1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Entry conditions are unpredictable

Iran’s entry, exit, visa, airport and border conditions can change rapidly due to regional tensions, armed conflict, domestic unrest, flight disruptions, government restrictions and diplomatic developments. A visa, travel booking or invitation does not guarantee entry, internal freedom of movement, safety or the ability to leave.

Visa requirements

Most foreign nationals require a visa before entering Iran. Visa rules differ by nationality, travel purpose, passport type and travel history. Some visitors may be eligible for electronic visa procedures or visa on arrival at specific airports, but the availability of these arrangements can change without notice.

• Travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date.
• Check the visa requirements for your exact nationality through the Iranian embassy or consulate responsible for you.
• Some passport holders may need a pre-arranged visa, sponsor, tour booking or authorised guide.
• Entry can be refused based on travel history, dual nationality, profession, media work or other factors.
• Do not rely on visa agents, social-media claims or unverified travel websites.
• Do not purchase non-refundable flights on the assumption that a visa guarantees entry or exit.

Dual nationals and persons with Iranian heritage

Dual nationals and people considered by Iranian authorities to be Iranian citizens face particularly serious risks. Iran does not recognise dual nationality in many cases and may treat a person as solely Iranian, limiting access to foreign consular support. This can affect citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, European countries and others with Iranian heritage.

• Iran may consider you Iranian even if you travel on another passport.
• Foreign embassies may not be notified or granted access if you are detained.
• Do not assume that a second passport provides diplomatic protection.
• Seek specialist legal and consular advice before considering any travel.

Essential authorised travel only

If travel is unavoidable for family, diplomatic, humanitarian, journalism or other essential reasons, it should be supported by legal advice, professional security planning, medical contingency arrangements and written organisational approval.

• Valid passport, visa and written entry approval.
• Verified local host, sponsor or organisation contact.
• Professional security, communications and evacuation plan.
• Written insurance confirmation, if any coverage is available.
• Medical records, prescription documentation and emergency contact details.
• Paper copies of all travel documents and contingency contacts.

Customs and prohibited items

Iran has strict laws concerning alcohol, drugs, satellite devices, drones, political content, religious material, media equipment, online activity and prescription medication. Penalties can be severe and legal procedures may not meet international expectations.

• Alcohol is prohibited in Iran.
• Drug offences can carry extremely severe penalties, including the death penalty.
• Do not bring drones, satellite communications equipment, professional filming gear or restricted technology without written permission.
• Do not carry political, religious or media material that authorities could interpret as hostile.
• Bring prescription medicine only in original packaging with medical documentation.
• Do not remove cultural, archaeological or religious objects from Iran.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Healthcare and medical limitations

Iran has capable medical professionals and hospitals in major cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad and Tabriz. However, access to medicines, specialist care, foreign payment systems, medical evacuation and reliable emergency transport may be limited by sanctions, security conditions, infrastructure problems and regional disruption.

Travel health insurance

Standard travel insurance can exclude Iran because of official travel warnings, armed conflict, terrorism, civil unrest, detention risk and sanctions restrictions. Do not assume that insurance offered with a visa, credit card or travel package provides meaningful protection.

• Obtain written confirmation from the insurer before essential travel.
• Check exclusions for war, terrorism, civil unrest, detention, kidnapping and evacuation.
• Confirm whether medical treatment can be paid for directly despite banking restrictions.
• Check whether emergency evacuation is realistically possible from your intended location.
• Carry the insurer’s assistance details on paper and offline devices.

Health risks

• Extreme heat, dehydration and heatstroke in much of the country during summer.
• Air pollution in Tehran and other large cities.
• Food- and water-borne illness.
• Limited availability of some imported medicines and specialist treatment.
• Injury risk from conflict, civil unrest, road accidents and natural disasters.
• Potential disruption of healthcare access during security escalations.

Vaccinations and medical preparation

Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Essential travellers should obtain personalised advice from a specialist travel-medicine clinic. Carry sufficient prescription medication for the entire period, in original packaging, with a doctor’s letter and an understanding of Iran’s import restrictions.

General health information: World Health Organization: Iran Country Profile.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

Critical security situation

Iran presents serious security, legal and consular risks. These include armed conflict, regional escalation, terrorism, missile and drone attacks, civil unrest, arbitrary arrest, wrongful detention, kidnapping, harsh criminal penalties, restricted communications and limited ability of foreign governments to provide assistance.

The United States advises against all travel to Iran for any reason and tells U.S. citizens in Iran to leave immediately. Australia advises against travel because of volatile security conditions, armed conflict, civil unrest and arbitrary-detention risk. The United Kingdom also advises against all travel to Iran.

Risk of arbitrary detention

Foreign nationals, dual nationals, people with Iranian heritage, journalists, academics, researchers, aid workers, photographers, LGBTQ+ travellers and persons connected with foreign governments or organisations can face heightened risk of questioning, surveillance, detention or prosecution.

• Do not photograph protests, security forces, military sites, airports, prisons, government buildings or infrastructure.
• Do not discuss politics, protests, security, foreign policy or religion publicly or online.
• Do not attend demonstrations, public gatherings or politically sensitive events.
• Do not share location, travel routes, contacts or work details publicly.
• Assume that devices, internet activity and communications may be monitored.
• Do not rely on embassy access if detained, especially if Iran considers you an Iranian national.

Legal and social restrictions

• Alcohol is illegal.
• Drug offences can carry severe penalties, including capital punishment.
• Women, including foreign visitors, must comply with local mandatory dress rules.
• Public affection, same-sex relationships and conduct viewed as contrary to Islamic law can lead to serious legal consequences.
• Internet content, social-media activity, photography and public speech are regulated.
• Foreigners may face questioning or restrictions based on nationality, occupation, religion or travel history.

Regional and transport disruption

Flights, airports, airspace, roads and land borders may be disrupted, closed or subject to sudden security restrictions. Do not assume that you can leave Iran quickly if the situation deteriorates.

Official travel warnings

• United States: Iran Level 4 Travel Advisory
• United Kingdom: Iran Travel Advice
• Australia: Iran Travel Advice
• Canada: Iran Travel Advice
• Germany: Iran Travel and Security Advice
• Austria: Iran Travel Information

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency numbers

• Police: 110
• Ambulance and medical emergency: 115
• Fire service: 125
• Iranian Red Crescent emergency and rescue: 112
• Road assistance: 141
• Electricity emergency: 121
• Water emergency: 122
• Social emergency service: 123

Official government travel advice consistently lists 110 for police, 115 for ambulance or medical emergencies and 125 for fire services. Language support may be limited, emergency response may vary by location, and foreign visitors should not assume English-language assistance will be available.

Official UK emergency guidance: Getting Help in Iran – GOV.UK.

United States emergency contacts

The United States has no embassy or consulate in Iran. Switzerland represents U.S. interests in Iran, but assistance is severely limited and authorities may not grant access to detained U.S. citizens, particularly dual nationals.

• U.S. Department of State emergency support from the United States and Canada: +1 888 407 4747.
• U.S. Department of State emergency support from outside the United States and Canada: +1 202 501 4444.
• U.S. Embassy Switzerland: +41 31 357 70 11.
• Swiss Embassy Tehran: +98 21 2200 8333.

Official U.S. travel advisory: U.S. Department of State: Iran Travel Advisory.

United Kingdom and Australia emergency contacts

• UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office emergency line: +44 20 7008 5000.
• Australia Consular Emergency Centre from Australia: 1300 555 135.
• Australia Consular Emergency Centre from outside Australia: +61 2 6261 3305.

Emergency planning checklist for essential authorised personnel

• Do not travel unless the reason is essential and you have professional security, legal and medical advice.
• Maintain contact with your responsible organisation and security provider.
• Carry paper copies of documents, local contacts, embassy details and medical information.
• Prepare for communications disruption, flight cancellations and sudden border closures.
• Keep cash, water, food, medication and backup power available.
• Do not rely on an embassy being able to arrange rescue, evacuation or detention access.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance may be extremely limited

Diplomatic relations, embassy operations and the ability to assist detained citizens vary widely by nationality. Consular access can be delayed, restricted or refused. Foreign governments may have limited ability to provide emergency support, particularly for dual nationals and people Iran considers Iranian citizens.

United States

The United States has no diplomatic or consular relations with Iran and no U.S. embassy in the country. Switzerland acts as the protecting power for U.S. interests, but its ability to assist is limited.

• U.S. Department of State: Iran Travel Advisory
• Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran
• U.S. Embassy Switzerland

United Kingdom

The British Embassy in Tehran may have limited ability to assist British-Iranian dual nationals because Iran does not recognise dual nationality. British nationals should consult current FCDO guidance before considering any travel.

• British Embassy Tehran
• UK emergency help information for Iran

Australia, Canada, Germany and Austria

Australia, Canada, Germany and Austria all warn that their capacity to provide consular support in Iran may be limited. Australia has stated that its ability to provide assistance is extremely limited. Canada does not maintain a resident office in Iran and provides assistance through its embassy in Ankara, Türkiye.

• Australia: Iran travel advice
• Canada: Iran travel advice and consular information
• Embassy of Germany in Tehran
• Austrian Embassy Tehran

6. Background on Iran & Society

Country overview

Iran is located in Western Asia and borders Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Türkiye, Iraq and the waters of the Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. It is one of the region’s largest countries by area and population.

Iran has a long civilisation history linked to ancient Persia, the Achaemenid Empire, Islamic scholarship, poetry, architecture, trade, crafts and regional cultural exchange. Its cultural heritage includes Persepolis, Pasargadae, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Yazd, Shiraz, Isfahan and many archaeological and religious sites.

Society, language and religion

• Official language: Persian, also known as Farsi.
• Other languages: Azerbaijani, Kurdish, Arabic, Balochi, Turkmen and others are spoken in different regions.
• Religion: Shia Islam is the official religion and has a central role in law and public life.
• Culture: Iranian culture is shaped by Persian, Islamic, Turkic, Kurdish, regional and global influences.
• Hospitality: Offering tea, sweets, fruit and meals is an important part of Iranian social tradition.

Important context for visitors

Cultural interest does not remove the legal and security risks. Foreign travellers can be subject to laws and restrictions that differ sharply from those in Europe, North America and Australia. The current security environment means that travel should not be considered normal tourism.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Iran has varied climate zones. The Caspian coast is humid and green, Tehran and central plateau cities can have hot summers and cold winters, desert regions are extremely dry, and mountain areas such as the Alborz and Zagros can experience snow and severe winter conditions.

Weather considerations

• Summer can be extremely hot in central, southern and desert regions.
• Winter can bring snow and cold conditions to Tehran, mountain areas and north-western regions.
• Dust storms and air pollution can affect cities and desert areas.
• Earthquakes are a significant natural hazard in Iran.
• Flash floods can occur after heavy rain in desert valleys and urban areas.
• Weather conditions do not reduce the overriding security and legal risks.

Clothing guidance for essential authorised travel

• Women must comply with Iran’s mandatory dress regulations in public.
• All travellers should wear modest, culturally appropriate clothing.
• Use lightweight layers for heat and warmer clothing for mountain or winter travel.
• Bring sun protection, sturdy footwear and rain protection where necessary.
• Follow employer, security-provider and local-authority guidance.

8. Language & Communication

Languages

• Official language: Persian, commonly called Farsi.
• English: Spoken by some younger people and tourism professionals, but not reliably available outside major cities.

Useful Persian phrases

• Hello: Salam
• Thank you: Mamnoon / Merci
• Please: Lotfan
• Yes: Baleh
• No: Na
• Excuse me: Bebakhshid
• Help: Komak
• Emergency: Fori

Communications and internet access

Internet access, social media, messaging platforms, mobile networks and international communications can be restricted, monitored or disrupted. Certain websites and applications may be blocked, and connection quality may change during protests, security incidents or government restrictions.

• Do not rely on ordinary roaming, public Wi-Fi or messaging apps for emergency communication.
• Assume that digital communications may be monitored.
• Do not post political views, protest content, travel routes or local contacts online.
• Do not attempt to bypass communications restrictions.
• Use only lawful, organisation-approved communication systems if travel is essential.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in Iran

• Voltage: 220 V.
• Frequency: 50 Hz.
• Plug types: Type C and Type F, using two round pins.

Practical electricity advice

Travellers from Germany, Austria and many European countries can generally use Type C or Type F plugs. Travellers from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and other plug systems will usually need an adapter.

Power interruptions can occur. Essential authorised personnel should carry approved power banks, spare charging cables and backup lighting, while following local law and organisational security protocols.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

Iran’s official currency is the Iranian rial (IRR), but prices are commonly quoted in tomans, where one toman equals ten rials. Exchange rates, cash availability and pricing can vary significantly due to economic conditions and sanctions.

Payments and banking limitations

• International Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards generally do not work in Iran.
• Foreign ATMs should not be expected to accept international cards.
• International bank transfers and payment apps may be unavailable because of sanctions and banking restrictions.
• Cash is essential for those already in Iran, but carrying cash creates theft and security risk.
• Exchange rates can differ between official and market rates; use only lawful, reputable exchange providers.
• Essential travel should follow professional legal, sanctions-compliance and cash-management advice.

Sanctions and legal compliance

International sanctions, banking rules, export controls and local laws can affect payments, travel bookings, insurance, equipment, commercial transactions and communications. Seek specialist legal advice before any essential work-related travel or business activity involving Iran.

11. Transport & Arrival

Transport conditions can change without notice

Airports, flights, airspace, roads and land borders may be disrupted, closed, restricted or unsafe because of armed conflict, regional escalation, civil unrest, weather, sanctions and security measures. Do not assume that commercial travel will remain available if the situation deteriorates.

Main airports

• Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA): Main international airport serving Tehran.
• Mehrabad International Airport (THR): Mainly domestic airport in Tehran.
• Shiraz International Airport (SYZ): Airport for southern Iran.
• Isfahan International Airport (IFN): Airport for central Iran.
• Tabriz International Airport (TBZ): Airport for north-western Iran.
• Mashhad International Airport (MHD): Major religious and regional airport.

Internal travel

• Road conditions, checkpoints, fuel availability and security restrictions can vary.
• Do not travel independently between regions if security conditions are unstable.
• Avoid travel near borders, military areas, protest sites and restricted zones.
• Do not rely on domestic flights, trains or buses remaining operational during an emergency.
• Essential travel should use vetted transport, local expertise and a professional security plan.
• Do not drive at night on unfamiliar roads or in remote areas without an approved safety plan.

12. Accommodation & Practical On-Site Information

Accommodation is not normal tourism infrastructure

Although Iran has hotels, guesthouses and traditional accommodation, current security, communications, banking and transport risks mean that leisure accommodation planning is not appropriate. Essential authorised travellers should use vetted accommodation approved by their organisation or security provider.

• Do not book travel accommodation for leisure while “Do Not Travel” warnings are in force.
• Essential travellers should confirm security, safe water, backup power, communications and medical plans.
• Do not publish your accommodation location or movement plans online.
• Expect potential curfews, road closures, flight disruptions and communications restrictions.
• Maintain essential supplies, cash, medication, water and backup power.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Iranian culinary heritage

Iran has one of the Middle East’s most influential culinary traditions, known for herbs, rice, saffron, pomegranates, dried limes, nuts, bread and slow-cooked stews. This section is included as cultural background only and is not a recommendation for tourism travel under current conditions.

Typical Iranian dishes

• Chelo kebab: Grilled meat served with saffron rice.
• Ghormeh sabzi: Herb stew with beans, meat and dried lime.
• Fesenjan: Pomegranate and walnut stew, often served with chicken or duck.
• Gheymeh: Split-pea stew with tomato, meat and fried potatoes.
• Tahdig: Crisp rice crust, a prized part of Persian rice dishes.
• Ash reshteh: Thick herb, bean and noodle soup.
• Kuku sabzi: Herb-rich omelette or frittata.
• Lavash and sangak: Traditional flatbreads.

Food and water safety

Essential authorised travellers should follow medical and organisational protocols for food and water. Access to safe water, medicines, refrigeration and reliable food supplies can be affected by local conditions.

• Drink sealed, treated or professionally supplied water.
• Eat freshly prepared food from vetted providers only.
• Carry essential food and medical supplies if required by your organisation.
• Do not assume that hotels or restaurants can provide consistent hygiene or emergency dietary support.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

• Time zone: Iran Standard Time, UTC+3:30.
• Daylight saving time: Iran does not currently observe daylight saving time.
• Difference from Central Europe: Usually 2.5 hours ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in winter, and 1.5 hours ahead during Central European Summer Time.
• Difference from the United Kingdom: Usually 3.5 hours ahead in winter and 2.5 hours ahead during British Summer Time.

Important public and religious holidays

• Nowruz: Persian New Year, beginning around 20 or 21 March.
• Islamic Republic Day: 1 April.
• Sizdah Bedar: Thirteenth day of Nowruz, usually early April.
• Nationalisation of Oil Industry Day: 20 March.
• Ashura: Major Shia religious observance, date changes annually.
• Arbaeen: Major Shia religious observance, date changes annually.
• Eid al-Fitr: Date changes annually.
• Eid al-Adha: Date changes annually.
• Islamic New Year and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday: Dates change annually.

Public holidays, religious observances, protests, security operations and regional events can significantly affect transport, shops, government services and communications. Do not use holiday schedules as a basis for leisure travel planning.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Cultural and natural heritage

Iran has major cultural and natural attractions. However, these sites are not currently appropriate for leisure travel while high-level official warnings remain in place. This section is for cultural context only.

• Persepolis: Ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire and UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Pasargadae: Ancient Persian site associated with Cyrus the Great.
• Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan: Historic square, mosques, palace and bazaar complex.
• Yazd: Desert city known for wind towers, adobe architecture and Zoroastrian heritage.
• Shiraz: City of gardens, poetry, mosques and nearby ancient sites.
• Tehran: Museums, palaces, contemporary culture and access to the Alborz Mountains.
• Tabriz Bazaar: UNESCO-listed historic trading complex.
• Golestan Palace: Qajar-era palace complex in Tehran.
• Qeshm and Kish islands: Persian Gulf islands with geological and coastal landscapes.
• Alborz and Zagros mountains: Hiking, skiing and mountain scenery, subject to security and access conditions.

Do not travel for sightseeing

Historic importance does not make a destination safe. Sites may be inaccessible, transport can be disrupted, laws can be strictly enforced and travel may endanger visitors or local communities. Do not attempt tourism travel while official warnings advise against all travel.

16. Nightlife & Events

Not applicable for tourism

Iran does not have a conventional legal nightlife environment for international visitors. Alcohol is prohibited, public social behaviour is regulated and security conditions make leisure-oriented evening travel inappropriate.

Essential authorised personnel should follow organisational rules on movement, accommodation, public venues, photography, dress, alcohol, communications and local contact with residents.

Cultural context

Iran has globally important traditions of poetry, music, calligraphy, carpet weaving, architecture, gardens, theatre and cinema. These traditions should be understood with respect, but current risks make normal cultural tourism inappropriate.

17. Media & Further Links

Official travel warnings

• United States: Iran Level 4 – Do Not Travel
• United Kingdom: Iran Travel Advice – Against All Travel
• Australia: Iran Travel Advice – Do Not Travel
• Canada: Iran Travel Advice – Avoid All Travel
• Germany: Iran Travel and Security Advice
• Austria: Iran Travel Information

Health and humanitarian information

• World Health Organization: Iran Country Profile
• United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs: Iran
• UNICEF Iran
• International Committee of the Red Cross: Iran

Consular and emergency information

• U.S. Department of State: Iran Travel Advisory and Emergency Information
• United Kingdom: Getting Help in Iran
• Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran
• Australia: Middle East Crisis Hub

Maps, images, video and news

• Google Maps: Iran
• Image Search: Iran Cultural Heritage
• YouTube: Iran Documentaries
• Google News: Iran

Reliable news and analysis

• Reuters: Middle East News
• BBC News: Iran
• International Crisis Group: Iran