Moscow Expects Iran's Visa-Free Regime Ratification for Russian Tourist Groups

Moscow expects Iran to ratify the agreement on visa-free regime for tourist groups from Russia as the Russian side has implemented all relevant procedures, a spokesperson for the Russian Embassy in Iran told Sputnik Sunday.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — In late March, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani visited Russia and held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Following the meeting, the governments of Russia and Iran concluded an agreement on visa-free trips for tourist group.

"The agreement on visa-free travel for tourist groups from five to 50 people was signed during the visit of President Rouhani, but the Iranian side has not yet ratified it. That is why, it is still out of effect… We are waiting for the final response from Tehran," the spokesperson said, adding that the Russian side has finished all necessary procedures.

In late June, the Iranian government adopted a decree on visa abolition for tourist groups from Russia.

"However, there was neither the parliamentary approval nor the official announcement from the Iranian Foreign Ministry," the spokesperson explained.

Russia and Iran have already simplified visa rules in place for their nationals – businesspeople, scientists, educators and several other categories of travelers – which have been in force since February 2016.