First step: the reference number

First of all, you have to get a reference number from the Iranian Foreign Ministry. In the past, this was only possible through an authorized agency and cost a lot of money. For a few years now, it has also been possible to initiate this process online. After the teething problems of the program have been overcome, it now works reliably, error-free and quickly. And the nice thing is, it doesn't cost anything.
You can apply here (evisa.mfa.ir/en/).

You will need to upload a biometric passport photo and a scan of the passport data page (the page with the photo). The criteria that the files must meet can be found on the web page.

Please take the following information into account when filling out the form:

• If you are asked about the validity of the visa, state 30 days.
• The address in Iran is the following hotel in Isfahan:
  Parsian Suite Hotel
  Ayineh khaneh Blvd
  Isfahan
  Tel.: 031 3667 4311
• You have to have the reference number sent to the consulate that is responsible for you (see info box)

After a few days up to a maximum of two weeks you will either receive an email with the reference number or a message that the application has been rejected. The latter is not a cause for concern. The note, unfortunately only in Farsi, says that you should contact an authorized agency. There is no justification. You can then contact this agency, for example: https://www.irun2iran.com/iran-visa-application-form/

If you don't want to fight your way through the website of the Iranian Foreign Ministry, you can of course hire this agency right away.

Second step: the visa

When you have received the e-mail with the reference number, you have to print it out and take it with you to the consulate that you specified on the application together with your passport and € 50.00 or € 75.00. Here you will then get the actual visa. The visa will no longer be stuck in the passport, instead you will receive a printout on a DIN A4 sheet of paper. You must always have this document with you along with your passport during your stay in Iran.

There are two types of visa, the normal visa and the express visa. You can usually pick up the normal visa after a week or have it sent to you by registered mail with your passport. It costs € 50.00.

You can take the express visa with you immediately. It costs € 75.00. Our recommendation is the express visa. What you have, you have.