Iran

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 110 for police
• Dial 115 for ambulance
• Dial 125 for fire

Terrorism

Iran is a designated state-sponsor of terrorism. Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Foreigners occasionally become victims of petty street crime. This includes robberies, and bag-snatchings.

• There have been reports of robberies by people pretending to be police officers, usually in civilian clothing.
• Insist on seeing the officer’s identity card. Request the presence of a uniformed officer or marked patrol car.

Travelers should take the following precautions:

• Do not surrender any documents or cash.
• Make copies of your U.S. passport’s biographical data page and your Iranian visa page. Keep copies separate from your original passport.
• Do not carry large amounts of cash 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.
• Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are these goods illegal in the United States, purchasing them may also violate local law.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Scams are common in Iran. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Property sales or offers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 110.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The Embassy of Switzerland’s Foreign Interests Section can:

• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy of Switzerland’s Foreign Interests Section.

Technology use abroad

Iranian security personnel may place foreigners under surveillance. They may search and monitor:

• Hotel rooms and personal possessions
• Telephones
• Computers
• Fax machines
• Personal electronics

The Iranian authorities may also confiscate cellphones, computers, and other devices. U.S. citizens should consider not taking electronic devices to Iran or deleting personal information from them beforehand.

Mobile devices and drones

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, VPN or VoIP applications.
• Do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones and satellite phones are heavily regulated.

Tourism Safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Criminal penalties

Iranian authorities continue to wrongfully detain and imprison U.S. citizens, particularly U.S.-Iranian dual nationals. Charges include 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 high risk of being targeted by authorities before planning travel to Iran.
• Iranian authorities routinely deny dual nationals access to the Embassy of Switzerland’s Foreign Interests Section. They consider dual nationals to be solely Iranian citizens.
• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Long prison terms and solitary confinement are common. Punishments include execution, amputation, flogging, blinding, stoning, and fines.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

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

• Prior travel to Israel by an Iranian citizen can result in a prison sentence of two to five years.
• Former Muslims who have converted to other religions, as well as those 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. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Iran executes many people each year on drug-related charges.
• Penalties for 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.
• Adultery and sex outside of marriage are illegal and punishable by the death penalty.
• Data storage devices like DVDs, memory cards, and phones with sexual content are banned. Magazines displaying unveiled women are also not allowed.
• Photography near military and other government installations is strictly prohibited. This could result in serious criminal charges, including espionage, which carries the death penalty.
• Importation of pork products is banned.
• Insulting the government or Muslim faith is strictly forbidden, including on social media. Such violations of Iranian law may result in imprisonment.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy of Switzerland’s Foreign Interests Section immediately.
• Under Iranian law, detainees may also request legal representation. However, authorities sometimes fail to allow timely access to attorneys. 

Detention conditions

Iranian authorities routinely delay consular access to detained U.S. nationals.

• Iranian authorities consistently deny consular access to dual U.S.-Iranian nationals.
• Prisoners in Iran experience difficult detention conditions, including mistreatment, overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and rodent infestations. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Shia Islam is Iran’s official religion. Proselytizing is illegal in Iran and is punishable by lengthy prison sentences, fines, and in some cases, the death penalty. Iranian law recognizes some minority religions. The government actively represses "deviant" religious activities that contradict Shia Islam.

 Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Same-sex relationships in Iran are criminalized. They are punishable by death, flogging, or a lesser punishment.

• Gay and lesbian individuals are often subject to violence.
• The law does not prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or recognize gay and lesbian individuals, couples, or families.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Iran prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.
• 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.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

Women in Iran face limits on their exercise of rights and freedoms. They cannot freely choose their dress style. There are also restrictions on women exercising the freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly.

• Reports of violence against women has steadily increased in recent years, especially in rural areas.
• "Honor killings" happen when men kill women in their families to protect the family's "honor." These harmful practices are known to occur in Iran.
• 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. Iranian law does not prohibit domestic violence.
• Hijab enforcement in Iran is strict. The Government of Iran has deployed Hijab enforcers in public to ensure compliance. Not wearing a Hijab has led to assault, arrest, and even death. 
• Review our information for Marriage, Women Travelers, and Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Iran strictly controls media and speech. Criticism of the government or religion can lead to imprisonment or penalties.

• Journalists are at heightened risk for retaliation by Iranian authorities. Review our travel tips for Journalists.
• Arbitrary detention, prolonged detentions, and harsh conditions are common, especially for dual nationals.
• Strict dress codes, particularly for women, are enforced. Violations can result in fines or punishment.
• Iran monitors communications and movements. Avoid discussing sensitive topics or engaging in political activities.
• Iranian authorities have targeted individuals abroad. U.S. citizens of Iranian descent or activists should remain cautious.
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• CDC Iran Travel Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 115 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

• Ambulances are not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance. 

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Iran. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Tehran and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The Foreign Interests Section of the Embassy of Switzerland maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They do not follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Iran.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Iran.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in the original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.
• If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

• Companies offering surrogacy services are misrepresenting the security situation in Iran. Private companies that arrange such visits and services put U.S. citizens at risk.
• International surrogacy is largely unregulated in Iran with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Iranian courts.
• If you are considering traveling to Iran to have a child through use of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• In rural areas, tap water is not safe to drink.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• 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.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

• Iran has a very high rate of traffic accidents. It is the second highest cause of mortality in the country.
• Urban streets are not well lit. It is dangerous to drive at night.
• Sidewalks in urban areas exist only on main roads. They are usually obstructed by parked cars. Few sidewalks exist in residential areas.

Traffic laws

• Iranian authorities sometimes set up informal roadblocks, both in cities and on highways. These are operated by young, inexperienced officers who are suspicious of foreigners. Carry identification with you and avoid getting into disputes.
• 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.
• Travelers in possession of International Driver’s Permits may drive in Iran. However, the Foreign Interests Section in Iran does not recommend that tourists do so.
• Drivers throughout Iran tend to ignore traffic lights, traffic signs, and lane markers.
• Drivers almost never yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. 

Taxis and ride-shares

• Pre-booked transportation is generally safer than taxis hailed from the road.
• Travelers using motorcycle taxis are at increased risk of being driven to a quiet location and robbed.

Public and commercial transportation

• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Iran’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers are advised not to travel to Iran.

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Iran ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Iran ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory. Mariners and passengers in Iran ports should be careful and use stronger security measures.

Weather conditions

• Earthquakes - These can occur year-round. Iran is located on several active tectonic plates. Regions such as Kermanshah, Bam, and Tehran are particularly vulnerable.
• Floods - They are most common during the spring months (March to May). Floods coincide with heavy rainfall and snowmelt from the mountains.
• Sandstorms -They are frequent during the spring and summer months, particularly in May to August.

Emergency response is coordinated by the Iranian Red Crescent Society. Red Crescent often struggles during major disasters. This is mainly due to funding shortages and logistical issues.

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Have a plan to depart Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Iran.

U.S. citizens in Iran seeking assistance should contact the Foreign Interests Section of the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran, which serves as a protecting power for the United States. The U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland coordinates with the Swiss Protecting Power regarding matters affecting U.S. citizens in Iran.