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Iran work visa application support by Lex Visas

Iran Work Visa Guide by Lex Visas

TYPES OF WORK VISAS / WORK PERMITS IN IRAN

Foreign nationals cannot legally work in Iran without both a visa with work rights and a work permit issued by Iranian authorities. Under Iranian law, employment of foreign citizens is strictly regulated to prioritise employment of Iranian workers.

1.Work Visa (Entry Visa with Work Rights)

Issued by Iranian consulates based on an employer’s request to allow the foreign national to enter Iran for employment purposes.

2. Work Permit

A separate authorization granted by the Department General for Employment of Foreign Nationals within the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labor and Social Welfare after entry into Iran.

3. Temporary Work Authorizations

In some cases, special short-term work permissions may be allowed, often tied to specific sectors or project needs.

ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS

  • Have a confirmed job offer from an Iranian employer.
  • Ensure the employer can justify hiring a foreign national (no Iranian candidate of similar qualification available).
  • Provide relevant academic and professional qualifications.
  • Present passport and identification documents.
  • Employer submits application to the Department General for Employment of Foreign Nationals.
  • Complete medical and security clearances as required.

Employers are required by law to seek formal permission before employing foreign workers.

STEP-BY-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Employer files a request for a work visa with right to work at the relevant Department General for Employment of Foreign Nationals.
  • Upon approval, the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a work visa via the Iranian consulate abroad.
  • Worker enters Iran on the approved work visa.
  • Within a set period after arrival, the employer applies for the work permit through the provincial Department General for Employment.
  • Work permit approval is processed and issued, allowing lawful employment.

PROCESSING TIME AND VALIDITY

  • Work Visa Processing Time: Typically several weeks via Iranian consulate, depending on documentation and nationality.
  • Work Permit Validity: Generally issued for one year and renewable on employer request.
  • Foreign nationals may be granted temporary stays tied directly to the validity of their work permit.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

You must secure a job offer from an Iranian employer, who files the work visa and work permit applications with Iranian authorities. Work permits are issued only if no suitable Iranian nationals are available for the role.
Yes, but only if they hold a valid work visa and work permit. Employment without these authorizations is illegal.
Foreign nationals typically need an employment offer from an Iranian employer who will sponsor their visa and permit. Jobs are more common in sectors where specialised expertise is required.
An Iran entry visa with work rights allows entry into the country for employment purposes and must be obtained before travel. It is issued by Iranian consulates abroad, based on approval from the Department General for Employment of Foreign Nationals.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Lex Visas Pvt. Ltd. is not a law firm. Content is based on industry experience and practical case handling. Any actions taken based on this information are at the reader’s sole discretion and responsibility.