Iran

Visa requirements for Iran depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.

March–May (Nowruz/Persian New Year is late March — spectacular and crowded) and September–November are ideal. Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd are best in spring and autumn. The Caspian coast is lush in spring. Summer is very hot in central Iran.

• MANDATORY: All women (including foreign tourists) must wear hijab in public — a headscarf and manteau (loose coat) covering hair and body. Enforcement has varied but can result in serious consequences.
• Men: long trousers and a shirt with sleeves; shorts are inappropriate in public
• Remove shoes before entering mosques
• The Islamic dress code applies at all public sites including Persepolis and bazaars

• Iranians are among the most genuinely hospitable people on earth — ta'arof (the elaborate ritual of mutual courtesy and offer/refusal) is central to social life
• Ta'arof: if something is offered to you, it may be offered multiple times as a formality — accept on the second or third offer
• Public physical affection is not permitted
• Ramadan: respect fasting hours — avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight
• Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid) and Isfahan's Imam Square are among the most awe-inspiring sites in the world

• Hijab law is mandatory for all women in public — violations can result in arrest, fines, or worse. The enforcement climate has intensified since 2022 protests.
• Alcohol is completely prohibited
• LGBTQ+ activity is illegal and can carry the death penalty
• Photography of military, government buildings, and nuclear facilities is prohibited. Photography of people should be done with care and consent.
• Western passport holders (especially US, UK, Canadian, Australian) may face heightened scrutiny at entry and during travel. Check your government's current advisory.