Middle East
Iran
Usually one of the world's most hospitable countries, but in 2026 Iran is at war with the US and Israel, with airstrikes, internet blackouts, unusable foreign cards and real detention risk. Don't travel now.
- US travel advisoryLevel 4Do not travelDetails
- Visa44 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyIRRUS$1 ≈ ﷼776,253.25Details
- Price level352%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English2/5LimitedDetails
- PlugsType C, F230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency110Police 110 · Ambulance 115 · Fire 125
- Tap waterFilter or boilBig-city tap water is treated and many locals drink it, but 2026 strikes damaged water systems; bottled water is the safer choice.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedNo visible scene and severe persecution.Details
- DrivingOn the rightA 1968 IDP is required. Accidents are common; women riding motorbikes risk arrest.
Where to go in Iran
8 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
When to visit Iran
In normal times, March–May (avoid late-March Nowruz crowds) and October–November; summers are scorching in the centre and south, winters mild on the Gulf coast.
Good to know
Entry
- Visa required for most, arranged via an agency and the e-visa system. US, UK and Canadian citizens need a guided tour or sponsor.
- Israeli stamps or travel history can mean refusal; dual nationals are treated as Iranian.
- Airspace and land borders close at short notice during the war; plan more than one exit route.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Alcohol is illegal; bootleg drinks have caused methanol deaths.
- Photographing government, military or infrastructure sites can bring espionage charges.
- Sex outside marriage and same-sex relations can carry the death penalty.
Etiquette
- Women must cover hair, arms and legs in public; men wear long trousers.
- Taarof: shopkeepers may refuse payment out of politeness; insist on paying.
- A thumbs-up is traditionally rude; avoid it.
- Avoid political conversations with strangers; informants and detentions are real.
Tipping
Not obligatory; leave about 10% in nicer restaurants and tip guides and drivers. Expect polite refusals (taarof) before accepting.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Iran
- Iran Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-visa
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.