Hello All,
Is it standard practice for Iran tour companies to request proof of flight tickets before they obtain a Visa Registration number for you?
I'm from the US and had just booked a tour with an Iranian company. I informed them today that I wanted to start the process of obtaining the Visa Registration number. They surprised me by requesting my flight information. I informed them that I hadn't planned on purchasing my plane tickets until I had obtained the visa. They responded that it was a requirement that their clients provide proof of plane tickets before they performed the service of obtaining the Visa Registration number. This information was not on their website, and I wasn't aware that some Iran tour companies may have this requirement.
The thought of purchasing my plane tickets before I've obtained my visa makes me uneasy, but I haven't made a decision yet.
Has anyone else had this experience? Any advice?
I appreciate any responses.
It's not usual for citizens of most countries, but you are from the US so different rules probably apply.
I did not provide proof of a plane ticket to my Iran tour agency. I did provide them with flights I intended to take, especially since I planned to fly out of Shiraz. You can book tickets through Turkish Air and it is about 50USD to cancel which is what I did since it is little money to lose and a good price for a plane ticket if things did not work out.
Thanks souladventurer and emmeff for your replies.
Earlier today, I went ahead and booked my tickets. On the 2nd leg of the journey, I fly Istanbul-Tehran with Turkish Air. I didn't book directly with Turkish Air, so I probably wouldn't be able to cancel that ticket if I needed to. Hopefully, I won't have cause to cancel...
This topic has been automatically locked due to inactivity. Email community@lonelyplanet.com if you would like to add to this topic and we'll unlock it for you.
trusted partner
