Why embassy legalisation is required for Iran
If you have Italian papers meant for official use in Iran, you cannot rely on an apostille from Italy to Iran. This is because Iran is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, so the simplified apostille process does not apply. Instead, your documents must go through full embassy or consular legalisation at the Iranian embassy in Rome. The same rule applies to papers from other Italian cities that need document legalisation for Iran, though the precise office route may vary.
Iran's position on document acceptance
Since Iran stands outside the Hague Apostille Convention, officials there will not accept an apostille for Iran as valid proof. Your Italian papers must instead complete the longer embassy legalisation chain. This involves multiple steps: first local certification in Italy, then validation by the Iranian diplomatic mission. The rules are strict and missing any step means your file gets sent back. This process confirms to Iranian authorities that every signature and stamp on your papers is genuine.
The Rome to Tehran document route
Start by getting your original Italian documents certified at the Prefettura in Rome, which acts as the first checkpoint. They will check the papers and attach their own stamp. Next, the file moves to the Iranian embassy for final approval. The embassy staff examine everything again before placing their own seal. This Rome apostille Iran process is complete only when both offices have added their marks. The embassy keeps a record of each document they legalise.
What to expect with fees and processing
The Italian government charges an official fee for the Prefettura's certification, which currently stands at €16 per document. However, the Iranian embassy sets its own separate charges for their part of the work. Processing times can vary depending on how busy each office is, so plan ahead. Some papers like birth certificates may qualify for reduced fees, but you must confirm this with the embassy directly. Always ask for a receipt when you pay any fee.
Iran's specific rules for Italian papers
Iranian authorities often require additional steps beyond the basic apostille requirements for Iran. Your documents might need translation into Persian by an approved translator, followed by notarisation. The embassy can provide a list of accredited translators. Some papers also need extra certification from the Italian Foreign Ministry before the embassy will look at them. Check with the receiving office in Iran exactly what they need before you start the process.