Iran

Australians, including dual nationals, are at a high risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Foreign nationals, including Australians, have been arrested or detained by Iran without due process of law.

You may be at greater risk of detention if authorities are suspicious of your activities or background, especially following a security incident or military conflict. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Iran may face high risks, including arrest and imprisonment. See our advice for journalists.

You could also attract the attention of authorities if you:

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

Do not visit military or nuclear sites; these are not always clearly marked. You can get arrested for venturing close to or taking photos of sensitive sites.

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.

More information:

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

The security situation in Iran and the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

If you're in Iran despite our advice, you should leave as soon as possible if it's safe to do so. Australians remaining in Iran against our advice are advised to make contingency plans to leave at short notice.

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. Borders may close without notice. 

Consider the risks carefully before attempting to leave by any land route. The Australian Government can't offer advice on the safety of travelling to any departure point. All travel options are at your own risk. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. 

If despite our advice, you remain in Iran read our general advice on protecting your safety during an armed conflict.

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

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.

There have been widespread protests across many cities and towns in Iran in the past. Security forces' response to protests has been severe, and many protesters and bystanders were injured, killed or detained. During past protest periods, there have been increases in the number of foreign nationals arrested. 

Stay away from protests, demonstrations and vigils, do not take photos. Be prepared to change your plans in case of disruptions. If civil unrest disrupts transport, ask your airline, travel agent or insurer for help. Check media for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities.

More information:

•   Demonstrations and civil unrest

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

A large suicide bomb attack occurred in January 2024 in Kerman, killing several and wounding hundreds.

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow instructions of local authorities. 

For more information on common targets for terrorists and what to do if there’s a terrorist attack, read our terrorism page.

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnapping can happen anywhere, even in places that seem safe.

Kidnapping is a risk in Iran, foreigners have been  targeted, including in Tehran. Kidnappings in major centres are typically carried out by financially motivated criminals. The kidnapping risk is heightened in the border areas with Afghanistan and Pakistan where armed groups are active.
If despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is extremely limited.  

You’re responsible for your own safety. 

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. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Petty crime occurs in Iran.  

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

Violent incidents often occur in these areas, such as:

• clashes between security forces and smugglers
• bombings
• shootings

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 and mobile phones from pedestrians, home break-ins and robberies. 

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

Scams and fraud

Men may approach foreigners and claim to be police in plain clothes. 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.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert, don't leave your food or drinks alone. Watch when your drink is being mixed. If you feel unwell, tell your friends immediately and get to a safe place. Keep an eye on your friends, if they feel unwell, stay with them. Get medical help if needed.

Methanol poisoning

People have died or become very sick from poisoned drinks overseas. This includes Australians. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Methanol can be added or accidentally created during poor quality alcohol production. Only drink branded, sealed drinks. Get urgent medical help if you think you've been poisoned.

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Cyber safety

You could face cyber threats in any country, anyone is a target. Your devices and data can be stolen, especially when using public Wi-Fi, computers, or Bluetooth. Criminals can use stolen information to conduct scams or to resell your personal information.

The Australian Cyber Security Centre has advice on how to protect yourself online.

Social media can also be risky in places with social or political tensions or strict laws. People have been arrested for what they posted online. Check the laws of the destination you're travelling to and think about what you post on social media. The Australian Government can't get you out of trouble if you're accused of breaking the law.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Iran is in an active earthquake zone. There have been several major earthquakes in recent years.

Some regions have heavy snowfall during winter.

Sandstorms and dust storms occur regularly.

Flash flooding can occur, particularly in Spring.

Follow the instructions of local authorities.

More information:

• Staying safe when there's a natural disaster

You need special travel insurance if you’re going to a high-risk destination, which can be expensive.

We can’t guarantee your safety and security in another country or pay for your medical expenses, including evacuation. If you don’t have insurance, you shouldn’t travel.

If despite our advice you travel to Iran, think about your health before you travel, especially if you have any medical conditions.

See your doctor or a travel clinic to:

• get a basic check-up
• ask if your travel plans might affect your health
• find out what vaccinations you need.

If you're concerned about your mental wellbeing, or someone else's, read more about mental health support overseas.

More information:

• General health advice
• Managing your mental health

Not all medications available in Australia are accessible in other countries. Some medicines may be illegal, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Ensure your medication is legal overseas. Take enough medicine for your trip.

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

• medication names
• your required dosage
• that the medications are for your personal use.

More information:

• Medicine

Insect-borne diseases

Insect-borne illnesses are common throughout Iran, including:

• malaria
• leishmaniasis
• tick-borne encephalitis

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.

Other health risks

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

• HIV/AIDS
• cholera
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To stay safe:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If despite our advice you travel to Iran, ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Air pollution

Significant air pollution occurs in major cities.

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

Medical tourism

Medical tourism including for cosmetic operations is common in Iran. The standard of medical service providers can vary.

Serious post-surgery complications and deaths have occurred.

You'll need to be evacuated if you get seriously ill or injured. Medical evacuation may not be possible and can be very expensive. Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Iran.

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

Drugs

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

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

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

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

• divorce
• child custody
• child support

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

Authorities have stopped Australians and Australian-Iranian dual nationals, including mothers with children, from leaving Iran. Husbands can legally place border alerts ('stop orders') on their spouse and children where there are pending custodial disputes. Overturning stop orders can be a time consuming and complicated process.

The Australian Government cannot prevent or overturn a stop order on an Australian citizen.

Know your rights and responsibilities.

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
• manufacturing, selling or consuming alcoholic drinks

Penalties for serious offences, including security related offences, may result in death and corporal punishment. Same-sex relationships are considered serious offences.

More information:

• 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. If you convert or try to convert someone from Islam to another religion, you could face harsh punishment.

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.

Men should not wear shorts or sleeveless T-shirts in public.

Photography

It's illegal to photograph sensitive sites or events and you're at high risk of arrest or detention. Do not photograph:

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

Electronic equipment

Drones and electronic equipment are illegal without permission. If you carry or use these you may be arrested or detained:

• drones
• satellite phones
• GPS trackers
• walkie-talkies
• tracking software or tracking apps on mobile phones, tablets or other computer equipment.

Under Iranian law, dual nationals must enter and exit on their Iranian passport. Iranian immigration officials routinely confiscate the foreign and Iranian passports of dual nationals. Australians have been detained and had passports confiscated.

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws while overseas.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Iran doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual national, you may be at greater risk of arbitrary arrest or detention. It's unlikely Iran will notify the Australian Government you’ve been detained. Our ability to provide consular assistance is extremely limited and Iran will not allow us to provide consular services.

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. Dual nationals won't 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
• female and you don't have permission from your husband or a senior male relative to leave Iran
• male and have not paid back the dowry to your wife after divorce

More information:

• Dual nationals

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.

Requirements for border crossings from Iran may change without notice. Check the latest public information from local authorities on entry requirements and border arrangements. 

For further information on travelling across neighbouring borders, see our travel advice for Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Armenia. We continue to advise do not travel to Iraq or Afghanistan.

Each country or territory decides its own entry and exit rules. If, despite our advice you travel to Iran, ensure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't meet the conditions, the Australian Government can't help you.

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 the 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.

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.

More information:

• Embassies and Consulates of Iran

Travel to Israel

It's against Iranian law to travel to Israel.

If there's evidence that you've travelled to Israel or intend to, you will be refused entry to Iran and deported. You may be arrested and imprisoned. Evidence includes:

• Israeli exit or entry stamps in your passport
• Egyptian or Jordanian stamps from border crossings with Israel
• travel itineraries or tickets that include Israel as a destination
• souvenirs from Israel
• airline tags on your bags
• SIM cards, literature, or other items with obvious links to Israel

Validity

Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months before entering or departing. This includes for transit.

If your passport expires too soon, you might not be able to travel.

The Australian Government doesn’t make these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you go. If you’re not sure, it’s a good idea to get a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is valuable and can be used by others to commit crimes. 

Don’t let anyone trick you into giving it to them. Always keep it in a safe place.

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

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

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender. If your passport has an 'X' in the sex field, we can’t guarantee your entry or transit to other countries. Ask the embassy or consulate of your destination if they’ll accept your passport with an 'X' gender marker. Check all transit destinations too.

More information:

• 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.

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 

Road travel

Road accidents are a common cause of death and injury in Iran. Road conditions and safety standards vary across the country.

Armed groups are active in border regions with Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The Australian Government can't offer advice on the safety of travelling to departure points. All travel options are at your own risk. Consider the risks carefully before attempting to leave by any land route. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

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

Sea travel

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.

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t give advice on the safety of different airlines or flight paths.

Safety risks and weather events may cause flight delays and cancellations.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 125.

Medical emergencies

Call 115 or go direct to the hospital.

Police

Call 110 or visit the nearest police station.

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.

Australian Embassy

The Australian Embassy in Tehran has suspended operations. 

Our ability to provide consular assistance in Iran is extremely limited. 

Website: iran.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Iran
Instagram: @AustraliaInIran

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

If you have a consular emergency, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas

• 1300 555 135 in Australia