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Iran

Standard Coverage

West Asia • IRN

Last updated: September 13, 2026

Travel Information
AI-Generated

Iran is a country of profound history and unparalleled hospitality, offering travelers a chance to explore ancient Persian empires and breathtaking Islamic architecture. Visitors will find a complex cultural landscape that challenges preconceptions and rewards curiosity with stunning landscapes and vibrant, welcoming local communities.

Visa Requirements

Visa on Arrival

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Iran, which can be obtained via an e-visa pre-approval process or as a visa-on-arrival at major international airports for specific eligible countries.

Typically Required Documents

  • Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
  • Printout of the e-visa authorization code or grant notice
  • Proof of travel insurance that covers Iran
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Evidence of accommodation booking or invitation letter

Popular Attractions

1

Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, features grand ruins and intricate stone reliefs that showcase ancient Persian grandeur.

2

The Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan is one of the largest city squares in the world, surrounded by stunning examples of Safavid-era Islamic architecture.

3

The Pink Mosque (Nasir al-Mulk) in Shiraz is world-renowned for its stained glass windows that create a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colors during the morning hours.

4

Yazd is a historic desert city famous for its unique adobe architecture, ancient qanat water systems, and being the center of Zoroastrian culture in Iran.

5

Golestan Palace in Tehran offers a glimpse into the opulent Qajar dynasty through its exquisite mirrored halls, elaborate tile work, and lush gardens.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Dress modestly in public; women must cover their hair with a headscarf, and both genders should avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.

Taarof is a complex system of etiquette involving ritualized politeness, where one might initially refuse a gift or payment as a gesture of modesty.

Avoid public displays of affection as physical intimacy between men and women in public spaces is generally frowned upon or against the law.

Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a mosque, as this is a fundamental sign of respect.

Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout the country; do not attempt to bring it into the country or consume it in public.

Safety Tips

Check your home country's travel advisory regularly, as political situations can shift rapidly and affect safety.

Avoid taking photographs near sensitive government buildings, military installations, or police stations.

Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times, but keep your original documents secure in your accommodation.

Use officially licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps rather than hailing random vehicles from the street.

Be cautious when discussing sensitive political or religious topics with locals to avoid misunderstandings or legal complications.

AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.

Entry Requirements

Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Not Required

Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.

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Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Required

A valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

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Meningococcal

Source: CDC

Recommended
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Polio

Source: CDC

Required
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Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Not Required

Not required for entry into Iran.

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Recommended Vaccines & Precautions

Core Vaccines

Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.

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Routine Vaccines

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before travel.

Includes measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot.

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Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure vaccinations are up to date before travel.

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Malaria prevention measures

Source: CDC

All ages

Be aware of malaria risk in specific areas; preventive measures may be necessary.

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Routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccines before traveling to Iran.

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Routine vaccinations (varies by country)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.

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Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

Source: CDC

adult

One dose of Tdap vaccine is recommended for adults if not previously received.

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MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

Source: CDC

All ages

Routine vaccination recommended for all travelers.

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Routine food and water safety measures

Source: CDC

All ages

Practice food and water safety to avoid gastrointestinal illnesses while traveling.

Drink bottled or boiled water.

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Insect bite prevention (repellent, nets)

Source: CDC

All ages

Prevent mosquito and other insect bites, which can transmit diseases.

Use insect repellent containing DEET.

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Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

Source: CDC

All ages

Routine vaccination recommended for all adults, especially before travel.

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Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

Source: CDC

All ages

Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers unless they are already immunized.

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For Most Travelers

Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Practice safe food and water habits to prevent travel-related illnesses like diarrhea and other enteric infections.

Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid raw, undercooked foods.

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Insect bite prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

Essential to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects.

Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and use insecticide-treated gear.

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Food and water safety

Source: CDC

All ages

Preventive measures for gastrointestinal illnesses.

Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid ice and raw foods.

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Typhoid

Source: CDC

adult

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid can be contracted through contaminated food or water.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

adult

Recommended for most travelers due to risk of food or water contamination.

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Treatment for diarrhea

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended to carry medication for possible foodborne illnesses.

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Malaria Prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

Precautions recommended if traveling to areas with malaria risk.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

All ages

If engaging in activities that may expose you to bats or stray dogs, consider vaccination.

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COVID-19 vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Necessary for protection against COVID-19 while traveling.

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Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before any trip.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

adult

Consider vaccination if you will be involved with animals during your trip.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Consider vaccination if you might have sexual contact, need medical treatment, or have procedures.

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Insect bite prevention measures (bed net, repellent)

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended to prevent diseases transmitted by insects such as malaria and dengue fever.

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Typhoid

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas, or those at higher risk of exposure to contaminated food or water.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through contaminated food or water.

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Itinerary-Specific

Rabies

Source: CDC

All ages

Considered for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.

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Polio

Source: CDC

adult

Ensure your vaccination is up to date especially if you will be in contact with local health settings.

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Meningococcal

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for specific sites or events, consult with a travel healthcare provider.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

adult

Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.

Rabies is present in dogs and other mammals in Iran.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

adult

Recommended for travelers who may have medical procedures, get tattoos, or have sexual contact.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.

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COVID-19 vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for all travelers to protect against COVID-19.

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Malaria Information

Risk Area: No malaria risk

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Official Sources

Authoritative Resources:

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