Iran country guide: visas, airlines and living abroad

Understanding Iran

Iran requires a travel and relocation plan that reflects its geography, administrative arrangements and the traveller’s own circumstances. This guide brings together basic country information, aviation context, entry planning, longer-term residence considerations and practical preparation. A visitor, an international student, an employee and a person joining family may face different procedures even when they hold the same passport.

The country profile places Iran in Southern Asia. The listed capital or administrative centre is Tehran; the language metadata lists Persian (Farsi). Currency information is presented as Iranian rial (IRR), and the internet-domain information is .ir. These details are useful when checking application addresses, interpreting invoices, identifying local services and arranging communication. A country-code domain identifies an internet namespace; it does not, by itself, authenticate an immigration service or establish an applicant’s eligibility.

Use the guide in two stages. First, understand the destination and prepare a realistic itinerary or relocation objective. Then confirm the applicable requirements with the authority responsible for your nationality, passport type, place of legal residence and purpose of travel. The country-specific official extracts below retain their source dates and scope. They must not be read as a universal visa decision for all passports, and an airline ticket or a consultation booking does not confer permission to enter.

Demographic, geographic and transport material attributed to the CIA World Factbook comes from its final archived edition. Figures retain their original reference years and are historical background rather than a claim that every statistic is current. Government travel-advice extracts are reproduced with attribution under the Open Government Licence. The sections on preparation are practical editorial guidance; they do not invent a visa category, processing guarantee or entitlement to permanent residence. Check the linked original advice again before travel, as the published snapshot can change. Map boundaries are illustrative and do not express a position on sovereignty or disputed borders.

Country facts, geography and economic context

Historical country context, adapted from the public-domain CIA World Factbook final archive. Original dates are retained. These facts do not establish current entry or residence rights.

History and national context

Geographic position

Land area

Landscape

Climate and seasonal planning

Natural hazards

Environmental conditions

Geographic considerations

Capital and administrative centre

Regional administration

Settlement patterns

Population snapshot

Urban development

Major urban areas

Languages and communication

Religion and cultural context

Society and communities

Economic context

Industry and employment context

Agriculture

Trade and exports

Trade and imports

Legal-system background

Names and terminology

National holiday

Internet identity

Airport infrastructure

Rail infrastructure

Airlines and transport to Iran

Air travel to Iran should be planned around the actual operating airport, the operating carrier and the legal conditions at every connection. A marketed flight may be operated by another airline under a codeshare arrangement. Identify which carrier performs each sector, where checked luggage is transferred and whether a change of terminal or airport requires passing through immigration. A cheap connection is not necessarily usable if the traveller lacks the relevant transit or entry permission.

The airline information below uses IATA’s membership directory retrieved on 2026-10-10. Membership is a useful way to identify registered carriers and their airline codes, but it is not a complete census of airlines, a flight timetable or a statement that every carrier operates passenger services. Cargo airlines may also appear. Registration in Iran does not mean an airline serves the traveller’s departure city, and foreign airlines may be the practical option for reaching the destination. Consult the carrier and airport directly for current routes and operating restrictions.

IATA-listed carriers registered in this destination

• Iran Air — IATA designator IR
• Iran Airtour Airline — IATA designator B9
• Iran Aseman Airlines — IATA designator EP

Before paying for flights, check the spelling of the passenger name, passport validity, baggage entitlement, change conditions and refund rules. Compare a protected through-ticket with separate tickets: a missed connection on independently booked sectors may leave the traveller responsible for replacement transport and accommodation. Keep sufficient time for immigration, security screening and baggage collection, especially when arriving in Iran after a long international connection.

For an island, remote settlement or seasonal route, review the consequences of cancellation as carefully as the outward journey. Weather, runway limitations and operating schedules may restrict alternatives. Keep essential medicines, identification, payment methods and a change of clothing in hand luggage. Carry the address of the first accommodation and a reliable arrival contact. Never assume that a visa exemption also removes an airline’s document checks, or that approval for the destination automatically covers a transit country.

How to plan a visa application for Iran

Start with the intended activity rather than the name of a visa found on a commercial website. A short holiday, attendance at meetings, a paid assignment, an academic course and joining a spouse can require different permissions. Write a short factual description of the trip, its duration, who will pay and whether any work will be performed. The responsible authority can then assess the relevant category without relying on an ambiguous description such as “business travel”.

Next, establish which rules apply to the individual passport holder. Nationality, ordinary or diplomatic passport status, dual citizenship, existing residence permits and previous immigration history can affect the route. An entry exemption offered to one nationality should not be applied to another. Likewise, a resident of a neighbouring country may still need permission based on nationality. Where a guide quotes UK travel advice, its stated British-passport scope is retained; it is not a promise that another passport receives the same treatment in Iran.

Identify the correct application channel through an official embassy, consulate, immigration department or government portal. Check whether the application must be made from the applicant’s country of nationality or legal residence, and whether a third-party centre is officially appointed. Search advertisements and a country-code website address are not adequate evidence of authorisation. Confirm the official fee, currency, payment method and process for obtaining a receipt before transferring money or uploading identity documents.

Build the evidence file around the published checklist for the selected category. Possible evidence can include a passport, photographs, a travel plan, accommodation details, financial records, an invitation or proof of a family relationship, but the required list must come from the authority. Names, dates and addresses should be consistent across forms and supporting documents. Explain genuine discrepancies honestly; do not alter a bank record, conceal a refusal or submit a reservation that is presented as paid when it is not.

If translations, certification or legalisation are required, establish the accepted language and format before commissioning them. A translation accepted by a university or employer may not satisfy the immigration authority. Keep the source document, translator’s certification and any required legalisation together. Ask whether a digital upload is sufficient or originals must be produced at an appointment. Where biometrics or an interview are requested, attendance arrangements and passport retention may affect other planned journeys.

Submit only after reviewing every answer and retain the application reference, payment receipt and a complete copy of the evidence. Monitor the official account or authorised communication channel for requests. Respond within the stated period and keep a record of what was supplied. Processing-time estimates are planning information rather than guarantees; do not invent a completion date for Iran, and avoid non-refundable commitments until the documents and travel conditions are suitable.

When a decision is issued, examine the name, passport number, entry validity, permitted duration, number of entries and any activity restrictions. An approval letter may require a later step before boarding or after arrival. If an application is refused, read the reasons and the authority’s instructions for any review, appeal or new application. A different factual situation or corrected evidence should be explained clearly; repeatedly submitting an unchanged file is unlikely to resolve the underlying issue.

Iran: official entry, safety and health information

Country-specific official material reproduced from UK FCDO travel advice under the Open Government Licence v3.0. © Crown copyright. The entry section is scoped to British passport holders as stated by the source; other nationalities must check their own requirements. Source last updated: 2026-08-13T16:37:44+01:00. Retrieved 2026-10-10. Read the current original advice.

Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).  

FCDO advises against all travel to Iran  

FCDO advises against all travel to Iran. If you are a British national already in Iran, either resident or visitor, carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying.

British and British-Iranian dual nationals are at significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention. Having a British passport or connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you.  

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel. 

Regional tensions

The US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 17 June in relation to the conflict in the Middle East, however the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable. Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran in a number of locations across the region against US military and civilian infrastructure. There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region.

British nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions, and should:

• read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis” 

• sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts

• monitor local and international media for the latest information 

• stay away from areas around security or military facilities 

• keep your departure plans under review, and ensure your travel documents are up to date 

• if you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure

If you are in Iran 

Air, sea and land routes are under the control of the Iranian authorities. Ports and borders may close at short notice. There is ongoing disruption to communications across Iran, with limitations on internet access.

The US and Israel have struck infrastructure across Iran. There are reports that suggest ports, roads, railways, bridges, energy facilities, oil production sites, water systems, and airports have been affected.

British nationals and British-Iranian dual nationals face a very high risk of arrest, detention and questioning.    

Holding a British passport or having perceived connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you.   

If you are detained in Iran, you could face months or years of imprisonment.  

Travel by air  

Iranian airspace may close at short notice.  

Travel by land  

Iran’s borders with neighbouring countries may have restrictions for foreign travellers and may close at short notice. If you plan to depart Iran across a land border and consider it safe to do so, check the travel advice of the country you intend to enter before travelling to the border, including visa requirements. Entry requirements may change at short notice.

Entry to countries bordering Iran is not straightforward, and some countries will ask for additional paperwork for British passport holders. If you intend to leave overland you do so at your own risk. Should you require assistance, including with additional paperwork, contact the FCDO.  

Armenia-Iran border crossing   

British nationals do not need a visa for Armenia for stays of up to 180 days per year. Check our travel advice for Armenia for the latest information.   

Azerbaijan-Iran border crossing   

To cross this border, FCDO must register your details with the Azerbaijani authorities in advance so that we can provide you with a registration code. You will also require a visa to enter Azerbaijan. Read travel advice for Azerbaijan for the latest information.   

Turkey-Iran border crossing   

The border remains open visa-free for people travelling on UK or Iranian passports (for stays of up to 90 days). If you are a British national intending to cross the land border from Iran into Turkey, you must request facilitation from the British Embassy in Ankara by contacting the FCDO before travelling to the border. You must state which border point you intend to use and provide personal details (name, date of birth, details of travel document used to enter Turkey).  Also indicate whether you are contacting from Iran or from the UK on behalf of a relative.

The Turkish authorities advise that the Iranians have closed the crossing point at Esendere-Serow on the Iranian side to daily traders entering and exiting over the course of a day.

Check our travel advice for Turkey for the latest information.

Turkmenistan-Iran border crossing  

To cross this border, you require special permission from the Turkmenistan authorities in advance. This can be facilitated by the British Embassy in Ashgabat by contacting the FCDO before you travel to the border. Without their prior approval, you will not be allowed to cross the border. You will also need a confirmed onward flight.  

Check our travel advice for Turkmenistan for the more information.

Afghanistan border crossing

The FCDO travel advice for Afghanistan advises against all travel to Afghanistan.

Iraq border crossing

The FCDO’s travel advice for Iraq advises against all travel to Iraq.

Pakistan border crossing

The FCDO’s travel advice for Pakistan advises against all travel to Balochistan Province bordering Iran.

Limited UK government support  

UK government support is extremely limited in Iran. No face-to-face consular assistance will be possible in an emergency and the UK government will not be able to help you if you get into difficulty in Iran.

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel to Iran against FCDO advice, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice  

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. 

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

Follow FCDO:   

• travel advice on X

• travel advice on Facebook

• Travel Aware on Instagram 

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK who choose to travel against FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Iran’s current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Iran set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Iranian Embassy in the UK. 

You are at risk of arrest, detention and a death sentence if you travel to Iran. 

British nationals are at increased risk of questioning and detention by the Iranian authorities. See Safety and security. 

Passport validity requirements 

If you choose to enter Iran against FCDO advice, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. It’s not possible to apply for a British passport from Iran.  

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.   

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.  

Previous travel to Israel

If your passport has stamps from Israel or other countries’ border crossing points with Israel, you may be refused entry to Iran.

Overseas British passport applications

You cannot apply for a British passport from Iran.

You can apply in a neighbouring country. Choose from the list of countries and follow the application process for that country.

For help with your passport application, contact HM Passport Office.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

British-Iranian dual nationals

Iran does not recognise dual nationality. If you are a dual national, the Iranian authorities will consider you to be an Iranian national. They are highly unlikely to accept any requests made by the UK government on your behalf.  

All Iranian nationals must enter and leave Iran using an Iranian passport.

You may also need to prove to the Iranian authorities that you have the right to enter the UK. You must be able to produce your British passport or a valid UK visa in your Iranian passport on request. You may face increased scrutiny, questioning or detention because of your connection to the UK.  

Media reports suggest Iran is willing to detain people who have been visiting relatives inside Iran. Having travelled to and from Iran previously without issue does not guarantee your safety. See Safety and security for more information about the risks British nationals face in Iran. 

Being considered an Iranian national

Even if you do not consider yourself Iranian, the Iranian authorities may see you as an Iranian national. For example, if your father is Iranian, or if you’re married to an Iranian man.

Visa requirements  

You must have a visa to visit Iran unless you hold an Iranian passport. 

Check the expiry date of your visa before travelling. If you overstay your visa, you may have to stay in Iran until this is resolved and you may be detained.   

If you’re travelling through an Iranian airport, check visa requirements with your airline and the Iranian Embassy in the UK.  

Applying for a visa  

If you choose to travel to Iran against FCDO advice, apply for a visa well in advance of your travel. The application process for an Iranian visa can be long and unpredictable. 

If you want to travel to Iran with a British passport, the Iranian Embassy has told FCDO you must either apply as part of an organised tour or have a sponsor in Iran to get a visa. Check with the Iranian Embassy in the UK for more information.  

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you submit your visa application. 

Women and girls aged 10 or over should wear a headscarf in their visa application photos.   

Some British nationals have had problems getting visas from private online visa agencies.  

Vaccine requirements 

To enter Iran, you must have certificates to prove you’ve had:  

• a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk 

• a polio vaccine if you’re coming from a polio-affected country  

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Iran guide.   

Customs rules  

There are strict rules about goods that you can take into or out of Iran. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.  

Pork products  

Importing pork products is illegal. 

Children travelling without a male parent  

In Iran, a female parent travelling with her children must have the father’s permission, usually verbal, to take them out of Iran. Iranian immigration authorities will usually assume you have permission unless the father has petitioned the court, or the court has ruled to prevent the children travelling. For more information, contact the Iranian Embassy in the UK.  

Kish Island  

To enter Kish Island, you must arrange your visit through an Iranian travel agency. The agency must:  

• inform the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs about your visit at least 2 weeks before you travel  
• have received confirmation that a visa will be issued on arrival 

The nearest Iranian embassy or consulate can give you advice and a list of registered travel agents.  

You must also have a hotel reservation before you travel. Your guide must:  

• pass a copy of the hotel reservation confirmation to the immigration office at Kish Airport at least 48 hours before you arrive  
• meet you at the airport when you arrive  

Travellers have occasionally been denied entry to Kish without explanation. If you’re denied entry, follow the advice of your airline or travel agent. 

Safety and security

Terrorism   

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.       

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Iran  

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Iran. 

Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Examples of recent attacks include:  

• in January 2024, at least 84 people were killed and more than 200 wounded in suicide bombing attacks in Kerman, southern Iran, carried out by Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP)
• in 2023, one person was killed and 8 wounded in a terrorist attack at the Shah Cheragh mausoleum, a Shia holy site in Shiraz southern Iran
• in 2022, 15 people were killed in a shooting attack at the Shah Cheragh mausoleum, Shiraz, in an attack claimed by ISKP

Baluchistan separatist groups have targeted government buildings and infrastructure in the Sistan-Baluchistan region of Iran resulting in casualties.

Leaving Iran in an emergency 

In an emergency, for example if there is serious violence, unrest or a deterioration in the security situation, the UK government will not be able to evacuate you, provide face-to-face assistance or help you if you get into difficulty. In these situations, it may become more difficult to leave safely. If you are a British national already in Iran, either resident or visitor, carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying.  

You should have a contingency plan to leave Iran in an emergency situation. Air, sea and land routes are under the control of the Iranian authorities. You should not assume that ports and borders will remain open if there is a crisis. If your contingency plan involves direct travel to the UK from Iran, you may need to prove to the Iranian authorities that you have the right to enter the UK. You must be able to produce your British passport or a valid UK visa in your Iranian passport on request. You cannot apply for a British passport from Iran.  

Risk of arrest, detention and a death sentence  

There is a very high risk of arrest, questioning and detention for British nationals and British-Iranian dual nationals. If the Iranian authorities accuse you of security related offences as a British national in Iran, there is a risk that you will be sentenced to death. 

Holding a British passport or having perceived connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you. If you are detained in Iran, you could face:

• months or years of imprisonment
• a fine, which in some cases can be a significant amount
• imprisonment until any fines owed are paid
• strict bail conditions, including a travel ban or your (or your family’s) assets being used as security 

British nationals, including British-Iranian dual nationals, and other foreign nationals, have been unfairly detained in Iran. They are often made to serve long prison sentences. In 2023, Iran executed some foreign national detainees, including a British-Iranian national. The criminal justice process in these cases falls below international standards. 

Consular, welfare and family access while in detention   

If you are detained in Iran, your case will be in the hands of the Iranian authorities, who have demonstrated a pattern of hostility towards the UK and its citizens. If you are a British-Iranian dual national, the UK government will not be notified of your detention, nor will we be given permission to see you. The Iranian authorities will control your access to your family during your detention. If you die in Iranian detention, the Iranian authorities will control the notification process. There is no guarantee the Iranian authorities will inform family members or the UK government.  

Protests 

Iranian authorities have accused people with links to the UK of inciting protests. If you are in or near a protest, you are at serious risk of arrest. Mass arrests, including of bystanders, happen often. It is difficult to predict where protests will take place, and they may turn violent. British nationals arrested in connection with protests may come under increased suspicion of espionage or working to undermine the Iranian authorities. This can increase the risk of lengthy detention, criminal charges or receiving the death penalty.   

You may also come under suspicion if you are near sensitive sites, have contact with Iranians who are of interest to the authorities for any reason, or are taking photographs. The Iranian authorities have arrested foreign nationals for possessing photographic equipment near sensitive sites.  

Even if you avoid protests and crowds, there is still a very high risk of arrest, questioning and detention in Iran.  

Activities that put you at risk 

Having a British passport or connections to the UK can be reason enough for the authorities to detain you. Some activities put you at even greater risk.  

You are at greater risk if you have ever been involved with civil society organisations, including:  

• charities 
• labour unions 
• human rights groups 
• environmental groups 
• political groups 

Or are involved in other activities such as: 

• journalism, including blogging 
• social media related to politics, journalism or Iran, including creating, ‘liking’, or sharing content 
• economic and academic institutions and think tanks, especially UK-affiliated institutions or institutions conducting research in/on Iran 
• protest movements, including the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ movement 

Or are involved with any person or organisation that:  

• is seen as opposing the Iran government, either based within Iran or elsewhere 
• works on UK national infrastructure 
• receives public funds from, or is considered linked to, the UK government or law enforcement 
• was previously arrested, questioned or detained in Iran 
• is seen as having defected from the Iranian regime 

Or you have:

• any current or historical links to the State of Israel or Israeli nationals or institutions 

• any current or historical links to the United States government or public administration

Having a British passport or connections to the UK will put you at increased risk of scrutiny during times of national unrest, following any terrorist incidents, or when there is an increase in tensions between Iran and the international community. 

Border areas  

Border areas are highly sensitive. FCDO advises all British nationals already residing in Iran against all travel:   

• within 100km of the Iran-Afghanistan border   
• within 10km of the entire Iran-Iraq border   
• to the provinces of Sistan and Baluchistan   
• to the area east of Bam and Jask, including Bam  

There is risk of banditry in the area east of Bam, Jask, and Sistan and Baluchistan. This is the main route for drug traffickers from Afghanistan and Pakistan. The towns of Zahedan, Zabol and Mirjaveh are particularly insecure.  

Some Iranian officials and media reports have falsely alleged a UK connection to anti-government groups in Khuzestan, Kurdish-majority regions, and Sistan and Baluchistan. If you travel to these areas against our advice, stick to the main routes to avoid accidentally entering restricted or military zones. 

Crime 

Take sensible precautions to protect yourself from street crime and petty theft. Avoid carrying large amounts of money and keep your passport safe.  

Scams  

There have been some attacks and robberies targeted at foreign nationals and tourists, including attempted robberies by thieves posing as policemen, usually in civilian clothing. If you’re approached by anyone who claims to be a policeman, ask to see ID and request the presence of a uniformed officer or marked patrol car. Do not hand over documents or cash, or get into a vehicle.  

Methanol poisoning

There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Iran.

Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

Money  

Getting cash in Iran is extremely difficult. Non-Iranian debit and cash cards will not work in Iran. It’s usually not possible to change travellers cheques.  

It’s illegal to change money on the street. You can exchange selected foreign currencies in some exchange offices, though you may have problems changing money. Euros and US dollars are more commonly accepted than British pounds. 

Find out before travelling how you will get enough Iranian rials for your visit legally. If you cannot, you may need to reconsider your travel plans. 

Surrogacy and adoption  

If you’re visiting Iran to arrange an international surrogacy or adoption, consider the risks and challenges involved. Surrogacy is a complex, lengthy process. You should: 

• make sure you’re aware of the facts and well prepared before starting the process  
• get specialist legal advice on Iranian and UK laws before making any arrangements  
• read FCDO and Home Office guidance on surrogacy overseas   
• research clinics and hospitals thoroughly to make sure they are safe and reputable  

The British Embassy cannot get involved in surrogacy arrangements or recommend hospitals or clinics.  

Commissioning a surrogacy will not automatically mean that the child holds British citizenship. To bring your child born through surrogacy from Iran to the UK, you must apply for a full British passport. You need an Iranian birth certificate for this. It’s not possible to apply for a British passport from Iran. 

Laws and cultural differences  

Ramadan 

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car. 

You should also:  

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants   
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens   
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening  
• be patient and show tolerance  

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.   

Dress codes  

Islamic codes of behaviour and dress are strictly enforced. In public places women must cover their heads with a headscarf, wear trousers or a floor-length skirt, and a long-sleeved tunic or coat that reaches to mid-thigh or knee. Men should wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts in public. 

There are extra dress requirements at religious sites. Women may be asked to put on a chador (a garment that covers the whole body except the face) before entering. 

The Iranian authorities have arrested, detained and in some cases committed serious acts of violence against women and girls for not properly following dress codes. Enforcement ‘crackdowns’ can lead to large-scale arrests across the country at any time. 

Relationships between men and women  

Adultery and sex outside marriage are illegal under Iranian law and carry the death penalty.  

Relationships between non-Muslim men and Muslim women are illegal, although few westerners have been prosecuted. If a Muslim woman is found in a relationship with a non-Muslim man, she may be sentenced to be whipped.  

Unmarried partners and friends of the opposite sex travelling together should be extremely cautious. Sex outside marriage and same-sex relations are against the law in Iran, with the death penalty as the defined punishment.  

Iranian hotel managers could insist on seeing a marriage certificate before allowing couples to share a hotel room.  

LGBT+ relationships  

Same-sex relationships are illegal under Iranian law and can carry the death penalty.   

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

Female travellers  

Women should take extra care, particularly when travelling alone or with friends of the opposite sex. Women face a range of issues, from enforced hijab wearing to harassment due to there being relatively few foreign women in Iran. Respect local customs and avoid isolated areas. See more advice for women travelling abroad.  

Streaming service bans 

Many western streaming services including Netflix and Prime are banned in Iran.  

Alcohol ban 

It is illegal to import, sell, manufacture or drink alcohol in Iran. This is on religious grounds, with exceptions only for certain recognised Iranian religious minorities. Drinking alcohol in public is not allowed, with no exceptions. Penalties can be severe. 

Using cameras and electronic devices  

Photography near military and other government installations is strictly prohibited. You can be detained and charged with breaking national security laws. Sensitive government buildings and facilities are often difficult to identify. Take extreme care when taking photographs in any area. The Iranian authorities have arrested foreign nationals for possessing photographic equipment near sensitive sites. 

Using a laptop or other electronic equipment in public places can be misinterpreted, especially if your device contains photographs. You may be arrested and detained on serious criminal charges, including espionage.  

It’s better to ask before taking photographs of people.  

Illegal drugs penalties 

It is illegal to import, sell, manufacture or consume drugs in Iran. Penalties for importing and possessing drugs are severe and enforced. Many people convicted of drug offences, including foreign nationals, have been executed.  

Personal ID  

You must carry copies of your passport photo page and visa for identification. Make sure you have a copy of the emergency contact details. 

Satellite phones and drones  

You need permission from the Iranian authorities to import or use equipment like drones or satellite phones. Using them without permission is illegal and you could be arrested. 

Mobile phones, internet access and communications  

Iranian authorities have blocked, significantly slowed or shut down landline, internet and mobile services without warning in the past. This can be nationwide or localised. This can affect communication and location services on smartphones and other devices. You should:  

• not rely on mobile data, non-Iranian mobile apps or international calls for personal safety  
• always keep an alternative means of communication and navigation with you 
• make sure friends and family know where you are  

Business travellers  

Individuals involved in commercial disputes with Iranian companies risk being stopped from leaving the country until disputes are resolved.  

Representatives of British or western companies may receive particular attention. British businesspeople travelling to Iran against our advice should take steps to protect commercially sensitive information, including password protection of electronic devices and not carrying unnecessary information. Electronic devices may be screened by customs officials on arrival and departure. 

See Overseas business risk in Iran for more information. 

Transport risks 

Road travel  

If you’re planning to drive in Iran, see information on driving abroad. 

You must have a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) when using a UK driving licence to drive in Iran. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. 

Iran has a high rate of road accidents. Take great care when travelling by car or public transport and when crossing streets. If you’re involved in an accident, no matter how minor, do not leave the scene. Wait until the police arrive to write their report.  

Iranian authorities sometimes set up informal roadblocks both in cities and on main highways. These are often staffed by young and inexperienced officers. Always carry identification with you and avoid getting into disputes.  

It is not widely accepted for women to drive motorbikes on public roads and there is a risk of being arrested.  

Taxis  

Motorcycle taxis should not be used as they have sometimes taken tourists to quiet locations and robbed them.  

Pre-booked taxis are safer than taxis hailed from the street.  

Air travel  

The UK Air Safety List (ASL) lists all known airlines in Iran that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.  

Sea travel  

Many areas of the Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman are very politically and militarily sensitive, with increased military activity including seizures and attempted seizures, boardings and harassment of maritime vessels. 

The waters around the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Persian Gulf are particularly sensitive. British national mariners should not dock or sail into waters around these islands.  

When in the region, maintain a high state of awareness and be alert to local and regional tensions which may affect your route. Vessels may be at increased risk of maritime attack and harassment if they operate in the:   

• Gulf of Oman   
• Northern Arabian Sea   
• Persian Gulf   
• Strait of Hormuz  

Iran has repeatedly attacked commercial vessels in nearby waters with military drones. One attack in 2021 resulted in the deaths of a British and a Romanian national. Vessels have also been seized and their crews detained in and around the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz in recent years.    

If your vessel is hailed, provide the vessel name, flag state, and confirm they are exercising navigation rights and proceeding in accordance with international law, as reflected in the UNCLOS Convention. You should maintain high levels of awareness when you are operating in the area and report into United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). Record footage of all incidents wherever possible. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters  

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. 

Earthquakes  

Many parts of Iran are at risk of earthquakes and tremors. These can be high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure and put lives at risk.  

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.  

Flooding   

Some provinces can suffer from floods in spring, particularly:  

• Khuzestan  
• Golestan  
• Lorestan  

You should:  

• follow local news updates 
• monitor advice from local authorities   
• take waterproofs, thermals, hiking boots and rations when driving and walking 

Health

Before you travel check that:  

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need  
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation  

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.  

Emergency medical number  

Dial 115 and ask for an ambulance.  

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.  

Vaccine recommendations and health risks  

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:  

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Iran 
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page  

See what health risks you will face in Iran, including: 

• malaria and dengue 
• schistosomiasis 

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Iran. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication  

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.  

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.   

Healthcare in Iran  

In general, medical facilities in Iran are reasonable in the major cities but poor in remote areas. Many health professionals speak some English.  

There have been reported shortages of some basic medicines in Iran.  

If you’re a British national in Iran having medical or cosmetic treatment, you may not get adequate care in an emergency.  

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Iran where some staff will speak English.  

Travel and mental health  

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro. 

Expatriates, employment and immigration in Iran

A temporary visit to Iran and permission to reside there are separate planning questions. The terms “expatriate”, “immigrant” and “resident” describe circumstances, but they do not identify an immigration category by themselves. Determine the lawful basis for the intended stay and whether the application is made before travel or through a permitted procedure after arrival. This guide does not assume that a visitor can change status locally, obtain employment or remain indefinitely.

For employment, confirm whether the prospective employer must sponsor the applicant, obtain an approval or demonstrate particular conditions before the worker applies. Ask whether the permission is tied to a specific employer, occupation or location and what happens if the employment ends. Professional licensing, recognition of qualifications and an immigration work authorisation may be separate requirements. A job offer without the required permission should not be treated as a lawful start date.

International students should verify the institution, course eligibility and the immigration requirements directly with the competent offices. Admission, tuition payment and a student visa are separate milestones. Establish whether part-time work is allowed, whether dependants can accompany the student and what options exist after the course. Do not infer work rights or a settlement route from a school’s marketing claims. Keep a budget for study, accommodation, insurance and the return journey.

For family migration, establish which relationships are recognised and what evidence is accepted. Marriage, partnership, parenthood or dependency may involve different procedures, and a family member’s nationality does not automatically settle the applicant’s rights. Check income, accommodation or sponsorship requirements where applicable. Document custody and consent for children travelling with one parent. If names differ across civil records, obtain appropriate explanations and accepted supporting documents.

Long-term residence and citizenship should be researched as distinct stages. Temporary permits can expire, require renewal or impose limits on absence. Permanent status may have separate qualifying conditions, and naturalisation may involve language, residence, conduct or other legal tests. No number of years or automatic entitlement is promised here for Iran. Before relying on a future route, ask the responsible authority or a qualified local adviser to identify the current provision and its conditions.

Practical preparation for living in Iran

The language information for Iran lists Persian (Farsi). Identify the language used by the office handling the application and by the intended employer, school, clinic or landlord. A multilingual country can have significant regional differences. Arrange interpretation when accuracy matters, particularly for a contract or medical consultation, and keep translated copies of essential information. Everyday language learning can help integration, but it does not replace a required certified translation.

Use Iranian rial (IRR) as the starting point for a local budget and verify the monetary arrangements with the relevant central bank or financial institution. Avoid treating an old exchange-rate statistic as a quote for a present transaction. Separate immigration fees, transport, deposits, accommodation, utilities, insurance and professional charges. Compare the exchange rate, transfer fee and receiving-bank cost, and keep a reserve for a delayed arrival or an unexpected return journey.

An accommodation decision should follow the lawful duration and purpose of stay. Verify the property, the landlord’s authority and the contract before paying a deposit. Ask about utilities, notice periods, registration documents and refund conditions. A temporary booking can provide flexibility while the newcomer checks a neighbourhood and travel times. If accommodation evidence is needed for an application, confirm the accepted form with the authority rather than assuming that every informal invitation or booking is sufficient.

Healthcare preparation should reflect both the traveller’s health and the local services available. Review the country-specific health advice where supplied, consult an appropriate clinician for vaccinations or medication questions, and check the insurance wording. Carry prescriptions and establish the rules for importing controlled medicines. A familiar medicine brand may not be available in Iran; plan continuity of treatment through a legitimate provider. Insurance should cover the actual activities and circumstances of the stay.

Families should assess schools, childcare, accessibility and the effect of the move on each member’s legal status. Check enrolment documents and whether translated academic or vaccination records are required. An adult’s work permission does not necessarily give a spouse work rights or a child access to every service. A realistic plan includes transport, communication, emergency contacts and arrangements if one family member’s application is delayed or refused.

Tax residence, immigration residence and access to public services can be governed by different rules. A person may need professional advice about income earned abroad, employment deductions or obligations in both the departure and destination jurisdictions. Do not infer tax treatment from an immigration label. Keep records of arrival and departure dates, contracts and payments, and ask a qualified adviser to identify the relevant rules for the actual circumstances.

After arrival, check whether a residence card, address registration, identity number or another local procedure is required by the authorised route. Maintain a calendar of expiry dates and renewal windows using the official instructions. Keep important records securely, with a backup available if a device is lost. When leaving Iran, settle contractual obligations, retain payment evidence and check whether departure affects a continuing permission or a future return.

A preparation checklist for Iran

Prepare one coherent personal record before consulting an adviser. It should state the traveller’s nationality, passport type, current legal residence, destination, intended dates and purpose. Include dependants and all transit points. This simple profile reduces misunderstandings and helps the adviser distinguish a visitor application from employment, study or family residence. Leave out unnecessary sensitive documents until the recipient and purpose have been verified.

Create a document register with the issuing body, issue date, expiry date, language and any certification requirement for each item. Note whether an original, copy or digital version is accepted. This is particularly useful for civil records and qualifications that may take time to obtain. A well-organised file makes it easier to answer a request for additional evidence without accidentally sending contradictory versions of the same document.

Use a financial worksheet that separates the application cost from the cost of the journey and the first period in Iran. Record which payments are refundable and what conditions apply. A consultation charge, government visa fee, airline ticket and accommodation deposit are different transactions with different terms. Request itemised invoices and retain receipts; a single total described as a “visa package” can obscure what has actually been purchased.

Before submitting the application, read the form as a whole. Check dates against the itinerary, employment details against the contract and funds against the stated budget. Where an explanation is needed, make it factual and concise. If a representative prepares the application, review it yourself before signing. Responsibility for the truth of the information should not be delegated to an adviser or a travel agent.

Before departure, check the current official entry and travel advice, the transport operating status, the documents required at boarding and any arrival formalities. Download essential records for offline use and keep paper copies where practical. Share the itinerary with a trusted contact and confirm the first arrival transfer. A complete application file is useful, but it is the current permission and actual travel conditions that determine whether the planned journey can proceed.

Choosing assistance for a Iran application

Select a consultant by relevant experience and a clear written scope. Ask which part of the process the consultation covers: identifying an appropriate category, explaining a checklist, reviewing evidence or representing the applicant where permitted. The adviser should distinguish general preparation from legal representation and identify any local licensing or authorisation required for the service. A confident sales statement is not a substitute for a source-backed explanation.

Request a written fee breakdown and understand what is excluded. Government charges, translations, courier costs, appointments and further representation may be separate. Ask who will handle the file, how questions are answered and what records the customer receives. A consultant should not promise guaranteed approval or claim influence over the decision-maker. The authority responsible for Iran determines the outcome under the applicable rules.

When using VisaWand, compare the profile, the consultation scope and the displayed fee before booking. The consultation is an opportunity to clarify the route and preparation; it does not itself create entry permission. Keep control of original documents, email accounts and official application credentials. Provide sensitive material only through an appropriate verified channel, and ask how it will be stored, used and deleted when the service ends.