Iran Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian citizens require a visa to visit Iran. The Government of Canada advises avoiding all travel to Iran. Following the US-Israel military offensive (Operation Epic Fury, February 2026) and ongoing conflict, travel to Iran is extremely dangerous.
Canada passport holders require a visa to enter Iran.
Canadians cannot obtain a visa on arrival in Iran. You must apply for a visa in advance through an Iranian embassy or interests section. Canada does not have a resident Iranian embassy; the nearest options are in Washington D.C. or Ottawa (via the Iranian interests section). Most Canadian travellers use an approved Iranian tour operator to obtain a visa reference number, then collect their visa on arrival at the airport — this process requires advance booking and confirmation from the operator.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Canada to Iran: What You Need to Know
Canada and Iran have had strained relations since Canada closed its embassy in Tehran in 2012 and declared Iran a state sponsor of terrorism. There is no Canadian Embassy in Tehran, and Canadian citizens needing consular assistance must contact the nearest Canadian mission. Following Operation Epic Fury (February 28, 2026), in which the US and Israel launched a major military offensive against Iran, the security situation has deteriorated sharply. Canada has aligned with its Western allies in condemning Iranian retaliatory actions.
Practical Tips
Do not travel to Iran. Global Affairs Canada advises avoiding all travel to Iran due to the risk of arbitrary detention and the current military conflict. Canadians who are currently in Iran should leave immediately if safe to do so. Canada has no embassy in Tehran — contact the nearest Canadian mission outside Iran for consular assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Canadians travel to Iran?
The Government of Canada advises against all travel to Iran due to the risk of arbitrary detention, espionage charges, and consular access issues particularly for dual Canadian-Iranian nationals. While a visa on arrival is technically available, the security risks are serious.
Are dual Canadian-Iranian nationals at special risk in Iran?
Yes. Dual Canadian-Iranian nationals are at significantly elevated risk. Iran does not recognize dual nationality and may detain individuals on national security or espionage charges. The Canadian government has documented numerous cases of dual nationals being denied consular access while detained in Iran.
Can I use my credit card in Iran?
No. International credit cards and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) do not work in Iran due to international sanctions on the Iranian banking system. You must bring all funds in cash (US dollars or euros) to exchange into Iranian rials on arrival.
Which embassy handles Canadian consular services in Iran?
Canada does not have a resident embassy in Iran. The Italian Embassy in Tehran has been designated to handle Canadian consular affairs, but the capacity to assist Canadians in distress is severely limited given the political relationship between Canada and Iran.