Type R — Relatives Visa

The Type R Relatives Visa is a specialized entry permit regulated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. While not derived from a single international treaty, it is established under the administrative framework of Iranian immigration law to manage family reunification and social visits. This visa fills a critical gap for foreign nationals who possess close personal ties to Iran but do not fall into the categories of general tourists or business travelers. By requiring a formal invitation and verification of familial bonds, it provides a structured legal pathway for private, non-commercial visits, ensuring that the state can monitor and authorize the entry of individuals with specific personal connections to the country.

This visa is designed for foreign nationals who intend to visit close relatives residing in Iran, or foreign nationals who themselves hold a valid Iranian residence permit and wish to facilitate visits from their own family members. The ideal applicant is a person with documented family ties—such as spouses, parents, or children—to an Iranian citizen or a legal foreign resident. What makes this visa distinctive is its reliance on a 'Hosting Form' completed by the Iranian host, which serves as a formal guarantee of sponsorship. Unlike a standard tourist visa, the Type R visa is specifically tailored to the nuances of family visitation, often requiring additional documentation like birth or marriage certificates to substantiate the relationship and ensure compliance with local immigration protocols.