US/Canadian nationals |
| 2. Portal submission | UK applicant enters code and completes online form at evisa.mfa.ir | 1-2 business days |
| 3. London consulate stamping | In-person visa stamp collection at 50 Kensington Court, London W8 5DD | 1-2 business days |
UK, US, and Canadian nationals face extended MFA vetting that can push the Iran business eVisa Phase 1 to 10-14+ business days. No express or urgent processing is available through the eVisa portal. Despite extended timelines, 96% of UK applications are approved.
Business eVisa vs Tourist eVisa – Which One Do You Need?
The Iran business eVisa (Entry-A) is required for formal business activities; tourist visa (Type B) risks denial at the border.
| Attribute | Entry-A Business eVisa | Type B Tourist eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Permitted activities | Meetings, contract signings, trade fairs, factory visits, conferences | Tourism only |
| Invitation letter required | Yes – from CEO of company registered in Iran | No |
| Approval risk for business use | Low – purpose matches visa type | High – border denial likely for formal business |
The Iran business eVisa covers meetings, signings, trade fairs, factory visits, and conferences. Employment, paid consulting, and long-term assignments require a work permit (Type F).
Multi-Entry Business Visa – How to Qualify
A multiple-entry Iran business eVisa requires prior single-entry travel history, a documented recurring business relationship with the host company, and a standing request from the Iranian host to the MFA. The MFA exercises discretion in granting multi-entry status; it is not automatic.
- Prior single-entry Iran business eVisa completed successfully
- Documented recurring business relationship with host company
- Host company’s standing request to MFA for multi-entry
- MFA discretion applies – multi-entry is not guaranteed
| Feature | Single-Entry | Multi-Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Prior visa required | No | Yes |
| Host request | Standard | Standing request for multi-travel |
| MFA discretion | Standard approval | Additional scrutiny |
| Best for | One-off meetings | Trade fairs, audits, recurring visits |
Multi-entry is recommended for trade fair series, recurring supplier audits, and ongoing consulting engagements. Applying for multi-entry without prior single-entry history will likely result in downgrade to single-entry. The host must request a multi-travel visa in their company application letter. Understanding iran evisa requirements for business includes knowing when to request multi-entry status.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a business visa or can I use a tourist visa for my Iran trip?
Entry-A business eVisa is required for contract signings, trade fairs, and institutional visits. Tourist visa (Type B) risks border denial for formal business. Employment and paid consulting require a work permit (Type F).
How long does the Iran business eVisa take to process for UK passport holders?
Processing takes 1-3 weeks total, including 10-14+ business days for UK nationals’ MFA clearance, 1-2 business days for portal submission, and 1-2 business days for consulate stamping in London.
Can I get a business visa on arrival in Iran?
Visa on Arrival is available at Iranian international airports for some nationalities if applied for at least 2 days prior to travel. Pre-approval via evisa.mfa.ir is strongly recommended for business travel.
Do I need a visa if I hold a UK passport?
UK passport holders require a visa for all purposes. UK applicants represent 19.7% of total applications and have a 96% approval rate; they must complete the online form and collect the stamp at 50 Kensington Court, London.
What should be included in the invitation letter for an Iran business eVisa?
The letter must be issued by the CEO of a registered Iranian company on official letterhead with seal and signature, addressed to the MFA, stating purpose, duration, and host responsibility.
Do I need travel insurance for Iran, and will my UK policy cover me?
Travel medical insurance is mandatory. Standard UK and EU policies often exclude Iran due to sanctions. Business travellers must obtain specific Iran-covering travel insurance to meet border requirements.
What if I have an Israeli travel stamp in my passport?
Israeli passport holders are banned from entering Iran. Iranian immigration evaluates prior Israel travel evidence, and passport replacement may be required. Iran no longer stamps passports on entry.
How long is the Iran business eVisa valid for?
The MFA authorization code (Visa Grant Notice) is valid for 1 month. You must travel to Iran during the validity period stated on the visa sticker.
What counts as business activities in Iran – do I need a work permit?
The Entry-A business eVisa covers meetings, contract signings, trade fairs, factory visits, and conferences. Employment, paid consulting, or long-term assignments require a work permit (Type F).
Can I extend my business visa while inside Iran?
Yes, via the Police Department of Foreign Aliens Affairs in Tehran, Shiraz, or Isfahan. Apply before your current visa expires; the extension fee is payable in local Rials.
Disclaimer: This is an independent informational resource. It is not affiliated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran or any government entity. Always verify details on the evisa.mfa.ir portal. For the latest security and entry requirements, check the UK Foreign Office travel advice for Iran: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/iran.
