Do tourists receive a passport stamp when entering or exiting Iran? No, receiving a physical passport stamp is not necessary when visiting Iran. The country has implemented an electronic system for recording entries and exits, making the process quicker and more secure for travelers. However, tourists have the option to request a physical stamp as a souvenir if they desire.
What Is a Passport Stamp for?
Passport stamps are there to keep the travel history of a person. Many countries have this policy to stamp the visitors’ passports upon their arrival or exit from the borders. These stamps are the physical evidence that shows the time and location of someone’s travel background. Along with the date and port of entry, some passport stamps contain information about the length of a traveler’s stay.
Moreover, different countries have different policies when it comes to passport stamps. Some countries, like Iran, have stopped stamping tourists because of technological advances or political reasons. Some others only stamp visitors’ passports that have a certain nationality.
Requesting a Physical Stamp
Passport stamps in Iran are optional. Even though Iran follows a no-stamp policy, you can have a physical stamp on your passport as a memento of your visit to Iran if you wish. Ask the immigration officer upon arrival or departure to do so. This request is entirely doable.
Why Choose Electronic Processing Instead of Passport Stamp?
- Efficiency: Reduces wait times at immigration. This method automatically logs your entry and exit data.
- Reduced risk of error: Electronic records are more accurate. It also reduces the risk of human error, especially when dealing with a lot of data or unclear stamps.
- Security: Ensures better management of entry and exit data. The country’s database interacts with global records, making it easier to track a visitor’s criminal records or visa status.
- Convenience: Simplifies the travel process, as there’s no need to worry about physical stamps unless specifically requested.
Which Country Does Not Stamp Your Passport?
Nowadays, many countries don’t stamp passports anymore. And each year, more countries are replacing this traditional method with newer ones. For instance, the EU will replace passport stamping in the Schengen Area in 2024. Instead, they will be using the EES (Entry/Exit System) that uses biometric systems, such as face recognition. Other popular tourist destinations that don’t stamp their visitors’ passports include:
- Australia
- Hong Kong
- Macau
- Israel
- United Arab Emirates
- Singapore
- Jamaica
- South Korea
Last Word
Does Iran stamp your passport? As we saw in this article, no. Iran does not stamp its visitor’s passports and uses electronic processing instead.
While the default entry and exit recording method in Iran is now electronic, the option for a physical stamp remains available upon request. This system offers both convenience for those who prefer a hassle-free entry and an option for collectors of passport stamps.
FAQ
Does Iran stamp passports of foreign visitors?
No, since 2019, Iran has stopped stamping foreign passports to avoid issues with third-country travel.
Is a visa sticker still placed in the passport?
No physical visa or stamp is placed in passports; all details are recorded electronically.
Does a visit to Iran affect my future visit to other countries?
Can I enter Iran with an Israeli stamp in my passport?
Entry may be denied if your passport has an Israeli visa or stamp, regardless of when it was issued.
Is this policy valid for all nationalities?
Yes, Iran’s no-stamp policy applies to most nationalities entering on a tourist visa.
Does an Iranian passport have a chip?
Yes, Iranian passports are biometric and contain a chip with personal data and travel history.
Can Israelis visit Iran?
No, Israeli citizens are not permitted to visit Iran, as the two countries do not have diplomatic relations.
