Iran

Travelers from most countries must enter Iran with a valid passport. Here is a general guide:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of the following countries can enter Iran without a visa for short stays:

• Turkey (up to 3 months)
• Lebanon (up to 1 month)
• Armenia (up to 90 days)
• Georgia (up to 45 days)
• Venezuela (up to 15 days)

Visa on Arrival

Iran offers Visa on Arrival (VOA) at select airports for citizens of many countries for a fee. The VOA is valid for up to 30 days and can be extended. However, citizens of the U.S., U.K., and Canada are not eligible for VOA and must obtain a visa in advance.

Visa Required

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free or VOA entry must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required.

Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as regulations can change.

Iran does not allow entry with just an ID card. All travelers are required to present a valid passport upon arrival. There are no exceptions for entry with an ID card only.

Toll Roads in Iran

Iran has several toll roads, especially on major highways connecting cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Mashhad. The tolls collected are used for the maintenance of these highways. Rates vary based on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle.

Toll Payment Methods:

• Cash: Cash payment in Iranian Rial is accepted at toll booths.
• e-Toll: Some highways have electronic toll collection systems, but cash is still the predominant payment method for travelers.

Driving Tips in Iran:

• Right-Hand Driving: Drive on the right-hand side of the road in Iran.
• Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers.
• Speed Limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h, highways: 120 km/h.
• Road Conditions: Major highways are generally well-maintained, but rural roads may be in poor condition, especially in remote areas.

Weather in Iran

Iran has a diverse climate due to its vast geography, ranging from arid deserts to mountainous regions. The country experiences four distinct seasons.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Iran, with mild temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The weather is pleasant throughout the country, and the landscapes are green and blooming.

Summer (June to August)

Summers in Iran are hot, especially in desert regions like Tehran and Yazd, where temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C). Coastal areas along the Caspian Sea remain cooler, while the north experiences higher humidity.

Autumn (September to November)

The autumn season brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). It is another excellent time to visit, with pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Iran can be cold, especially in the mountainous regions like Tehran and the north, where snowfall is common. Temperatures can drop below freezing in some areas, while southern Iran and coastal regions remain relatively mild.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting Iran, with moderate temperatures and fewer tourists.
• Prepare for Heat: If visiting during summer, be prepared for high temperatures and stay hydrated.
• Winter Travel: In winter, northern regions may experience heavy snowfall, so plan accordingly if traveling to the mountains.

Currency in Iran

The official currency of Iran is the Iranian Rial (IRR). The symbol for the Rial is ﷼, but prices are often quoted in "Tomans," where 1 Toman equals 10 Rials.

Banknotes and Coins

Iranian Rial banknotes are available in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, and 500,000 Rials. Coins are less commonly used but are available in smaller denominations.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available in major cities, airports, and at official exchange offices. Foreign debit and credit cards cannot be used in Iran due to international sanctions, so travelers must bring cash (usually U.S. Dollars or Euros) to exchange for Rials.

Credit and Debit Cards

Due to international sanctions, foreign credit and debit cards are not accepted in Iran. Visitors must rely on cash for their transactions. Iran does have its own domestic payment system, which is used by locals.

Travel Tips

• Bring Cash: Since foreign cards cannot be used, bring enough cash (preferably USD or EUR) to exchange for your entire trip.
• Currency Conversion: Exchange your currency at official exchange offices for better rates compared to hotels or other locations.
• Tomans vs. Rials: Be aware that while the official currency is the Rial, locals often quote prices in Tomans. One Toman is equal to 10 Rials.