safe travel to iran

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Is Iran Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Iran : Safety by City

Iran is a large country located in the Greater Middle East, between the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea.

It is part of the South-Central Asian Union and is sharing its borders with Iraq to the west, Turkey, Azerbaijan’s Naxcivan enclave, Armenia, and Azerbaijan to the northwest, Turkmenistan to the northeast, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east.

The entire northern part of Iran is completely covered in rain forests called Shomal, which mostly resemble simply forests or woods rather than rain forests, but they are still called the Jungles of Iran.

If you’re more into deserts, there are plenty of them in the east of the country.

You will have a great time in the Dasht-e Kavir, Iran’s largest desert, located in the north-central portion of the country, and the Dasht-e Lut, in the east.

The country also offers some salt lakes, but don’t be fooled that you will be bored in Iran.

There are plenty of activities that Iranian deserts offer, like desert tracking, camel riding, bicycle riding, safari, and 4×4 driving excursions.

• Warnings & Dangers in Iran

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Overall, Iran is safe to visit when it comes to the crime rate but you have to avoid some very dangerous parts of the country if you want to have a safe trip.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

You should be careful while on the road, as accidents while driving are known to happen frequently. The roads aren't all bad and they vary from being in an excellent condition to being in a very poor condition. However, there are other factors that make driving in Iran dangerous, such as poorly lit roads, reckless drivers that ignore traffic signs, etc. There is also a risk of being attacked by pirates operating in the Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets are definitely an issue in this country and you should keep in mind that they operate mostly in the overcrowded bazaars and public transports. Remain vigilant at all times and leave your most valuable belongings in your accommodation.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Among natural disasters that are known to hit Iran are extremely high temperatures sometimes exceeding 50C, sandstorms that are a regular occurrence, and severe sandstorms that occur sporadically. Earthquakes are also a threat.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Except in the tourist area of Isfahan, where mugging has been on the rise lately, this isn't generally a concern in Iran. Make sure you only take licensed taxis as 90% of muggings occur in unlicensed ones.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorists are likely to carry out attacks in Iran. The threat is believed to be coming from the Sunni extremist groups, which are probably the perpetrators of several bombings that have taken place in the south-eastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, bordering Pakistan and Afghanistan.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

There are almost no known scams in Iran. Still, just in case, be wary of people trying to distract you or offering you unwanted help, check your change twice and always negotiate every service beforehand.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Many women have traveled to Iran without having any negative experiences. Generally speaking, it is no more dangerous in Iran than in most European countries, Australia or USA. Still, you should be very vigilant if you're traveling alone and always apply basic precaution measures you would in your own country.

• So... How Safe Is Iran Really?

Generally speaking, Iran is a safe country when it comes to violent crime. Its crime rates are relatively low, with the exception of the dangerous areas in the southeast of the country.

You should be aware that there is a lot of petty theft in the urban areas of the country, especially in crowded bazaars, bus and train stations, as well as airports.

Mugging has become more common during the last couple of years in the tourist center of Isfahan.

There are certain areas that are best to be avoided, and considered dangerous for foreigners, like all areas east of the line running from Bam to Jusk, the Sistan-Baluchistan province, and the area within 20km of the entire border of Iraq.

These areas are especially dangerous because they are known for drug traders using them to smuggle heroin from Afghanistan here.

Because of this, there have been robberies, kidnappings and even murders happening here.

Cities of Zahedan, Zabol, and Mirjaveh are particularly dangerous.

Do not go anywhere within 120 km of the entire Iran/Afghanistan border.

These areas are regularly affected by ethnic conflicts and they have been known as places where kidnappings of foreigners occur on occasion.

The tourist center of Isfahan is also known for problems with muggings of foreigners in unlicensed taxis.

Keep in mind that there are fake police officers making random and impromptu checks of tourists’ passports.

Only use official taxis, and never let these fake officials search you without asking for identification.

• How Does Iran Compare?
• Useful Information

Many countries do need a visa to enter Iran. If you're from Israel or have been to Israel, your visa is going to be denied. Your visa must be acquired before traveling to Iran and it will be issued for up to 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least the next six months. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Iranian Riyal is the official currency in Iran. Don't count of ATMs and credit cards. You can't use them or debit cards, or travelers' cheques. Bring lots of cash.

The climate in Iran varies depending on the area. In the northwest, winters can be cold with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures during December and January. Spring and fall are relatively mild, while summers are extremely hot with temperatures reaching as high as 50C.

Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport is the busiest and primary airport of Tehran, the capital city of Iran. It is located 30 km southwest of Tehran, near the localities of Robat Karim and Eslamshahr.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Iran, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Iran Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Iran - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

29 Reviews on Iran

You are wrong about terrorists risk , there is not such a thing in Iran . There may be conflicts in shared borders with Afganistan and Pakistan but not inside Iran .

Can US citizens visit?

Yes but you have to visit Iran in group of tourists not alone

I am about to go in Iran on december, but i am kinda afraid but i still wanna visit the country because i wanna see on my own eyes how iran is beautiful country and i wanna make people regret what they negative say about it.

There are absolutely no terrorist attacks!! Where did this info come from? Can you name one single terrorist attack that happened in the past 10 years?

Just beware of the imbecile Trump bombing you at the airport.

As Americans we love that

As non-americans we hate that

as Iranians, you seem to be sick…very much.

there is no terrorist attack in Iran , in general Iran is very safe to travel , also pickpockets risk is not high ,i would say its medium like any other normal countries , but keep in mind that you should not do any political related things in Iran as the government is very sensitive about political activities by foreign people .

Such a bullshit! Terrorist attack in Iran!!!! No way! There is not any terrorist attack in Iran at all!

Iran is bigger than you think buddy!

Iran is not only Tehran, some big cities and the northern parts. While I can agree there is absolutely no risk of terrorism in most parts of the country, the regions close to Pakistan and Afghanistan are not very safe and unfortunately the terrorist groups are active in those regions.

There is no terrorist attack.

Top of my “must see” list of countries – birthplace of civilization, and wonderful people. Can’t wait to go!

Best country in the world

Iran is one of the best countries I saw.

no terrorist attacks, no discrimination, and many beautiful things like Milad tower and much more things that I love.

I have visited over 46 countries in the world. I will put Iran first because of the culture, history, food and especially the people who are extremely kind. I didn’t feel insecure at any point. I’ve talked to a lot of people and I haven’t heard from anyone that they hate America or Americans. People will be at your service at every step.

Amazing place with great people

I totally agree with you Dragan. I am an avid traveller and have visited many countries in Asia, Africa, South America, etc… I was skeptical when my husband brought up the idea of visiting Iran. After a lot of convincing, I agreed and am I ever glad I agreed!!!! One of the best experiences I’ve ever had – the country itself, the hospitality! Goes to show how biased media can be – all about politics!

I live near the borders of Iran (northwestern Iran), so I have never encountered a terrorist. In my opinion, the mentioned security indicators are determined based on political relations and not on the existing reality. Ask those who came to Iran and see if Iran is a safe country. This is nothing but a media game against Iran.

Generally accurate except the part about terrorist attacks. The possibility of terrorist attacks even in the border areas are quite low and would be higher in most European countries.

I’m an Englishman who spent an entire month travelling with my wife to several Iranian cities including Tehran, Mashad, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Banda Abbas, and had never felt threatened at any time throughout my travels in that beautiful country.

I’m Italian and I went to Iran in June 2022. It is an amazing country with great things to see and very friendly people. I felt very safe in this country, and I would be very happy to go back.

This is not true!!!

Oh my GOD why on earth would someone go anywhere within 120 km of the entire Iran/Afghanistan border, or Pakistan or Iraq border?! There is nothing there for tourists! Or anyone else!! Iran is a huge country, there are literally thousands of places to visit only in the northern area, Tehran and central area! So, you’ve got The capital, the forests, Tabriz in the norther area too, the deserts, the historical cities like Shiraz, Isfahan and Yazd, and in the southern area like Boushehr or Islands like Hormoz, Kish and Qeshm you can see a really different, beautiful, stunning nature!! Yes, Sistaan and Balouchestan is not really safe, unfortunately! But what I am saying is, there is a very long distance between these places!! You can see everywhere and everything without even being nearly around any dangerous areas! And, honestly, Seriously, terrorist attack?! No!!!! Not in Iran! Not inside of the borders of Iran!!!! Never! No way!

GO AT YOUR OWN RISK

This place is run by cruel and heartless group of terrorists who call themselves the Taliban. I cannot travel there cause i am a united states citizen. So go at your own risk.

Dear Lucario Taliban is in Afghanistan not Iran! you mixed up the countries. There is no terrorism risk in Iran and of course you can travel to Iran if you are US citizen. Please come and see how beautiful is this country and how kind and friendly are people with you. Do not believe so much in Media!!

DANGER HIGH

Dear Fahi Stop tricking unaware people. The IRGC end even the whole IRI itself are both akin to Taliban. Iran is a hellhole occupied by the worst scums and thugs who have no regard for human lives and even enjoy killing children. Tourists could be kidnapped, tortured, raped and killed and no one could do anything to rescue them because the IRI and their thugs do not answer to anyone but themselves. No tasty food or pretty tilework is going to change the reality.

awesome, we dont want you there too…no choke on your McDonalds, while I eat delicious and healthy ghorme sabzi

If you travel to Iran as a foreigner 100% sure you will be arrested! Just check the news or search google for this, and see how many foreigners are in prison now

Because you’re western and you believe media so much

iran, best country to see in the world…

iran, worst to visit from international media point of view cause it dosent spends money on international mafia media…

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Travel Advisory January 11, 2024

Iran - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to add the Terrorism Risk Indicator and risk of surrogacy tourism.

Do not travel to Iran due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest of U.S. citizens . Exercise increased caution due to wrongful detentions .  

Country Summary: U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason. U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Iran have been kidnapped, arrested, and detained on spurious charges.

Iranian authorities continue to unjustly detain and imprison U.S. nationals, particularly dual national U.S.-Iranian nationals--including students, journalists, business travelers, and academics--on charges including espionage and posing a threat to national security. Iranian authorities routinely delay consular access to detained U.S. nationals and consistently deny consular access to dual U.S.-Iranian nationals.

Violent extremist groups, including U.S. government-designated terrorist organizations, operate in Iran. ISIS and affiliated groups have claimed responsibility for bombings and other attacks in Iran. The threat of terrorist activity persists, as does the risk of death or injury to bystanders.

The U.S. government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Iran.

Companies offering surrogacy services in Iran are misrepresenting the security situation in Iran and the risks of the unregulated surrogacy tourism industry. Private companies that arrange such visits and services put U.S. citizens in danger.  

Due to the risks of operating civilian aircraft within or in the vicinity of Iran, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Iran.

If you are currently in Iran:   

• Consider the risks involved in possessing dual  U.S. Iranian nationality .
• Review your personal security plan and visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider.
• Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter/X .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

One page required for entry stamp

Yes, except for Kish Island

No proof of vaccination is required

Over €10,000

Over €5,000

Embassies and Consulates

Embassy of Switzerland – Foreign Interests Section

Pasdaran, Shahid Mousavi St. (Golestan 5 th) Corner of Paydarfard St., No. 55, Pasdaran Avenue Tehran, Iran Telephone: (98) (21) 2254-2178 and (98) (21) 2256-5273 Emergency Telephone: (41) (58) 465-3333 Fax: (98) (21) 2258-0432 Email:   [email protected] Website: www.eda.admin.ch/tehranfi Virtual Embassy Tehran

All consular services require prior appointments which can be made by phone. The Foreign Interests Section can be reached by phone Sunday through Thursday between 7:45 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

The Foreign Interests Section does not issue U.S. visas or accept visa applications. The Foreign Interests Section provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens in Tehran including:

• Registering U.S. citizens;
• Responding to inquiries concerning the welfare and whereabouts of U.S. citizens in Iran;
• Rendering assistance in times of distress or physical danger;
• Providing U.S. citizens with passport and Social Security card applications and other citizenship forms for processing at the U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland;
• Performing notarial services;
• Taking provisional custody of the personal effects of deceased U.S. citizens; and
• Providing Social Security Administration assistance to retired U.S. citizens residing in Iran.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Iran for information on U.S.-Iran relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Before traveling to Iran, please consider the current Travel Advisory .

The Travel Advisory for Iran is Level 4, Do Not Travel. The Department of State recommends U.S. citizens do not travel to Iran due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest of U.S. citizens. Exercise increased caution due to wrongful detentions. 

Iranian authorities continue to wrongfully detain and imprison U.S. citizens, particularly U.S.-Iranian dual nationals, on charges including espionage and posing a threat to national security. Iranian authorities have also prevented the departure of U.S. citizens from Iran. U.S. citizens of Iranian origin should consider the risk of being targeted by authorities before planning travel to Iran. Iranian authorities routinely deny dual nationals access to the Foreign Interests Section of the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran because they consider dual nationals to be solely Iranian citizens.

U.S. passports are valid for travel to Iran. However, U.S.-Iranian dual nationals must enter and exit Iran on Iranian passports. As indicated above, the Iranian government does not recognize dual nationality and will treat U.S.-Iranian dual nationals solely as Iranian citizens. Iranian authorities may consider some U.S. citizens – even those without Iranian passports who do not consider themselves to be Iranian – to be Iranian nationals.  

U.S. government employees, including contractors, are strictly prohibited from traveling to Iran without prior authorization from the Department of State.

U.S.-Iranian dual nationals should obtain, in their Iranian passports, the necessary visas for the countries they will transit on their return trip to the United States so that if the U.S. passports are confiscated in Iran, they may depart Iran with their Iranian passports. These individuals can then apply for new U.S. passports in the country they are transiting.  

U.S. citizens residing in Iran on permanent resident visas must obtain an exit permit each time they depart Iran, regardless of the period of stay. All Iranian passport holders are required to pay an exit tax. More specific information on Iranian passport and exit permit requirements may be obtained from the Iranian Interests Section of the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C.

The Iranian civil code states that women who marry Iranian men acquire Iranian nationality. If the marriage takes place in Iran, the woman’s U.S. passport may be confiscated by Iranian authorities. A woman must have the consent of her husband to leave Iran or, in his absence, consent from another suitable authority. The Foreign Interests Section of the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran can provide only limited assistance if a U.S. citizen woman married to an Iranian man encounters difficulty in leaving Iran. In addition, if marriage to an Iranian citizen is not officially recognized by the Iranian government, the couple will be committing the crime of adultery if they travel together, the maximum penalty for which is death.

Please contact the Swiss Embassy or appropriate Iranian authorities for special circumstances cases involving divorce and custody rights in Iran.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Iran. If you intend to reside in Iran, you must submit to a blood test, which may include an HIV test, in order to apply for a residency permit. Permits will be refused if the HIV test is positive.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

As noted in the Travel Advisory for Iran, U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Iran face a significant threat of kidnapping or arrest and detention on spurious charges.

U.S. citizens who travel to Iran despite the Travel Advisory should exercise caution throughout the country, but especially in the southeastern region where foreigners have been victims of criminal gangs. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to areas within 100 kilometers of the border with Afghanistan, near the Iraq border, and generally anywhere east of the line from Bam and Bandar Abbas toward the Pakistani border.

Terrorism: In Iran, there is potential for death or injury because of terrorist attacks. Violent extremist groups, including U.S. government-designated terrorist organizations, operate in Iran. ISIS and affiliated groups have claimed responsibility for bombings and other attacks in Iran. The threat of terrorist activity persists, as does the risk of death or injury to bystanders. Additionally, Iran is a designated state-sponsor of terrorism.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Foreigners occasionally become victims of petty street crime, including robberies and bag-snatchings, in Iran. There have been reports of robberies by police impersonators, usually in civilian clothing. Insist on seeing the officer’s identity card and request the presence of a uniformed officer/marked patrol car. Travelers should take the following precautions:

• Do not surrender any documents or cash;
• Make a copy of your U.S. passport (biographical data page and the page with your Iranian visa) and keep it separate from your original passport;
• Do not carry large amounts of hard currency while on the streets;
• Keep important documents such as passports and valuables in hotel safes or other secure locations;
• Take pre-booked taxis, which are safer than those hailed from the street;
• Check with your hotel or tour guide for information on local scams; and
• Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, purchasing them may also violate local law.

Demonstrations occur sporadically. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Past demonstrations have turned violent.

• As demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Iranian security personnel may at times place foreign visitors under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, computers, fax machines, and other electronics may be monitored, and personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. The Iranian authorities may also confiscate cell phones, computers, and other devices. U.S. citizens should consider not taking electronic devices to Iran or deleting personal information from them beforehand.

Disaster Preparedness: Iran is prone to earthquakes, many of them severe. To learn more about the seismic regions of Iran, including the most recent earthquakes, please visit the U.S. Geological Survey website .

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime:

Report crimes to the local police by dialing 110 and contact the Embassy of Switzerland’s Foreign Interests Section at (98) (21) 2254-2178. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Iran is: 115 for ambulance service, 125 for fire, and 110 for police. English speakers, however, are generally unavailable.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

The Department of State, through the Embassy of Switzerland’s Foreign Interests Section, can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport;
• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms;
• Provide a list of local attorneys;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States; and 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy of Switzerland’s Foreign Interests Section for assistance. U.S. citizens should note that the Foreign Interests Section may be able to provide limited assistance only and that Iranian law does not prohibit domestic violence.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Long prison terms and solitary confinement are common as are punishments including execution, amputation, flogging, blinding, stoning, and fines. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Examples of local laws that you may be unfamiliar with include:

• Former Muslims who have converted to other religions, as well as persons who encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and possible execution;
• Drinking, possession of alcoholic beverages, and drugs are illegal. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Iran are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Iran executes many people each year on drug-related charges. Penalties for the possession, use, or smuggling of alcoholic beverages may include fines, jail time, or flogging;
• Men and women must adhere to the government-sanctioned dress code; this includes covered hair, arms, and legs for women. The government considers the failure to adhere to its dress code and public displays of affection to be crimes;
• Relations between non-Muslim men and Muslim women are illegal, as are adultery and sex outside of marriage, which are punishable by the death penalty;
• Data storage devices (e.g. DVDs, SD cards) depicting sexual relations and magazines showing unveiled women are forbidden;
• Photography near military and other government installations is strictly prohibited and could result in serious criminal charges, including espionage, which carries the death penalty;
• Importation of pork products is banned; and
• Insulting the government or Muslim faith is strictly forbidden, including on social media. Such violations of Iranian law may result in imprisonment.

Carry a copy of your U.S. passport (biodata page and page with Iranian visa) and some other form of identification with you at all times so that, if questioned by local officials, proof of U.S. citizenship is readily available.

If you are arrested while in Iran, request that the police and prison officials notify the Foreign Interests Section at the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran immediately to ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances. Under Iranian law, detainees may also request legal representation, although the authorities sometimes fail to allow timely access to attorneys. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Iran-U.S. Claims Tribunal: The Iranian government reportedly has the names of all individuals who filed claims against Iran at the Iran-U.S. Claims Tribunal at The Hague pursuant to the 1981 Algerian Accords. In addition, the Iranian government reportedly has compiled a list of the claimants who were awarded compensation in the Iran Claims Program administered by the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission. The Iranian government has allegedly been targeting award-holders who travel to Iran. Some former claimants have reported being questioned by Iranian authorities upon their entry into Iran as to the status of payment of their respective awards with a view to recouping the award money. The Iranian government has also reportedly threatened to prevent U.S. claimants who visit Iran from departing the country until they repay their award.

Dual Nationality: U.S. citizens who also possess Iranian citizenship are subject to laws that impose special obligations on citizens of Iran, such as military service or taxes. Iranian-citizen males aged 18-34 are required to perform military service, unless exempt. Young men who have turned 17 years of age will not be allowed to leave Iran without completing their military service.

Money: Non-Iranian credit cards and bank cards cannot be used in Iran. You will not be able to access U.S. or foreign bank accounts using ATMs in Iran. You can exchange U.S. dollars for rials, either at banks or with certified money changers. There is no Western Union or similar institution, and bank transfers are not possible. Due to economic sanctions on Iran, U.S. financial institutions have been known to block or freeze accounts accessed via the Internet from Iran.

Communication: Pre-paid overseas calling cards are available at most newsagents. The Internet is widely used in Iran. There are Internet cafes in most hotels; however, usage may be monitored. The Iranian government blocks access to many social media sites.

Sanctions: U.S. government economic sanctions prohibit most economic activity between U.S. citizens and Iran. The U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has posted to its website frequently asked questions (FAQs) that provide guidance on U.S. sanctions related to Iran. For further information, consult OFAC’s Iran sanctions resource page or contact OFAC’s Compliance Programs Division at 202-622-2490 or obtain information via fax at 202-622-0077.

For information concerning licensing of imports or exports, contact OFAC’s Licensing Division at by phone at 202-622-2480 or fax at 202-622-1657.

Faith-Based Travelers: Freedom of religion, belief, or non-belief is not protected in Iran. See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Same-sex relationships in Iran are criminalized and are punishable by death, flogging, or a lesser punishment. LGBTQI+ individuals are often subject to violence and the law does not prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics or recognize LGBTQI+ individuals, couples, or families.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Iran prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities and access to services. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Women in Iran lack certain basic rights such as the freedom to choose their style of dress and restrictions on freedoms of expression and assembly. Gender-based violence is more common in Iran than the U.S., especially in rural areas, and reports of this violence in recent years have steadily increased. “Honor killings” or other harmful practices involving mostly women killed by their male relatives in the name of preserving the family’s “honor” are known to occur. There are also reports of fathers or relatives forcing their female family members to enter a marriage against their will. Domestic violence remains a taboo subject in Iran, and Iranian law does not prohibit domestic violence. Hijab enforcement in Iran is becoming stricter. The Government has deployed Hijab enforcers in public to ensure compliance. Hijab defiance has led to assault, arrest and even death. 

For emergency services in Iran, dial 115.

Ambulance services are

• Widely available but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards;
• Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment; and 
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.  

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Iran.

Basic medical care and medicine are available in the principal cities but may not be available in rural areas in Iran. Medical facilities do not meet U.S. standards and sometimes lack medicine and supplies.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy 

• Companies offering surrogacy services, an unregulated industry, are misrepresenting the security situation in Iran. Private companies that arrange such visits and services put U.S. citizens at risk.
• If you are considering traveling to Iran to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad webpage . Carefully consider the length of time needed to obtain a newborn’s required civil documents to avoid any unintended overstay of your visa.

Air Quality

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Iran particularly in Ahvaz, Tehran, and Zabol. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
• Infants, children, and teens;
• People over 65 years of age;
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes; and
• People who work or are active outdoors.

Water Scarcity: Iran has a water scarcity issue throughout the country, largely impacting rural communities. Iran is prone to significant droughts in the hot summer months. In cities outside of Tehran, water may be harder to obtain given the availability in those regions and larger water reserves servicing the capital. Tap water in Iran is relatively safe, however it is recommended to consume bottled water, which is regularly available. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:   While in Iran, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Travelers in possession of International Driver’s Permits may drive in Iran, though the Foreign Interests Section in Iran does not recommend that tourists do so. Iran has a very high rate of traffic accidents, the second highest cause of mortality in the country. Drivers throughout Iran tend to ignore traffic lights, traffic signs, and lane markers. Urban streets are not well lit; it is therefore particularly dangerous to drive at night. Sidewalks in urban areas exist only on main roads and are usually obstructed by parked cars. In residential areas, few sidewalks exist. Drivers almost never yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. If you are involved in an accident, no matter how minor, do not leave the scene; wait until the police arrive to file a report.

Traffic Laws: Iranian authorities sometimes set up informal roadblocks, both in cities and on highways, often manned by young, inexperienced officers who are suspicious of foreigners. Carry identification with you and avoid getting into disputes.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Iran, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Iran’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Iran should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport  website, and the  NGA broadcast warnings website.

Port Security: The Commandant of the Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Iranian ports and has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports having visited ports in Iran. Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Iran should exercise increased caution.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Iran . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Iran travel advice

Latest updates: Risk level – updated information on arrests and detentions; Safety and security – added information on the regional conflict, increased surveillance and the upcoming presidential elections

Last updated: June 19, 2024 14:11 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, iran - avoid all travel.

You should leave by commercial means if you can do so safely. Our ability to provide consular services in Iran is extremely limited.

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Regional conflict

Following the recent escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran, the security situation in the country could deteriorate suddenly. This may also result in travel disruptions, including:

• airspace closures
• flight cancellations and diversions

If you are in Iran:

• exercise caution
• expect heightened security measures
• avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
• monitor local and international media to stay informed of the rapidly evolving situation
• register or update your personal information with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest updates

In the context of recent developments between Canada and Iran, Iranian authorities could take retaliatory measures that could pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians, including Canadian-Iranians.

Canadians in Iran are likely to be subject to increased surveillance by Iranian authorities for activities and behaviours that would be considered innocuous in Canada, including:

• taking photographs in public places
• travelling to remote areas not usually frequented by tourists
• interacting with the local population

Keep a low profile and don’t share your personal information with strangers.

There is no resident Canadian government office in Iran. The ability of Canadian officials to provide consular assistance is extremely limited.

Demonstrations

Presidential elections.

Presidential elections are scheduled to take place on June 28, 2024.

Opposition groups could protest or cause disruptions before, during, and after the elections. Violent extremists could plan to attack polling stations or other public places.

You should leave an area immediately at the first sign of any security disturbance.

Political demonstrations and gatherings may occur.

Large-scale and violent protests took place across Iran in the Fall of 2022 following the strict enforcement of the hijab law by the Iranian authorities. Security forces strongly repressed demonstrators resulting in numerous arrests, injuries and casualties. In some cases, arrested individuals were sentenced to death for charges arising from their participation in the demonstrations.

The situation remains highly volatile and could escalate without notice. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Security forces could use excessive and lethal force to disperse crowds. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Disruptions to telecommunications services, including mobile internet access, may occur during large-scale demonstrations.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local and international media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Border areas

Pakistan and afghanistan.

Bandits in border areas with Afghanistan and Pakistan are usually involved in drug trafficking and use kidnapping to secure the release of group members from prison.

Sistan-Baluchistan, which borders Pakistan, is regularly affected by ethnic conflicts and is also a known route for smugglers. Foreign nationals have been the target of kidnappings.

Terrorist attacks may also occur in this province.

If you decide to travel overland to Pakistan and Afghanistan despite this warning:

• travel only on main roads
• travel in organized groups
• avoid travel after dark

The province of Khuzestan borders Iraq. It is regularly affected by ethnic conflicts. Foreign nationals have been the target of kidnappings.

Border with Iraq is usually closed. It can be opened on a case-by-case basis to allow the passage of certain foreigners or to give refugees access to containment camps located on the Iranian side of the border.

Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan

The borders with Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan are open only to citizens of those countries.

Foreigners travelling in the vicinity of these sensitive borders often attract the attention of local security forces, which can result in short periods of detention.

There is an increased threat of attacks against Western interests and of terrorist attacks in general. The security situation could worsen rapidly and with little warning.

Attacks have targeted:

• foreign interests
• Iranian military and government establishments
• tourist attractions and popular public places
• nightclubs and entertainment venues
• public transportation

Further attacks may occur, and terrorists may also target:

• crowded places
• places with high pedestrian traffic where foreigners may gather
• commercial establishments
• local government offices
• public transit stations
• busy streets
• places of worship

Exercise a high degree of caution at all times.

Kidnapping for ransom can occur, especially in Baluchistan and in the border areas with Afghanistan and Pakistan. Foreign nationals have also been the target of kidnapping.

Use varied and unpredictable routes and schedules when moving from one place to another.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Violent crime affects both Iranians and foreigners.

Thieves often target four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Plainclothes individuals may pose as police officers and ask to see foreign currency and passports. If you are approached, you should politely decline to cooperate but offer to go to the nearest police station.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as flashy jewellery
• Ensure personal belongings, including your passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Carry a photocopy of your passport’s identification page at all times and leave a photocopy with a relative
• Don’t surrender any documents or cash
• Stay in touch with family and friends, especially if you’re travelling alone
• Avoid walking after dark

Women's safety

Women may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Gender-based violence is common in Iran.

Some Canadian and Canadian-Iranian women have been stranded in Iran or mistreated by an Iranian husband or a male relative. Local authorities consider domestic violence to be a private matter and rarely discuss it in public.

Women and children require the permission of the husband, or an Iranian male head of household, to obtain a passport or travel document. They also require permission to leave the country.

The dress code is strictly enforced in Iran. Women must wear a headscarf and a long jacket that covers the arms and upper legs while in public.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country, and city streets are poorly lit. The highway system is relatively well developed.

Trucks run mostly at night, often without headlights. Motorists are reckless and don’t respect traffic laws. They almost never give way to pedestrians at designated crossing points. Parked cars may obstruct sidewalks on main roads in urban areas. Sidewalks are rare in residential areas.

Expect roadblocks and checkpoints.

• Avoid travelling at night
• Consider hiring a personal driver who’s familiar with local conditions
• If you are involved in an accident, remain at the scene until authorities arrive

Public transportation

Most taxis don’t have meters. Drivers often overcharge foreigners.

• Only hire official taxis from agencies or hotel-based companies
• Take pre-booked official taxis, which are safer than those hailed from the street
• Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter
• Never enter a cab if it already has one or more passengers
• Note the licence plate number and name of the driver when you travel
• Immediately communicate this information to family or friends

Railway transport

Trains are comfortable and punctual, but service is limited and slow.

Iran and the United Arab Emirates both claim sovereignty over the islands in the Gulf and the military patrols the waters. Foreigners navigating Iranian waters have been arrested and detained. In September 2019, Iranian authorities specifically called for the seizure of Canadian assets and vessels.

Exercise caution if travelling by sea, including for recreational purposes, particularly around the disputed islands of Abu Musa and Tunb.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Iranian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Canadians can verify this information with the Interests Section of the Islamic Republic of Iran of the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C.

• Interests Section of the Islamic Republic of Iran – Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Iran.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required Pilgrimage visa: required Press visa: required Transit visa: required

Overstaying your visa period may lead to detention, imprisonment and fines. You will be required to remain in Iran until the situation has been resolved.

• E-Visa Portal – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Iran

Transit pass

If you enter Iran with a transit pass issued by an Iranian embassy or consulate abroad, you may have to obtain an Iranian passport to exit the country.

Regional travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Iran because their passports bore an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel. Such a stamp would indicate the traveller entered from Israel.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low.    Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) have been reported in this destination. The risk to travellers is low; MERS is primarily spread through contact with camels or camel-based products (raw milk, meat, urine). It can also spread through close contact, such as when caring for an infected person. 

Avoid contact with animals (especially camels), camel-based products, and wash your hands frequently.

Prevention of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

MERS symptoms range from mild and flu-like to more severe pneumonia-like symptoms, and can result in death.

There is no vaccine or medication that protects against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Air quality

Air pollution can be severe in major cities. It may affect people suffering from respiratory ailments. 

During periods of high pollution:

• consult your doctor before traveling to see if the situation could affect you
• limit your activities outdoors
• monitor local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Iran is under international and Canadian sanctions . While these sanctions don’t prohibit travel to Iran, they could be relevant to your travel.

Legal system

The Iranian legal system differs from the one in Canada.

You may be held for lengthy periods without access to legal counsel or consular officials if you are suspected of or witness to offences.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs and alcohol are severe. Convicted offenders can expect severe penalties, including the death penalty.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Iran is an Islamic theocratic republic. A conservative interpretation of Islamic practices and beliefs is closely adhered to in the country’s customs, laws, and regulations.

Islamic law is strictly enforced. Breach of public morality, non-compliance with dress-code and making disparaging remarks about Islam, the clergy and religious symbols, including on social networks, are considered serious offences. They are punished severely.

Former Muslims who have converted to other religions have been subject to arrest and prosecution.

• Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion at all times
• Be aware of your actions and behaviour

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Dress and behaviour

Iranian customs, laws and regulations reflect the conservative interpretation of traditional and Islamic practices and beliefs adhered to by the Iranian authorities.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

Shorts are considered inappropriate attire for both men and women.

Women should carry a headscarf to cover their head at all times while travelling in Iran.

There are reports indicating that the police are using surveillance cameras to identify and monitor women who don’t wear the hijab in public places, as required by Iranian law. Employers and owners of businesses such as stores, restaurants, cafés and shopping malls face closure and prosecution if they don’t enforce the hijab law.

If you promote unveiling while you are in Iran, you could face criminal charges.

Women who fail to comply with the law may face:

• arrest and detention
• jail sentences
• restricted access to public institutions such as hospitals, schools, airports and other social services .
• restricted access to mobile phones and Internet

Intimate and extramarital relations

Public displays of affection between two people of the opposite sex, especially between a non-Muslim man and a Muslim woman, is not well socially accepted.

If you engage in extramarital relationships, you may be subject to severe penalties, including the death penalty.

Canadian women who register their marriage with the Iranian authorities automatically become Iranian citizens. They are treated as such by Iranian law.

Marriage between an Iranian and a foreigner is subject to the rules of conduct and Islamic laws. As such, an Iranian husband may prevent his wife and children from leaving Iran, even if they are of foreign nationality.

Marriage Overseas

Iranian and Canadian family law systems are significantly different.

Iran doesn’t automatically recognize the orders of Canadian courts in matters of family law.

A Canadian divorce certificate is not automatically recognized in Iran.

You must get the Canadian divorce certificate authenticated by a Canadian Embassy prior to have it sanctioned by an Iranian Court for it to be recognized under Iranian law.

If an Iranian court doesn’t sanction your divorce, and you return to Iran as a woman, your ex-husband may request the Iranian authorities to confiscate your passport. As a husband, authorities may not allow you to leave Iran if you have not paid the dowry to your wife after divorce.

Children custody

Iran isn’t a signatory to The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.

Children of a male Iranian national, including Canadian-Iranian citizens, are in the sole custody of their father. They require their father’s permission to leave Iran.

To avoid any difficulties in Iran, consult a Canadian and an Iranian lawyer before travelling. If you're involved in local legal proceedings such as divorce or custody, seek legal advice regarding your rights and responsibilities.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Iran.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Iran by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Iran to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Iranian law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could also be discriminated against or detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

If you are convicted, you could face corporal punishment, imprisonment or the death penalty.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Iran.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Iran doesn’t legally recognize dual citizenship.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Iran, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

If you're a Canadian-Iranian citizen, you must enter and exit Iran using your Iranian passport. You may also not be able to leave Iran unless you meet certain conditions.

Canadians, particularly dual Canadian-Iranian citizens, are at risk of:

• being arbitrarily questioned, arrested or detained
• having their passport confiscated

Canadian-Iranian dual citizens should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Iran.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Mandatory military service

Military service is mandatory for male Iranian citizens aged 18 to 34, unless exempt. This also applies to dual Canadian-Iranian citizens, even those born in Canada.

If you are a Canadian-Iranian citizen older than 17 years, and planning to visit Iran, check your military service obligation prior to your travel. You may not be allowed to leave Iran without first having completed your military service.

Communications and political activities

Communications are closely scrutinized by local authorities. You may face severe consequences if you discuss, share or publish information on the political situation or criticize the regime in place, including on social media.

Photography

It is prohibited to photograph (including with drones);

• government buildings
• security forces, military and police installations and vehicles
• public buildings, including airports, ports, bridges, embassies and power plants

Such sites are not always well identified. In doubt, seek permission, or refrain from taking the photo.

Always ask permission before taking photographs of local residents.

All luggage may be subject to search upon arrival and departure.

Customs officials may screen your electronic device.

Prohibited items

Possession of prohibited items is forbidden and may result in detention and or imprisonment. Such items include:

• Magazines and DVDs with sexual or explicit content
• Satellite dishes
• Western CDs and film

Pork Products

It’s prohibited to import and consume pork-based products.

The workweek runs from Sunday to Thursday.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Iran is the Iranian rial (IRR).

The economy is exclusively cash-based. Credit cards aren’t accepted in Iran. ATMs exist only for local banking, for the use of Iranians. Due to international sanctions, it’s not possible to transfer funds to Iran using commercial banking system or money transfer company.

• Bring sufficient cash, preferably in U.S. dollars or euros
• Note that U.S. banknotes used must be in crisp condition

Seismic activity

Iran is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes occur.

Severe weather

Dust storms.

The weather is very dry and hot from May to October. Dust storms and sand storms may occur during the summer months.

Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. Poor visibility can also affect flights. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal in some individuals.

If a dust storm is occurring:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to March. During the rainy season, flooding, including flash flooding, can occur.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable, due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor local news and weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 110
• medical assistance: 115
• firefighters: 125 / 123

Consular assistance

There is no resident Canadian government office in Iran. The Embassy of Canada to Türkiye in Ankara has consular responsibility for Iran.

Azerbaijan, Georgia. Offering consular services to Canadians in Iran.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Türkiye in Ankara and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Iran as there's a high risk you could be arbitrarily detained or arrested. 

Iran (PDF 927.2 KB)

The Middle East (PDF 1.45 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 115 or go direct to the hospital.

Mountaineers can also contact the Red Crescent on 112 for help.

Call 110 or visit the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Do not travel to Iran.

Do not travel to Iran as there's a high risk you could be arbitrarily detained or arrested.

• An increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. 
• Regional tensions are high, and the security environment could deteriorate with little or no notice. In an attack or other armed conflict, you should follow the advice of local authorities. See our general advice on protecting your safety ( There’s an armed conflict ).
• Increased tensions in the Middle East may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions and other travel disruptions. 
• Dependants of Australian officials in Iran have been offered voluntary departure to return to Australia.
• Demonstrations and protests are expected. Small, localised protests continue in parts of Iran. Previously, security forces' response to protests has been severe, and many protesters and bystanders have been injured, killed or detained. There has been an increase in the number of foreign nationals arrested during previous protests. Avoid all demonstrations and protests.
• Terrorist attacks could happen anywhere in Iran, including Tehran or other locations frequented by foreigners and tourists. They could occur at any time with little or no warning. Avoid possible targets and areas with a low level of security. Possible targets for attacks include embassies, hotels, places of worship, tourist sites, government interests, military parades and locations, Western businesses and other interests. Take official warnings seriously.
• Australians, including dual nationals, should strongly consider leaving Iran as soon as possible. Foreigners in Iran, including Australians, are at a high risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Foreign and dual nationals have been detained without due process of law. Iran does not recognise dual nationality. Our ability to provide consular support to dual Australian-Iranian nationals is extremely limited. We can't guarantee access to consular services or legal representation if you're detained or arrested.
• There are ongoing disruptions to telecommunications services, including mobile internet access.
• Regional tensions are high and could escalate rapidly. There is ongoing hostility between Iran and Israel, and military tensions between Iran, the US and other countries in the Middle East. The Iran-Iraq, Iran-Afghanistan, and Iran-Pakistan border areas are extremely dangerous.
• Regional and international politics can trigger protests. These may target Western or UN diplomatic missions. Avoid vigils, marches, demonstrations and large public gatherings, as they can turn violent without warning.
• Kidnapping for ransom can occur. Foreign nationals have also been the target of kidnapping. Terrorist groups, drug traffickers, smugglers and bandits are active in the Afghanistan and Pakistan border areas. They often clash violently with security forces. Bombings and shootings occur. Be alert to your surroundings, especially at night. Outside these areas, the level of violent crime is low.
• Women can face unwanted attention and harassment. If you're a woman, take care when travelling alone, particularly at night.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Outbreaks of insect borne diseases such as malaria, tick-borne encephalitis and leishmaniasis occur. Use insect and mosquito repellent.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you engage in high-risk activities.
• Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. These include cholera, typhoid and hepatitis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Significant air pollution occurs in major cities. Sandstorms and dust storms happen often. Get medical advice if you have allergies or breathing difficulties.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use, carry or import illegal drugs. Punishments for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.
• Get professional advice if you're involved in local legal proceedings. In particular, seek advice on matters of family law, such as divorce, child custody and child support.
• Same-sex relations are illegal for both men and women. Penalties include corporal punishment and death.
• Iran has strict codes of dress and behaviour. Women are required by law to wear a headscarf and loose-fitting clothing covering their arms and legs. Men face fewer clothing restrictions but should avoid shorts and sleeveless t-shirts. Close contact between unmarried men and women is illegal, as is being in a de facto relationship. This is particularly the case for interactions between Muslims and non-Muslims. It's against the law to behave in a way that offends Islam, such as encouraging a Muslim to convert.
• Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph military or government sites, critical civil infrastructure and public protests. It's illegal to use drones without authorisation.
• Iran has strict importation laws. You can't import alcohol, pornography, pork products or short-wave radios. It's also illegal to import printed or recorded Western materials, including religious material. You'll need to get permission to bring in certain types of electronic equipment, such as satellite phones, GPS trackers and walkie-talkies.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• We advise Australians not to travel to Iran. If you're in Iran, you should strongly consider leaving as soon as possible. If despite our advice you travel to Iran, you'll need a visa to enter and you'll need to get it before you travel. Contact your nearest  Iranian embassy  for details. 
• Airlines may cancel or reduce their operations into and out of Iran at short notice.
• Some countries have restrictions on travellers coming out of Iran.
• If your passport contains Israeli stamps or visas, Iranian authorities will refuse your entry.
• If you overstay your visa in Iran for any reason, even one beyond your control, you'll incur a fine. The Australian Government cannot pay this fine for you. You must also apply for an exit visa. You can get more information on Iranian visa and exit permit requirements from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bureau for Aliens and Foreign Immigrant Affairs.   
• Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Iran. You'll need a specialised policy.
• The local currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR). Declare any foreign currency you have when you arrive in Iran or authorities may confiscate it when you leave. You can exchange major currencies in all big cities. You can't use international credit or bank cards. You can't transfer money using commercial banks or money transfer companies. Bring enough cash in Euros or US Dollars to cover your stay.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Tehran . The Embassy's working week is from Sunday to Thursday.
• Our ability to provide consular support to dual Australian-Iranian nationals is extremely limited.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Political developments in the region and local political tensions can trigger protests, demonstrations and vigils with little notice. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can potentially turn violent.

Australian embassy staff and their families in Tehran have been advised to monitor their surroundings and avoid protest areas.

Some airlines may cancel flights at short notice in response to security developments - check with your airline.

In late 2022 and early 2023, there were widespread protests across many cities and towns in Iran. Previously, security forces' response to protests has been severe, and many protesters and bystanders have been injured, killed or detained. During past protest periods, there have been increases in the number of foreign nationals arrested. You should avoid all protest activity.

Iranians sometimes protest against some Western and Middle East embassies and UN missions.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

•   avoid demonstrations, protests, large crowds and vigils
•   do not photograph demonstrations, protests, large crowds or vigils
•   monitor media for possible threats
•   plan activities to avoid disruption on national or commemorative days
•   follow the advice of local authorities
•   share your itinerary with family and friends and keep in close contact so they know where you are.

Be prepared to change your plans in case of disruptions.

If civil unrest disrupts transport, ask your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

More information:

•   Demonstrations and civil unrest

Risk of arbitrary detention or arrest

Travellers in Iran, including Australians, are at a high risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. A number of Australians, including dual nationals, have been detained in Iran without due process of law.

There's been an increase in the number of foreign nationals being arrested or detained in Iran.

You may be at greater risk of detention if authorities are suspicious of your activities or background. You could attract the attention of authorities if you:

• study or do other academic activity
• travel outside tourist areas
• are near crowds, demonstrations or sensitive sites
• take photos, except in major tourist sites
• have contact with Iranians who are of interest to authorities
• behave or express views perceived as anti-Iranian, anti-Iranian Government, or that could cause religious offence
• are affiliated with, or have links to, Iranian opposition or other political groups.

Iran does not recognise dual nationality. If you're a dual Australian-Iranian national and are detained in Iran, our ability to provide consular support is extremely limited.

The Australian Government may not be notified if you're detained. We can't guarantee consular access to any Australian detained or arrested. We also can't guarantee access to legal representation.

If you're in Iran, you should leave immediately.

• Advice for dual nationals
• Fact sheet: Arrested or jailed overseas   

Security situation

Regional tensions are high, and the security situation could deteriorate quickly with little or no notice. This may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations, flight diversions, and other travel disruptions. 

The security situation in Iran remains volatile. Tensions in the region are high and may escalate further, due to ongoing hostility between Iran and Israel, and military tensions between Iran, the US, and other countries in the Middle East.

If despite our advice you go to Iran, or decide to stay there, monitor media for possible threats and take extra precautions for your safety:

• keep a low profile.
• keep in contact with family and friends
• don't travel alone or at night
• check routes before you travel
• don't put your travel or other plans on social media
• work with only reliable, registered and authorised organisations and travel agencies
• don't carry large amounts of cash

Airlines may cancel or reduce their operations to and from Iran at short notice.  If tensions escalate, your options to leave may be limited. The Australian Government may not be able to assist with your departure. Check the latest flight status with your airline or travel provider and make arrangements in case you can’t leave. Share those plans with family and friends.

Iranian authorities are active in and closely monitor border areas with Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The security situation within 10km of the Iran-Iraq border is extremely dangerous.

Do not visit military or nuclear sites; these are not always clearly marked. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media.

A terrorist attack could happen anywhere in Iran at any time, including in Tehran. 

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).

On 26 October 2022, a terrorist attack on the Shah Cheragh Shrine in Shiraz killed at least 14 people and injured 40 others.

Possible targets for attacks include:

• places of worship
• tourist sites
• government interests
• military parades and locations
• Western businesses and other interests

To stay safe from terrorist risks:

• be alert to possible threats throughout the country
• avoid places where there is a low level of security and possible target areas
• monitor the media for new threats
• report suspicious activity or items to police
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack:

• leave the area as soon as it's safe
• avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Kidnapping for ransom is a risk in Iran. Foreign nationals have been targeted. The kidnapping risk is heightened in the border areas with Afghanistan and Pakistan, including in the area east of Bam, Jask, and the Sistan and Baluchestan provinces. Terrorists, drug traffickers, smugglers and bandits are active in these regions.

Kidnapping happens with political, ideological and criminal motives. 

To reduce the risk of being kidnapped: 

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings 
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk 
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures 
• vary your movements and don't set patterns
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone 
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location  
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs 
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours 
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

Violent crime

The level of violent crime in Iran is generally low, but petty crime is increasing due to the worsening economic situation.

Terrorists, drug traffickers, smugglers and bandits are active in the border areas near Afghanistan and Pakistan. This includes: 

• Sistan and Baluchestan province
• east of the city of Bam in Kerman province

Violent incidents often occur in these areas, such as:

• clashes between security forces and smugglers

Travel at night in these areas is particularly dangerous.

Be alert to your surroundings, especially at night. Don't draw unwanted attention to yourself.

Petty crime

There have been increasing reports of thieves in passing vehicles and on motor bikes snatching bags from pedestrians, home break-ins and robberies. 

Women can face unwanted attention and harassment. Women  should take care travelling alone, particularly at night.

Scams and fraud

Men may approach foreigners and claim to be plain-clothes police. They say they're looking for foreign drug dealers and ask to see wallets and ID.

If this happens, it could be a scam . Ask a uniformed police officer for help.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Climate and natural disasters

Earthquakes and severe weather occur in Iran.

If a natural disaster happens:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

Earthquakes  

Iran is in an active seismic zone and experiences frequent earthquakes . There have been several major earthquakes in recent years.

Aftershocks often follow a major earthquake. They can cause further damage to already weakened structures.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Severe weather

Iran experiences extremely high temperatures.

The temperature in some areas can reach over 50˚C in July and August, the hottest months of the year.

Some regions have heavy snowfall during winter.

Sandstorms and dust storms occur regularly.

Flash flooding can occur, particularly in Spring.

Travel insurance

If despite our advice you plan to travel to Iran, you'll need a specialised travel insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Iran. Check that Iran is not excluded from your cover because of sanctions or its travel advice level of 'do not travel'.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care. The Australian Government won't pay for any costs or organise evacuation.

If you can't get or afford  travel insurance , you should not travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some specialised medicines are in short supply in Iran.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Iran. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Medical evacuation may be difficult.

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is endemic outside the major towns in Iran's south and west.

Other insect-borne diseases are common, including:

• leishmaniasis
• tick-borne encephalitis

Ticks are most active in spring, summer and autumn.

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS is a risk.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur, such as:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Air pollution

Significant air pollution occurs in major cities. Sandstorms and dust storms occur regularly.

Get medical advice if you have allergies or breathing difficulties.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities varies. Facilities in remote areas are extremely limited.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities, such as London or Dubai. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and may not be possible.

Medical tourism

Medical tourism including for cosmetic operations is common in Iran. The standard of medical service providers can vary. If you're considering getting medical treatment in Iran, you should research and choose your medical service providers carefully. Serious post-surgery complications and deaths have occurred.

You should discuss your plans with your Australian doctor or specialist before committing to getting procedures done in Iran.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. 

Iran does not recognise dual nationality. If you're an Australian citizen with Iranian nationality, our ability to provide consular assistance is extremely limited.

The Australian Government may not be notified if you're detained. We can't guarantee consular access to any Australian detained or arrested. We also can't guarantee access to legal representation of your choice.

Penalties for importing and possessing drugs are severe and include the death penalty.

Authorities have executed foreigners for drug-related offences in recent years.

Carrying or using drugs

Get professional advice if you're involved in local legal proceedings. In particular, seek advice on matters of family law, such as:

• child custody
• child support

Know your rights and responsibilities.

Penalties for serious offences include death and corporal punishment. Same-sex relations are considered serious offences.

These activities are illegal in Iran:

• homosexual acts for both men and women
• close contact between unmarried men and women
• being in a de facto relationship
• failing to meet the legal dress code
• importing alcohol, pornography, pork products or short-wave radios
• importing printed or recorded Western material, including those with a religious theme

Local authorities consider domestic violence to be a private family matter. Iranian law does not prohibit domestic violence.

Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Dress and behaviour

Iran has strict Islamic codes of dress and behaviour.

It's illegal to behave in a way considered to offend Islam. For example, you must not encourage Muslims to convert to another religion.

In public women are required by law to wear:

• loose-fitting clothing to cover arms and legs
• a long coat
• a headscarf

If you fail to follow these dress requirements, you may be detained, fined or denied access to government and other services.

In public men should not wear shorts or sleeveless T-shirts.

Photography

You cannot photograph sensitive sites or events, including:

• military and nuclear sites
• government buildings and installations
• critical civil infrastructure
• public demonstrations

Electronic equipment

It's illegal to use drones without authorisation.

You will need permission to bring in a range of electronic equipment, including:

• satellite phones
• GPS trackers
• walkie-talkies

Unauthorised use may result in arrest or detention. Tracking software installed on mobile phones, tablets or other computer equipment may attract the attention of authorities.

For advice, contact your nearest Iranian embassy or consulate .

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Iran doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual national, you may be at greater risk of arbitrary arrest or detention. Our ability to provide consular assistance is extremely limited.

If you're arrested or detained, it's highly unlikely the Government of Iran would:

• allow us to give you consular services
• notify the Australian Embassy that you've been arrested or detained.

Under Iranian law, Iranian dual nationals must enter and exit Iran on their Iranian passport. Iranian immigration officials routinely confiscate the foreign and Iranian passports of dual nationals. D ual nationals will not be able to depart Iran without their Iranian passport.

If you're an Australian-Iranian dual national, authorities may not allow you to leave Iran if:

• you're male and you haven't completed military service
• you're female and you don't have permission from your husband or a senior male relative to leave Iran
• you're male and have not paid back the dowry to your wife after divorce

We advise you not to travel to Iran if you are dual Australian-US or Australian-Israeli citizen, in line with those countries' advice to their citizens.  For other nationalities, you should check with the relevant country’s travel advice for advice about your risks.

• Dual nationals
• US travel advice for Iran
• UK Government travel advice for Iran

Local customs

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan  is observed in Iran. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visitor visa

If despite our advice you decide to travel to Iran, you'll need a visa to enter. You must apply for a visa before you travel. Contact  Iranian embassy  in Australia to apply.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the embassy of Iran for details about visas, currency, customs and other travel requirements.

The Government of Iran issues Iranian visas. The Australian Embassy can't intervene in visa matters, including visas on arrival.

If you overstay your visa in Iran for any reason, even one beyond your control, you'll incur a fine. The Australian Government cannot pay this fine for you. You must also apply for an exit visa. You can get more information on Iranian visa and exit permit requirements from the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bureau for Aliens and Foreign Immigrant Affairs.

• Embassies and Consulates of Iran

Other formalities

If your passport has evidence you've travelled to Israel, such as an Israeli exit or entry stamp, authorities will refuse you entry to Iran.

Strict import restrictions apply.

If you're a dual national, you may not be able to leave Iran unless you meet certain conditions.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport isn't valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible.

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR).

Declare any foreign currency you have when you arrive in Iran. If you don't, authorities may confiscate it when you leave.

You can change major foreign currencies in all major cities. However, recent government action has made it harder to change money in exchange bureaus.

You can't use international credit or bank cards.

You can't transfer funds into Iran using:

• the commercial banking system
• a money transfer company 

Bring enough cash in Euros or US Dollars to cover your stay.

Local travel

Driving permit.

To drive in Iran you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get an IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Iran has one of the highest rates of road accidents in the world.

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Iran than in Australia. Road accidents are a common cause of death and injury.

Hazards include bad roads and poor driving standards.

If you plan to drive:

• check you have enough insurance cover
• ensure you understand local traffic laws and practices
• don't drink and drive

Pedestrians should exercise extreme caution when crossing roads, as traffic can be very congested and road-users unpredictable or undisciplined.

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you for using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle. 

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis and limousines. Book them through your hotel.

Public transport

Iran is serviced by extensive bus and rail options. Road conditions and road safety vary across the country. Rail services are more limited and slower.  Public transport  in the main cities is often very crowded.

The Gulf has many areas with security issues and territorial disputes. Authorities may inspect, detain and arrest vessels.  Foreigners navigating Iranian waters have been arrested and detained.

Piracy occurs in the Gulf.

Check the International Maritime Bureau's  piracy report .

The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) hasn't audited air safety authorities in Iran.

The EU has operational restrictions in place for some of Iran Air's fleet. The airline hasn't met the EU's international safety standards.

Ageing planes on many of Iran's domestic air services create serious safety concerns.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Iran's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network .

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

English speakers are generally not available.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Tehran.

Australian Embassy

No.11, Yekta Street Bahar Street, Shahid Fallahi Street Valie Asr Avenue Tehran, Iran

Phone: +98 21 7206 8666 Fax: +98 21 7206 8777 Website: iran.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australia in Iran Instagram: @AustraliaInIran

The Embassy's working week is from Sunday to Thursday.

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours, scheduled Embassy holidays and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas

1300 555 135 in Australia

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Iran Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Iran.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Iran.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Iran. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Iran.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Iran.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Iran, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

• Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
• May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Iran, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Iran. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Iran include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Iran. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Iran’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Iran. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Iran may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Iran, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Iran for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, 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 . 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Iran.  

Passport validity requirements 

If you visit Iran against FCDO advice, your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date you arrive. It’s not possible for British nationals or dual nationals to apply for a UK passport in Iran. 

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their 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. 

Visa requirements 

You need a visa to enter Iran as a visitor. 

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 are at risk of being detained.  

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

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 that to get a visa you must either apply as part of an organised tour, or have a sponsor in Iran. Check with the Iranian Embassy in the UK for more information. 

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

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

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Iran guide . 

Dual nationality 

Iran does not recognise dual nationality. Dual nationals are considered Iranian nationals by Iranian authorities. All Iranian nationals must travel to and from Iran using an Iranian passport.  

You may also be required to demonstrate to the Iranian airport 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.   

Holding a British passport can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to question you. The Iranian authorities have shown a pattern of hostility towards the UK and its citizens. 

Being considered an Iranian national 

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

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken 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. This is assumed to be the case by Iranian immigration authorities 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. 

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Why you should travel to Iran as an American (and what to expect)

Packed with over 5,000 years of history, Iran is a destination everyone must experience at least once in their lifetime. From the ancient Persian Empire to the Zoroastrians temples, the countless mosques, and even the modern cities like Tehran, there is so much to see that one visit will not be enough.

After traveling to Iran on Intrepid Travel’s 14-day Iran Adventure trip, I shared my experience with many of my friends. Most of them replied with a similar response, “I’d love to go to Iran!”

This is a common response among travelers, yet not many actually plan a trip to the country due to misinformation, lack of information, or fear.

Sunrise at Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Esfahan

To encourage you to plan a trip to this wonderful destination, I’ll share with you a few reasons why you should travel to Iran as an American, debunk a few myths, and tell you what to expect there.

No, they don’t hate Americans

Contrary to what you see in the media, Iran is one of the friendliest and culturally-rich countries you’ll ever visit. And no, they do not hate Americans or any other Western nation. That’s just fear-mongering and it is far from reality.

READ MORE: 6 COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT TRAVEL IN IRAN

When I arrived, I debated how open I wanted to be about my nationality. But as soon as I met Nadia, our Intrepid Travel guide, she put to rest any mild concerns I had about sharing openly that I’m American. No one has an issue with it.

Intrepid leader, Nadia

MEET NADIA, THE INTREPID LEADER WHO WILL CHALLENGE YOUR PRECONCEIVED NOTIONS ABOUT IRAN

As we traveled the country, countless locals approached me and my other tour companions to chat with us. They were all curious to know about us, our life in our respective countries, and how we were enjoying Iran. On our part, we were just as curious to learn about them, so we fed each other’s curiosities over tea and casual chatting.

One of my favorite random encounters happened just before leaving Iran. I spent my last few hours in the country visiting the Azadi Tower, where I met a few early 20-something local guys. As soon as one of them learned I was American, he expressed with joy how much he’d love to visit the US and shared his vast knowledge of the country. In fact, he was wearing an American flag bandana.

Everywhere you go, you always feel that warm welcome Iranians are known for.

Azadi Tower in Tehran

The visa process is extensive, but worth it in the end

Yes, the visa process is more complicated than in many other countries, but it should not be a deterrent to visiting Iran. Due to the current political environment, Americans are having a tougher time to get their tourist visas approved, but still, it is possible to get them. Thankfully, Intrepid Travel helps you get your visa by guiding you every step of the way with their visa application form.

HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE VISA SITUATION

Once you get the visa, set foot in the country, and experience everything it has to offer, you’ll see that that the extra process was all worth it.

There’s so much history to be learned and experienced

As the host to one of the oldest civilizations in history, Iran has no lack of ancient ruins and historical sites. Everywhere you go, you’ll be surrounded in hundreds, if not thousands of years of history.

Gate of All Nations in Persepolis

From the Elamite Kingdoms, to the Persian Empire, Alexander the Great’s conquest, the Arab invasion, and even the 1979 revolution, each city you visit will show you a piece of the historical puzzle and how they played a part in the development of Iran as we know it, its neighboring countries, and even the rest of the world.

One of my favorite experiences on this trip was spending a night at the Zein-o-din Caravanserai. A caravanserai is an ancient fortress-like facility used by merchants traveling along the silk road around 450 years ago. They would spend the night there to rest, feed their camels, and trade goods before continuing their journey. Today, this one caravanserai is open for us to spend the night right where merchants used to sleep.

BROWSE INTREPID TRAVEL’S RANGE OF TRIPS TO IRAN

You’ll experience a positive culture shock

I think some of the best travel destinations are the ones that teach you something new through experiences, and Iran has no shortage of that. The level of culture shock in the country is significant, but in a positive way. You’ll see how, despite their current economic and political status, Iranians still welcome you with a smile and the warmest hospitality you could hope for.

You’ll be welcomed with an abundance of food, too!

You’ll see how women are proud of their trendy fashion, how their carpet artistry is among the finest in the world, how the nomadic culture is still alive, how their local markets are the center of activity, and how families gather at parks and squares to picnic at night until well past midnight (it can get too hot to picnic during the day).

You’ll also see how religion is deeply tied to their society and the many intricate details that make their culture unique. You’ll see all kinds of people, from the most conservative to the most liberal, and the beauty of all of them coexisting in one place.

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It’s good to be ambassadors of our country

As I mentioned previously, locals will talk to you and ask you about life in the US or your country. This is our opportunity to show them who we really are not only as a Western nation but also as humans. There is no better way to learn about a country than by talking firsthand with locals, the people who live and breathe their country every day. They will share with you their proudest moments, their struggles, and their desires.

Locals in the vegetable market in Shiraz

Another fear-mongering myth is that Iran is not safe. But again, it is the opposite. Locals aren’t looking to harm, kidnap, or threaten Americans. I never felt in danger, not even when I walked on my own in the city of Esfahan past midnight.

Traveling solo is safe, but as Americans, you will be traveling on a tour (since it is required), so that’s even another safety layer.

TRAVEL STORY: “I’VE CYCLED THROUGH OVER 40 COUNTRIES; HERE’S WHY IRAN STANDS OUT”

There’s no alcohol, pork, and no American/Western chains

For good or for bad, alcohol has been banned in the country since the revolution in 1979. Pork isn’t found either, but this is more because of Islamic customs. American and Western chains are not found in the country due to economic sanctions and the complicated political relationship Iran has had with the Western world for decades now.

Esfahan – one of Iran’s many unique and compelling destinations

What you will find, though, are knock-off versions of popular fast foods like McFood, a different KFC, Burger Queen, and so on. It’s fun to see how they reinterpret and adopt the Western culture not only on their food but also on their fashion and entertainment too.

There is so much more to be discovered and experienced in Iran and no post will compare to the beauty of seeing it all firsthand. If you are as intrigued by the country as I was before I went there, I’ll tell you, it will impress you and possibly even surpass your expectations. At least, it surpassed mine.

Ready to visit this incredible destination for yourself? Check out Intrepid’s small group tours in Iran.

Further reading

• Travel to Iran: a 2019 visa update for US, UK and Canadian citizens
• Everything you need to know before visiting Iran
• Why you should visit Iran now, more than ever
• 5 unique experiences you shouldn’t miss in Iran
• What to wear in Iran: a packing guide

(All images courtesy of the writer, Norbert, and taken on Intrepid Travel’s Iran Adventure trip.)

Feeling inspired?

Norbert Figueroa

Norbert Figueroa is an architect from Puerto Rico who hit pause on his career in 2011 to travel the world long-term. So far he’s traveled to over 125 countries in hopes of achieving his goal of visiting all 195 UN-recognized countries. You can follow his adventures at globotreks.com and on Facebook and Instagram @globotreks.

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Home » Middle East » Iran » Travel Safety

Is Iran Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

A country of deserts, beautiful mosques, the ancient ruins of  Persepolis,  and a whole lot more awaits you in incredible Iran. Seriously, this is an amazing destination that’s made even more awesome by the strength of its  extremely friendly  people.

Not so friendly is the  Iranian government itself.  This country is basically run by an authoritarian government which is accused of human abuses. Iran has also had its own trouble with  terrorists  as well as  border disputes,  and most recently there are tensions with the West.

There are a whole lot of things about Iran that would understandably have you wondering, “Is Iran safe to visit?”

This is where we show you how Iran is accessible to almost all travelers. We’re all about  smart travel  – and so is this guide.

There are a whole lot of topics that we’re going to be dealing with. From whether or not it’s safe for solo female travelers to be visiting Iran, to whether or not you should be driving in Iran, we’ve got it covered. Throughout, we’ll give special consideration for whether Iran is safe to visit  right now . So let’s have a look.

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How Safe is Iran? (Our take)

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Ancient civilizations to learn about, some pretty amazing  food and friendly hospitable people. Off the radar it may be, but backpacking Iran is utterly amazing.

And as you knew before you landed on this guide, Iran isn’t without its problems

Tell people you’re going to Iran  and you’ll be raising a few eyebrows.

Tourism took a nosedive after the  Iranian Revolution.  And then decreased EVEN MORE after the  Iran-Iraq War  in the 1980s. It’s now back on the rise though.

Surprisingly, Iran is very safe. The crime levels are very low. 

There are things like earthquakes to watch out for, but that’s comparable to the risk in many parts of the world.

Most of all though it’s important to remember that  Iran is a theocracy.  It’s governed by Islamic laws. That means travelers have to possess cultural sensitivity for a lot of things… which we will address.

There are no-go areas in Iran. It borders Iraq .

There were protests in June 2018 at the  Grand Bazaar in Tehran.  Being near demonstrations is dangerous in any country, especially if it’s not your own. Don’t let your curiosity put you in danger.

Terrorist attacks have happened in recent years. However, these are less frequent than in the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Iran Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Iran. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Iran.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

We said tourism is on the rise, and we weren’t joking. That’s  6 million tourists  in 2017, up from 3.6 million  in 2011 . That’s  a lot for a country that people are pretty paranoid  about!

The most-cited issues for the country are human rights issues , drug trafficking , and human trafficking . We  can’t say “all is well in Iran,” and we don’t want to diminish the situation of Iranian people who have to deal with national and day-to-day issues that tourists won’t experience.

We’re only going to speak about travelers, and as a traveler, you get to experience the country uniquely – its best side , if you will. It’s full of sights and food and history and tradition.

The Iranian government (despite its flaws) has taken steps to make sure tourists have this unique experience. There are very helpful tourist police  who speak English, in cities such as  Shiraz, Mashhad,  and Esfahan.  Tourism is growing and helping the country. Therefore crime against  foreigners  is also very rare.

The most crime you’ll see is a bit of  petty theft  in a crowded bazaar.

So Iran is safe to visit right now. In fact, people will be super happy to see you in their country. You’ll be invited to people’s houses. All that sort of stuff.

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Iran, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Iran below.

Tehran is a massive and sprawling city. Its bad reputation has led many travellers to avoid this Middle Eastern megacity for decades. While it’s still not perfect, Tehran has vastly improved in recent years and is now considered one of the up-and-coming cultural capitals of the world

The capital of Iran is also one of the best places for backpackers to party. A popular hub for the young and beautiful, this is a place of risky fashion statements, underground culture, and fascinating history. From its food and museums to its art galleries and cultural institutions – Tehran is a city that is absolutely enchanting. There are also some really great hostels in Tehran for backpackers too.

The heartland of Persian culture for more than 2000 years, Shiraz is famed for its scholars, poets, nightingales, and wine. Home to the impressive Arg-e Karim Khan fortress, this is a city that is best explored on foot. Many tourists only come to Iran to visit this city and we can definitely understand why. 

Since Shiraz is such a tourist hub, you’ll see quite a big police presence on the street. But don’t let that worry you, they’re there to make your stay as safe as possible. If you need any help, don’t hesitate to reach out to them. 

Often referred to as Iran’s Cappadocia, Kandovan is famed for its troglodyte (cave people) dwellings and fairy chimneys. It’s an ancient village that draws a lot of tourists in, however, Iran’s Kandovan is the only cave village worldwide where people still use the caves as their home – so it is definitely worth the visit. There are a few houses offering a basic place to sleep and a super posh hotel carved into the rocks complete with in-room jacuzzis.

It’s an incredible thing to see, especially towards the dark hours when the lights shine out of the stone caves. While it might not be a place to live in, it’s definitely a great experience and should not be missing from your Iran itinerary. 

Places to avoid in Iran

Unfortunately, not all places in Iran are safe. You need to be careful and aware of your surroundings pretty much anywhere you go in the world, and the same goes for visiting Iran. To help you have a safe trip, we’ve listed the areas you need to be more careful of below: 

• ANY border region – it’s best to avoid it. There may be tension, there’s definitely going to be a lot of military, and to be honest, there’s nothing to see anyway. It’s better to stay away!
• The South East – this is closer towards Afghanistan and it doesn’t really offer you anything apart from dull landscapes and loads of risks. 
• Sistan-Baluchistan – The province of Sistan-Baluchistan is home to a conflict between Kurds and Sunni extremists, which fortunately remains much more contained than similar ethnic conflicts in the Middle East.
• Dark side streets – it’s really a no-brainer, isn’t it. If it seems dodgy or sketchy, stay away! 

It’s important to know that Iran can be pretty safe, but a bit of caution and research before you start your travels will go a long way. If you want to increase your safety during your stay, read on for our insider travel tips. Stick to those and you won’t have a single issue in Iran.

Iran Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

So whilst crime levels are low in Iran, and people are friendly, there are some special considerations. There are certain things all travelers can do to improve safety. To help you keep out of trouble in Iran altogether, here are our top travel tips for Iran.

• Don’t speak Arabic  – Iranians are Persian and speak  Farsi.  So learn a few phrases! It will go down very well.
• Carry your ID  at all times  – you have to. Copies of your passport are ok.
• If asked, show photocopies of your passport  – until you can ascertain that the police asking you are genuine  police.
• Get an Iranian Bank Card – non-Iranian cards aren’t accepted at ATMs or anywhere . You  can’t transfer money into the country, period. The easiest and safest way to manage your money is to arrange a card in advance with Mah Card . You’ll get a 40% discount on the already-reasonable commission with the code  brokebackpacker .
• Make sure you have enough cash  – as before, plan ahead with your money. You can keep money and your IDs hidden in a security belt .
• Protect yourself against street crime  – there’s a hot trade in passports, for example, so keep that on lockdown. Be vigilant!
• Be extra careful in big bazaars – crowded places where pickpockets lurk. Watch your surroundings and once again, a money belt gives you a perfectly inaccessible cache of cash.
• Keep away from political demonstrations, big crowds, rallies  – anywhere police have been deployed. You shouldn’t be part of it anyway.
• Protests can occur on Friday after prayers  – if you find yourself out and about at this time, get off the streets.
• Earthquakes happen all the time  – know what to do when one happens. It’s not  Japan;  things aren’t very earthquake-proof.
• During Ramadan, you can’t eat, drink or smoke in daylight hours in public  – even foreigners.
• Dress appropriately  – rules are for tourists here, too. Modest clothing for  everyone.  And women must cover their heads. This is beginning to lighten, but we don’t recommend bending the rules.
• Pretend you’re married  – if you’re an unmarried couple. You won’t be able to share a room otherwise (sex outside marriage is illegal).
• And on the subject  – no homosexual behavior in public. Iran is far from thinking about gay rights. Any homosexual act carries the death penalty.
• Any media depicting ‘sexual relations’ are forbidden  – don’t bring any of that in, then.
• So is a lot of Western media – DVDs, CDs, books. Some of it is illegal. We bet there’s a black market for some of these items though.
• Alcohol is illegal – no bar crawls from your hostels in Iran we’re afraid.
• Take care when snapping pics  – even if you’re only near a military building, you might be seen as a spy. Even  Tehran  train station. Don’t argue if someone stops you and tells you to delete the picture(s). Just tell them you’re a tourist.
• And ask if you’re going to take a picture of anybody  – just polite, isn’t it?
• Digital nomads, beware  – using your laptop in public  is spy-like behavior, apparently.
• No drugs  – foreigners have been executed for drug offenses in Iran.
• If you get arrested – you may not be allowed access to consular assistance or legal representation. Don’t get arrested!
• No-go areas are no-go for a reason  – off the beaten track is not only suspicious in Iran, but  highly dangerous.

Islamic rule may have made Iran a generally safe place when it comes to crime  – or the lack of it – but at the same time, some of those laws are super strict.  You will have to make a big effort to be as ‘normal’ as possible when you’re traveling around Iran. So stick to well-trodden routes, take pictures of ancient ruins, not military installations, and be polite to officials. In the end, none of these concerns should keep you from having an incredible experience.

Yes. Iran is safe to travel alone. And people do travel. In fact, the locals are so friendly that you won’t even feel alone. It’s not unusual to find other backpackers traveling solo through Iran. So those solo backpacking blues almost don’t apply.

Here are our tips to help you travel solo in Iran like a pro!

• Find yourself a well-reviewed hostel or guesthouse.  These can be found along  well-trodden  tourist routes from  Tehran  to  Shiraz  and  Yazd.  It’s a great place to meet other solo travelers doing what you’re doing. Who knows, you might find yourself a travel buddy, too!
• If there are no  hostels  available where you are, an inexpensive local  guesthouse  can usually be found. They’re affordable and more often than not run by super friendly people.
• Join a tour!  Not only will you be able to meet some fellow travelers, but you’ll get to properly learn about Iran – not just read what your guide book is telling you.
• Get a  sim card  for Iran. There are kiosks for just this at  Imam Khomeini International Airport. You’ll be able to use maps and – more importantly – keeping in contact with your friends and family.
• You should definitely stay connected. Going off-grid isn’t cool or clever. So keep in touch with people back home, let them know where in Iran you are, what you’re doing. A good way to keep grounded , too.
• But forget about staying connected through Facebook  or  Twitter.  Unless  you download yourself a VPN service before you go. Do some research on the best ones before making the plunge and downloading something (potentially) shady. Or just use this as a chance to stop spending so much time scrolling and liking.
• As a solo traveler, you’ll be more of a target for petty thieves, so you’ll have to pay extra attention to your surroundings and what’s going on around you.
• And you should talk to the locals!  The ones running your guesthouse or hostel will be more than happy to chat with you. This is also a good chance to ask for some tips on things to do in the vicinity. This could be anything from the best places to eat  to general things to see and do. Great chance to learn more about  actual  Iranians, as well.
• Learning a bit of  Farsi  wouldn’t go amiss either. People will appreciate the effort – definitely.

Iran is safe for solo travelers. Crime is pretty low on the whole and you won’t even have to worry about having no one to talk to;  other backpackers  and  super friendly locals  make traveling around Iran a social experience. Still… travel smart.  In Iran, this means watching out for suspicious characters and not being one yourself.

When you tell people that you’re going to Iran as a solo female traveller you’ll get one of two reactions: “you’re mad” or “you’re brave”. We think it’s just cool. For the most part, Iran IS safe for solo female travelers, but like most places in the world, being a woman means extra to worry about.

There will be annoyances, inconveniences and – of course –  pesky men.  But if you’re a world-traveling female with a few stamps in your passport, you’ll be used to this stuff anyway. Either way, we’ve got some tailor-made safety tips for solo female travelers in Iran.

• There are actual laws on so-called modest dress  and have been in place ever since the  1979 Iranian Revolution.  You’ll have to cover your head in public and wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t show off your body. It is officially called hijab.
• Watch out in certain places, such as  religious sites,  you might also have to wear a  chador . This is extra coverage to make you even more shapeless.
• All that said, don’t worry too much in public. In cities, women wear jeans and heels. No one’s chasing after them because of how they’re dressed. But in more rural areas, more traditional dress applies. As ever, watch what the locals are wearing.
• As a Western woman, most likely you won’t be put under the same scrutiny  as Iranian women. The main thing is to cover your hair. That’s the main rule – even for tourists.
• And also as a Western woman  by yourself , you might be seen as  free and easy  in more ways than just one by some (not all) Iranian men. Be aware of this and you might avoid unwanted attention, i.e. overfriendly men. Have your radar on. To put it into perspective, Iranian women often travel with a male chaperone (usually a member of their family).
• If an Iranian man goes to shake your hand,  that’s cool – reciprocate with your left hand over your heart. BUT if there’s not one going, just leave it – don’t initiate a handshake.
• If you need to ask for directions,  find and ask a local woman.  They’ll be happy to help you.
• Not only is there a  women’s section  at the back of buses in Iran, but there’s also a handy  women’s entrance  too because men cannot share the same door as women. Havoc and mayhem .
• In Iran, women and families areas  exist in restaurants. Women don’t have to sit here, but you might find it more comfortable than the men’s area.
• And on a similar note,  steer clear of teahouses.  These are the male domains of Iran and you will most likely get some harassment for going there as a solo female traveler. Iranian women don’t frequent them.
• If an Iranian guy invites you round his house, that’s fine. But you shouldn’t go if there are none of his female relatives in the house.
• Violence against women isn’t common – or at least you don’t hear much about it – but you may get groped, touched on the bum, that sort of thing, in crowds. The only things to do are remove yourself and then tell someone if the harassment escalates.
• In some cities, such as  Yazd there are  women-only taxi services.  This is a safe way to get around. You can even hire female guides in some places too.
• And make sure that the places you’re staying in Iran have  good reviews  from other solo female backpackers. Doing your research when it comes to accommodation is always important, but favorable reviews from other women is usually a good sign of a great place to stay.
• You can also  meet other female travelers at hostels. Good for chatting, sharing tips, getting rid of solo traveling blues, or even making a travel buddy to explore Iran with.
• Don’t expect to have  sanitary bins  in the toilets. So go prepared with a little bag yourself and dispose of it elsewhere. That said, you  can  find sanitary pads if you need to buy them. Stock up on tampons though.

Women in Iran, especially in the cities, aren’t so different from Western women. That might surprise you. Often they’ll even date like Western people, but they don’t advertise it to the rest of the world. They’re much more  private  about their personal lives. Fair enough.

Surprisingly it IS safe to travel as a solo female traveler to Iran. It’s not without its annoyances, and you MAY find the separation of men and women  a bit weird, but it’s just another way of doing things in this world.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Iran.

Bringing Money into Iran

No debit or credit cards will work in the country and traveller’s cheques are usually not accepted. Don’t try your luck with changing money in-country either. The rates you get will be insane because of your minimal and questionably legal options. This time, it pays to go with a good company and Mah Card is the one that’s helped me get money in and out of Iran.

Mah Card is an Iranian prepaid debit card for travelers in Iran. It’s an equivalent of your usual international credit/debit card (i.e. Visa or MasterCard) with the one major difference that  your card doesn’t work in Iran . Banks in-country either don’t issue cards to foreigners or require a big, thick list of documents that tourists normally don’t carry around!

Check around with exchange rates yourself online to be sure, but we’ve found Mah Card to be pretty trustworthy and they offered Broke Backpacker readers 40% off their commission fee when they use our code, which is (you guessed it):  brokebackpacker . Check them out and get your card here .

Iran is one of the world’s leading countries to get  affordable dental work  done and many people travel to Iran for dental work or cosmetic surgery. You can get cosmetic surgery SUPER CHEAP in Iran and support awesome local people at the same time. Mansoureh, who I know personally, is a top notch dentist with ten years experience and speaks fluent English – you can reach her at  +989358278112  on Whatsapp.

Is Iran safe to travel for families?

If you travel to Iran with your children, be prepared for everyone to literally fall in love with them. Children are a big deal in Iran, and Western children are a huge novelty.

You’ll honestly have to get used to your kids getting showered with attention. Lots of people wanting to take pictures, your kid getting handed around and kissed  a lot (even on the lips) to the point where you might be like, “ok guys, enough’s enough”. That’s doesn’t mean it’s  not safe.  The opposite actually!

And Iran can be a great place to take children. Small children can be quite a challenge, though, as it’s not particularly set-up for babies or small children.

Older kids  will love it though. Seriously, what an adventure!

If you’re traveling with your daughter over 9 years old,  the rules about hijab (head covering and loose clothing) apply.

Eating big meals with family is  normal.  People will be more than happy to help you out at restaurants. They may even be happy to make you child-sized portions that are non-spicy, too! Staying at guesthouses and hotels mean that you’ll have a big breakfast  included.

Seatbelts in the back of cars and baby seats  aren’t common either. Going on a  roadtrip in Iran  with children in tow can be really tricky. You’ll have to plan ahead well. You can also use the  women-only carriages  on the metro in  Tehran  with your children. Only mum, not dad though.

Be aware also that a lot of toilets are  squat toilets  and don’t come with toilet roll. Remember to carry enough hygienic paper for your entire party.

So whilst it’s safe to travel for families in Iran, it’s not the easiest place. 

Is it safe to drive in Iran?

Iran’s got  big, beautiful landscapes  that are ACE for exploring by car. There are some AWESOME roadtrips along the scenic coastline,  hidden villages to unearth, and mountainous routes to wind around. That said… You’ll have to be  pretty brave  to get behind the wheel in Iran.

Drivers can be pretty erratic and aggressive. There’s not a lot of courtesy for other drivers and they often drive at high speeds. Even if you’re being driven around  by somebody, you might have to tell them to slow down  sometimes!

There are other things to worry about too, like roadblocks.  These can be set up in cities or on highways equally. The officers who staff these aren’t always the most experienced, so make sure you have your ID.  And definitely don’t get into any arguments. Just do what they say.

The cities can be hectic. They are traffic-laden and polluted. Intersections in cities can be super busy.  No one really seems to know where they’re going. Crazy beeping horns, buses, and motorbikes that jump red lights  and zip along the sidewalks to get ahead.

As a side note: Women ARE allowed to drive – but not motorbikes, weirdly. Sorry about that.

So in general, unless you really want to, or you’ve got some experience driving in places like this,  we would say just get the train. Even statistically speaking, it’s not really safe to drive in Iran.

Is Uber safe in Iran?

No Uber. Nope.

There IS another option but in  Tehran.  It’s called  Snapp.  This came to the market in 2014 but it’s the same. You hail a taxi from your phone. Download the app, verify a number, and then… Use it like Uber.

You can only pay with cash (unless you’ve got an Iranian debit card).

The good thing about Snapp is that they do have  female drivers  for women and children. So that’s a plus. Other than that, all the other Uber-like benefits are there for Snapp, making it a pretty safe option.

Are taxis safe in Iran?

There are loads of taxis in Iran. However, they’re not always going to be honest.  A lot of the time, you’ll find yourself being ripped off. Don’t expect to see  meters  in the taxis.

There are a few types of taxis.

The safest of them all are agency taxis.  Surprise surprise, they’re also the most expensive. But they are pretty safe. You can call these or get your hotel to arrange one for you. Sometimes the driver might even speak English, too.

In  Tehran  and  Yazd  you’ll find female taxi drivers for females and families, so you won’t have to worry about any dodgy taxi drivers.

You also won’t have to worry about the state of the cars. They’re usually new(ish). Otherwise, there are just  regular taxis  that you can either hire privately or shared.

Any  empty taxi  can basically be ‘chartered’. When you get in the driver will probably ask you:  Dar baste?  This means, ‘Closed door?’ If you say  Nah dar baste   – then you’re up for sharing the taxi. Not up for sharing? Then nod your head. Or say  yes.

Then that taxi is yours ! They’ll take you anywhere you want to go. Like a taxi should, obviously. But go by landmark  rather than a specific address.

But make sure you don’t get ripped off on these. Do not agree on the first fare they give you.  It’ll be astronomically high. Go low and meet somewhere in the middle.

Avoid/ignore hawkers or taxi touts, whatever you want to call them.

Taxis are safe in Iran but there IS a high chance of being ripped off.  Be savvy and do your research on how much things should cost.

Is public transportation in Iran safe?

Like most other things in this country, the public transport in Iran is safe.

Tehran  has a  metro.  Amazing! It’s fairly easy to navigate. There are four lines. But like anywhere, watch your pockets in rush hour. The metro is clean, not too hectic, and pretty cheap. It’s ideal if you’re on a budget. Get yourself a  metro card,  which is handy. Just beep yourself in and out. Fortunately, a lot of the signs are in English.

There are  female-only sections  on the metro. That’s just because that’s how it is here, not because of safety. Use them if you’re a woman, but you don’t have to.

City buses  connect all over the place and make  a lot of stops. Yes, they’re slow and they may not have English information. They can also be quite confusing for tourists. Women enter and sit at the back.

The  BRT  buses in  Tehran  are much better. They have English signage and information. They’re red and have their own lanes. They’re quick, newer, and women sit at the front.

When it comes to  traveling intercity, buses are cheap, frequent, and easy to use to get around.

You can always get a VIP bus. These are more comfortable, quicker, and even come with a SNACK! That snack (and the rest of the perks) comes at a price though, but it’s not going to break the bank.

Intercity buses have  arranged seating.  Women sit next to women, men sit next to men; unless you’re traveling as a couple in Iran.

Train travel  is a whole lot of fun in Iran! The  Trans Iranian Railway  connects the  Caspian Sea  with the  Persian Gulf  and dates back to the 1930s. It’s got a lot going for it. It’s well connected. It’s budget friendly; choose between private cabins or mixed ones.

The only problem is trains often arrive at their destinations in the middle of the night.  No, not the easiest way to arrive at a new place. So you may prefer to take the bus.

But that’s pretty much it . The public transport is safe in Iran.

Is the food in Iran safe?

Food in Iran is wonderfully tasty. There are meat stews like the chicken fesenjen , with pomegranates and walnuts (delicious). There’s the  dizi  (slow cooked beef and vegetables). You can even try camel stew. If you really want to, that is. Basically, there’s a lot on offer.

And then there’s the ever faithful  kebab.  Always a good option. But a lot of travelers find it hard to get into Iran’s food. Not understanding what things are  and being scared to try will mean you won’t discover anything new. So we’ve got some tips to help you out.

• Freshly prepared dishes are your best bet if you want to avoid a bad stomach. Going for something like the  khoresh  – the Farsi word for a stew – might give you some trouble, especially if you’ve got a fragile stomach anyway.
• Breakfast and dinner are pretty small affairs. Lunch fans, you’ll love this:  lunch is the main event.  Expect big portions and people sitting around for a LONG time enjoying it all. You’re going to have to adjust your eating habits accordingly.
• Find restaurants that are  busy with locals.  In Iran as in most places in the world, a restaurant is going to be pretty popular if it’s tasty. It will also be unlikely to be making anyone ill.
• The  bread  is pretty tasty in Iran. It goes with most meals. This big flatbread cooked hot and fresh in a kiln. So if you’re struggling with food, go for some bread. Simple and delicious, as bread should be.
• There’s fruit galore in Iran.  There’s a lot of it. If you’re worried about how they may affect your stomach, then you should steer clear of pretty much everything that you can’t peel yourself.
• A lot of Iranians eat food at  picnics.  Grab something from the market (something freshly cooked), put it in your fridge (hotels pretty much always have one in each room) and head to the parks to join Iranians in their picnicking.
• But during  Ramadan…  You cannot eat in public during daylight hours. Plan in advance. This is the actual law and it applies to tourists as well.
• And WASH YOUR HANDS before you eat. The most simple thing and a very easy way to keep yourself healthy.

Basically, the food in Iran is safe. Food hygiene isn’t much of an issue. A lot of dishes have been cooked hot  – we’re talking stews that have been cooked for 12 hours straight. If you’re really worried, never go to a restaurant that looks dirty or is completely deserted.

And tuck into falafel and figs. Meat might not always be your stomach’s friend in Iran. To be on the safe side, you could always pack yourself some anti-diarrhea medication, and hand sanitizer won’t go amiss, either. In general, the food here is safe and  delicious!

Can you drink the water in Iran?

Water in Iran is mainly safe to drink. That’s the case through  most of the country.

A lot of people who DO visit Iran prefer to drink  bottled water, but please don’t. It’s best to bring along a refillable water bottle and a purification system to save on all that plastic.

We use a filter bottle or a the GRAYL GEOPRESS to make sure our water is clean, but boiling for a few minutes works if you have the supplies and the time.

Don’t drink from rivers and lakes without treating; you can get really sick  from doing that.

Is Iran safe to live?

There’s a lot of propaganda surrounding Iran. Many people in the West assume it’s  hostile  to foreigners. To be fair, the Iranian government does have disagreements with various governments around the world.

However, Westerners DO live in Iran. Most of these are in  Tehran.  This is the obvious choice. It’s more developed and everything you’d expect of a capital city. If you want to live in Tehran , the north of the city is the  affluent area.  We’re talking European style buildings, lower levels of pollution, mountain scenery, and a good selection of amenities.

It’s probably best to avoid South Tehran  as it’s got high pollution levels and a bad reputation.

In terms of safety during daily life in Tehran, the most dangerous thing you’ll have to deal with is  car-based. Crossing the road and heavy pollution are issues. You’ll also have to get used to a  new weekend.

Thursday afternoons and all of Friday will replace Saturdays and Sundays. This can take some getting used to.

Other things to get used to: covering your hair if you’re a female, not wearing shorts, not drinking alcohol, and not really being able to criticize the government.

But Iranian people are very friendly, social, family-oriented people. They’re welcoming and hospitable. You shouldn’t have any problem with your security and safety living in Iran.

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Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Iran?

Unfortunately, there are no Airbnbs in Iran. It’s one of the few countries that do not offer these property rentals. However, there are plenty of incredible hostels that are just as comfy and private as Airbnbs.

Is Iran LGBTQ+ friendly? 

Unfortunately, Iran is as bad as it gets for LGBTQ+ travellers. Unless you want to live completely hidden and go back into the closet, we wouldn’t recommend visiting this country. 

Visiting Iran as anything but heterosexual can lead to heavy punishments and sometimes even persecution. Therefore we can definitely say that it is not LGBTQ+ friendly, or even a slightly bit safe for gay travellers.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Iran.

Is it dangerous to visit Iran?

Unless you stick to the rules, Iran is not dangerous to visit. If you go looking for trouble, you’ll definitely find it. Listen to your gut, do some research on the do’s and don’ts of the culture and you’ll have a great trip.

Can Americans go to Iran?

Yes, Americans can travel to Iran safely, but it’ll take longer and more documents than for other nationalities. The relationship with Iran and the US is still sketchy, but travellers shouldn’t be affected too much by it.

What should you avoid in Iran?

Avoid these things when visiting Iran: – Don’t forget to carry your ID with you at all times – During Ramadan, you can’t eat, drink or smoke in daylight hours in public – Don’t wear anything that goes against the dress code – Avoid using your laptop in public

Is Iran safe for female travellers?

Iran is only safe for female travellers if you follow the rules. Stick strictly to the dress code try to blend in – that’ll definitely keep you out of trouble with local authorities. Make sure to read up on the rules for women in Iran before you start your travels.

We think if you travel smartly, Iran can be a safe destination.

It is in some respects  unfairly vilified.  It’s definitely enemy of the peace in the eyes of the West, but for the most part, this is to do entirely with governments; Governments not agreeing with each other on world issues. There are definitely some alarming things about Iran – the level of political freedom. But when it comes to visiting Iran: it’s safe.

Whether or not it’s a result of strict laws, crime levels are low.  Surprisingly – unlike many other countries in the region – women fare quite well in Iran; in terms of safety, at least. Freedom-wise, we’re not so sure. It’s a pretty interesting place. Like many ‘no-go’ countries, it ends being a fascinating visit because many of us only ever knew it (quite incorrectly) as a demonic place under the crushing rule of Islam.

You may have to be modest in your dress. You can’t eat in public during Ramadan. You’ve got to be careful how you talk to police and government officials. But we haven’t disqualified countries like Singapore and Indonesia because of their strict rules.   Iran is a different country. We mean, it has an actual different weekend! That’s pretty different. And when it comes to difference, we should embrace it as travelers. So go and see what all the fuss is about.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

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I just checked, World Nomads is not currently supporting insurance options for Iran. Do you know why, or have any other recommendations?.

I believe IATA are covering trips to Iran.

As an American citizen do I need to have a government approved guide with me at all times?

If you are intending to visit Iran on an American passport then yes, your visa will only be granted if you join an organised tour from a gov approved agency.

Very nice article. You have covered almost all aspects. I need to also add that for accommodations Iran has a website similar to airbnb called sepanja which covers the entire country and all informations are in English.

In Iran even in villages we have health centers with doctors and nurses serving people.

Iran has large beautiful forests, beaches, waterfalls and lakes too! Especially north of Iran which is mostly forests.

That was interesting that you had all of those informations, but as an iranian, I have to add them some other too . 1-Other cities has metro too: Mashhad , Tabriz , Isfahan, and shiraz has metro too. 2-There are many restaurants that you can eat in the Ramadan ( they are usually marked with a half closed tent on them) 3-Do everything you want, but don’t mess with the government (even after many tourist-supporting rules they may capture you because of taking photos near the military bases . bases exists in the cities and they are usually with a barbed wire on their wall ) 4-Ask locals for help and tips before you travel to every city ( meet them in Instagram or facebook before you travel to iran ) 5-Don’t be afraid of the police, their job is helping people ( but do not go to a place witch is surennded by police and many people are watching and taking photoes and videos (usually something bad happened there)) 6-Don’t worry about language at all, likely 70+% of the people know english here. Children start learning English even from 5 ( the most common language after Farsi and English is Arabic, likely 10% know how to talk Arabic ( 6 years of Arabic book in school but it is a hated book and most of pepole have forgot it ) 7-Don’t even try to drive here ( I’m personally scared of driving here ) 95%(or more) of people drive aggressively, they only want to arive doesn’t matter dead or alive ! just make sure you find a good driver you can ask the hotels staff for a good driver. 8-If you are going to a road trip and you need a restaurant just look for a place that many trucks are there (bus drivers are usually paid for bring the travelers to the restuarant(likely 10% the bill are for them)) 9-if you want to travel between cities train is the best , it has some problems like the arrival time (as Darren said) but bus drivers drive incredibly aggressively and uncarefully because they pay for the time that they are in road so they try to arrive faster 10-ask locals for the tourism sites, they know their country better than the foreigner travel guids! 11-If you got captured by polic (in any low chance) just call your country’s Embassy they will help you (Beware of U.S. has NOT embassy in iran) 12-But most importantly try to get away from the borders (for safety reason) Well, I hope you find this out helpful and if you traveled to Shiraz I could be happy to help you. You can just ask me for it [email protected]

Thanks for taking the time to write up these tips, Mahdi!

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Is Iran safe in 2024?

By Joan Torres 43 Comments Last updated on April 1, 2024

I love Iran and I absolutely enjoyed my time there, not only because this is home to the most striking Islamic architecture and some of the most hospitable people I have ever met but also because Iran is one of the safest countries in the Middle East and in the world .

True story.

This guide is a personal and thorough analysis that will take you through all the reasons why Iran is safe , without forgetting its internal political problems and, of course, a series of super useful safety tips.

In this Iran safety guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• My personal experience
• Sensitive areas
• Safety tips
• How to behave
• Getting arrested
• Solo female travel
• Americans and British in Iran
• Driving in Iran
• More Information

How to book hotels, flights and tours in Iran

Because of the sanctions, foreign cards or popular sites such as booking.com can’t be used in Iran, but now you can thanks to 1stQuest .

1stQuest is a local company that offers services such as visa LOI, hotel booking, tours, domestic flights, and travel insurance for Iran.

5% discount on ALL bookings with voucher code:

Iran is a complex country and, in order to make the most out of your trip, I recommend reading 1 or 2 books about the country. In this list, you can find: The best books about Iran

Is Iran safe? My personal experience

I have been to Iran twice.

The first time, I barely spent 10 days there. 

On the second trip, I spent 2 months. 

Now, I am planning to go a third time, and I am pretty sure there will be a fourth.

Iran is amazing.

On the one hand, the country is huge and it is home to endless different things to see, from dreamy islands to alpine mountains, desert and historical cities. Each and every region has something very different to offer and it would take an eternity to visit everything.

If you want to know the places I visited, check my 1-month itinerary .

On the other hand, Iranians are great people, extremely hospitable, well-educated, kind-hearted and, overall, beautiful people who are very curious to meet foreigners and help them, most of the time expecting nothing in return.

It is one of those countries where you are continuously making local friends.

Tea and house invitations, endless random conversations, sharing street meals…

During my journeys, the local interactions were always great, and genuine, and this is one of the things that will make you realize that Iran is a safe destination, because Iranians make you feel so .

I can’t recommend Iran enough and, based on my wonderful experiences, I am really comfortable saying that this is indeed one of the safest countries I have ever been to.

However, there are a few things you need to know about safety in Iran and this is the reason why I wrote this post. Continue reading to learn more. 

Is it safe to travel to Iran? The situation nowadays

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According to Wikipedia, official sources say that, in 2013, as many as 4.76 million foreigners visited Iran and, since then, the country has increased massively in popularity, which means that the figure may have easily doubled or even tripled – just a guess .

These statistics are just insane for Iran, especially if we take into account that the Western media, especially American, has been portraying the country as the worst, most dangerous and repressive of all countries.

Today, historical Persian cities such as Shiraz , Esfahan or Yazd, are filled with both tourist groups and independent travelers, perfectly lined souvenir stalls and cute boutique hotels.

And this can only mean one thing: Iran is extremely safe.

To make the situation even more dramatic, Iran shot down a commercial Ukrainian plane but apparently, it was an accident and the world believes it.

Nobody knows what will eventually happen but it seems that the situation has calmed down and, according to several local sources, life in Iran today is just normal, with the exception of the occasional protests that tend to happen in the center of Tehran , that’s it.

Personally, I would still travel to Iran.

The media: is Iran perceived as dangerous because of the Western media?

If anyone thinks Iran is a dangerous country, that is because of the media. 

For decades, American newspapers have been selling a completely biased image of Iran, exclusively focused on nuclear weapons, religious fanatics, human rights abuse and, basically, a dictatorial regime. 

In Europe, it used to be the same story but I feel that they have softened their speech and today, while they are still talking about all the crazy things going on there, they are continuously publishing reports and chronicles talking about its great tourist attractions and people, and this is one of the reasons why many travelers have started to consider Iran a safe destination to travel to. 

This is not the case of the American media, however, especially with the current Administration, which keeps on contaminating public opinion with the idea that Iran is the ultimate arch-enemy and one of the unfriendliest countries on Earth.

You would be surprised to know how many Americans believe that. 

In fact, I have had a few small arguments on social media, like the day when that American dude replied to one of my tweets – see below – asking why would someone want to visit such a dangerous place and, to support his reasoning, he posted one article from Fox News . Hilarious. 

I am aware that this has been said over and over, but don’t trust what the media has to say about a country and do believe the hundreds of thousands of travelers who have been there.

Problems: is it safe to travel to Iran now?

Is Iran safe to visit despite all the current problems?

Sure, Iran is safe for tourists, but we can’t ignore that there are some serious internal issues.

• Iran is a dictatorial regime ruled by Islamic Law – As much as I love Iran, we can’t ignore that this is a repressive dictatorship that violates human rights every now and then. However, having a bad Government doesn’t make their people bad as well and, as long as you follow some simple rules – more on that later – you shouldn’t be worried about it.
• Violent protests (update 2019) – You probably heard about some violent protests in 2019 which involved several dead civilians and the Government shutting down the internet for nearly a week. Sure, the Government’s response to demonstrators will always be repression and more repression, but this is happening across the world, including in Chile, and I don’t see Donald Trump complaining about it. The best you can do is to stay away from any public demonstrations. 
• Terrorist attacks – There have been some terrorist attacks in Iran, the last big one being in 2017 in Tehran , when several Iranians died. It was an unfortunate event but terrorist attacks also happen in Europe – more often than in Iran – and, in the USA, there is a mass shooting every other day.

Regions in Iran which are not safe for tourists

According to the FCO Advice , the province of Balochistan and the areas bordering Iraq and Afghanistan are advised against for all travel, for obvious reasons. 

The rest of Iran, however, is totally safe for tourists.

Nevertheless, there are two things you need to know about these dangerous regions :

• First of all, they are far away from all touristic places
• Second of all, the FCO advice will always be totally exaggerated

Relatively dangerous regions in Iran

• Border with Iraq – There may be some tension on the southern part of the border but I myself crossed the northern Iran-Iraq border , in Kurdistan, and I can assure you that that part of Iran is safe to visit. 
• Border with Afghanistan – I haven’t been there but intrepid travelers cross that border all the time and, so far, I have never heard of any bad experiences or reports.
• Balochistan – Balochistan is a province where the majority of people are Sunni so, for the last few years, there have been some tensions but the situation has improved; plus, with the increase in popularity of Pakistan, every day this region receives more and more travelers on their way to Pakistan .

As I said, I strongly believe the FCO Advice is overly cautious but, if you are not sure about it, you just need to remain in the touristic and safe part of Iran.

You should also read: Is Afghanistan safe to visit right now?

Is it safe to visit Iran? – My top safety tips

It’s mandatory to have a travel insurance to get your visa on arrival in Iran. Because of the sanctions, most insurance companies don’t provide coverage for Iran, but IATI Insurance does. Get your exclusive 5% discount if purchasing via this link .

These are just some extra safety tips for Iran:

How to behave in Iran (cultural etiquette)

As I said, Iran has some strict Sharia rules but they are actually more relaxed than in Saudi Arabia for example, a country with a large Western expat community.

For men, the only thing you can’t do is wear shorts.

For women, it is a bit more complicated but all you have to do is cover your hair and not show any of your curves.

Other than that, just apply common sense and know that public shows of affection are not tolerated – like in Dubai – and alcohol is not allowed, even though it is widely available in the black market and locals do drink often.

About religion in Iran In Iran, most people are Shia, a branch of Islam different from Sunni, the prevalent branch across the Arabic countries. By nature, Shia people are more relaxed than Sunni, which means that, when it comes to religion, Iran is more liberal than countries like Oman or the United Arab Emirates, plus Iran has also a large population of atheists, more than any Arab country, as you will see it when you go there. In any case, religion still plays an important role in the country, so be always respectful like you would be in any other Muslim country.

Is there a danger of being arrested?

Another of the reasons why Iran is often perceived as dangerous is because, whenever a foreigner gets arrested, it appears all over the news, and reports say that foreigners may be locked in a cell for months without being able to communicate with the outside world.

However, there are two kinds of foreigners who get arrested: journalists and travelers doing stupid things, like those bloggers who got arrested because they flew a drone over a military facility or those Americans who were caught crossing the Iranian border illegally from Iraqi Kurdistan . 

Just be smart and you will be fine.

Keeping your money safe in Iran

This isn’t a safety tip but a precaution. 

In Iran, international credit cards do not work, which means that you will need to carry all your cash for whatever time you are in the country.

For this, you have two solutions:

• Buy a local credit card and top it up – There is a service for foreigners which consists of a local debit card which you top-up with cash upon your arrival, so you don’t need to carry all the money. Mah Card is one of these services which you can trust.
• Book your hotels ONLINE through 1stQuest – 1stQuest is a local company that provides a large variety of booking services for Iran, including visa services, hotels, travel insurance and tours. You won’t be able to purchase these services online through a local website – as they don’t accept credit cards – but 1stQuest is one of the very few companies which does so, at least, you won’t need to carry all the cash, which might be half of it.

You can get a 5% discount on ALL your hotel bookings.

Use my promotional code: ATC-QST

Surfing the internet safely

As you may know, in Iran the internet is censored, so a lot of websites are blocked, from Facebook to YouTube. 

In order to access these websites, you will need something called a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and you can find more information about it here .

But, isn’t it illegal to use a VPN? Why should this be a safety tip?

Yes, using a VPN is illegal but everybody in Iran uses it – really, everyone – and the only people who get punished for using it are, for example, those who use the internet to organize protests against the regime.

Also, a VPN will not only allow you to access blocked sites but also, it allows you to browse more privately and safely and, in this type of authoritarian regime where anyone could be spied on, you really want to use one. 

I personally use ExpressVPN , one of the fastest VPNs available in the market.

If don’t know anything about VPNs, read my tutorial: Why and how to find the right VPN for Iran

Is Iran safe for solo female travelers?

This is one of the questions I get asked, most often from women.

Is it safe to travel in Iran as a solo woman?

Well, I am a man, so I obviously had a very different experience from most women, but I don’t know a single lady who didn’t have a wonderful experience so, based on their opinions, I can certainly say that Iran is a safe destination for women. 

If you want to know more details, I interviewed Eveline from Earth Wanderess , who shares her travel expertise about  solo female travel in Iran . 

Is Iran safe for Americans and British?

The million-dollar question.

Nobody has ever asked me this because I am neither American nor British, but I do know some people from these countries who have been to Iran and all of them said that it didn’t really make a difference.

As I said, Iranians are curious to meet any foreigner and, actually, they might probably be more excited to meet an American than any other tourist.

Moreover, I can assure you one thing which is that an American will feel 10x safer and more welcome in Iran than an Iranian will feel in the USA, where they might be subjected to racism and prejudices. True story.

In this post, Jackie wrote about American tourists in Iran .

Is driving safe in Iran?

Like in most countries in the Middle East , the locals don’t really follow the traffic rules, so car accidents do abound. 

However, I felt that in places like Egypt or Saudi Arabia, the locals are crazier.

Crossing the streets in Iran

One of the potential threats most tourists face in Iran is crossing the street, especially in Tehran , as crosswalks are completely useless so, when trying to cross, cars don’t stop and simply avoid you.

The first few times you do it, you think you are going to die but after some practice, you get used to it. In any case, it is always recommended to cross the road next to a local person.

Public transportation in Iran

The whole of Iran is really well-connected by a super-effective and efficient bus network, so it is the most popular method of transportation among independent travelers. 

There are two types of buses, normal and VIP and, in order to travel more safely, you should get the VIP one, as it only costs 20-30% more, which is a few more € and, since they are newer and bigger, they are definitely safer. 

Because of the sanctions, in Iran, most booking sites don’t accept international foreign cards. Before, you could book them via 1stQuest but they are not offering this particular service anymore. However, you may still use 1stQuest for visa services, hotels, flights, travel insurance and tours. 

Conclusion: Is Iran a safe country to visit?

Overall, Iran is a safe destination and this is the reason why the country has undergone a tourist boom in the last couple of years. 

Like in any other country, however, there are, of course, some small threats but the good news is that these tiny dangers are not specific to Iran but they happen in many countries across the world. 

More information for traveling safely in Iran

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All our guides to Iran

• Iran Travel Guide
• Iran itinerary
• Best Books about Iran
• Travel insurance for Iran
• VPN for Iran
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iran
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Qeshm Island Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Shiraz
• A trip to the desert of the Kaluts
• Trekking Guide to Zagros Mountains
• Meeting the Qashqai People
• Fars Province Travel Guide
• Visa Guide for Iran
• Masuleh Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Golestan Province
• Iran-Iraq border crossing
• Darband Travel Guide
• Best Hotels in Tehran

Check more safety guides

• Is Afghanistan Safe?
• Is Iraq Safe?
• Is Lebanon Safe?
• Is Mali Safe?
• Is Mauritania Safe?
• Is Middle East Safe?
• Is Oman Safe?
• Is Pakistan Safe?
• Is Sudan Safe?
• Is Syria Safe?
• Is Tunisia Safe?

43 comments

Hi Joan, I am an American married to an Iranian. I would like to visit Iran this year (first time) to visit my Mother in Law and do some sight seeing. What would be best route, Visa as a tourist (would my MinL have to fill out something? Would it be a problem traveling with my husband?) or Visa as wife of Iranian and submit all that paperwork? How long is Visa valid? I’ve read up a bit and called embassy but am still a bit confused. Any info would be very appreciated. Cheers, Leticia

Hi Leticia, For Americans, Canadians and British, the visa process is completely different and since you have family in Iran, it will be even more different, so I can’t really help you. The embassy is the one who should help you with this but typically, for regular tourist visas, you need to book a full tour with a tour operator and today, because of the current situation, they are denying many American/Canadian visas. For things to do, best route, etc, check this post: https://againstthecompass.com/en/iran-itinerary/

Hi Joan, I’m planning to visit Iran in March and would appreciate information about Visa on Arrival at Imam Khomeini Airport. When I visited in October 2018, I obtained VOA at IKIA without being asked for an onward ticket, and bought one to Australia in Tehran.

I would appreciate any information as to whether this situation persists, or has changed, as I am thinking of going to Nepal next, or Turkey, hence my lack of interest in obtaining an onward ticket.

I want to go to the Caspian Sea, across to Mashhad, down to the Persian Gulf, up to Yadz, then Qom.

Thanks, Mark Govier

No, there should not be any issue.

I did get VOA during my last visit and left Iran overland, so it shouldn’t have changed.

However, if you wanna make sure, perhaps you could get the visa code (1stQuest) so they won’t ask you any questions when you reach the airport

Hello, I’m thinking of going to Iran but my only concern is that I also have to go in US. Do you know if there is any issue to have Iranian stamps to get a visa for us. I’m French

yes, in this case, you will have to get the USA visa through the embassy

I was once told this saying. ” Believe nothing of what you hear and half of what you see! “. I remember how the western media would deliver similar narratives about Colombia and how dangerous it is. Definitely not the case since I have traveled there on numerous occasions.

Would be curious to know the perception of Iranians to people of color. Do they share similar views like in Saudi Arabia? As an example. Was told the darker your skin color. The less likely you will feel welcomed. Any thoughts on this?

Absolutely. The media is making the issue worse. I’m Sunni Muslim and I know there’s a conflict between us but they are still friendly and like to talk with me. Most of the people there are friendly. Especially when they know that you are a tourist they will give you a warm smile. I can say that some people are bad and some people are good. It really depends on the human.

Im from New Zealand and like many western countries media fuels misconception about Iran. I visited in 2017 Frankly it was one of the most amazing countries I have visited and half of that we’re the people and friends I made there. It is full of beautiful pleasant surprises. Thanks for the tip about the local debit card.. useful. My advice is but an Iranian SIM before going through customs in Tehran airport.. I wasted a few days buying a phone and registering a SIM in Tehran. VPN are essential too as most western search engines and sites are censored including Google.

Hi Joan, Your blog was a great reference when I backpacked in Iran last November (amidst the protest and internet shutdown, crazy!) Iranian hospitality is the greatest and like you have mentioned visiting once will never be enough!

Hey I’m an Iraninan I just wanted to thank you for showing the world who we REALLY are and what our country REALLY holds. Most of the big big problems we have are only problems for locals and most tourists won’t have to even face them (like the stuff about human rights, economics, etc) But afterall we’re not our regime and our country is not what most people think. We literally LOVE to see tourists. And if you ask me, so many people treat toursists better than the locals. We really want them to have a beautiful memory when they go back home. Sending love from Shiraz, Iran Hope to see you soon ♡

Hey Saghar,

You’re most welcome! Speaking of Shiraz, it leaves the biggest regret because I wasn’t able to spend more than two days there. Hence, I actually missed Persepolis and Pink Mosque (like what!!) and I met a druggy local at Hafez Tomb who bought me around in his car haha. I’ll definitely return to Shiraz to cover more spots!

Anyway, if you would like to connect, my Instagram username is ed.woon I’ve uploaded many photos taken during the trip 🙂

Omg you definitely should visit Persepolis and the Pink Mosque. Shiraz is best in Ordibehesht (April 21st to May 21st) and if you were visiting through that time, make sure to visit the “Jahan Nama” and “Eram” garden as they are -especially the Eram garden- two of the must-sees of the city. And thank you for the instagram username I’ll definitely follow you Mine is temporarily deactive rn but it’s “@/heysaghar” If you ever visited Shiraz and needed some local guides I’d be so happy to help! Hope you come back soon and stay longer this time! you’re always welcomed here ♡

I did visit Eram Garden and it’s beautiful!! Especially the rainbow effect casting over the water fountain!

Sure, let’s connect on Instagram!

Hi I am planing to visit Tehran in june 2021 with my wife due to a medical treatment on medical visa, please guide what is the current situation specially covid and other travel restrictions.

Just saying Im iranian If u wanna visit here its better to go to esfahan It is the most beautiful city of iran:)

Hello there. I’m Prisha and I was born and raised in Tehran. Thanks for telling the truth about my country. Yes it might get some bad media perspective but actually living in IRAN is really fun and these days, not even local access to alchoholic drinks has improved, but access to weed in really common and easy and its kinda like its leagal. I mean we rolled and smoked pot in front of police officers and they didn’t even look at us. By the way the Hijab thing is only a matter for locals. For a female tourist the worst thing that could happen is that police might mention that they fix their apearance. It’s rude i know but not even hard language for a tourist. Everyone loves them. Mark my word.

That sounds crazy haha! From my conversation with the locals (young people especially), you guys are definitely an educated bunch and it just saddens me that opportunities are robbed because of the circumstances. I hope to see things change for the better because you all deserve more than what you are given now. Best wishes from Singapore 🙂

Hi, What a beautiful website you have, thank you for sharing all these beautiful stories! I am dutch (live in Barcelona) and I want to go end of October to iran, do you maybe know if that is possible (due to Covid-19)? I saw that there are flights with Pegasus airlines (with a stop in Istanbul ) going there, and also cheap 🙂 (300 euro). Many thanks! Rob

Hi Rob, so far, currently they aren’t issuing tourist visas (only business and medical) but my local contacts told me they plan to resume them soon. I will let everyone know as soon as the country opens. If you want to get noticed, you should subscribe to my email list though

Hello everyone! visit Iran! If you want to visit the whole world at once, just visit Iran, different climate at once, historical places up to millions, amazing sightseeing. Whatever you want, you can find it here, sea, islands, mountains, deserts, jungles, hot, cold, cool, tropical weather. everything. just name it. and by the way, too cheap. with less than 500 $ you can spend a month and buy as many souvenirs as you want. the rate of 1 dollar is 300000 Rial. that’s the price of an excellent meal! come and enjoy here!

and by the way, people and the government are separated. people are nice, welcoming and friendly.

My favorite part:

“Moreover, I can assure you one thing which is that an American will feel 10x safer and more welcome in Iran than an Iranian will feel in the USA, where they might be subjected to racism and prejudices. True story.”

An American? There are some Americans who experience racism everywhere. Not all Americans are white. So, again, is Iran safe for AMERICANS. This does not just mean white Americans. Or able bodied Americans. Or straight Americans.

Try again. This is a good beginning of a resource, but it sounds as if you are assuming all travelers are not at all familiar with the truths of racism in the world. True story. As a Black female traveler, I was hoping for more than this.

Nice work Joan, I really enjoyed this. I am planning an overland trip with my wife to the UK from the UAE starting April 2022 and we are keen to learn as much as we can about the route which will essentially start in Iran. We will be on some kind of schedule so I am guessing we’ll have about 5-8 days in country heading for Turkey. Do you have any thoughts on the route and the ‘must-sees’ along the way? Thanks for a great resource and any tips or ideas you can share.

Guys im iranian Im just saying that although iran is not a good country to live there Its a pretty beautiful and safe country If u have enough money U defenetly should visit iran onec Iran has not a good Government But there are cool and friendly ppl 🙂 Again if u are reach just visit iran

U defenetly should visit our country 🙂

Hello, I am an Iranian and I live in Tehran. I suggest you to travel to Iran And visit the Nature Bridge, Milad Tower and Azadi Tower. These are all very small parts of the beauties of Iran As for the coronavirus, the condition is good and vaccination is fast And I’m really upset about the media saying negative things about Iran. Iran is the safest country in the region and we have no insecurity in Iran And it really is safer than countries like America and Britain.Thank you for your good site and I hope to see you in Tehran, goodbye to all of you.

Hi Joan. While I appreciate your article (always good to see travel blogs), as an American and a female I have huge reservations about visiting Iran. I would certainly not do so on an American passport. While I am sure the everyday folks you meet are great (they usually are) when there is significant political disagreement and tensions between countries it can be a very different story for travelers. I believe you overplayed the “America media” making it sound dangerous. Have you seen what the Iranian regime says about Americans? While I want to visit historic sites, etc. I will not do so at this time or on an American passport.

Hello dear Joan, is is safe to travel to Iran now? Dec 2022. I can’t rely on what the media says, i would like to go to Mashhad as a female solo traveler. Kind of hesitant about it because of the possible riots, demonstrations… but i don’t know if a tourist could get affected? I will definitely apply common sense and dress arabic clothes. What would you recommend me? Are they issuing VOA as a spanish citizen nowadays?

Hi Kristel, I know quite a few people currently traveling in Iran, and as long as you stay away from protests, it will be fine.

Hi Joan, First I have to say thank you so much for sharing all your travel wisdom in this blog! I always come here to check my next destination before planning. You helped us a lot in our trip to Palestine a few years ago and I am now looking forward to exploring a country which has been in my list for way too long: Iran. I am planning to visit in October, but as many people in the comments, I feel a little hesitation regarding some aspects, I was convinced 2023 was the year, but since the protests arised, I have been both fascinated by the courage of Iranians and also concerned about the repression of the government. Do you have any insights on the safety of traveling to Iran (TEHRAN, ESFAHAN, SHIRAZ, PERSEPOLIS and YAZD) as a female traveller? What other reliable sources for travel information do you recommend? Again thank you for all your work and happy travels! Cora

Hi Cora! As long as you keep away from public demonstrations, you should be fine, that’s what all recent travel reports suggest 🙂

Joan, While travel always comes with a certain amount of risks, I do feel that you’ve underplayed the risk specifically regarding women. There have been reports of foreign women being harassed by police in Iran for not wearing their hijab properly. I understand you’re trying to convey that travelers will be fine if they stay “smart” and avoid trouble, but ultimately, an extremist regime is not one that is reliable. Mahsma Amini was arrested and died over unclear hijab regulations, and it only takes the subjective judgment of one person of authority to infringe on someone’s rights or even end a life. I agree that most people would likely be safe if they traveled in Iran, but I think your post gives readers a false sense of confidence that Iran will completely safe. Clumsy people, those unfamiliar with Iranian culture or customs, or women who are unaccustomed to wearing hijab should be more cautious and perhaps rethink their travel plans.

I am a dual citizen of Sweden-USA, and visited Iran a few years ago for an academic conference in Tehran. Because I was born in USA I had a long processing time at Tehran airport, even though I had a visa from Iranian embassy in Stockholm and an invitation from the university in Iran. After the conference I traveled solo for about a week. People were very friendly and curious about me, often asking where I come from. When I replied Sweden, it often didn’t register with people. But if I said America, people’s faces lit up, and many wanted to shake my hand. I felt very safe, even at night.

thanks for sharing your positive experience, Ramon!

Hello, I consider adding Iran in my travel around the global. But my concern is that I love photography and I might carry quite some gears in my luggage (1 camera, 5 lens, tripod, computers, hard drives, sd cards etc…) So I’m a bit worried to be considered as a journalist or spy or whatnot. Is there anyone who travelled there with equipments who have some feedbacks about carrying photography equipments around ?

Hi François, as long as you take photos or touristic staff and don’t carry a drone, you’ll be fine. Iran is a very touristic country and there are many travelers carrying a lot of gear. As per myself, perhaps I don’t carry as much gear as you but I did bring one camera, 2 lenses and 1 manfrotto tripod, all was good!

Hello everyone, I recently traveled to Iran and completely fell in love with their customs and culture…I think Iran is one of the safest countries in the world and very safe even for a single woman. I did a lot of research on Iran’s internal tensions before the trip. Iran’s internal tensions are not high and often a small group of people protest because of the economic problems caused by the US sanctions. There are many amenities in Iran and the streets of this country are very clean. Iran’s government is a religious government, but in my opinion, it is not authoritarian, and in spite of small and big mistakes, it is a powerful central government, and the majority of Iranian people are satisfied with the government of this country. I hope my experience was useful for you

Thanks for sharing the experience, Michael!

Thank you for this blog post – very informative.

I am planning to cycle around the world and I am looking to enter Iran from Azerbaijan. I am thinking of cycling in a South-East direction all the way to the Balochistan region of Pakistan. Eventually I will get to Karachi and then cycle along the Indus river up to Lahore, where I will cross into India. How dangerous would you think this trip is? Any advice from people who have been to this area would be greatly appreciated.

Only Pakistani Balochistan can be sketchy but most likely, the local police will escort you all the way to Quetta, since independent travel in Balochistan wothout the permits isn’t really allowed.

Thanks for this great write up and the tips, Joan! I am from the US and when I tell people I am planning a trip to Iran, they have the same question you got from the R Morrison guy. Simply so ignorant! The vast majority of Americans (and Brits, I am sure) do not know the history of our involvement there, particularly wrt to the coup we orchestrated in ’54 and all the injustices we have committed since then. All they know is what the ignorant media here says. You will never find a positive line in our media about Iran (or China, Russia, etc.) and so people here are simply clueless. I had been to Iran as kid in the late seventies. I have been wanting to go back for a few years now because I am concerned that the US/Israel will bomb and destroy this beautiful place and then it would be too late. I missed out on Syria and Yemen.

thank you for this positive comment, Matthew!

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Home » Wanderlust » Is it Safe to Travel to Iran: What Americans Need to Know

Is it Safe to Travel to Iran: What Americans Need to Know

By GeoEx Staff | May 9, 2023

With US-Iranian relations in flux and reports of shifting politics within Iran, it’s no wonder that Americans question whether they can or should travel to Iran these days. To get the latest, we spoke with Linda de la Torre , one of our Iran experts, to learn more about visiting Iran as an American.

Can Americans to Travel to Iran? Tips for a Safe Visit

Iran has been issuing visas to American citizens since the country reopened for tourism in 2021.  Normally, it takes about three months to obtain a visa, and GeoEx will walk you through the process. For curious travelers who want to learn more about the visa procedure, our Iran visa FAQ is a good place to start.

Regulations for American travelers also remain intact: Americans (and our British and Canadian counterparts) must travel on a confirmed tour with a qualified guide at all times and must respect Iran’s laws, such as observing hijab and abstaining from alcohol. If you have any questions about what’s permitted, please ask!

The countrywide unrest that has afflicted Iran over the last several months has declined in frequency and intensity, and we remain apprised of any issues as they arise. Our local colleagues have hosted a few small groups of Americans in spring 2023 without incident and with very positive reviews. From their perspective, it is very much business as usual and they have no security concerns from their side that would impact seamless trip operation.

Our guests are accompanied by a guide on custom trips, and both a guide and GeoEx trip leader on group departures. You are well cared for on these well-supported itineraries.

Perhaps most importantly, our guests continue to rave about the warmth and hospitality of Iranians they meet. Learn more about travel to Iran  and check out Iran luxury tours for upcoming small group and custom trips to Iran , and plan your trip to get to know those kind, everyday Iranians.

How does GeoEx stay informed about travel to Iran?

In addition to being advised by our private security firm, we take into account the travel advisories of the US Department of State, as well as those of other governments, and the updates from our trusted colleagues and guides on the ground in the countries where we operate. We’re quickly informed of any changes and have a carefully constructed safety net to respond if necessary.

Our security consultants assess the majority of Iran as medium-risk. (Some areas, like the border with Afghanistan, have higher risk assessments).

What makes Iran such a special place to visit?

We could go on and on about the exquisite architecture, impressive archaeology, and astounding UNESCO World Heritage Sites there are to see in Iran, but I think our guests say it best, sharing stories of warm interactions and insightful conversations. Carol A., for example, reported: “GeoEx’s Iran was one of the most astounding trips of all. The people were warm and welcoming… I came back with a whole new view of America’s relationship with Iran. This is an important trip.”

After guiding our group trip in October 2021, longtime GeoEx trip leader Sylvie Franquet sent this update: “We all had the most wonderful trip in Iran. We saw such wonders of landscape, architecture, and history, but what those traveling with me remarked most on was the kindness of the Iranian people. Whenever Iranians noticed that we were mainly an American group, they came up to have a chat, to welcome us, to ask if were well received, and to ask what we thought about their country. It is remarkable to compare the image that the media projects of Iran in the West with the experience one has once there.”

What makes Iran travel so meaningful is the dialogue it sparks between two cultures that have historically feared each other. This trip gives both Iranian hosts and American travelers an opportunity to treat each other with kindness and represent their countries well.

What advice do you have for US travelers in Iran?

If you’re fortunate enough to travel to Iran , I think it’s more important than ever to be open-minded and respectful ambassadors for the US—although being open-minded and respectful is good advice for any traveler, or any citizen, anywhere! This may sound extremely simple, but there’s no reason to over-complicate it. While there’s a lot of animosity in the world, I’ve been consistently impressed by the compassion and curiosity of our guests who visit Iran, as well as the Iranian people who greet them.

To learn more about Iran adventure travel , please call us at 888-570-7108 .

Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Iran , Misunderstood Destinations

This Is How to Travel to Iran – Everything You Need to Know

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

Many travel to Iran to experience the delights of the ancient Persian Empire yet are unaware of the limitations faced by the rules and regulations of what is now the strict Islamic Republic.

As travel warnings persist and diplomatic relations with other countries continue with varying degrees of existence, many are confused about how to go about entering Iran and travelling in Iran safely, efficiently, and within the boundaries set by the current regime.

However, an Iran trip doesn’t have to be difficult at all – tourism is growing as relations develop; hatred of the western world is not as rife as the media likes you to think, and travel in the country is safe. Ancient Persia is within easy grasp, most notably in the central region where key sites have been maintained and the infrastructure linking them is growing, and tourists are not subjected to as heavily enforced rules as the locals.

With enough pre-planning and prior research, you can easily avoid the limitations and stresses of travelling in what is perceived as a closed and tricky country to traverse.

Use this checklist and list of tips for when you visit Iran as a comprehensive guide to help get you started. This Iran travel guide shows you how and is constantly revised with the help of an authorised tour guide on the ground in Tehran, alongside access to regular Iran tourism updates via tourism business partners. 

Travel Warning: Due to the volatile security in the region and the recent developments in April 2024, check your government and official advisories before visiting Iran. 

Check Before you Visit Iran

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Inbound bookings for Iran usually change when something has severed particular diplomatic ties, which then reverberates to tourism apprehension and a halt to tourism altogether. Always check the news and the political landscape before travelling to Iran to see if you (and your nationality/country) are affected by visas and entry to Iran. It’s always a matter of time and patiently waiting to see how the political landscape plays out following these events. Here are some of the more recent ones.

On 3rd January 2020, it was announced that the Iranian Major-General Qasem Soleimani was killed in a US airstrike, with Iran calling for ‘severe revenge’. While the outcome is not yet known, this does ignite fears of a conflict in the Middle East , and it pays to be more aware of travel warnings at this time. American citizens, in particular, may face more restrictions. 

Following the Ukrainian Airlines plane crash near Tehran, several flights routes to Iran have been cancelled following the news that the Ukrainian jet was ‘unintentionally’ shot down . If you have any Iran travel planned, check your airline to see if the service is still running.

The arrest of the UK Ambassador to Iran in Tehran as part of government protests have further sparked an international row between the two countries. UK travellers should be on alert for developments. 

Both Iran and Persia are used interchangeably about the country and also while you are on the ground. Reference to Persia is more so in the context of the history and legacy of the ancient kingdom of the Persian Empire; Iran is about the modern-day Islamic Republic of Iran in the Middle East.

READ MORE: Best Places to Visit in Iran to See Ancient Persia

You’ll stumble between modern-day cities and the sights of ancient Persia, like the Persepolis, on any Iran trip.

Can Everyone Travel to Iran? Iran Visas and Authorisation Codes

Getting a visa for Iran is quite possibly the most stressful and challenging part of your entire trip. You first need to know if you are eligible and what limitations you may face.

For countries like the UK, which have strained and little to no diplomatic relations with Iran, you may find that you cannot even get an Iran visa in your country because there is no Iranian embassy. British travel to Iran means a little more legwork, where you may also have to travel elsewhere, like Dublin or Paris for example, to obtain the visa since there is no Iran embassy in the UK.

Most airlines flying to Iran will not allow you on a flight unless you show you have an Iran visa, but you can get a visa on arrival. However, sanctions have been lifted, most notably in 2016, with up to 900 Iran visas daily on average granted on arrival, according to the Office of Foreign Affairs. Tourism numbers annually have increased year on year, with 5.2 million foreign visitors entering Iran in 2015, in comparison to 4.7 million in 2013.

On the 14th February 2016, the Ministry of Iran announced that airports could issue 30-day visas for Iran, for nationals of 180 countries.

Non-eligible nationalities for Iran Visa On Arrival:

Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Canada, Colombia, India, Iraq, Jordan, Pakistan, Somalia, USA, UK

A 30-day Tourist Visa Upon Arrival, for those of eligible nationality , can be obtained at the following Iran airports:

IKA:  Tehran Imam Khomeini Airport THR:  Tehran Mehrabad Airport MHD:  Mashad Airport SYZ:  Shiraz Airport TBZ:  Tabriz Airport ISF:  Isfahan Airport

Follow the signs that say ‘Visa on Arrival’ where you will be asked questions about your trip to Iran and asked to present:

• Details about your confirmed first night’s accommodation in Iran, including the address and phone number (you may also be asked about your travel plans on-going).
• Proof of a confirmed return flight ticket.
• A copy of your travel insurance policy document and policy number.
• Those people I met who were granted an Iran tourist  visa on arrival as part of the tour   were given a special letter from the company that they could present to both the airline and passport control on arrival.

You can be waiting up to 30 minutes before your visa is granted and you can proceed to immigration. You will need:

• A passport with at least six months validity
• Two passport photos, in which women should be wearing a headscarf
• The completed visa form. You can also fill out the form online before arrival in Iran, from which you will receive a visa application reference number, print it off and take it with you.

One of the many beautiful places in Iran to visit – The UNESCO World Heritage site of The Great Mosque (Masjid-e Jameh) of Isfahan.

The costs for a visa in Iran and visa on arrival in Iran – each country is different.

Iran Travel insurance is a requirement to obtain your visa for Iran. Without proof of purchase and printed documentation, you cannot pick up your visa from the embassy or secure your visa on arrival at the airport.

Aside from it being a stupid idea not to have travel insurance coverage, check that your current policy (or the one you are thinking of getting) covers Iran. Some do not provide travel insurance for Iran or only cover limited regions of the country and activities.

Getting Your Iran Authorisation Code – Non-Eligible Nationalities

For those not eligible for a visa on arrival, and those wanting to apply for a visa for peace of mind before they arrive,  you have to apply for an Authorisation Code. EVERYONE has to have one of these, which will determine if you are granted an application for a visa.

• For those who HAVE to travel in a group (see below), this code will generally be processed by your tour company.
• For everyone else, you can use 1stQuest which offers essential travel services for Iran travel. Otherwise, source an Iranian travel agency local to you at the time of planning or seek direction from the embassy you wish to get a visa from about where to apply for it.
• When applying for the authorisation code, you will need to specify which embassy you will be processing your visa at – a pain for those travelling around with no solid plans. Once the code is released, you cannot change the embassy choice. It’s wise to choose an embassy in a city you are likely to fly to Iran from (see also timings below).

Authorisation codes (if not booking with tour) come with an administration cost of around 35 Euro, which is dependent on the agency you are working with. There is no set price for an Iran Tourist Visa since it is determined by nationality and where you process your visa.

I paid €180 for mine in Tbilisi, Georgia and a British guy on my tour paid a little more to process his in Paris. The Australians in my tour group paid differing amounts between €50-€100, as did the Germans. There’s no hard and fast rule – it’s more about luck.

If all that wasn’t enough, it is highly likely that

1. Your authorisation code will take WEEKS to process

2. It will most likely arrive with only a matter of DAYS to spare before your planned arrival in Iran or tour start date.

This means that before any trip to Iran, especially when travelling on a tour, you will be rushing to the embassy in the hope of getting your authorisation code for Iran processed quickly. You may have to pay extra for fast-tracking and organise your flight ticket to Iran very last minute. This doesn’t always guarantee the best price and the idea of getting a cheap ticket to Iran has to be pushed aside.

DON’T book your flights to Iran or any travel arrangements until you know your Iran visa will be processed. Many people travel to Turkey beforehand to process their visas and fly to Iran from there, using the country as a cost-effective flight or train route for entry.

Everybody needs to get an Authorisation Code before travelling in Iran.

Refusal of Entry to Iran

The main reason for Iranian visa refusal is when there is proof you have travelled to Israel and the government’s paranoia based on your career (think journalists, media workers and similar).

Iran tourism issues are not linear, and while anything can happen at any time that would affect a particular nationality entry, the majority of the problems are political-based and beyond our control. Diplomatic relations and any political actions for/against Iran based on historical or current affairs at the time of applying may affect your refusal of entry into the country, or an Iran travel ban put in place.

On 4th January 2020, it was announced that the Iranian Major-General Qasem Soleimani was killed in a US airstrike, with Iran calling for ‘severe revenge’. While the outcome is not yet known, this does ignite fears of a conflict in the Middle East , and it pays to be more aware of travel warnings at this time. 

On 6th October 2019, it was reported that the two Australians imprisoned in Iran for flying a drone were freed in a political swap. It is suggested that strained relations between the UK and Iran after Britain seized an Iranian oil tanker in Gibraltar are inciting such political moves to detain people breaking the rules.

On 29th August 2018, France informed diplomats to postpone all but non-essential travel to Iran after a foiled bomb plot near Paris. The following day, Iran dismissed such restrictions , proving that it is best to stay aware of any sudden changes. 

Solo Travel in Iran vs Tours in Iran

One of the biggest questions I hear is: Can US citizens / Americans travel to Iran? They absolutely can, but because of the long-standing history of coups, espionage, nuclear sanctions and everything else in between (outside of the control of the average American citizen unconnected to the historical actions of their government), all US passport holders are only allowed into Iran if part of Iran tour packages (or with a tour guide).

Despite restrictions, it is safe for Americans to travel to Iran, so don’t be put off by the bureaucracy needed to get there. US travel tips to Iran focus on this red tape. For example, it still stands that Americans must also be escorted from the airport to the hotel, and cannot make their arrangements. This all has to be pre-organised pick-up (a simple addition via the tour company) so do check this before you leave.

READ MORE: Inside The Den of Espionage – Former US Embassy in Tehran Turned Museum

The former US Embassy in Tehran, Iran

As of February 2014, British and Canadian citizens going to Iran became subjected to the same ‘tour only’ sanction (official Iran tour operator or private Iran guide). As a result, your visa is usually only granted for the exact number of days of your tour, with a couple of days on either side if you list this as part of the arrival and departure options.

British passports holders should also pay attention to Foreign Office updates following strained relations between the two countries after the oil tanker seizure, as listed above in ‘Current Diplomatic Relations’. 

Unfortunately, Israeli citizens cannot enter Iran at all, and this is unlikely to change anytime soon.

Check on any nationality restrictions before you visit Iran. It may mean having to join a tour and hire a guide.

While those booking up Iran holidays might choose a tour package for the fact that everything is taken care of on the ground and for ease of travel, I had no choice since I had a British passport.

There’s an overwhelming amount of Iran tour packages, and it can often be hard to know where to start. At the time, I travelled with G Adventures on a Discover Persia tour which operated through the revered Iranian agency AITO. I allowed myself free time to visit Tehran on either side of my trip, so I had a taste of both worlds, albeit on a small scale. Currently this trip is not running. 

The upside to a tour, however nomadic and sporadic you usually are, is that these trips pack a real punch in getting you to many sites in 14 days. On the G Adventures Iran tour, I saw places I would not have been able to access easily on my own or with public transport. Plus, my local guide to Iran was the bundle of knowledge that a history and sociology geek like me needed for an ancient civilisation such as Persia. The downside of such holidays in Iran is a lack of free time and lazy resting for an itinerary that would normally, on my terms, take about three weeks, not two.

Being in a tour group when visiting Iran does not mean being chaperoned and watched 24-7. ven while on a small group tour, we were allowed time to ourselves in each destination. 

Choosing between and small group tour and a private guide – with a local who will show you all the historical places in Iran.

Generally, under the condition that you must have two people minimum, hiring a private tour guide in Iran is also an option. This is a viable option for those with visa restrictions who do not want to travel in slightly larger groups.

Come2Persia  is a certified and reliable Iran travel agency run by a trusted Iranian friend of mine, Ali Reza Nokhostin, who I met and travelled with when in Georgia. He is both passionate about showing off his country and in changing perceptions of Iran. Specialising in incoming tours to Iran, Come2Persia also provides other travel services needed to complete the private tour package, including hotel bookings, visa application, transportation and access to various guides, not just Ali.

Note that while solo / independent travel is moderately easy in Iran (if of a free nationality), Iran is not that well-trodden on the independent travel path. There’s little to no hostels and guesthouses, and a dominance of big, expensive hotels (especially in Tehran) and even then it is rare to stumble upon a bunch of solo travellers to join.

However, solo travel in Iran is happening, and it is safe, it’s just a little more challenging than usual, which can, in itself, be pretty exhilarating. 

Note that Couchsurfing in Iran is officially illegal, but it happens anyway. Nearly all independent travellers I have spoken to have mentioned that they have travelled here via this resource with your local hosts, of course, being the best guides. However, travellers looking to Couchsurf in Iran must be aware that they can not hold the Couchsurfing host responsible if anything goes wrong because there is no official ‘filter’ in place when it comes to the hosts listed online.

In a society where women are much more restricted than their male counterparts, to travel Iran as a solo female is a little harder and viewed with surprise/suspicion depending on where you go.

Also in Iran, since public displays of affection between males and females are not allowed, any harassment or inappropriate contact by an Iranian male to a female traveller would be frowned upon and draw attention. 

Iran is one of the safest countries in the world based on tourists’ feedback. There have been many solo female travellers who have experienced Iranian hospitality and kindness.

However, it is vital to bear in mind that Iran is an Islamic country with traditional values and of course, some types of outfits would send the wrong message, especially in smaller and more conservative cities, such as Yazd, Kashan and Qom.

Solo female travel in Iran is safe, but with awareness of the conservative values of this Islamic country.

Iran is a four-season country, which means in different corners of the country, you can experience various climates at the same time. So, when is the best time to go to Iran, based on the different climates in the country? As a quick guide to Iran and its geographical mix, we can divide the country into three regions:

• From early March until late May
• From early September until late November
• There is one high season, from mid-April until mid-November
• Only one high season, from late November until late March

In between the high seasons from July to September is marked by high temperatures rendering travel on the classic route potentially uncomfortable.

The stunning Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is Isfahan is one of the must-see sites.

Iranians love to shout about the abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As my local friend stated, “It gives Iranians a lot of pride to possess such ancient lineage”.

Iran has 24 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – 22 cultural and two natural. Each of which is the result of years of investigation and presentation of evidence as to why they should be regarded as world heritage sites. It would take more than one trip to traverse them all.

The Zoroastrian Towers of Silence in Yazd – one of the 24 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran.

Dress Code in Iran – Headscarves and Hijabs

Iran does have a strict dress code, and this is one of the biggest concerns for female travellers to Iran. Most importantly – PACK A HEADSCARF IN YOUR HAND LUGGAGE.  It’s called ‘Roosari’ in Farsi, and you MUST be wearing it the moment you exit the plane and are officially in Iran.

You must wear a headscarf the entire time you are in Iran (except when in your hotel room), as well as loose clothing that covers your body. But let’s get one thing straight – you don’t have to wear a burka or anything that completely hides you.

When you arrive, you will soon see that reality is far removed from the stereotype. Iranian women are super stylish and proud of their appearance – fashion being a means to stand out and make a statement.

The dress code for women in Iran doesn’t have to be complicated.

The ‘Morality Police’ you hear of do exist in Iran but are not spending their time chasing down foreign visitors, so do not worry too much with that. If anything, you will get a polite mention. Visitors have a bit more flexibility when it comes to the rules.

• A headscarf is the most immediate essential item, and you can buy more when you are there) . If your headscarf falls, don’t worry – quickly put it back on again. You won’t be in trouble for this, but pay attention at all times. Wearing your hair in a high bun or ponytail helps keep the scarf in place. Many Iranian women wear it a little loose and halfway back on their head, since showing a little hair is granted.
• Tops must be loose-fitting, and three-quarter length sleeves are ok – a little more comfortable in the heat. The general rule of thumb is that the body should be covered and arms should not be bare.
• It is said that trousers must be baggy, but some local women wear tight, brightly coloured leggings.  As long as your legs are covered down to the ankles, it is fine. For tourists, leggings worn with a long, loose-fitting top are acceptable. However, in the more conservative areas such as Isfahan, Mashad and Qum, respect the values and revert to looser fitting trousers.
• Colour of clothing. It’s a myth that you need to dress in dark colours or black tunics. Embrace fashion the ways the locals do and bring some colour into your Iran packing list!
• Open toes sandals are OK. Pack some sports shoes for longer day trips where you might be walking a lot (such as at the Persepolis). You’ll soon see how sports shoes are fashionable in Iran, especially in bright colours!
• Worried you do not have enough appropriate attire? Fear not, as soon as you arrive in Tehran or even Shiraz (if you fly into the city), hit the bazaars and the local markets . There’s plenty to be sought out. Other people on my trip stuck with two outfits and alternately hand-washed them every night.
• Strict dress codes do not apply in the same manner when travelling with children . Young boys can wear shorts and t-shirts and girls under ten are not required to wear a headscarf.

For men it’s more straightforward – you will be dressing much the same as you do in western countries, except no short shorts, no super short sleeves and no extreme tight-fitting clothing.

READ MORE: Iran Dress Code for Women (What to Wear in Iran)

Is Iran Safe? Is it Safe to Travel to Iran?

Iran’s image of being a terrorist-driven, American bashing, nuclear weapon holding, burka-clad society is something that has been highly driven mainly by western media. “Is Iran safe?” “Isn’t it dangerous in Iran?” are likely to be some of the first questions you encounter from others when you announce you are travelling here. 

In short: Iran is a safe place to visit. 

Since the election of the more moderate President, Hassan Rouhani in August 2013 and his re-election in 2017 , both international relations and internal rules have become less severe and slightly more open.  It won’t take long before Iranians give you a warm welcome, ask where you are from or even invite you to dinner or tea.

It is a part of Iranian culture to go out of their way to help you, and it’s not uncommon to be given a phone number on a piece of paper or a business card in case you need to call upon someone.

The people of Iran are just as keen to show you they are the opposite of how they are portrayed, just as you should be teaching them that the western world doesn’t hate them.

Is it safe to travel in Iran? Absoluely. Locals are very welcoming.

There’s never a right time for those who are worried, anxious or scared. Of course, you need to keep up to date with any significant political changes and your country’s diplomatic ties, but avoid listening to the hive of scaremongering out there and those who say don’t travel in Iran.

For example, in June 2018, there were protests about the economic situation in Iran, and these took place inside and around the Grand Bazaar in Tehran. It means being aware of any internal demonstrations and staying away from those areas, as you would in any country. 

Iran remains as one of the most stable countries in the Middle East. While breaking the rules of Islamic society (including drinking alcohol, taking drugs and engaging in sexual activity with locals) can result in deportation, arrest or worse, general travel here is entirely safe.

Don’t assume you can break any rules in Iran, play the dumb tourist and get away with it. Iran is a Muslim country where Islamic law is strictly enforced.

An example of harsh punishment is with the case of the two Australians imprisoned in Iran for illegally flying a drone near a military installation, freed in October 2019, but as part of a political swap. It might seem that the punishment doesn’t fit the crime, but what is justified in your country can have harsher consequences elsewhere. 

This is an Islamic State with a strict system, and if you can’t play by Iran rules, don’t go.

Given the location of Iran in the Middle East, the Muslim religion and some similarities in culture and language, the scaremongering of Iran can often revolve around the ‘it’s Arab’ misconception.

Iran is not an Arab country. Iranians are not Arabs. The language spoken is Persian (also known as Farsi) and not Arabic (although there are many languages spoken within Iran including Kurdish and forms of Turkish, Indo-European languages and Khuzi Arabic for example, due to the many ethnic groups that exist within the country).

Not only is the Arab misconception a source of contention generally, but Persians can take offence at these preconceived ideas.

Take US Dollars or Euros with you to Iran and change them up into Iranian Rial at the local exchange offices (not the dodgy guys on the street or at the hotels which have the lower government exchange rate). Before you know it, you have millions of Rials, and it all looks easy.

However, while ALL notes state ‘Rial’ there is another ‘currency’ or ‘super unit’ that is used – Toman – which is not listed on any note or coin.

Toman is used by locals and is one-tenth of the Rial total. 1 Toman = 10 Rial.

When I was first presented with a dinner bill of “37,000”, I was quietly happy that my food had cost the equivalent of $1.5, but this was, in fact, the price in Toman.

To convert to Rial, you simply add a zero – therefore my dinner was 370,000 Rial.

Lost? It takes a couple of days to get used to, but in the majority of cases, unless stated clearly, all prices are in Toman and not Rial. Hence, the basic equation anywhere in Iran is to add a zero onto printed prices (if ‘Rial’ is not listed), or ask market vendors and others which ‘currency’ they are operating in to save the confusion.

A big question is if you can use your credit or debit card in Iran. Sadly not, since there is no network in Iran for the use of international cards. It’s always been the best option to carry enough cash with you for your trip to convert to Iranian Rial on the ground.

However, there is now an Iranian prepaid debit card for tourists and temporary visitors called the Mah Card. Like most travel cards, you can instantly add funds to your card in your preferred or home currency, and it will convert it to Iranian Rial. It is more convenient than carrying cash, protects you from unauthorised purchases and is accepted country-wide.

To get 40% off the price of a Mah Card (Full price €19)  enter BECKI at the checkout.

Public Transport in Iran – Options, Usage and Cost

When traveling in Iran, you have various options for public transport:

Intercity transport:

Private car

• Domestic flight

The Metro is available in several cities in Iran, mainly in Tehran; alongside Shiraz, Tabriz, Mashhad and Isfahan. It is the best option to get around in Tehran, and the stations are also easily accessible by taxi and buses. The ticket price for one trip is 1000 Tomans (approximately 25 cents). You can also buy a card to pay for the metro trips and even the buses in Tehran. The rush hours are mainly 7-9 a.m. and 5-7 p.m. 

Tehran metro map and the three lines that cover the city.

You can find buses in every corner of the country. There are two main types of buses in big cities: regular and BRT. BRT buses are red, and because they have designated stations and paths, they are express buses. You can pay for the buses by your Metro card, and the fares would vary between 500 to 1000 Tomans (12 to 25 cents) per trip. You can find all the bus and BRT stations on Google Maps.

There are different types of taxis inside the cities:

• Shuttle/shared taxis (khatti): It is a way cheaper way to get around the cities. The two downsides are that they are for fixed destinations and you will have to wait for the taxi to be filled. The fares are also fixed, and you cannot negotiate.
• Private taxis (darbast): You can easily hail a taxi and say ‘darbast’. It means the driver will not pick any other passengers up and you must negotiate the price before getting on.
• Non-registered taxis (shakhsi): These are non-taxi drivers who you would easily spot from the yellow and green cabs. These are people who try to earn some money by giving people a ride. Again you must negotiate the price before getting on.
• Uber-like apps: Tap30 and Snapp are the two leading apps that you can easily use on your phone. Unfortunately, they’re not available on App Store and Google Play, but you can ask a local to help you with downloading them on your phone. Tap30 is available in many cities including Tehran, Karaj, Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz and Mashhad. Snapp is available in the same cities and also in Ahwaz and Qom.
• Bisim Taxi: You can also call the numbers 133, 1828 and 1833 in major cities in Iran to call a taxi wherever you are.

There are plenty of taxi options in Iran.

There are two types of buses between the cities in Iran: regular buses (44 people on board) and VIP buses (25 to 35 people on board). You have more legroom on VIP buses, and you can almost lie down on the seats. You can ask a receptionist at the front desk of the hotel, go to a local travel agency or go directly to the bus terminal to buy a bus ticket in Iran. The prices vary according to the type of bus and the distance. For example, the price for a VIP ticket from Tehran to Shiraz is around 70,000 Tomans ($16).

Using trains is the best and safest option to get around the cities in Iran. There are different types of trains: 4-bed, 6-bed and the so-called ‘bus’ trains. You can also ask if the train you are trying to take is an express train or a regular train. You can book trains through the hotels, local agencies or go directly to the train station. The price for a ticket from Tehran to Yazd, for example, is between 30,000 to 70,000 Tomans ($8 to $15).

You have two options to travel in Iran by a private car. You can hire a driver or a licensed driver-guide who can not only drive you from one city to another but show you the sites en route and give you all the information you need in English and other languages. You can find a driver-guide in Iran through TourHQ . You can either go to a taxi company or a local travel agency to hire a driver or a guide. Beware a killing machine in Iran named ‘Pride’ it’s a very low-quality car produced by Saipa company. It’s the worst car in Iran. Recommended cars in Iran are Peugeots and Samand by Iran Khodro Co.

Domestic flights

If you do not have much time on your hands and you want to visit the classic route (Tehran, Qom, Kashan, Isfahan, Yazd and Shiraz), it is recommended to take a domestic flight from Tehran to Shiraz. From there, you can continue your journey by other means of public transportation eventually back to Tehran. You can buy flight tickets from local travel agencies. The price of the flight ticket is approximately 180,000 Tomans ($40), and it takes around 80 minutes.

On the Metro: Generally, the cars are mixed gender, but if women need more privacy, they can get on the first and the last car on both sides.

On the Buses:  In some buses, the women sit in the back and the men in front. Other times it is the opposite. However, a couple can sit together in the men’s section and not vice versa.

Different countries have different specifications, rules and warnings about travel to Iran – some way more dramatic than others. If you can, register or alert your foreign office about your whereabouts for safety and as a piece of mind measure. As a British citizen, with no embassy representation in Iran, this is more so a good idea.

Not that some travellers cannot secure travel insurance until they have alerted the relevant authorities of their travel plans. Hence, it is worth checking precisely who you need to inform before you depart, to be comprehensively covered.

Internet Access in Iran

Be prepared to take a forced ‘Digital Detox’ during your time in Iran. Internet in Iran is slow, all social media (except Instagram and What’s App) is blocked, and you usually are paying per hour for the privilege of a sluggish connection. While I sporadically got decent internet, which allowed my VPN to work, it was never superb. Want to look up sites in Iran? Super quick. Want to find some decent news in the outside world? Good luck.

Tell your family and friends that they may not hear from you that often, and be prepared to do without the connection, however hard it may be.

Irancell is the best phone operator in Iran which offers temporary SIM-cards designed for tourists. They offer a pre-paid 4G internet and credit balance, and when it is used up you can put in a new credit code sold at any supermarket all around Iran to increase your credit and buy internet packages.

You can only have only one VPN app on your phone, so you will need to test which one works best. For Android users, Hi VPN, Psiphon, Hotspot Shield are recommended, and for IOS users Psiphon, Free VPN, VPNProxyMaster and X-VPN are deemed to be the best VPN in Iran that work well at the moment.

Food in Iran (and Vegetarian Difficulties)

I had built up incredible visions of Persian cuisine in my mind before I got to Iran. I thought it would be everywhere – easily accessible and in abundance. Wrong.

Traditional Persian food is available, but you have to do some digging on where to go and find it. Try delicious vegetable and pomegranate stews, traditional Dizi (a lamb based strew where the broth is separated from the solids which are then mashed together and eaten separately) or Ash (a thick and tasty soup of lentils, beans, starch noodles, vegetables, fried mint, fried onion and yoghurt).

Other than that, you will realise that Iran’s streets are paved with fast food outlets, whose neon lights advertise the norm – kebabs, burgers and pizzas. Try and seek out the falafel places, since these are usually the best choice for a cheap and tasty fix.

Vegetarians have more of an issue. I travelled with a vegetarian and whether at a big buffet or a local teahouse or restaurant, what appeared to be the vegetarian option still had meat in it. It may mean living on aubergine/eggplant-based dishes, which are your safest bet, or begging for meat to be left out of your meal if not already pre-prepared.

Food in Iran is better when locals show you real Persian cuisine.

There’s no alcohol in Iran. No bars, no clubs. Nothing. The best you get is non-alcoholic beer in a variety of fruity flavours like peach, lemon and strawberry which grace most menus.

There’s no set of different rules for travellers in Iran and those visiting. A local might be being kind in offering to find you the real deal at some underground gathering, but really, don’t take the chance. They might be able to waver the punishment; you won’t.

Like any country, it is crucial to know, understand and adhere to cultural and religious customs and rules that can often be very different from those at home. Here are the main rules for etiquette in Iran and interesting Iranian culture facts:

• One of the primary forms of social etiquette is TAROF, which is where Iranians usually insist on offering things to people and sometimes they do not mean it. However, you should not accept the first time.
• In Muharram month (the mourning month of Imam Hossein) people DO NOT usually wear bright colours (especially red) to respect the religious values.
• In Ramadan month , in which the majority of people keep fast during the day, it is disrespectful to eat and drink in public.
• In restaurants in Iran , it is incredibly unpleasant to see anyone clear their nose, especially loudly. In general, restaurant or not, it is also unusual to see somebody break wind.
• Shaking hands between men and women is a complicated topic. Generally speaking, it is not okay for men and women who are not related to shake hands. However, it is entirely relative. Usually, it is not advised for female tourists to extend their hand towards men, and it’s best to wait and see if the men do so first.
• The thumbs-up hand signal a derogatory sign in Iran, and it is best not to use it, especially in the presence of older people.
• When it comes to public displays of affection , you’ll see that affectionate touching, kissing, and shaking hands between men and women who are relatives are very normal. Iranian dating customs are more complex. You can kiss your significant other on the cheek, but french kissing strictly goes beyond the line. Holding hands is not something one would raise an eyebrow about at all, whereas hugging, on the other hand, would seem to be crossing the line a little. It is relative as to what extent the public display of affection is tolerated. For example, inside holy places and religious cities, it would not be easily tolerated.

Wherever you are in Iran, it is important to adhere to cultural and religious customs and rules.

‘Persian Time’ is much like ‘Asian Time’ – things take much longer than you expect. When you travel Iran you’ll soon see that service is slower and the times you are given for things, like an arrival at a destination, are not always clear or roundabout correct, like this example:

Guide: “It takes four or five hours. So if we leave at 8 am, we will get there around 4 pm.”

Me: “But that’s eight hours, not four.”

Guide: “Yes, it takes about eight hours. We will stop at x, y and z on the way and arrive around 2 pm.”

In short, don’t rely on or worry about time, and pack a bit more patience than you would at home, especially when it comes to food, service and paying.

Ancient Persia isn’t an easily absorbed history lesson. While your guide (if you choose to have one or if you are a part of a tour group) will spout a level of information that will blow your mind, it is worth reading up on the history of Persia, as well as details on the lead-up to the Iranian Revolution in 1979. This will give a valuable understanding of the basic makeup of the country.

It will mean names like Zoroastrian, Cyrus the Great, the Achaemenid Empire, Reza Shah, Ayatollah Khomeini and Ayatollah Khamenei won’t be lost on you when you go to Iran.

Great books to read before you arrive include:

• Revolutionary Iran: A History of the Islamic Republic  for a guide on the more recent history

Iran: What Everyone Needs to Know is by the same author, Michael Axworthy, and tries to explain how there’s more to Iran than its foreign relations, with part of the book also unravelling Iran’s economy, politics, culture and people. 

Daughter of Persia: A Woman’s Journey from Her Father’s Harem Through the Islamic Revolution  is about a woman who was born in Iran, left to study in the States and returned to a country in the grip of profound change.

• The Wind in My Hair: My Fight for Freedom in Modern Iran  about a journalist in exile after being arrested for political activism

Best for when on the road:

• Easy reference for most of us came from the Lonely Planet Iran guide book . While it shouldn’t be your sole source of information, this particular Lonely Planet is a quick fix Iran travel guide, especially for historical hotspots. Having this paper guide was a handy resource for the entire trip, especially since quick access to the internet in Iran both at the hotels and while on the road is very limited.

Have you been to Iran? Are there any other pre-departure tips you would add? And if planning a trip there, and what difficulties are you facing, if any?

Any plagiarism of this Iran travel blog or any of its descriptions used on other sites and blogs without attribution is not information authorised by myself for use. Know your source. 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

Marcela says

19 April 2022 at 7:42 pm

Hi, is it possible to rent a car without a driver in Iran? Thanks, I loved your post!

28 April 2022 at 11:39 am

I think you can, yes! However, it isn’t something I know much about.

Hanieh says

28 March 2022 at 8:19 pm

Iran and Tehran are great🤩

7 August 2021 at 4:02 pm

Hello. I want to thank for this text. It is completely true about Iran and I as an Iranian approciate that describe Iran and Iranians truly. I really enjoy it. Most of Iranians think people of world consider us as a terrorist country while people of Iran differ from Republic Islamic Iran.

Miranda says

24 October 2019 at 8:53 am

I really like to travel to Iran, but I don’t know when is the best time to travel there, what is your recommendation?

24 October 2019 at 10:52 am

Hi Miranda. All the details are in the article. You can find an overview of the best time to visit Iran here: https://www.bordersofadventure.com/travel-to-iran-things-to-know/#When_is_the_Best_Time_to_Visit_Iran

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Is It Safe to Travel to Iran Now? Iran Travel Safety Advices 2023

“the first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it” rudyard kipling.

Despite what mainstream media wants you to believe, Iran has always been one of the safest places for tourists. So much so that some have even described the Iranian people as the friendliest and most hospitable people they’ve met! And it is no exaggeration! Iranians go out of their way to make a tourist feel welcome. This hospitality ranges from a kind welcome and a lovely chat, to generous treats and warm invitations. What about a trip to Iran during the protests? Is it safe to travel to Iran? Stay with me to find out and read more about Iran travel safety.

• 1 Where Does the Iranian Hospitality Come From?
• 2 Is It Safe To Travel to Iran Now?
• 3 Iran Safety
• 4 Is It Safe to Travel to Iran as an American?
• 5 Travel to Iran Safety, What should I know before going to Iran?
• 6 Iran Travel Safety Frequently Asked Questions

Where Does the Iranian Hospitality Come From?

Iranian culture ! Looking at Iranian literature, major beliefs ( Zoroastrianism and Islam ) and local’s behavior you can trace the importance and even the sacredness of hospitality in the Iranian culture. Iranians are taught that guests are from God and they have tales in praise of hospitality. When the culture honors and applauds going out of your way to serve your guests well and make them feel good so much, no wonder that many tourists will have memorable experiences on their trip to Iran. So, it’s always safe to travel to Iran , because the kind people will be there for you. Especially in the western and southeastern part of Iran, seeing how people in deprived circumstances take pains to serve you with the bests they have and are protective of you will melt your heart.

Is It Safe To Travel to Iran Now?

At the moment, even in the midst of protests for compulsory hijab, you can have a safe and pleasant trip throughout Iran. The protests are often at nighttime when you will be resting peacefully at your hotel. And you can just get away from any protests you might encounter in daytime. The truth is, life is routine for many Iranians who are not protesting and many haven’t even encountered the protests. It is all a matter of getting a knowledge of the usual times and places for protests.

Iran Safety

Is Iran safe to visit? Indeed it is! Iran is a safe country because of its’ hospitable people. In fact, Iranian people are the reasons behind the safety in Iran. If you are about to visit Iran and you are worried about Iran safety, perhaps you will be surprised by Iranian’s kindness and hospitality as you get here.

Is It Safe to Travel to Iran as an American?

Iranian people don’t have a bad attitude toward another nations. On the contrary, Iranian people love to spend time with tourists coming from different countries. American tourists are so welcome in Iran as well. Numerous Americans who have traveled to Iran can vouch for the warmth and friendliness of the Iranian people. Because of this, visiting Iran as an American is not only safe but also a wonderful experience.

Travel to Iran Safety, What should I know before going to Iran?

Dress Code : Modesty is the key of dress code in Iran. Women should put on a scarf. But the great thing is that the rules are lax and you can be fashionable about it.

Travel to Iran Safety : Iran is a safe country for tourists. Political-wise, as long as you don’t enter illegal areas like military places, or don’t have political activities

The Vitality of VPNs : If you’d like to keep in touch with your loved ones back at home, you’ll need to go the Iranian style, meaning having a few good VPNs to try if one stops working.

Find more Iran travel tips here .

Iran Travel Safety Frequently Asked Questions

Iran safety, do tourists have to wear hijab in iran.

Yes, the rule for all women is to wear a hijab and don’t show skin. But Iranian women are very lax and fashionable about it and so can you. A long-sleeved shirt, pants that come down to your ankles, and a shawl that covers part of your hair is enough.

Iran Travel Advice, What happens if you don’t wear hijab in Iran?

Since the present rules of Iran demand women to wear a hijab, tourists must follow the rules as well, even more so. If the rule is not followed, you might also have to expect confrontation from some people or the morality police.

How Safe is Iran? Are Iranians nice people?

You will probably not find kinder, more hospitable and more welcoming people than the Iranians. Hospitality is so valuable in the Persian culture that Iranians believe ‘guests are from God’. That’s why they’ll go above and beyond to make you feel welcome, safe and cared for.

Travel to Iran Advice, Is there red light area in Iran?

Like in any other country around the world, military, para-military and sensitive governmental areas are of course red light areas in Iran.

Keywords: Iran tourism safety, is it safe to travel in Iran, is it safe to go to Iran, Iran safe to travel, travel advice Iran, travel advice for Iran, is traveling to Iran safe, is Tehran safe to visit, is traveling to Iran safe

Zahra Soltani

Content manager, international relations manager.

To Zahra, introducing the beauties of Iran is a delight and an inherent mission! Beyond that, arts, culture, literature, mythology, and all the astonishing secrets of our marvelous universe set her soul on fire! This is what makes Zahra a filmophile, an insatiable reader, and a passionate writer.

Iranian Rial: The Official Iranian Currency – Iran Travel Information

Best time to visit iran – when to travel to iran.

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As Tehran condemns decision to list IRGC as terrorist group, Ottawa urges Canadians in Iran to come home

'for those who are in iran right now, it’s time to come back,' foreign affairs minister said.

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The federal government is urging Canadians in Iran to come home to avoid acts of retaliation by the state — including arbitrary arrest — as Tehran condemns Ottawa's decision to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani called the terrorism designation an "unwise and unconventional politically motivated step" and said Tehran reserves the right to respond accordingly.

• Canada listing Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as terrorist group after years of pressure

"Canada's action will not have any effect on the Revolutionary Guards' legitimate and deterrent power," Kanaani said, according to Iran's Fars news agency, which has ties to the IRGC.

"We know that this is going to have real impacts for members of the Iranian community in Canada and potentially their families back home," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday. "Which is why we needed to take our time to get this done the right way."

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly said the government's decision to list the IRGC might expose Canadians to "a heightened risk of arbitrary detention in Iran" and warned Canadians to return home immediately.

"For those who are in Iran right now, it's time to come back," Joly said. "For those who are planning to go to Iran, don't go."

Canada designates Iran's Revolutionary Guard a terrorist entity

The government also added new warnings about the dangers of being in Iran on Wednesday after ministers announced the new terrorism designation  following years of mounting public pressure. 

Canada updated its travel advisory, warning the possibility of arbitrary detention was no longer just a possibility, it was a high risk. The advisory also changed from recommending Canadians consider leaving to advising them to leave now. 

"In the context of recent developments between Canada and Iran, Iranian authorities could take retaliatory measures that could pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians, including Canadian-Iranians," the travel advisory says.

Global Affairs Canada posted on social media that Canadians in Iran could be under increased surveillance for activities considered "innocuous in Canada" including taking photographs in public places, travelling to remote areas, and interacting with locals.

'Keep a low profile'

The government is now warning Canadians in Iran to "keep a low profile and don't share your personal information with strangers."

More than 1,600 Canadians are registered in Iran, according to the Registration of Canadians Abroad Service . Global Affairs said that since registration is voluntary, this figure might underestimate the actual number of Canadians there.

The department is recommending that people leave Iran on commercial flights if it's safe to do so.

Canada severed diplomatic ties with Iran in 2012. Joly warned that the government cannot offer Canadians at risk in Iran the same level of support they could access in countries where Canada has embassies.

"We do not have an embassy in Iran," said Joly. "We've cut diplomatic ties for years now, and therefore, we won't be able to provide the consular expertise that would be required."

Surveillance operations 

Dennis Horak was Canada's head of mission in Iran from 2009 to 2012, when the embassy closed. He said Iran has a "very active ... cyber army" that monitors social media and online activity, including email; he said Tehran may decide to "step that up."

When he was in Iran, he said, he and his colleagues operated on the "full assumption" that their phones were tapped, and embassy staff were followed from time to time.

Exposing how Iran tracks and threatens people in Canada

Tehran could take retaliatory measures against individuals to send a message to other countries not to follow Canada's lead, Horak said. The U.S. has already listed the IRGC as a terrorist entity. The U.K. has signalled it plans do so and there's a push underway for EU countries to list the IRGC as well.

Horak said he doesn't think Iran is "overly bothered by" the terrorism listing because it's mostly a "symbolic gesture." But he warned that Iran could still try to send the international community a signal through arbitrary arrests.

A prison exchange unfolded last week. Sweden freed a former Iranian official convicted for his role in a mass execution in Iran in the 1980s, in exchange for the release of two Swedish citizens held in Iran. 

"The big concern is arbitrary detention," Horak said. "We've seen this in the past with the Canadian dual nationals and that's always a risk. Iran has a habit of doing this … to try and send a message."

Horak said called Canada's travel advisory "smart," but doesn't think it will lead to an exodus of Canadians unless arrests start being made. He said most Canadians in Iran are dual nationals and live in Iran either permanently or on a long-term basis.

Amir Arsalani told CBC News his mother, who is a Canadian citizen living in Iran, refuses to come to Canada despite Ottawa's warning. She doesn't want to leave her family behind, he said.

"She's telling me she's not going to leave home," he said. "I fear for my mom's safety of course, but there is only so much I can do."

Arsalani lost his sister, brother-in-law and 16-month-old niece on Flight PS752. The IRGC shot down the plane over the skies of Tehran in 2020, killing 176 people, most with ties to Canada. 

Arsalani said his family in Iran has been harassed, intimidated and threatened.

After his family did an interview with the BBC two years ago, three unknown people showed up at his father's house in Iran, searched for devices, kicked him and broke his nose, he said. 

He said his Canadian mother was also brought in for questioning by Iran's secret intelligence services after posting content online about her loved ones lost on Flight PS752.

'Inhumane' pressure on families

Hamed Esmaeilion is a prominent Canadian critic of Iran's regime; his wife Parisa and nine-year-old daughter Reera died on Flight PS752. 

Esmaeilion said his family members in Iran have also been targeted by Iran's Intelligence Ministry through repeated phone calls.

His parents, who are permanent residents of Canada, have also  been banned by Iran's regime from leaving the country, he said. His mother was stopped at the airport in December 2023 and was told she couldn't leave.

"I can go back, but there's no way to leave Iran after that," he said.

RCMP speaking to diaspora communities 

When asked by CBC News about the risk of Iran retaliating on Canadian soil, the RCMP said it would be "inappropriate for us to speculate."

"Through established networks, the RCMP in collaboration with police of jurisdiction across Canada are engaging with the various diaspora communities to increase their awareness on these criminal behaviours and encourage them to report these crimes," RCMP spokesperson Robin Percival told CBC News in a media statement.

Iranian-Canadians  have reported being monitored, threatened and followed on Canadian soil by those they believe are agents of the Iranian regime. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service also warned in 2022  that it was investigating "credible" death threats  from Iran against individuals in Canada.

Esmaeilion is among those who have reported suspicious activity to authorities. He said he believes his Toronto-area home is being monitored. He said that when his mother was visiting him last year, someone posted the information online when she flew back to Iran.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior reporter

Ashley Burke is a senior reporter with the CBC's Parliamentary Bureau in Ottawa. She was recognized with the Charles Lynch Award and was a finalist for the Michener Award for her exclusive reporting on the toxic workplace at Rideau Hall. She has also uncovered allegations of sexual misconduct in the Canadian military. You can reach her confidentially by email: [email protected]

With files from Reuters

Escape from Tehran

Is Iran safe for travel? (Part 1) NO! But not for the reasons you think

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Table of Contents

Is it safe to travel to Iran?

It’s like asking if I stopped beating my wife. Any way I respond, I’m gonna get hammered.

On the one hand, certain irritating online characters relentlessly promote Iran travel to anyone and everyone. They are usually Iranians selling tour packages. Or nationalist trolls with nothing better to do but start arguments often peppered with accusations of racism. 

On the other hand, save for one exception, I feel safe living in Iran , even though I hold a foreign passport and, even after nearly three years, I’m not very good at passing myself as a local.

But that’s my deal. Your decision on whether Iran is safe for tourists should be based on facts not hearsay, much less assurances from strangers online.

It’s easy, though, to confuse facts with impressions we develop over time about foreign people and places.  

I’ll explain. But first, here’s why I feel safer in Iran than in many other places.

Iran safe for travel? I feel safer here

I smile when friends abroad end their messages with, “Hope you’re safe” because I feel safer here than when I’m in Europe or North America. 

In Iran, I don’t worry about pickpockets and scammers like I do when I’m in the streets of Barcelona, Paris or Venice . Over there, I walk around like a fresh prisoner taking his first shower, constantly checking and rechecking for the possibility of penetration. I am paranoid because I’ve been ripped off multiple times. 

And in Iran, there are no mass shootings – a twice-daily average in America. You’re not going to get shot here because you went to the wrong address or because you gave the finger to someone on the freeway. Cops here don’t approach your car with a hand on the gun holster.

Again, I’m paranoid because of personal experiences, like the time a homeless man pulled a pistol on Saeideh in Los Angeles. She tearfully begged a passerby for help. The passerby just kept walking. “Call the police,” he said. When cops tracked down the passerby later on, he just threw up his shoulders.

That kind of indifference is IMPOSSIBLE to happen here. Iranians are not indifferent to each other.

Pull to the side of the road and raise your hood. Within minutes someone is going to stop to help. Or get stuck in sand and people, almost as if they’re movie extras waiting for their cue, will quickly gather to push you out.

Has happened to me multiple times but seeing this endearing quality of Iranians never gets old. Sometimes brings me to tears.

Iranians who immigrate to the big cities of the West have to learn quickly that they can’t go out for a stroll anytime of the night. Because in Iran, no one fears the night.

I love San Francisco. But after yet another viral video of the outrageous street crime there, I can’t help but prefer to leave my heart in Isfahan , Iran’s Golden City. Also Isfahan’s homeless don’t leave their feces on the streets.

Iran unsafe for travel? Yes. but not for the reasons you think

I wish the Iranian traffic cops would pull guns on us, though. Because what’s unsafe in Iran is the God-damned traffic!

Alcohol is banned here, but everyone drives as if they’re wasted. The sheer stupidity and selfishness on Iran’s streets is the top source of the stress in my life here, period. 

I cherish heading into the desert and the mountains in my 4WD. Traveling the rural roads in Iran is an adventure into a remarkable beauty that remains mostly unknown to the rest of the world.

But I dread getting behind the wheel in the city. Just thinking about it makes my shoulders tense.

Driving in Iran’s city streets is like being trapped inside a violent video game: the constant swerving away from the nincompoops who cut me off or speed straight toward me on a one-way street or even slam the brakes on the freeway to reverse back to the exit they just missed. 

You see things on the streets here that defy logic. Iranian drivers pull out of parking spots or turn into traffic from side streets before looking for oncoming traffic that could smash into them. Some don’t look at all.

(It is very much the shoot-first-ask-questions-later mentality that pervades through all of life here. People here tend to do things without planning. I could write books about this because I see it everyday in construction, social events, business, everything!)

This burns: the lack of shame. The worst driving offenders are the totally oblivious. They’re often laughing into their mobile phone as they whiz by within millimeters while I’m having a heart attack.

The law of the jungle is the default for all Homo sapiens in the absence of any other.

No, they are not savages, like I used to think, and I still occasionally cry out after a particularly harrowing encounter. The law of the jungle is the default for all Homo sapiens in the absence of any other. Enforcement of traffic laws in Iran is nearly nonexistent and as amusingly senseless as Monty Python skits. Plowing through a red light caught on camera costs the equivalent of $4 USD, which you can ignore until there’s another amnesty for unpaid fines.

Saeideh tells me I just don’t understand the “hidden logic” of Iranian drivers.

“They expect you to brake for them. And when you do crazy things, they brake for you. It all works out.” Saeideh tells me, smiling. “Someday you’ll get it.”

Thankfully, tourists in Iran are driven around by experienced Iranian drivers or the warnings about travel to Iran would be far grimmer.

So is Iran safe for travel? I realize traffic safety in Iran isn’t on your mind. I know because what’s on the news bothers me too. I explain in the Part 2 of this series > .

Ali and Saeideh plan their Iran roadtrips from their home in Mashhad. More about us here >>

Other dioramas in the category of How to visit Iran

Is Iran safe for tourists? (Part 3)

Is Iran safe for travel? (Part 4)

Is Iran safe for visitors? (Part 2)

A Perfect Train trip in Iran The Tehran to Mashhad “Fadak” line is comfortable and relatively inexpensive

Internet in Iran: Tips for Tourists Plan ahead before your arrival to stay in touch

Priceless Theatre flying to Iran Flying IranAir teaches the Persian mindset

Plastic Palm Trees and Korean Soaps on the Ruins of Silk Road A stunning example of globalization in Iran

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Escape from tehran

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Open Access

Peer-reviewed

Research Article

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on road traffic injuries in Iran: An interrupted time-series analysis

Contributed equally to this work with: Pirhossein Kolivand, Peyman Saberian

Roles Conceptualization, Project administration, Supervision

Affiliation Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Economics, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran

Roles Methodology, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

Affiliation Department of Anesthesiology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Roles Data curation, Software, Writing – original draft

Affiliation Health Management and Economics Research Center, Health Management Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Roles Formal analysis, Methodology, Software, Writing – original draft

Affiliation Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran

Roles Data curation, Methodology, Writing – original draft

Affiliation Research Center for Emergency and Disaster Resilience, Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Tehran, Iran

Roles Data curation, Formal analysis, Software

Roles Data curation

Roles Software, Validation, Visualization

Affiliation Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Roles Conceptualization, Data curation, Validation, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

* E-mail: [email protected] , [email protected]

Affiliations Research Center for Emergency and Disaster Resilience, Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Tehran, Iran, Hospital Management Research Center, Health Management Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

• Pirhossein Kolivand, 
• Peyman Saberian, 
• Jalal Arabloo, 
• Masoud Behzadifar, 
• Fereshteh Karimi, 
• Soheila Rajaie, 
• Morteza Moradipour, 
• Arash Parvari, 
• Samad Azari

• Published: June 17, 2024
• https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081
• Reader Comments

Introduction

Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the number of road accidents and deaths caused by them. The present study aimed to identify the effect of this epidemic on traffic accidents and their casualties in Iran.

In this study, Interrupted Time Series Analysis (ITSA) was used in a semi-experimental design to measure the impact of the restrictive policies of COVID-19 on road accidents. Data were collected retrospectively from the Iran Red Crescent Society data set for 31 provinces from March 2017 to February 2022. The information related to the number of road accidents, injuries, deaths, and deaths in the hospital was collected. The Newey‐West method is used for estimation. Statistical analyses were carried out using R software version 3.6.1.

Since February 2020 in Iran, the reduction in the number of road accidents and the number of injuries and deaths in these accidents was significant at 5% but the reduction of deaths in the scene and hospital was significant at 10%. In general, for all variables, the reduction trend was established only in the first months, and then it had an upward trend.

In the early months of the COVID-19 epidemic in Iran, the number of road accidents and their casualties decreased. Policies restricting traffic, quarantine, and fines for violators can be reasons for changing people’s behavior and travel patterns and also lead to a reduction in traffic accidents and fatalities. Such studies can explain the importance of the policies in changing behavioural patterns and can be used as a guide in future policies.

Citation: Kolivand P, Saberian P, Arabloo J, Behzadifar M, Karimi F, Rajaie S, et al. (2024) Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on road traffic injuries in Iran: An interrupted time-series analysis. PLoS ONE 19(6): e0305081. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081

Editor: Mohamed R. Abonazel, Cairo University, EGYPT

Received: December 15, 2023; Accepted: May 23, 2024; Published: June 17, 2024

Copyright: © 2024 Kolivand et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Data Availability: The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study uploaded as supplementary information .

Funding: The author(s) received no specific funding for this work.

Competing interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

1. Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted travel patterns, road congestion, and road travel safety. Road accidents are still considered as one of the most significant traffic problems in the world, which cause financial losses, economic challenges, injuries and fatalities. In response to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, regional and global movement restrictions have brought about fundamental changes in people’s travel behavior [ 1 ].

There might be several reasons for this event. By the start of the quarantine, movements decreased and the worry about being exposed to the virus also decreased. With reduced movements, the number of cars on the streets decreased and the risk of accidents also decreased as a result. Therefore, traffic has decreased and drivers have found the opportunity to increase their speed in the quiet streets. Speeding is a very important factor in accident deaths [ 2 ].

COVID-19 also has led to an increase in unemployment. Empirical evidence suggests that movement and accident rates decrease during recessions [ 3 ]. Research has shown that financial worries and economic uncertainty increase distraction, frustration, and sleep deprivation, have positive relation with accidents and potentially play role in roads accidents. Moreover, inequality and financial concerns may decrease social cohesion and be considered as a reason for selfish behaviurs [ 4 ]. Being concerned about the infection of relatives due to COVID-19 can also lead to distraction and raise the risk of road accidents [ 5 ]. Furthermore, disturbances in sleep patterns and changes in alcohol consumption have affected the rate of road accidents during the COVID-19 pandemic [ 6 , 7 ].

The results of the global studies on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on road accidents globally are divergent. In the United States, several studies have indicated a decrease in the overall number of accidents and people involved in road accidents. However, there has been an increase in Angle crashes, while the severity and fatality rates remain unchanged [ 8 – 12 ]. In Greece, while the total number of traffic accidents decreased, there was a significant increase in both fatalities and minor injuries [ 13 ]. In China, while the total number of road traffic incidents decreased, there was a rise in road traffic injuries and fatalities specifically involving e-bikes [ 14 , 15 ].

Studies have investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on road accidents using various methods and perspectives. For example, in Japan, the impact of speeding violations during quarantine was predicted by analyzing police data on the monthly number of fatal motor vehicle accidents (MVC) from January 2010 to February 2020 in which drivers were at fault. The study revealed that in February 2020, there were more speeding violations during quarantine compared to the initially predicted rate [ 16 ].

A study combined detailed information like motor vehicle travel, fatalities, crash, fatality, and weather data, and driver characteristics to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on road safety in California. Data were analyzed from March 1, 2015, to May 31, 2020. The study calculated the mean values of driver and crash characteristics before and during the initial period of COVID-19 to interpret differences as evidence of compositional changes during driving restrictions. The results of the study showed that during the first eleven weeks of the reaction to COVID-19, driving in the highways decreased by approximately 22% and total crashes decreased by 49%. Although the statewide average speed increased by 2 to 3 mph, certain counties experienced a more significant increase of 10 to 15 mph. The proportion of severe crashes increased by approximately 5%, representing a 25% rise [ 17 ].

The study by Zhang et al. investigated the impact of COVID-19 on the number of people involved in accidents in New York from January 1, 2020, to May 24, 2020, using the negative binomial method. The study finds that different levels of control policies during the COVID-19 outbreak are closely related to safety awareness, and driving and travel behaviour, and indirectly affect the frequency of accidents. In particular, a negative correlation was identified between the implementation of the stay-at-home policy in New York City on 20 March 2020 and the number of individuals involved in the accidents [ 12 ].

Iran is a middle-income country, and its road accidents and their burden have always been a great concern. According to the latest report of The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study in 2019, there were 21,121 deaths due to road accidents. During the COVID-19 epidemic in 2020, there was a 29% decrease in intercity mobility in Iran [ 18 ]. A study revealed that in 2020 and 2021, an average of 15,000 people died in road accidents annually [ 19 ]. Furthermore, a study in Shiraz compared the prevalence and causes of death among patients admitted due to road accidents during the COVID-19 epidemic with the period before. The results indicated a decrease in the number of patients compared to before, but an increase in the number of deaths from road accidents [ 20 ].

Although studies in Iran have investigated various aspects of this issue, but none of them have examined all the country’s provinces simultaneously. This study was carried out to investigate the change in the pattern of road accidents in Iran during the COVID-19 epidemic. This study also investigated changes in the number of road accidents during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the period before and after it in Iran for the first time. In addition to the number of road accidents, the number of deaths at the scene of the accident and medical centers, and therefore the change in the severity of fatalities of accidents, has also been investigated in the periods before and after this epidemic. The results of this study can show the effect of applied policies on changing people’s behavior, patterns of accidents and fatalities in Iran during the Covid-19 pandemic. The results and lessons learned from these policies related to this disease can be considered as a useful guide in planning and future transportation policies.

2. Material and methods

2.1 ethics statements.

This study is an extract from the research project with the Code of Ethics IR.RCS.REC.1401.014 of the Iranian Red Crescent Society, which has been conducted at the Research Centre for Emergency and Disaster Resilience, Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Tehran, Iran.

2.2 Study design

This study utilized interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) in a quasi-experimental design. The study addresses the interest of policymakers in assessing the effects of various health sector policies. Depending on the outcomes observed, policymakers can decide whether to maintain or discontinue these policies [ 21 ]. ITSA is a widely used method for assessing the effectiveness of clinical and non-clinical interventions and providing valuable evidence for decision-making [ 22 ]. ITSA involves examining a continuous series of observations over time to understand the effects of implementing a policy or intervention [ 23 ]. By comparing the before-and-after periods, ITSA contributes to a deeper understanding of the policy’s effects [ 24 ]. In the context of health crises such as COVID-19, ITSA plays a crucial role in evaluating the consequences of different policies and helping managers in make well-informed decisions [ 25 ].

2.3 Data collection

The information of this study was collected from the database of the Iranian Red Crescent Relief and Rescue Organization. This organization has aid stations in the whole country and records the information on accidents on all the country’s roads. This information is recorded in a special form and records the exact details such as the location and time of the accident, the type of vehicles, the number of casualties and injuries at the accident scene, the number of services and the type of assistance at the accident scene, and the number of survivors. The authors did not have access to information that could identify individual participants during or after data collection.

After receiving approval from the Iranian Red Crescent Research Ethics Committee under the number IR.RCS.REC.1401.014, the required data were obtained in the specified time frame from March 2017 to February 2022 and subsequently organized by the authors in a structured format based on research objectives. The appearance of COVID-19 in Iran was in February 2020. The study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic in Iran on various indicators, including the number of road accidents, injuries, and deaths both at the scene and in hospitals.

2.4 Statistical analysis

Y t: represents the number of indexes at time t

Time: is a continuous variable representing the time in years.

Intervention: is a binary variable indicating the presence [ 26 ] or absence (0) of the COVID-19 pandemic interventions

β 0: represents the intercept, representing the level of index at the beginning of the study period

β 1: estimates the baseline trend in the index before the intervention

β 2: captures the index immediate change in the level after the intervention

β 3: estimates the difference in the trend after the intervention compared to the pre-intervention period

ε t: represents the error term assumed to be normally distributed

We employed a segmented regression model in our analysis of ITSA. To ensure the best analytical approach, we employed the Newey‐West method for estimation. We conducted various diagnostic and sensitivity assessments to verify the strength of our findings. To identify any serial correlation in errors, we employed the ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model with a time series specification and the Durbin-Watson test. We also assessed residuals from the OLS regression and examined autocorrelation and partial autocorrelation plots. To ensure that the assumptions of our regression model are met, we verified that the error term is normally distributed and represents independent and identically distributed (IID) characteristics. Diagnostic tests, including the ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model with a time series specification, the Durbin-Watson test to identify serial correlation in errors, and examination of autocorrelation and partial autocorrelation plots of residuals, were conducted to assess the Gaussian white noise characteristics of the residuals. We employed the Box-Jenkins approach, which considers seasonal correlations, such as regression to mean effects. Box—Jenkins introduced the ARIMA model, which integrates both autoregressive (AR) and moving average (MA) models. Additionally, the model explicitly incorporates differencing in its formulation. The AR component characterizes a time series where the present observation relies on its past values, while the MA component depicts a time series as a linear function of current and past random errors. All statistical analyses were carried out using R software version 3.6.1 via nlme package. A significance level of P-value < 0.05 was adopted.

The results of the study were presented separately in 4 sections: The number of road accidents, injuries, road accidents deaths at the scene of the accident and the total number of road accident deaths at the scene and hospital.

3.1. The number of road accidents

During the first month of the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran, a significant decrease in the number of road accidents was observed, amounting to 519 cases (95% CI: 239.29–800.45, P < 0.001). The results of the regression model are shown in Table 1 .

• PPT PowerPoint slide
• PNG larger image
• TIFF original image

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.t001

The ITSA revealed an immediate reduction of 0.92 in road accidents (95% CI 9.66 to 11.50; P = 0.86) following the onset of COVID-19. However, the decreasing trend in road accidents did not persist after the initial decline in the first months. Instead, the number of road accidents started to increase again, indicating a continuing upward trend (5.34; 95% CI 10.66 to 21.34; P = 0.50). The OLS regression of the rate of road accidents in Iran is depicted in Fig 1 . This means that the downward trend in traffic accidents has continued, while the slope has not been as steep as in the pre-intervention period.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.g001

3.2. The number of injuries in road accidents

In the month following the announcement of COVID-19 in Iran, a significant decrease in the number of injuries caused by road accidents was observed. There was a reported reduction of 1602.67 cases (95% CI: 899.39–2305.95, P < 0.001). The results from the regression model are available in Table 2 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.t002

However, despite the initial decrease, a subsequent upward trend in the number of injuries resulting from road accidents was observed over time. The increase was measured at an incremental rate of 7.47 (95% CI 17.33 to 32.29; P = 0.54). Fig 2 shows the temporal trend of the number of injuries caused by road accidents in Iran before and after COVID-19. This means that the downward trend in traffic accidents has continued, while the slope has not been as steep as in the pre-intervention period.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.g002

3.3. The number of deaths caused by road accidents at the scene of the accident

After the onset of COVID-19 in Iran, a decrease in the number of deaths at the scene of road accidents was observed, with a rate of 85.51 per 100,000 people (95% CI 50.35 to 120.67; P = 0.00). The results from the regression model are available in Table 3 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.t003

Despite the initial downward trend, deaths started to increase again, and this increase was found to be statistically significant, measuring at 1.20 (95% CI 0.19 to 2.59; P = 0.08). Fig 3 illustrates the temporal trend of the number of deaths at the scene of road accidents in Iran before and after COVID-19. This indicates that the downward trend in traffic accidents has continued, although the slope has not been as steep as in the preintervention period.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.g003

3.4. The total number of deaths from road accidents at the scene and the hospitals

In the first month after the start of COVID-19 in Iran, there was a decrease in the rate of deaths at the scene of road accidents and after being admitted to hospitals, with a rate of 2.42 per 100,000 people (95% CI 0.42 to 5.28; P = 0.09) ( Table 4 ).

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.t004

This downward trend in deaths persisted in the subsequent months, with a decrease of 10.51 (95% CI, 78.38 to 57.34; P = 0.75).

Fig 4 shows the death temporal trend of the rate of deaths at the scene of road accidents and after being admitted to hospitals in Iran before and after COVID-19. This means that the downward trend in traffic accidents has continued, while the slope has not been as steep as in the pre-intervention period.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.g004

The findings obtained through the Box-Jenkins approach are presented in Table 5 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.t005

The results shown in Table 5 suggest that the spread of Covid-19 has contributed to a reduction in the indicators mentioned. However, it is important to note that these indices alone may not provide conclusive evidence of the causal effect of Covid-19.

4. Discussion

This study was conducted to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on road accidents in Iran. According to the results in the initial months and after the announcement of COVID-19, quarantines and movement restrictions, there was a decrease in the number of accidents and deaths in Iran. Iran implemented policies for international and intercity travel. On 6 March 2020, the social distancing policy of 1.8 meters was implemented in all towns. All public places, schools, universities, cinemas and national sports halls were closed. The hours of work were also reduced [ 27 ]. Additionally, commercial activities were divided into four groups, and a smart and dynamic policy was adopted so that certain groups are not allowed to operate at specified intensity levels. The analysis showed the effectiveness of this policy, as it significantly reduced mortality due to Covid during the first peak [ 28 ].

On 21 November 2020, the government implemented a new intervention called the Smart Travel Ban (STB) policy. According to this policy, only the drivers who intended to travel between towns for commercial and essential purposes were allowed to travel. Drivers of private cars should take the traffic ban seriously and face significant fines if they drive on intercity highways. The results show that the (STB) policies reduced intercity travel by 29% [ 18 ].

Hence, at the onset of the COVID-19 epidemic, policies restricting movement within and between cities, closure of public places and many businesses, coupled with public apprehension regarding unnecessary travel and disease transmission, have influenced the patterns of road accidents and deaths in Iran. The study results indicated that over time, these patterns evolved as restrictions eased. Stringent and restrictive traffic policies have proven successful in reducing traffic accidents and casualties, consequently.

COVID-19 affected road accidents and the severity of fatalities in various ways, with effects varying according to the stringency of restrictions and policies across countries. The reduction in the number of vehicles on the roads due to restrictions and quarantines influenced road safety and accident rates significantly. Many studies have reported a decrease in the number of road accidents during quarantine periods. However, the number of fatalities and the severity of incidents exhibited variations [ 1 ].

According to data from The International Traffic Safety Data and Analysis Group (IRTAD), in OECD countries, many governments implemented stringent restrictions on nonessential movements in early 2020. Initially, most countries had high stringency levels that later fluctuated. These restrictions significantly influenced the number and patterns of accidents. In most countries, traffic volumes have decreased since March 2020, with the most significant declines observed in April and May 2020. According to the report, traffic volume in 2020 was 12.2% lower than the average volume recorded from 2017 to 2019. In general, the number of road deaths in 2020 across the 34 IRTAD countries decreased by 8.6%. [ 29 ]. The results of these reports are also relevant to the present study and confirm the results of our study.

In the United States, COVID-19 has influenced people’s behavior and road accidents. During this period, there has been a decrease in both the number of traffic accidents and the individuals involved in such incidents. However, despite these changes, some individuals have reported maintaining their pre-pandemic behavior. Consequently, it appears that the imposed restrictions may have led to an increase in risky driving behaviour among some individuals. This manifested in drivers exhibiting more reckless and faster driving habits, potentially contributing to the persistence of serious and fatal road accidents [ 8 – 12 , 26 ].

In Canada, during traffic lockdown, there has been a decrease in deaths and injuries among older drivers, but there has been an increase in risky behaviors [ 26 , 30 ]. One of the reasons is that the elderly followed social distancing rules more because they were more concerned about being exposed to the disease. This led to a reduction in casualties and deaths from traffic accidents in this age group [ 2 ].

In Spain, due to the reluctance to use public transport, more private vehicles were driven and the number of road accidents increased [ 31 , 32 ]. In China, there was an increase in traffic injuries caused by e-bikes. One possible reason for the rise in personal vehicle accidents could be attributed to the COVID-19 era. Social distancing rules and concerns about virus exposure in public spaces led to a surge in the use of personal transportation modes like private cars, cycling, and walking, while the utilization of public transportation such as taxis and buses significantly decreased [ 1 ].

During COVID-19, shopping was one of the main reasons for leaving the house. Quarantine measures prompted a shift towards online activities, including purchasing essential supplies and e-books online to reduce the need for physical movement. The pandemic has compelled communities to reassess road infrastructure and create safe environments for walking and cycling [ 1 ].

This study had some limitations. First, all data were sourced from the Iranian Red Crescent Relief and Rescue Organization, which means information from other emergency organizations is not included. Additionally, caution should be exercised when attributing all reductions in accident numbers solely to restrictive policies. Many people voluntarily curtailed their travels out of concern for the health of their own and their loved ones.

5. Conclusion

During the COVID-19 epidemic, the number of traffic accidents and deaths in Iran has decreased. By being aware of its results and analyzing the country’s policies and people’s behavior, policymakers can apply the lessons learned from this epidemic in future policies to reduce the traffic accidents.

Supporting information

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305081.s001

Acknowledgments

We appreciate the IRCS Relief and Rescue Organization for offering the data used in our study. We also thank the respected reviewers who improved the quality of the article with their valuable comments.

• View Article
• Google Scholar
• PubMed/NCBI
• 29. TF (2021), Road Safety Annual Report 2021: The Impact of Covid-19, OECD Publishing, Paris.Available at: https://www.itf-oecd.org/sites/default/files/docs/irtad-road-safety-annual-report-2021.pdf [Last accessed 13 August 2023].

Ukraine war latest: Russian officials 'thrown out of meeting' for breaking custom; new photos emerge of Putin and Kim's day out

Vladimir Putin has arrived in Vietnam for a state visit after he spent the day in North Korea yesterday, where he signed a defence pact with Kim Jong Un. Got a question on the Ukraine war? Submit it below for our specialists to answer.

Friday 21 June 2024 15:12, UK

• Vladimir Putin arrives in Vietnam for state visit
• Russia and North Korea sign new defence deal
• Russian officials 'thrown out of meeting' for breaking custom
• South Korea condemns pact and says it will reconsider weapons for Ukraine
• New photos emerge of Putin and Kim's day out
• Analysis: Putin wants to prove he still has friends
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Ask a question or make a comment

  While we haven't been able to bring you our regular live coverage, we have been keeping an eye on today's latest developments. 

Here are the key updates: 

• The Ukrainian military issued a rare statement confirming it had struck four oil refineries in Russia during an early morning drone attack;
• South Korea summoned the Russian ambassador over the country's new defence pact with North Korea;
• A Russian guided bomb killed two people and wounded three others in the eastern Ukrainian town of Selydove, according to regional prosecutors;
• European Union countries have formally approved the launch of accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova next week;
• Vladimir Putin said Russia would keep developing its arsenal of nuclear weapons to preserve the "balance of power in the world". 

Here's a look at the latest situation on the ground: 

That's all of our live coverage on the conflict for now. 

We'll bring you any major developments overnight, and we'll be back with our regular updates in the morning. 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he is "deeply grateful" for Joe Biden's decision to prioritise air defence deliveries for Ukraine. 

The Ukrainian president said his country was in critical need of the capabilities to protect its cities and civilians from Russian attacks. 

"The partnership between Ukraine and the United States is strong and unwavering. Together, we are protecting life against terror and aggression," he added. 

It comes after the US said a recent defence pact signed by Russia and North Korea was a "cause for concern". 

The recently signed defence pact between Russia and North Korea is a cause of concern but is no surprise, the White House has said.

Speaking to reporters, White House spokesman John Kirby said the agreement between the two countries was a sign of Russia's desperation for foreign assistance in the Ukraine war.

The deal has seen both countries vow to help each other if they faced armed aggression, and replaces previous treaties between the countries. 

Russia said the pact was needed because of "the deep evolution of the geopolitical situation in the world and the region".

Mr Kirby also said the US would reprioritise planned deliveries of foreign military equipment to go to Ukraine, which is in "desperate need" of more air defence capabilities.

Vladimir Putin has warned that South Korea would be making a "big mistake" if it decides to supply weapons to Ukraine. 

The Russian president's comments come after South Korea said a new defence agreement between North Korea and Moscow was "absurd" and it would reconsider sending arms to Kyiv as a result. 

Mr Putin said Seoul had nothing to worry about when it came to the mutual defence pact. 

Russian state media quoted him as saying that Moscow expected its cooperation with North Korea to serve as a deterrent to the West. 

He also refused to rule out supplying high-precision weapons to the country. 

Russia is considering making changes to its nuclear weapons doctrine, Vladimir Putin has said. 

The Russian president made the comments while speaking to reporters at the end of his Vietnam trip. 

The existing doctrine states that Russia may use such weapons in response to a nuclear strike or in the event of a conventional attack that poses an existential threat to the country. 

Ukrainian troops have been launching mid-range reconnaissance drones in Kharkiv.

Russian forces crossed into parts of the northeastern region last month, and officials claim they have seized at least a dozen villages.

But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Kyiv's forces are gradually pushing Russian troops out of the contested area.

A police search is under way for a woman who allegedly desecrated the graves of Ukrainian soldiers.

Kyiv city's prosecutor's office said the unknown woman vandalised the graves this morning. 

Commemorative plaques and lamps were torn off and broken, it said.

The Ukrainian flag was also "mutilated", it added.

"Operational investigations and searches are being carried out to establish the woman's identity," the office said in post on Telegram. 

If caught and found guilty, the woman could face up to five years in prison. 

We have been reporting today on Vladimir Putin's visit to Vietnam.

Here is a recap of what the Russian president has been up to: 

• Mr Putin signed a series of deals with his Vietnamese counterpart To Lam during his state visit;
• The two leaders signed agreements to further co-operation on education, science and technology, oil and gas exploration and health;
• They also agreed to work on a road map for a nuclear science and technology centre in Vietnam;
• Following the talks, Mr Putin said that the two countries share an interest in "developing a reliable security architecture" in the Asia-Pacific region based on not using force and peacefully settling disputes with no room for "closed military-political blocs";
• The Russian leader also met Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and is scheduled to meet Communist Party general secretary Nguyen Phu Trong - Vietnam's most powerful politician;
• The trip has resulted in a sharp rebuke from the US embassy in the country.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Romania's decision to provide his country with two Patriot air defence systems will strengthen security in Ukraine and throughout Europe.

"This crucial contribution will bolster our air shield and help us better protect our people and critical infrastructure from Russian air terror," the Ukrainian president said on X.

The Patriot, which stands for Phased Array Tracking Radar for Intercept on Target, is a surface-to-air missile defence system.

For months now, Ukraine has been calling for countries to provide more air defence systems to help protect it from Russian attacks. 

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