Iran has reportedly introduced a special visa facility for Pakistani nationals planning to attend the funeral and farewell ceremonies of late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Under the arrangement, eligible Pakistani travellers may receive a free 10-day Iranian visa. However, the facility does not allow visa-free entry. Every traveller must still apply and obtain approval before travelling.
The move is intended to facilitate participation in funeral and mourning ceremonies while maintaining regular immigration procedures.
Free Visa Does Not Mean Visa-Free Entry
Although the visa fee may be waived, Pakistani nationals must complete the standard application process.
Applicants must submit their requests through Iran’s official electronic visa system. During the application process, they should select the “Entry Visa” category.
In addition, applicants should clearly mention that their intended purpose is to attend funeral or mourning ceremonies.
Authorities have advised travellers to wait for official approval before making travel arrangements.
Documents Required for the Application
Applicants have been advised to prepare several documents before applying.
They may need to upload:
- Copy of CNIC
- Recent passport-sized photograph with white background
- Valid passport information page
- Proof of educational or professional status
Accepted supporting documents may include:
- Employment card
- Business card
- Student identification card
Applicants can also use a mobile phone to capture their photograph if the image meets the required standards. Moreover, passports should remain valid for at least six months from the planned travel date.
Applicants Must Provide Accurate Travel Details
Travellers must explain the purpose of their visit in the online application form. Therefore, authorities have encouraged applicants to provide complete and accurate information.
Incorrect details may lead to delays or possible rejection. Officials have also indicated that approval remains mandatory despite the waived visa fee.
Additional Costs May Still Apply
The special arrangement reportedly covers only the visa fee. However, applicants may still need to pay for other travel-related requirements.
Some reports indicate that travellers could be asked to arrange medical or travel insurance separately. As a result, visitors should review all expected costs before finalising their plans.
Current reports also suggest that the arrangement mainly supports air travellers. Meanwhile, procedures for individuals planning to enter through the Taftan land border remain unclear.
Travellers Advised to Confirm Requirements Before Applying
Authorities have not publicly detailed every requirement through general guidance pages.
For this reason, applicants should confirm whether additional documents apply to their case. They should also verify the correct visa category before submission.
Furthermore, travellers have been advised to use only official channels and avoid third parties promising guaranteed approvals.
The temporary visa facility comes as Iran prepares to receive foreign visitors attending the funeral and mourning ceremonies of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
