Travel Advisory for Islamic Republic of Iran
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Islamic Republic of Iran from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Islamic Republic of Iran.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-05-31
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
5
Safety Index Score
Overview
Due to a highly volatile security situation, ongoing regional hostilities, and a severe risk of arbitrary detention, especially for dual nationals, all international advisories strongly recommend against travel to Iran. Consular assistance for foreign citizens is extremely limited, and strict local laws, including dress codes and social conduct, are rigorously enforced with severe penalties. Travelers should be aware of significant operational challenges, including internet disruptions and a cash-only economy.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Iran is currently designated as an extreme risk destination by numerous international travel advisories, with a universal recommendation to "Avoid All Travel" or "Do Not Travel." The security landscape is highly volatile, exacerbated by ongoing military activities and regional hostilities, making the risk of attacks and escalation ever-present. Foreign nationals, particularly those with dual Iranian citizenship, face an exceptionally high risk of arbitrary arrest, detention, and wrongful imprisonment on vague charges such as espionage or threatening national security. These detentions can be prolonged, often without access to legal counsel or consular services, as Iran does not recognize dual nationality.
Terrorism remains a significant threat, with recent attacks demonstrating the indiscriminate nature of such incidents in public places, tourist attractions, and government facilities. Civil unrest, including large-scale protests, occurs unpredictably and can turn violent, with security forces employing lethal force and conducting mass arrests. Telecommunications services, including internet and social media, are frequently disrupted or blocked, impacting connectivity and communication.
Adherence to strict Islamic laws and customs is mandatory for all, with severe penalties for non-compliance. This includes a rigorously enforced dress code for women, prohibitions on alcohol and drugs, and criminalization of same-sex relations and extramarital affairs. Photography near sensitive sites is strictly forbidden and can lead to serious charges. The legal system differs significantly from Western standards, offering limited fundamental rights and due process.
Operational challenges for travelers are substantial. Iran operates on a cash-only economy due to international sanctions, making international credit/debit cards unusable and fund transfers impossible. Road conditions are often hazardous, and domestic air travel safety standards are not universally assessed as meeting international norms. Medical facilities, especially outside major cities, are limited, and shortages of essential medicines can occur, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Border areas, particularly with Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq, are highly dangerous due to banditry, drug trafficking, and ethnic conflicts.
Terrorism remains a significant threat, with recent attacks demonstrating the indiscriminate nature of such incidents in public places, tourist attractions, and government facilities. Civil unrest, including large-scale protests, occurs unpredictably and can turn violent, with security forces employing lethal force and conducting mass arrests. Telecommunications services, including internet and social media, are frequently disrupted or blocked, impacting connectivity and communication.
Adherence to strict Islamic laws and customs is mandatory for all, with severe penalties for non-compliance. This includes a rigorously enforced dress code for women, prohibitions on alcohol and drugs, and criminalization of same-sex relations and extramarital affairs. Photography near sensitive sites is strictly forbidden and can lead to serious charges. The legal system differs significantly from Western standards, offering limited fundamental rights and due process.
Operational challenges for travelers are substantial. Iran operates on a cash-only economy due to international sanctions, making international credit/debit cards unusable and fund transfers impossible. Road conditions are often hazardous, and domestic air travel safety standards are not universally assessed as meeting international norms. Medical facilities, especially outside major cities, are limited, and shortages of essential medicines can occur, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Border areas, particularly with Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq, are highly dangerous due to banditry, drug trafficking, and ethnic conflicts.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-01 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-26 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-29 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-23 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-14 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-14 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-15 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-03 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-21 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-06 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-04 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-03 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-04 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-06 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-28 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-22 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-24 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from or transiting through a country with yellow fever risk.
- Polio vaccination is required if arriving from a polio-affected country.
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccines, including for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, and seasonal flu, should be up-to-date.
- Vaccination for Hepatitis A is recommended due to risk from contaminated food or water.
- Vaccination for Typhoid is recommended, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Rabies vaccination may be recommended for those at higher risk of exposure, such as adventure travelers, children, or those in close contact with animals.
- Malaria prevention medication may be recommended for travel to certain rural areas of Hormozgan, Kerman, and Sistan-Baluchistan provinces, especially during March to November.
- Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for individuals with potential exposure to blood or body fluids, including those with frequent or prolonged stays.
- Vaccination for Mpox may be recommended in cases of risk exposure.
- A vaccine for the prevention of Chikungunya is approved in Canada and may be discussed with a healthcare provider.
It is crucial to practice safe food and water precautions, including consuming only boiled or bottled water and well-cooked food, and to maintain frequent hand hygiene. Protection from mosquito and tick bites is essential, using repellents and protective clothing. Always consult a travel health care provider well in advance of your trip to discuss specific vaccination needs and health risks based on your itinerary and activities. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly advised due to limited healthcare facilities and potential medicine shortages.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Embassy / VoA / e-Visa | 15-30 days (may vary) | 75 € (for VoA, FR source) / Check Embassy | May require organized tour or sponsor; online pre-registration for VoA; hotel reservation for Kish Island. |
|
| Business | Embassy / VoA | Up to 1 month (may vary) | Check Embassy | Invitation from an Iranian company for VoA; multiple-entry visas are rare. |
|
| Student | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific requirements for academic activities. | — |
| Pilgrimage | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific requirements for religious travel. | — |
| Press | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Special authorization required; journalistic activities are prohibited on a tourist visa. | — |
| Transit | Embassy (if > 12 hours) / Not required (if < 12 hours) | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | May require an Iranian passport to exit if issued a transit pass abroad. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months beyond exit date
- Blank Pages Required: 1
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Not Recognized; dual nationals treated solely as Iranian citizens and denied consular access
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required for Turkmenistan land border crossing and for Visa on Arrival (VoA) at airports
- Currency Limit Declaration: Declare foreign currency equivalent to more than 10,000 EUR on entry and more than 5,000 EUR on exit
- Drone Usage Law: Strictly prohibited without specific authorization; possession or use can lead to arrest and charges of espionage
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 110
- Medical Assistance / Ambulance: 115
- Firefighters: 125
- Roadside Assistance: 09629 (IT source)
- General Emergency (from mobile): 112 (IT source)
- Embassy of Canada to Türkiye (Consular Responsibility for Iran): +903124092700 (Ankara)
- Global Affairs Canada's 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre: +16139968885 (Ottawa)
- Embassy of Ireland, Tehran (Remote Consular Assistance): +989108105733 (WhatsApp/SMS for urgent assistance)
- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Ireland) Duty Officer: +35314082000 (Dublin)
- U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland (Protecting Power for U.S. Interests): +41313577011
- Australian Government's Consular Emergency Centre: +61262613305 (From overseas) / 1300555135 (In Australia)
- New Zealand MFAT’s 24/7 Consular Emergency Line: +6499202020
- New Zealand Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye: +903124463333
- Swiss Embassy in Iran: Contact details available via Helpline DFAE
- Netherlands Worldwide Contact Center: +31247247247 / +31857737400 (WhatsApp)
- Austrian Embassy in Tehran: +982122750040
- Italian Embassy in Baku, Azerbaijan (Temporary Relocation): +994102417507 / +989121035062 (SMS for emergencies)
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Beware of individuals posing as plainclothes police officers who may demand to see foreign currency and passports; politely decline and offer to go to the nearest police station.
- Be cautious of romantic or online dating scams where individuals claim to be U.S. military personnel or in need of money.
- Avoid money transfer scams, property sales offers, free trip lotteries, or inheritance notices that promise significant financial gain.
- Be vigilant against pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded urban areas and on public transportation.
Cultural Etiquette in Islamic Republic of Iran
Do
- Dress conservatively in public, with women covering their heads with a headscarf and wearing loose-fitting, long clothing, and men wearing long trousers and long-sleeved shirts.
- Respect religious and social traditions at all times, especially during holy months like Ramadan and Ashura, and behave discreetly.
- Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local residents, and be particularly cautious when photographing women or religious activities.
- When interacting with people of the opposite sex, maintain a respectful distance and avoid initiating physical contact like handshakes.
Don't
- Do not engage in public displays of affection between men and women, as this is not socially accepted and can lead to severe penalties.
- Refrain from criticizing the Iranian regime, Islam, or religious symbols, including on social networks, as this can lead to severe legal consequences.
- Do not consume, import, sell, or manufacture alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs, as penalties are severe, including the death penalty.
- Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts for men in public, and ensure women's hair and body contours are always covered.
- Do not attempt to convert Muslims to other religions, as this is illegal and punishable by lengthy prison sentences or execution.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-06-01
The Canadian advisory for Iran is unequivocal: "AVOID ALL TRAVEL" due to ongoing military activities and the extremely limited ability to provide consular services. It explicitly warns against relying on Canadian government assistance for evacuations, highlighting the severe connectivity problems within Iran that hinder communication. A unique aspect is the detailed guidance on overland border crossing options to neighboring countries like Türkiye, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, including specific requirements for Canadian passport holders seeking visa-free entry or special authorizations.
The advisory also provides specific warnings for dual Canadian-Iranian citizens, stating that Iranian border officials may require them to present their Iranian passport and prevent their departure. It details the risks associated with filming or photographing military installations, activity, or damage, which can lead to severe penalties. Furthermore, it outlines potential measures in response to an Ebola disease outbreak, a detail not as prominently featured in other advisories, and provides an update on recent protests in December 2025, emphasizing the possibility of renewed demonstrations and violent responses from security forces.
The advisory also provides specific warnings for dual Canadian-Iranian citizens, stating that Iranian border officials may require them to present their Iranian passport and prevent their departure. It details the risks associated with filming or photographing military installations, activity, or damage, which can lead to severe penalties. Furthermore, it outlines potential measures in response to an Ebola disease outbreak, a detail not as prominently featured in other advisories, and provides an update on recent protests in December 2025, emphasizing the possibility of renewed demonstrations and violent responses from security forces.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-05-26
The U.S. Department of State issues a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Iran, emphasizing the serious dangers of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary detention, torture, and wrongful detention of U.S. citizens. A critical unique aspect is the absence of a U.S. Embassy in Iran, with the Swiss government acting as the protecting power, whose Foreign Interests Section in Tehran is temporarily closed due to the security situation. This means the U.S. government cannot provide emergency or routine consular services to its citizens in Iran.
The advisory explicitly states that U.S. nationals are at serious risk of wrongful detention, with having a U.S. passport or connections to the United States being sufficient reason for detention. It highlights that Iranian law criminalizes "collaboration with a hostile state," which includes any real or perceived connection to organizations acting against Iranian interests. A notable specific warning is about Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy services, cautioning that companies misrepresent the security situation and that a child born via surrogacy may not automatically acquire U.S. citizenship, preventing their departure from Iran. It also mentions that prior travel to Israel by an Iranian citizen can result in a prison sentence of two to five years, and that U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling to Iran.
The advisory explicitly states that U.S. nationals are at serious risk of wrongful detention, with having a U.S. passport or connections to the United States being sufficient reason for detention. It highlights that Iranian law criminalizes "collaboration with a hostile state," which includes any real or perceived connection to organizations acting against Iranian interests. A notable specific warning is about Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy services, cautioning that companies misrepresent the security situation and that a child born via surrogacy may not automatically acquire U.S. citizenship, preventing their departure from Iran. It also mentions that prior travel to Israel by an Iranian citizen can result in a prison sentence of two to five years, and that U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling to Iran.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-05-29
France Diplomatie places the entire territory of Iran in red, formally advising against all travel for French nationals, including dual citizens. A key unique insight is the explicit warning that even a simple tourist visit exposes individuals to a significant risk of arbitrary arrest, unfair detention, and judgment, with fundamental rights and personal safety not guaranteed. The advisory also highlights that the French embassy's ability to provide consular protection is extremely limited, with long delays for consular visits and rare, unpredictable approvals.
Specific recommendations include avoiding all gatherings, refraining from taking photographs in public (especially in cities), and absolutely prohibiting the possession and use of drones anywhere in Iran, even in uninhabited regions, due to the risk of being suspected of espionage. It also warns against publicly expressing any criticism of the regime or its foundations, including the obligation of wearing the veil for women, on social media or in conversations. The advisory also notes that the Iranian authorities take fingerprints for all French nationals applying for a visa, requiring physical presence for the application.
Specific recommendations include avoiding all gatherings, refraining from taking photographs in public (especially in cities), and absolutely prohibiting the possession and use of drones anywhere in Iran, even in uninhabited regions, due to the risk of being suspected of espionage. It also warns against publicly expressing any criticism of the regime or its foundations, including the obligation of wearing the veil for women, on social media or in conversations. The advisory also notes that the Iranian authorities take fingerprints for all French nationals applying for a visa, requiring physical presence for the application.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-05-23
The FCDO advises against all travel to Iran, stressing that British and British-Iranian dual nationals face a very high risk of arrest, questioning, or detention, with a British passport or perceived UK connections being sufficient reason. A crucial unique insight is the explicit warning that if accused of security-related offenses, there is a risk of being sentenced to death. The advisory also details the extremely limited UK government support, stating no face-to-face consular assistance will be possible in an emergency, and the government will not be able to help if difficulties arise.
It provides detailed guidance for British nationals already in Iran, including advice on preparing for a crisis and specific border crossing requirements for overland travel to Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, noting that facilitation from the British Embassy in Ankara or Ashgabat is required. The advisory uniquely warns about the illegality of changing money on the street and the difficulties of legally obtaining Iranian rials. Furthermore, it highlights the risks associated with involvement in civil society organizations, journalism, social media related to politics, and any links to Israel or the U.S. government, which significantly increase the risk of detention. It also specifically mentions methanol poisoning from unregulated alcoholic drinks as a serious health risk.
It provides detailed guidance for British nationals already in Iran, including advice on preparing for a crisis and specific border crossing requirements for overland travel to Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, noting that facilitation from the British Embassy in Ankara or Ashgabat is required. The advisory uniquely warns about the illegality of changing money on the street and the difficulties of legally obtaining Iranian rials. Furthermore, it highlights the risks associated with involvement in civil society organizations, journalism, social media related to politics, and any links to Israel or the U.S. government, which significantly increase the risk of detention. It also specifically mentions methanol poisoning from unregulated alcoholic drinks as a serious health risk.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-05-14
Smartraveller advises "Do not travel" to Iran due to the volatile security situation, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the high risk of arbitrary detention for Australians, including dual nationals. A significant unique insight is the explicit instruction for Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members in Iran to register on DFAT's registration portal to receive direct updates, emphasizing that the Australian Embassy's operations are suspended and consular assistance is extremely limited. It also encourages monitoring U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran security alerts.
The advisory strongly cautions against entering into surrogacy arrangements in Iran, highlighting the unregulated industry and the potential for being unable to leave if the situation deteriorates, or for children not acquiring Australian citizenship. It uniquely details specific activities that increase the risk of detention, such as affiliation with civil society organizations, journalism, social media related to politics, links to Israel, or any perceived opposition to the Iranian government. It also provides specific border crossing codes and permission requirements for entry into Azerbaijan and Türkiye, which must be requested through the Australian Embassy in Ankara.
The advisory strongly cautions against entering into surrogacy arrangements in Iran, highlighting the unregulated industry and the potential for being unable to leave if the situation deteriorates, or for children not acquiring Australian citizenship. It uniquely details specific activities that increase the risk of detention, such as affiliation with civil society organizations, journalism, social media related to politics, links to Israel, or any perceived opposition to the Iranian government. It also provides specific border crossing codes and permission requirements for entry into Azerbaijan and Türkiye, which must be requested through the Australian Embassy in Ankara.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-05-14
Spain has temporarily suspended all public activities at its embassy and directs citizens to the Consular Emergency Division in Madrid. It explicitly warns against collecting desert sand, stones, or plants as souvenirs, which has led to the arrest of foreign nationals.
The advisory notes that Spanish citizens working in Iran have seen an increase in passport retention by local employers. It recommends maintaining digital and physical copies of all identity documents at all times.
The advisory notes that Spanish citizens working in Iran have seen an increase in passport retention by local employers. It recommends maintaining digital and physical copies of all identity documents at all times.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-05-15
Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs issues a "Do Not Travel" advisory, its highest warning level, citing the volatile security situation, risk of arbitrary arrest and detention of European citizens, and potential for violent civil unrest. A key unique insight is the explicit instruction for Irish citizens to leave the country overland if safe to do so, providing specific contact details (WhatsApp/SMS to +989108105733) for urgent assistance, acknowledging severe communication disruptions. It highlights that Embassy staff have temporarily relocated but continue to provide consular assistance remotely.
The advisory explicitly warns against engaging in voluntary work, research, or internships on a tourist visa, as such activities are criminal offenses leading to prosecution or detention. It also details the mandatory military service for Iranian adult males, cautioning Irish-Iranian dual national men that they may not be able to leave Iran without completing it. The advisory provides specific guidance on dealing with fake plain-clothes policemen who attempt robberies, advising travelers to demand ID and a uniformed officer. It also notes the prevalence of unregulated and homemade alcoholic drinks, leading to methanol poisoning, as a significant health risk.
The advisory explicitly warns against engaging in voluntary work, research, or internships on a tourist visa, as such activities are criminal offenses leading to prosecution or detention. It also details the mandatory military service for Iranian adult males, cautioning Irish-Iranian dual national men that they may not be able to leave Iran without completing it. The advisory provides specific guidance on dealing with fake plain-clothes policemen who attempt robberies, advising travelers to demand ID and a uniformed officer. It also notes the prevalence of unregulated and homemade alcoholic drinks, leading to methanol poisoning, as a significant health risk.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-06-03
Japan's Overseas Safety Website issues a Level 4: Evacuation Advisory for all of Iran, explicitly stating, "Do not travel to Iran for any purpose." A key unique insight is the direct mention of the current severe difficulties with internet and international phone connectivity, alongside flight reductions and sudden cancellations, which are cited as reasons for the heightened advisory level. It also specifically warns that taking photos or videos of protest activities or military/nuclear-related facilities can be construed as espionage by Iranian authorities, leading to detention.
The advisory provides specific examples of past incidents involving Japanese nationals, such as a tourist being detained for photographing the exterior of Mehrabad International Airport and a business traveler for photographing a Revolutionary Guard facility. It also details the strict customs regulations, including prohibitions on alcohol, gambling items, satellite receivers, and any material violating Islamic values, as well as specific limits on exporting Persian carpets and caviar. The advisory also notes that old or dirty banknotes may be refused when making cash payments, a practical detail for travelers.
The advisory provides specific examples of past incidents involving Japanese nationals, such as a tourist being detained for photographing the exterior of Mehrabad International Airport and a business traveler for photographing a Revolutionary Guard facility. It also details the strict customs regulations, including prohibitions on alcohol, gambling items, satellite receivers, and any material violating Islamic values, as well as specific limits on exporting Persian carpets and caviar. The advisory also notes that old or dirty banknotes may be refused when making cash payments, a practical detail for travelers.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-04-21
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-05-06
New Zealand's advisory is "Do Not Travel" due to the volatile security situation, risk of arbitrary arrest or detention, and potential for violent civil unrest. A unique insight is the mention of a two-week ceasefire (as of April 8 NZT) between the US and Iran, which creates a potential window for New Zealanders to leave, despite the situation remaining volatile. The New Zealand Embassy in Tehran is temporarily closed from January 16, 2026, with consular support redirected to MFAT's 24/7 emergency line or the New Zealand Embassy in Ankara.
The advisory provides detailed information on departing via commercial flights (limited international flights from major cities) and land crossings, including specific border points for Türkiye, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, and the need to register information with the New Zealand Government for Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan crossings. It also highlights the risk of water scarcity in some parts of Iran, advising travelers to keep bottled water and purification tablets on hand. The advisory also emphasizes that New Zealanders should avoid all demonstrations, rallies, and large public gatherings, as their mere presence could be misinterpreted and lead to arrest.
The advisory provides detailed information on departing via commercial flights (limited international flights from major cities) and land crossings, including specific border points for Türkiye, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, and the need to register information with the New Zealand Government for Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan crossings. It also highlights the risk of water scarcity in some parts of Iran, advising travelers to keep bottled water and purification tablets on hand. The advisory also emphasizes that New Zealanders should avoid all demonstrations, rallies, and large public gatherings, as their mere presence could be misinterpreted and lead to arrest.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-05-04
The Swiss advisory discourages travel to Iran, noting the very high risk of regional escalation and potential for complete airspace closures and airport shutdowns. A key unique insight is the explicit warning that access to the internet and phone networks is often interrupted, including services like WhatsApp, Instagram, and VPNs. It stresses that foreign travelers, including Swiss nationals and dual citizens, face a risk of being arrested, questioned, or detained without apparent reason, with long prison sentences possible.
The advisory emphasizes that Iranian authorities allow only limited or no consular protection by Switzerland in cases of detention, often failing to inform foreign embassies of arrests, charges, or locations of detainees. For Swiss nationals in Iran, it advises using available commercial transport to leave, but acknowledges that the decision to depart is voluntary and at the traveler's own risk and expense. It strongly recommends staying informed, limiting internal travel to the absolute minimum, and verifying security conditions beforehand, recognizing the limited assistance Switzerland can provide in emergencies.
The advisory emphasizes that Iranian authorities allow only limited or no consular protection by Switzerland in cases of detention, often failing to inform foreign embassies of arrests, charges, or locations of detainees. For Swiss nationals in Iran, it advises using available commercial transport to leave, but acknowledges that the decision to depart is voluntary and at the traveler's own risk and expense. It strongly recommends staying informed, limiting internal travel to the absolute minimum, and verifying security conditions beforehand, recognizing the limited assistance Switzerland can provide in emergencies.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-06-03
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-06-04
The Netherlands' Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintains a red color code for all of Iran, signifying "Do Not Travel" due to the dangerous and unpredictable security situation, even after the April 8, 2026 ceasefire. A significant unique insight is the explicit warning that the Dutch embassy in Tehran has been temporarily relocated to Baku, Azerbaijan, meaning no consular assistance is currently possible for Dutch nationals in Iran. It also underscores that the possession of a Dutch passport alone can be sufficient reason for arrest.
The advisory provides specific advice for those who travel despite the warning, including refraining from any criticism of Iranian authorities on social media (past criticism can also lead to arrest) and being prepared for strict controls, including temporary confiscation of phones, laptops, and other devices. It also advises arranging important matters like wills and guardianship before traveling, as these may be impossible to manage if arrested. The advisory highlights the high number of fatal traffic accidents and the chaotic traffic, cautioning travelers about the poor maintenance of older domestic aircraft, leading to a high accident rate on internal flights.
The advisory provides specific advice for those who travel despite the warning, including refraining from any criticism of Iranian authorities on social media (past criticism can also lead to arrest) and being prepared for strict controls, including temporary confiscation of phones, laptops, and other devices. It also advises arranging important matters like wills and guardianship before traveling, as these may be impossible to manage if arrested. The advisory highlights the high number of fatal traffic accidents and the chaotic traffic, cautioning travelers about the poor maintenance of older domestic aircraft, leading to a high accident rate on internal flights.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-03-06
Italy's advisory strongly discourages travel to Iran for any reason, citing the precarious regional security framework and very high risks to personal safety. A critical unique insight is the temporary relocation of the Italian Embassy in Tehran to Baku, Azerbaijan, meaning direct consular assistance in Iran is not possible, although an emergency email and SMS number remain active. It also notes that cases of refusal of entry at the border have been reported, even for citizens with valid visas.
The advisory details that violations of internal laws, which differ significantly from Italian legal standards, carry the risk of administrative preventive arrest without immediate knowledge of the reasons, and that legal and consular access can be uncertain. It specifically warns that certain behaviors considered constitutional freedoms in Italy can be aggravated offenses under Sharia law in Iran, leading to penalties not foreseen in the Italian system. The advisory also provides specific details on required documents for a visa on arrival, customs regulations for importing prohibited items (including drones and culturally sensitive materials), and currency declaration limits, emphasizing the cash-only economy.
The advisory details that violations of internal laws, which differ significantly from Italian legal standards, carry the risk of administrative preventive arrest without immediate knowledge of the reasons, and that legal and consular access can be uncertain. It specifically warns that certain behaviors considered constitutional freedoms in Italy can be aggravated offenses under Sharia law in Iran, leading to penalties not foreseen in the Italian system. The advisory also provides specific details on required documents for a visa on arrival, customs regulations for importing prohibited items (including drones and culturally sensitive materials), and currency declaration limits, emphasizing the cash-only economy.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-03-28
Austria's BMEIA issues a Security Level 4 warning for the entire Iran, advising against all travel and urging Austrian citizens to leave the country. A key unique insight is the explicit statement that for Austrian-Iranian dual citizens, there is a risk of arbitrary arrest, interrogation, and/or long prison sentences, and that consular possibilities for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Austrian Embassy in Tehran are severely restricted in these cases. It also notes the strong restrictions and frequent shutdowns of communication services (internet, messenger services).
The advisory uniquely reminds travelers that for areas with a travel warning, insurance companies may invoke exclusion clauses, potentially rendering policies void. It also highlights that the Consular Fees Act empowers Austria to reclaim costs for necessary protective measures or assistance from travelers in certain situations. The advisory provides contact details for trusted doctors and lawyers in Tehran, a feature not commonly detailed in other advisories, and emphasizes the importance of using the free travel registration service to ensure reliable and rapid contact in emergencies.
The advisory uniquely reminds travelers that for areas with a travel warning, insurance companies may invoke exclusion clauses, potentially rendering policies void. It also highlights that the Consular Fees Act empowers Austria to reclaim costs for necessary protective measures or assistance from travelers in certain situations. The advisory provides contact details for trusted doctors and lawyers in Tehran, a feature not commonly detailed in other advisories, and emphasizes the importance of using the free travel registration service to ensure reliable and rapid contact in emergencies.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-04-22
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-04-24
Finland advises those who cannot leave to stock at least two to three weeks of food and water. It notes that anti-foreigner sentiment may increase as the regional conflict escalates.
The advisory warns that Finnish roaming services are highly unreliable and that travelers should print all travel documents and tickets, as digital access cannot be guaranteed at border checkpoints.
The advisory warns that Finnish roaming services are highly unreliable and that travelers should print all travel documents and tickets, as digital access cannot be guaranteed at border checkpoints.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Islamic Republic of Iran
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Islamic Republic of Iran aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Islamic Republic of Iran.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Islamic Republic of Iran and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-05-31