If you wish to get an Iran visa extension while you are in Iran, you will be glad to know that there is an easy way to do that.
Iran visa extension can be done twice, each for the same number of days as your first visa. You can also extend your visa If you are visiting Iran visa-free.
How to extend your visa?
To apply for an extension, you should go to Police Department of Aliens Affairs. The process is usually done within one day. These offices are mostly crowded and almost no one speaks English. It’s better to be accompanied by an Iranian to help you through the process.
Iran visa extension should be done, between 4 to 1 day before it expires.
Extending Iran visa – a step by step guide
You need to go to an Immigration and Passport Office to extend your visa. it’s a simple process and described below:
- First is the security check. You have to leave your phone or any other electronic device at entrance in a safe box. You are not allowed to carry a bag either.
- Go to visa extension counter where you should fill two forms.
- Head to Tourism Affairs counter where you will be asked a few questions regarding your request. The questions are about where you want to travel (name cities and hotels) and the expected duration of your extension.
- Afterwards you need to go to the payment counter to pay the extension fee. You need to use an Iranian debit card. If you don’t have one, you will be directed to the nearest Melli Bank.
- Once all the documents have been prepared, return them to the Passport Collection Counter.
- Wait for the process to be finished to get your passport with an extension stamp.
List of requirement document for a visa extension
besides your passport, you need to have the following documents:
- 2 copies of your current Iran visa
- 2 passport sized photos (women should wear headscarf)
- 2 copies of your passport (photo page)
- 2 copies of the completed visa extension form
- 2 copies of your payment receipt
although there are copy machines in there, but it’s better to have them beforehand. Sometimes, it’s also possible to have your identity photo taken there.
Time and Fees
It usually takes a few hours and you can collect you visa the same morning. It is recommended to be at the Immigration and Passport Office early in the morning (8 AM).
The extension fee is about 5.000.000 Rials, which is about 10 euros.
Where to apply for a visa extension?
You can get your visa extension through a Police Department of Alien Affairs. These departments can be found in most Iranian cities. You can search for the nearest one on google maps.
Each immigration office differs from the others. Unlike Isfahan, Immigration offices of Shiraz and Yazd are known to be easier and quicker to get your extension.
Immigration offices are open from Saturday to Wednesday between 7:30 AM to 2 PM. The sooner you get there, the easier and quicker you can get your extension.
Conclusion
It’s a fairly easy process to extend your visa. It takes only a few hours and must be done at the Immigration and Passport Police. All you have to do is follow the steps mentioned on this page and be well prepared to get the best results you want