Practical guide
Do I Need a Guide? Iran Rules by Nationality
Last verified: 2026-06-29
Whether you must travel with a licensed guide in Iran depends entirely on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom and Canada must be accompanied by a government-licensed guide at all times outside their hotel, on a fixed MFA-approved itinerary. Most other nationalities - including the EU - need no guide and can travel independently, but still apply for the visa through an agency.
Key things to know
- US / UK / Canada: licensed guide required at all times outside the hotel, on an approved itinerary
- EU and most nationalities: no guide needed - independent travel allowed
- Chinese and visa-exempt nationals: easiest entry, no guide
- Guides who let restricted-nationality clients roam alone are breaking the law
- A good guide is a companion, not a guard - and opens doors you couldn't alone
- Typical licensed-guide cost is roughly USD 150-250/day - share it by joining a group
- We arrange nationality-approved licensed guides and the required itinerary
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