Yes, a visa is required to travel from Iran to United States.
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Do I need a visa for United States from Iran?
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Iranian nationals need a B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visitor visa to travel to the United States, because Iran is not part of the Visa Waiver Program.
An Iranian traveller cannot use ESTA and must obtain a consular visa before any trip to the US. The process runs through the DS-160 form, payment of the MRV application fee and an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate. As there is no US consular section in Iran, the interview usually takes place in a third country; check the details on travel.state.gov.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. An Iranian citizen must hold a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism, family visit, medical treatment) visitor visa before entering the United States. ESTA is not available to Iran. The visa must be obtained before departure, as none is issued on arrival.
How and where to apply
Complete the DS-160 form online, pay the MRV application fee and then schedule an interview. Because the US has no consular presence in Iran, the application is made at a US post in a third country (often Yerevan, Ankara, Dubai or Abu Dhabi). Confirm the responsible post and the exact steps on travel.state.gov.
Documents and fees
Bring a valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, a compliant photo, proof of the MRV fee payment and evidence of strong ties to Iran (job, family, property). The MRV fee is set by the Department of State: refer to travel.state.gov for the exact amount rather than an approximate figure.
Processing time and practical tips
Appointment and processing times vary widely by post, and some cases undergo additional administrative processing that can lengthen the wait. Plan for several weeks or more. Check the official source for any health requirements and for the timelines at your chosen post.
Common mistakes / good to know
The interview is mainly about showing your intention to return to Iran, so present clear and consistent ties. Do not book non-refundable flights before the visa is granted. Make sure the details on your DS-160 match your passport and other documents exactly.
Official sources
- Visitor Visa (B-1/B-2) — U.S. Department of State
- DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application — CEAC
- U.S. Visas — travel.state.gov
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to United States from Iran?▾
Yes, a consular visa is required: applications are made at the embassy or consulate before departure (allowed stay: 6 months).
How long can you stay in United States?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 6 months.
What other visa types exist for United States?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, United States offers among others: Specialty Occupation visa (H-1B), Temporary Agricultural Worker visa (H-2A), Seasonal Non-Agricultural Worker visa (H-2B), Intracompany Transferee visa (L-1), Extraordinary Ability visa (O-1), Vocational Student visa (M-1).
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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