Visas
Most visitors require a visa. Citizens of a handful of countries (some Arab states, a few others) are visa-free; everyone else must apply in advance or obtain a visa on arrival.
Visa on arrival is available to many nationalities at Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran and a few other entry points, typically valid for 30 days and extendable. It is generally straightforward, though occasionally processing is slow — budget an extra hour.
Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada cannot obtain visas independently. They must book a guided tour through an authorized Iranian travel agency, which handles visa authorization on their behalf. The guide must accompany them throughout their stay. This is a firm government requirement, not just a recommendation. The same applies to citizens of Israel (who are in practice denied entry entirely).
Passport holders with Israeli stamps may face difficulties at the border; some nationalities can be questioned about prior travel to Israel.
Currency
The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), but prices are commonly quoted in Tomans (1 Toman = 10 Rials). The gap between official and street rates has historically been significant; use licensed exchange offices (sarrafis) rather than banks for the best rates. Major currencies — US dollars, euros, British pounds — exchange well. Bring cash; international bank cards and credit cards do not work in Iran due to sanctions. There is no access to Western Union or international bank transfers.
Prices are very low by international standards once you have local currency. Budget accommodation and food cost a fraction of European prices.
Dress code
Iran has a legally enforced dress code. Women must cover their hair with a headscarf (hijab) and wear loose, modest clothing that covers arms and legs. A long tunic or coat (manteau) over trousers is standard and practical. The enforcement of rules has varied over time and by location — cities are generally more relaxed than smaller towns or religious sites, where full covering is expected. Men should wear long trousers; shorts are not worn outside and short-sleeved shirts are acceptable but long sleeves are advisable in mosques.
Non-Muslim visitors are expected to follow the same dress rules as Iranian Muslims in public.
Religion and conduct
Iran is an Islamic Republic. Alcohol is prohibited and not available. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Photography near military installations, government buildings, and some religious sites is sensitive — ask before pointing a camera. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is not permitted.
Internet
Iran has widespread internet access but heavy censorship. Many platforms — Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, YouTube — are blocked. A VPN is essential for most travelers; download and configure one before you arrive, as VPN sites are themselves often blocked inside Iran. WhatsApp and Telegram work without a VPN and are widely used for local communication.
Health
No vaccinations are specifically required but hepatitis A, typhoid, and standard travel vaccinations are recommended. Tap water is generally safe in cities but bottled water is readily available and cheap. Pharmacies are well stocked. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly advised.
Safety
Iran is generally safe for tourists in the main cities and on the classic travel routes. Petty crime is low. The main risks are political: the government-foreign visitor relationship is tightly managed, and any activity that looks like journalism or activism will attract attention. Register with your embassy if your country has representation (many do not — the US has no embassy; the UK has limited services). The border regions near Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of Kurdistan carry higher risk and should be researched carefully before visiting.
Time and electricity
Iran Standard Time is UTC+3:30 (UTC+4:30 in summer). Electrical current is 220V/50Hz, standard European-style two-pin plugs.
Opening hours
The working week runs Saturday to Wednesday. Thursday is a half-day in many offices; Friday is the day of rest. Banks open roughly 09:00–16:00 Saturday to Wednesday. Bazaars and shops keep longer hours and often close for an afternoon break. Mosques are generally open to non-Muslim visitors outside prayer times — dress appropriately and follow any instructions at the entrance.