Can I visit Iran and Azerbaijan then back to Iran before flying back to the U.S.?
by Ken
(Kerrville, TX USA)
Question: Can I visit Iran for two weeks and then fly 50-minutes to Azerbaijan for a week and then back to Iran for a day before flying back to the U.S.?
Answer: As far as we know, you should have no problems if you have the appropriate documentation. Note, the Department of State has issued a
travel warning for Iran.
In order to
enter Iran, a passport, valid for six months beyond duration of stay, and visa are required. Since you plan to pass through Iran after visiting Azerbaijan, the best option may be to apply for a double-entry visa rather than a single-entry tourist visa and a transit visa.
Visas to Iran are obtained through the
Iran Interest Section of the Embassy of Pakistan. According to the Embassy, a business associate, friend or relative must submit the request for you to the Foreign Ministry in Tehran unless you go through a travel agency.
You also need a passport with at least
six months validity and a
visa to Azerbaijan. You can get a single-entry visa by mail or in person from the Azerbaijani Embassy in Washington, DC.
You are required to submit an invitation from a person or company in Azerbaijan in order to obtain the visa. You can also request the assistance of a qualified expedited visa courier service in order to
obtain a visa for Azerbaijan quickly.
You should get your visas before you travel.
UPDATE:
High demand and mailing delays are impacting how long it takes to get a passport.
- Standard service is currently taking between 10 and 13 weeks.
- Expedited service is currently taking between 7 to 9 weeks.
NOTE: Processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.
Need to get a passport faster?
Requesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens.
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you.
How to pick a legitimate courier service company to assist in getting your passport quickly.
Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation.
Learn to expedite passport renewals as quickly as the same day. Where and how to renew passport in a hurry.