Residence in Iran: permits and requirements
Living legally in Iran is possible through 6 permit types: work, investment, study, family, retiree. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Work Residence Permit (Kart-e-eshghal / Work Residence)
Residence type #1 of 6
Residence permit for foreigners employed in Iran
Requirements
- Work contract with a company registered in Iran
- Approval of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs
- Employment permit issued by the Organization of Investment (OIETAI)
- Not displacing qualified Iranian workers
Documentation
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months)
- Work contract registered with the Ministry of Labor
- OIETAI employment permit
- Registration of the employing company
- Professional qualification certificate
- Iran medical certificate
- 4x6 photos (6 units)
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The official portal was not reachable during our latest review. The information was cross-checked against the sources listed below. Please confirm the requirements on the official portal before starting your application.
Frequently asked questions about residence in Iran
How many types of residence permits are there in Iran?
Iran offers 6 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, investment, study, family, retiree. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Iran last?
Durations vary by permit type: 1 year, renewable annually; 3 years initially, renewable up to 5 years; Course duration, renewable annually; 1 year initially, then 3 years renewable. The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Iran be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Iran (6 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Iran?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Valid passport; Certificado médico. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Iran lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 5 years’ residence in Iran (continuous or intermittent) (Civil Code, art. 979(2)). The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Iran.
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Anything to correct or add about Iran?
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