Which countries offer visa-free access to Iranian passport holders?

Iranian citizens can enter 14 countries visa-free: Armenia, Cook Islands, Dominica, Georgia, Malaysia, Micronesia, Oman, Turkey (Türkiye), Venezuela, Kazakhstan, Suriname, Iraq, Tunisia, and Tajikistan. Stay duration varies by country, typically ranging from 15 to 90 days. Always verify current entry requirements with the destination's embassy before travel as policies can change.

Can Iranians get a visa on arrival in Dubai or the UAE?

Iranians cannot get a visa on arrival in the UAE. However, Iranian passport holders can apply for an e-visa to visit the United Arab Emirates (including Dubai and Abu Dhabi) online before travel. The application must be processed and approved in advance through official UAE immigration portals or approved travel agencies. Processing times vary, so apply well ahead of your intended travel date.

Is military service mandatory for Iranian passport applicants?

Yes, military service is mandatory for Iranian men aged 18 and above. Male citizens must complete their military service or obtain an exemption before they can receive certain government services, including passport issuance or renewal for international travel. Those living abroad may need to pay an exemption fee or provide proof of completed service. Women are not subject to mandatory military service in Iran.

Why is the Iranian passport ranked so low globally?

The Iranian passport ranks 98th out of approximately 199 countries in 2025 due to limited visa-free access (only 41 destinations). This is primarily caused by international sanctions, political tensions, and security concerns that lead many countries to impose strict visa requirements on Iranian travelers. The ranking has fluctuated between 82nd (2006) and 107th (2021) over the past two decades, reflecting changing geopolitical circumstances.

Can Iranian passport holders transit through European airports?

Iranian passport holders typically require an airport transit visa (ATV) to pass through international zones of airports in most Schengen countries, even without entering the country. This applies to France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, and others. The UK also requires a transit visa for Iranians. Each country has specific rules, so check with the airline and destination embassy. Some airports may allow airside transit for certain connecting flights, but pre-approval is usually necessary.

Which countries are completely banned for Iranian passport holders?

While no countries explicitly ban Iranian passport holders from entry, the United States and Israel maintain extremely restrictive policies that effectively prevent most Iranian citizens from visiting. The U.S. requires Iranians to undergo extensive vetting processes with very low approval rates. Israel does not accept Iranian passports. Additionally, having an Iranian passport or Iranian stamps may cause entry difficulties in some countries with strong U.S. or Israeli ties.

How can Iranians apply for a Schengen visa in 2025?

Iranians must apply for Schengen visas through the embassy or consulate of their main destination country. Requirements include: valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), completed application form, recent photos, travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage), flight reservations, hotel bookings, bank statements, employment letter, and visa fee (€80 for adults). Processing takes 15-30 days but can extend to 60 days. Approval rates for Iranians are lower than global averages, so provide comprehensive documentation.

Can Iranian dual nationals travel on their second passport?

Iranian law requires all Iranian citizens, including dual nationals, to enter and exit Iran using their Iranian passport. However, dual nationals can use their second passport (e.g., Canadian, British, or German) when traveling to third countries. Be aware that some countries (particularly the U.S., UK, and Canada) may restrict consular assistance to dual Iranian-nationals while in Iran. Always check both countries' regulations regarding dual citizenship and travel.

What documents are required to renew an Iranian passport abroad?

To renew an Iranian passport at an embassy or consulate abroad, you typically need: current/expired Iranian passport, national ID card (shenasnameh), birth certificate, recent passport photos (specific size requirements), completed application form, proof of residency abroad, military service completion card or exemption (for men), and applicable fees. Processing times vary by location (2-6 months). Some consulates require in-person appointments. Male applicants over 18 must have resolved military service obligations.

Iran Passport Ranking – Visa Free Access to 41 Countries

The Iran passport currently ranks 98th globally in 2025, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 41 destinations worldwide. Iranian passport holders face significant travel restrictions compared to many other nations, with limited mobility for international travel. The passport's ranking has fluctuated over the past two decades, ranging from 82nd place in 2006 to as low as 107th in 2021, reflecting ongoing geopolitical challenges that impact Iranian citizens' travel freedom and access to global destinations.

Global Rank

#98

out of 199 countries

Visa Free Access

countries worldwide

Mobility Score

out of 100 points

Quick Statistics for Iran passport

Visa-Free

On Arrival

ETA Required

E-Visa

144

Visa Required

Source: Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

Top Visa-Free Destinations for Iranian Citizens

Popular destinations where Iran passport holders can travel without a visa:

Country	Maximum Stay	Code
Turkey	Up to 90 days	TR
Armenia	Up to 180 days	AM
Georgia	Up to 45 days	GE
Oman	Up to 30 days	OM
Malaysia	Up to 15 days	MY

Visa Requirements by Country

Complete breakdown of visa requirements for Iran passport holders

✅ Visa-Free

14 countries

🛬 Visa on Arrival

24 countries

🔐 ETA Required

3 countries

Sri Lanka
Kenya
Seychelles

💻 E-Visa

41 countries

❌ Visa Required

144 countries

Historical Ranking Trend

Iran's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Trend: Declined by 16 positions from 2006 to 2025

Official Iran Passport & Travel Resources

Access official government resources for passport services, travel advisories, and visa information:

🔗

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran

🔗

Electronic Visa System (e-Visa)

🔗

U.S. Department of State - Iran Travel Advisory

🔗

UK Foreign Office - Iran Travel Advice

🔗

Global Affairs Canada - Iran Travel Advice

🔗

Australian DFAT - Iran Travel Advice

Compare Iran Passport with Other Passports

See how Iran's passport compares with other MIDDLE EAST in the same ranking tier:

Country	Rank	Visa-Free Destinations	Mobility Score	Global Score
Iran (You are here)	#98	41	12/100	8/100
Jordan	#90	52	45/100	42/100
Lebanon	#96	44	28/100	28/100
Palestinian Territory	#99	39	8/100	60/100
Yemen	#103	31	8/100	8/100
Iraq	#104	29	28/100	52/100

*Mobility score calculated based on visa-free access and global travel freedom.

*Global score reflects overall passport strength considering various factors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

As of 2025, Iranian passport holders can visit 41 countries without a prior visa. This includes 14 visa-free destinations (such as Turkey, Malaysia, Georgia, Armenia, Venezuela, and Iraq), 24 visa-on-arrival countries (including Qatar, Lebanon, Maldives, and Bolivia), and 3 electronic travel authorization destinations (Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Seychelles). Iran ranks 98th globally on the Henley Passport Index for 2025.

Explore More Passport Rankings

Discover Iran's passport power and compare with other countries to find the world's most powerful travel documents.

View All Passport Rankings

Last Updated: November 9, 2025

Source: IATA Travel Centre, Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

Iran Passport Ranking – Visa Free Access to 41 Countries

Country

Maximum Stay

Code

Up to 90 days

Up to 180 days

Up to 45 days

Up to 30 days

Up to 15 days

Historical Ranking Trend

Iran's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Trend: Declined by 16 positions from 2006 to 2025

Compare Iran Passport with Other Passports

See how Iran's passport compares with other MIDDLE EAST in the same ranking tier:

Country	Rank	Visa-Free Destinations	Mobility Score	Global Score
Iran (You are here)	#98	41	12/100	8/100
Jordan	#90	52	45/100	42/100
Lebanon	#96	44	28/100	28/100
Palestinian Territory	#99	39	8/100	60/100
Yemen	#103	31	8/100	8/100
Iraq	#104	29	28/100	52/100

*Mobility score calculated based on visa-free access and global travel freedom.

*Global score reflects overall passport strength considering various factors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Quick Statistics for Iran passport

Top Visa-Free Destinations for Iranian Citizens

Visa Requirements by Country

✅ Visa-Free

🛬 Visa on Arrival

🔐 ETA Required

💻 E-Visa

❌ Visa Required

Historical Ranking Trend

Iran's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Official Iran Passport & Travel Resources

Compare Iran Passport with Other Passports

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many countries can Iranian passport holders visit without a visa in 2025?

Which countries offer visa-free access to Iranian passport holders?

Can Iranians get a visa on arrival in Dubai or the UAE?

Is military service mandatory for Iranian passport applicants?

Why is the Iranian passport ranked so low globally?

Can Iranian passport holders transit through European airports?

Which countries are completely banned for Iranian passport holders?

How can Iranians apply for a Schengen visa in 2025?

Can Iranian dual nationals travel on their second passport?

What documents are required to renew an Iranian passport abroad?

Explore More Passport Rankings

Quick Statistics for Iran passport

Top Visa-Free Destinations for Iranian Citizens

Visa Requirements by Country

✅ Visa-Free

🛬 Visa on Arrival

🔐 ETA Required

💻 E-Visa

❌ Visa Required

Historical Ranking Trend

Iran's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Official Iran Passport & Travel Resources

Compare Iran Passport with Other Passports

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many countries can Iranian passport holders visit without a visa in 2025?

Which countries offer visa-free access to Iranian passport holders?

Can Iranians get a visa on arrival in Dubai or the UAE?

Is military service mandatory for Iranian passport applicants?

Why is the Iranian passport ranked so low globally?

Can Iranian passport holders transit through European airports?

Which countries are completely banned for Iranian passport holders?

How can Iranians apply for a Schengen visa in 2025?

Can Iranian dual nationals travel on their second passport?

What documents are required to renew an Iranian passport abroad?

Explore More Passport Rankings