Updated November 2026 Visa services in Tehran were heavily disrupted in the first half of 2026, and some countries have changed how they accept applications, so we have rewritten this guide around checking current status before you book.
VFS Global runs visa application centres in Tehran on behalf of the UK and a number of European countries, so for many destinations you hand in your documents and give your fingerprints there rather than at the embassy. Because these centres have moved several times and services were suspended for long periods during 2026, the reliable way to find the right office is through the VFS Global page for the specific country you are applying to. This guide explains how the system works, which countries use which provider, and what to expect on the day.
What VFS Global does
VFS Global is a private company that handles the administrative side of visa applications for governments. In Tehran it books appointments, checks that your file is complete, takes your biometrics (fingerprints and photo), collects fees and returns your passport once the embassy has made its decision. It does not decide whether you get a visa; that remains with the embassy or the destination country’s immigration authority.
If your destination uses VFS Global, do not turn up at the embassy expecting to apply in person. Embassies generally only accept applications directly in exceptional or urgent cases.
Which countries use VFS Global in Tehran
The UK and many Schengen countries have used VFS Global in Tehran, but the list changes, and not every European country uses the same company. Italy and Spain, for example, use VisaMetric, which the company describes as the only provider authorised by the Italian embassy in Iran, with an office in the Vozara (Khaled Islambouli) area, according to VisaMetric.
The UK government says visa services are not offered at the British Embassy and that its Visa Application Centre in Tehran is open to all visa categories, according to GOV.UK. For other countries, go to the VFS Global Iran website, choose your destination and check whether it is listed, where the centre is and whether appointments are available.
If you are not sure whether you need a visa at all, the Dutch government’s Schengen Visa Advisor can help for trips to or through the Netherlands, and most embassies publish similar guidance.
Service disruptions in 2026
Visa processing in Tehran was badly affected by the 2026 conflict and a nationwide internet shutdown from late February, which stopped VFS Global’s online systems. Belgian services, for example, were expected to resume in full on 7 June 2026, according to Hasselt University’s visa guidance, while some embassies, such as Sweden’s, were still not accepting Schengen applications in June. Before you prepare documents or pay for anything, check:
- the VFS Global (or other provider’s) page for your destination, including any news or alerts;
- the website of the embassy concerned, which may announce suspensions or changes in where to apply;
- our latest update on embassy reopenings in Tehran.
Where an embassy is not accepting applications in Iran, the usual alternative is to apply in a third country where you hold a residence permit, such as Turkey or the UAE. Check the embassy’s rules first, as many only accept applications from legal residents of that country.
Paying fees
Because of sanctions, international payment cards cannot be used in Iran, so fees in Tehran are normally paid in cash at the centre, or in some cases online with help from someone abroad. Check the accepted payment method on the booking page, and bring the exact documents the checklist asks for, as incomplete files are a common reason for delays.
Rules at the centre
Visa centres in Tehran run on strict security rules, and staff will turn you away or ask you to leave items elsewhere if you do not follow them. The centres do not store prohibited items for you. Typical rules include:
- Applicants only. Friends and relatives usually cannot come in. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and elderly, ill or disabled applicants who need help can bring someone; tell security when you arrive.
- Minimal luggage. Large bags, suitcases and backpacks are not allowed. Carry your papers in a clear folder or plastic bag.
- Phones on silent. Photography, filming and recording are not permitted inside.
- No prohibited items, such as sharp objects, flammable items, sealed envelopes or packages, and other electronic devices.
Arrive a little before your appointment time, bring your passport, appointment confirmation and printed documents, and be prepared for security checks at the door. Parking near the centres is usually limited, so a taxi or the metro is often easier.
