No solo journey: Iran now requires vacationers to ebook by way of excursions, report says

“This change effectively bans independent travel, requiring tourists to submit additional documentation, including a detailed resume, tour operator contract, and confirmed hotel bookings,” the web journal mentioned.

Under the brand new guidelines cited by the outlet, vacationers are additionally required to journey with licensed guides for his or her total keep. Payments are solely made as soon as the visa is authorised, and functions take two to a few weeks to course of.

Iran’s international and tourism ministries haven’t confirmed the report or introduced any adjustments to the nation’s visa rules.

Though framed as a method to make sure structured and safe tourism, these newly reported rules are being launched simply a few months after Iran arrested 1000’s together with international guests following the 12-day battle with Israel in June.

The Islamic Republic has a longstanding file of detaining visiting lecturers, twin nationals, and different foreigners—typically accused of espionage in circumstances extensively perceived overseas as political leverage or hostage diplomacy.

In June, a European nationwide was arrested in northwestern Iran for allegedly making an attempt to spy on delicate areas. In one other case, two international nationals had been detained in Karaj, west of Tehran, for allegedly working as Mossad brokers.

The rising variety of detentions triggered concern throughout Europe and the United States. A US State Department cable cited unconfirmed experiences of Americans being detained and famous that many US nationals confronted delays and harassment whereas attempting to depart Iran.

“This measure is intended to give authorities a deeper understanding of the applicant’s background and to evaluate any potential security risks,” the report by the Travel and Tour World web site mentioned.

According to the report, Iranian authorities now require candidates to supply a signed contract with an formally registered tour operator. This contract should embrace an in depth itinerary specifying journey dates, routes, and locations, in addition to confirmed resort reservations organized instantly by the tour company.

Independent lodging—corresponding to staying with non-public people or utilizing platforms like Couchsurfing—may even be strictly prohibited, the report mentioned.

If true, the brand new visa rules would make it tougher for international vacationers to go to Iran on their very own.

The nation, traditionally identified for its wealthy cultural and historic heritage in addition to its pure magnificence, has struggled to draw international vacationers in recent times. Despite its attract, the nation confronted challenges corresponding to strict gown codes for girls and restrictions on alcohol and nightlife.