In a bold move to revitalize its tourism industry and combat negative perceptions, the Iranian government has approved a visa-waiver program for citizens of 32 countries. This initiative, effective immediately, aims to attract more tourists, dispel negative stereotypes, and reap significant economic benefits.
Opening Doors to the World
Tourism Minister Ezzatollah Zarghami hailed the decision as a “courageous and deliberate” step towards opening Iran’s doors to the world.
He emphasized that the visa-waiver program signifies the country’s willingness to engage with the global community and showcase its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and diverse attractions.
Visa-Waiver Program Details
Iran’s visa waiver program covers a diverse list of countries, including India, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Brazil, and more.
Full List of Countries Included in the Program:
- India
- United Arab Emirates
- Bahrain
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Indonesia
- Brunei
- Japan
- Singapore
- Cambodia
- Malaysia
- Vietnam
- Brazil
- Peru
- Cuba
- Mexico
- Bolivia
- Venezuela
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Serbia
- Croatia
- Belarus
- Lebanon
- Uzbekistan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Tunisia
- Mauritania
- Tanzania
- Zimbabwe
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
Also Read: USCIS Hits H-1B Visa Cap, Closing Applications for FY 2024
Additional Measures
Additionally, the Iranian government has agreed to abolish visa requirements for tourist groups from Russia. The move is expected to boost tourism significantly and attract a projected six million visitors by the end of the current year.
- Iran previously had various visa cancellation agreements with countries like Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Oman, but this marks a broader unilateral move.
- The tourism ministry initially proposed abolishing visas for 68 countries, including Finland and Cyprus, but the final list was reduced to 32.
Expected Outcomes
The visa waiver program is expected to significantly boost tourist arrivals, with projections reaching 6 million by March 2024.
The tourism ministry reports a 48.5% increase in foreign arrivals in the first eight months of the current Iranian year, with significant growth from West Asia, ECO countries, and China.
Iran boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites and diverse attractions, including bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, and bathhouses, offering a unique cultural experience for international visitors.
Final Words
Overall, this visa waiver program represents a significant step forward for Iran’s tourism industry. By opening its doors to more visitors, the country hopes to shed negative perceptions, showcase its cultural treasures, and reap substantial economic benefits.
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