Overview
The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in London is Iran's principal diplomatic representation in the United Kingdom, housed at 16 Princes Gate in the South Kensington diplomatic quarter. The mission serves the substantial Iranian-British community across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland — one of the largest Iranian diasporas in Europe, with particularly strong concentrations in west and northwest London. The embassy handles diplomatic relations between Iran and the UK, covering political dialogue, trade facilitation, and cultural exchange. Consular operations form the core of day-to-day activity, processing visa applications for British nationals planning travel to Iran, authenticating documents, and providing passport and civil-status services for Iranian nationals resident in the UK.
Visa Services
British nationals require a visa to visit Iran. Tourist visas, business visas, and pilgrimage visas are among the categories handled by the consular section. Visa-on-arrival is available at certain Iranian airports for short tourist stays, but applying through the embassy in advance is recommended for a smoother entry process. Processing times and documentary requirements vary by visa category.
Consular Services
The consular section processes passport renewals, birth and marriage registrations, document legalisation and authentication, powers of attorney, and other civil-status matters for Iranian nationals. British nationals of Iranian dual nationality should be aware that Iran does not recognise dual nationality — the embassy treats all holders of Iranian citizenship as Iranian nationals regardless of other passports held. Consular appointments are generally required in advance.
Service Area
The Embassy of Iran in London provides consular coverage for all of the United Kingdom — England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Iranian nationals across the UK and British nationals planning travel to Iran may use this mission for visa, passport and document services.