Iran eVisa validity in 2026 is the 90-day entry window from the date of issue, not the permitted stay length. Both the 30-day and 90-day visas must be used before the printed expiry date.
This is an independent travel information portal. For official visa applications, always refer to evisa.mfa.ir. Last updated: 8 September 2026.
What Is Iran eVisa Validity? Entry Window vs Duration of Stay
Iran eVisa has two separate time limits: the validity period (entry window) and the duration of stay (permitted days inside Iran). The validity window dates are printed on the eVisa confirmation; the duration of stay begins at entry.
The Iran eVisa validity period is 90 days from the date of issue printed on the eVisa confirmation, not from the date of first entry. For example, an eVisa issued on 1 March 2026 expires on 29 May 2026; the traveller must enter Iran before that date. Once admitted, the duration of stay is either 30 or 90 calendar days depending on the visa type selected at application.
Consulate-issued visas carry a shorter 45-day entry window from receipt. The preceding authorization code remains valid for 60 days to collect the visa at an embassy, while the Visa Grant Notice carries a 1-month validity period.
30-Day vs 90-Day Iran eVisa: Side-by-Side Comparison
The 30-day Iran eVisa permits a 30-day stay; the 90-day variant permits 90 days. The key difference is maximum stay duration.
| Feature | 30-Day eVisa | 90-Day eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Duration of stay | 30 calendar days | 90 calendar days |
| Entry window (from issue) | 90 days | 90 days |
| Entry type | Single-entry (default) | Single-entry (default) |
| Standard fee (general) | EUR 36-€54 | EUR 36-€54 |
| UK/US/CA fee | £85 / $122 | £85 / $122 |
| Extension in-country | Yes (up to 90 days cumulative) | Yes (up to 90 days cumulative) |
| Processing time (UK) | 6+ weeks | 6+ weeks |
The Iran eVisa validity rules specify that fees are determined by duration of stay, and standard processing takes 5-10 business days for most nationalities. Check 90-day eVisa eligibility at the evisa.mfa.ir Visa Types directory, as the 90-day option is not available to all nationalities.
Single Entry vs Multiple Entry Iran eVisa
The standard Iran eVisa portal issues single-entry visas only. Multiple-entry visas require a consulate application.
The eVisa document carries a single-entry flag by default. When applying through the evisa.mfa.ir portal, travellers receive a single-entry visa. Once you exit Iran, the visa cannot be reused, regardless of how many days remain within the validity window.
Multiple-entry visas are obtainable only through the consulate process with documented justification, such as a multi-country itinerary (e.g., Georgia → Iran → Armenia → Iran). Each entry must occur within the overall 90-day Iran eVisa validity period from the date of issue; the entry window does not reset between visits. Multiple-entry visas cost over €54 via the consulate process.
Iran eVisa Expiration Rules & Overstay Penalties
The Iran eVisa validity rules require holders to clear Iranian immigration before 23:59 on the final permitted day of stay. There is no formal grace period in Iranian immigration law. Expiration is governed by the validity window, not the duration of stay. Entering on the last day of validity is permitted and grants the full stay duration from that arrival date.
Day counting begins immediately: the arrival day counts as Day 1, not Day 0. A flight departing at 01:00 on Day 31 constitutes an overstay, even if the traveller was inside the airport terminal before midnight.
Overstaying an Iran eVisa incurs daily fines of approximately $30-$50 per day (per Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa regulations), payable at the airport on departure. Overstays exceeding 7 days risk detention or police questioning. Overstays beyond 30 days require a court clearance process before departure. The Iran eVisa validity rules also flag the passport in the immigration system, affecting future visa applications.
Extending Your Iran eVisa Inside the Country
The Iran eVisa validity rules permit holders to apply for in-country extensions at the Police Department of Foreign Aliens Affairs, typically granting up to a 90-day cumulative stay through two successive extensions. Extensions are discretionary and administered by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs via local police departments. A refused Iran eVisa extension does not grant additional stay beyond the original expiry date.
Apply 3-5 business days before expiry
Applications submitted on the expiry day are refused.
Attend the Police Department
Visit the office in Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, or Mashhad.
Submit required documents
Provide passport, eVisa printout, photo, hotel booking, form, and fee.
Wait for the decision
Allow 3-5 business days for processing.
Iran eVisa Validity Rules for UK Passport Holders
The Iran eVisa validity rules require UK passport holders to apply 10-12 weeks before travel, because processing for British citizens takes more than 6 weeks. UK travellers cannot use Visa on Arrival and must obtain a pre-arranged eVisa or consulate visa.
British passport holders pay higher fees: £85 (normal) or £128 (urgent) via third-party agency. Unlike most nationalities, UK citizens receive a physical passport stamp on arrival. Any evidence of travel to Israel, including Israeli stamps or Jordanian land-border visas from the Allenby/King Hussein crossing, triggers automatic rejection.
UK applicants must provide both a UK and an Iran residential address with telephone numbers. An in-person consulate visit is required to collect the visa. Your Iran eVisa application reference number (a combination of letters and numbers) is sent by email after submission.
50 Kensington Court, London – W8 5DDPhone: +44 (20) 7225 3000 (Mon-Wed, 09:00-12:00)
Email: [email protected] (email only at present)
FAQ: Iran eVisa Validity & Duration
How long is an Iran eVisa valid for?
The validity period of a standard Iran eVisa is 90 days from the date of issue. Once admitted, your permitted stay is either 30 or 90 days. These are separate concepts.
Can I enter Iran on the last day of my eVisa validity?
Yes. Entering on the final day of your validity window is permitted and grants the full duration of stay, either 30 or 90 days, from your arrival date. Ensure your passport is scanned at the immigration desk before 23:59 on that day.
What is the difference between visa validity and duration of stay?
The validity period is the window, typically 90 days from issuance, during which you may enter Iran. The duration of stay, either 30 or 90 days, is how long you may remain inside the country after arrival. Validity covers your entry window, while duration covers your visit.
What happens if I overstay my Iran eVisa?
Overstaying triggers daily fines of approximately $30 to $50 per day, payable at the airport before departure. For overstays exceeding 7 days, you may face detention or police questioning. Overstays exceeding 30 days require a mandatory court clearance process.
Does a 90-day eVisa mean I can stay for 90 days?
Yes, but only if you have been issued the 90-day visa type. The “90-day” refers to the maximum permitted duration of stay, not the validity window. Both the 30-day and 90-day visa types carry a 90-day entry window from the date of issue.
FAQ: Iran eVisa Entry Types, Extensions & Documents
Is the Iran eVisa single-entry or multiple-entry?
The eVisa issued through the online portal is almost always single-entry. Multiple-entry visas can be obtained through the Iranian consulate with a justified itinerary, such as visiting neighbouring countries and re-entering Iran.
Can I extend my Iran eVisa while in the country?
Yes. Apply at the Police Department of Foreign Aliens Affairs in major cities like Tehran or Isfahan at least 3 to 5 days before expiry. Extensions are discretionary and typically grant up to a cumulative 90-day stay. Bring your passport, eVisa printout, a photo, and hotel confirmation.
Can I transfer my eVisa to a new passport?
No. The Iran eVisa is electronically linked to your passport number. If your passport is renewed or replaced, you must submit a new eVisa application. Carry both your old and new passports when travelling as a precaution.
How long before travel should I apply for an Iran eVisa?
UK citizens should apply at least 10 to 12 weeks before departure due to extended processing times of 6 weeks or more. Other nationalities should plan 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
