Iran Has Capacity to Lure Foreign Tourists: Qashqavi

Qashqavi, who is in Copenhagen, made the remarks in a meeting attended by several Iranian citizens residing in Denmark.

He reiterated that Iranians residing abroad could play a pivotal role in attracting more foreign tourists to Iran.

Qashqavi travelled to Denmark on May 1, 2016, at the invitation of his Danish counterpart for a three-day visit. Since his arrival in the country, Qashqavi has held talks with several high-ranking Danish officials.

Last week, Qashqavi said negotiations with 30 countries to ease visa formalities are underway and some 4.5 million foreigners obtained Iranian visas last year.

During this period, the number of Iranians who obtained European visas increased by 30%, and by 50% for non-European countries, which indicates the credibility of Iranian passports ease of visa issuing, he said. Countries such as Turkey, Syria and Bolivia are among countries which do not require visa for both sides’ nationals.

Iran has unilaterally cancelled visa obligations for Azerbaijanis and Egyptians, and Lebanese nationals can obtain a 30-day airport visa at no cost, he said. Malaysian nationals can collect a 15-day airport visa at no cost as well.

All countries except the US, Britain, Canada, Jordan, Somalia, Colombia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India can obtain a 30-day airport visa upon arrival, he said (with Iraqis being exceptionally able to obtain airport visas at Mashhad airport).

Medical treatment visas will be issued at half the price of tourist visas for the patients and their companions, he said.