Update to information on entry and quarantine requirements for travel to Iran ('Summary' and 'Entry requirements' pages)

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advise against all but essential travel to Iran. However, for British-Iranian dual nationals the FCDO continue to advise against all travel to Iran.

The following advice within Iran remains in place:

The FCDO advise all British nationals against all travel to:

within 100km of the entire Iran/Afghanistan border

within 10km of the entire Iran/Iraq border

the province of Sistan-Baluchistan

the area east of the line running from Bam to Jask, including Bam.

Travel to Iran is subject to entry restrictions Entry to Iran is permitted for Iranian nationals, residents and holders of some types of visas only.

All passengers arriving into Iran by air must hold a valid health certificate issued by the health authorities of the country of departure. This must contain a COVID-19 molecular test performed by an approved centre of the departure country, carried out within 96 hours of entry into Iran. Non-Iranian nationals will not be permitted entry without such a certificate.

You will need to provide contact details on arrival in Iran. See Entry requirements for more information before you plan to travel. Return travel to the UK is subject to self-isolation requirements If you’re returning to the UK, you will need to: provide your journey and contact details

self-isolate for 14 days Check the guidance on entering or returning to the UK.

Check our advice on foreign travel during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and sign up for email alerts for this travel advice.

If you’re planning travel to Iran, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

In the event that the situation deteriorates further, the ability of the British Embassy to provide assistance to British nationals from within Iran may be limited.

Following the attack on the coalition base at Taji in Iraq on 11 March, and subsequent US airstrikes, tensions may be raised across the region. There is a possibility of an increased threat against Western interests, including against UK citizens. You should remain vigilant and keep up to date with the latest developments, including via the media and this travel advice.

If you decide your presence in Iran is essential, you should maintain a low profile and keep up to date with developments, including via this travel advice. Avoid any rallies, marches and processions, keep away from military sites and follow the instructions of the local authorities at all times.

There is a risk that British nationals, and a significantly higher risk that British-Iranian dual nationals, could be arbitrarily detained or arrested in Iran. The criminal justice process followed in such cases falls below international standards. Iran does not recognise dual nationality. If you are a dual British-Iranian national and are detained in Iran, the FCDO ’s ability to provide consular support is extremely limited. See Safety and security

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Iran. Attacks could happen anywhere, including in places visited by foreigners. On 22 September 2018 there was an attack on a military parade in Ahvaz, capital of Khuzestan province. On 7 June 2017, there were two attacks in Tehran – one in the Majles (the Iranian parliament) in central Tehran and another at the Imam Khomeini Shrine near Imam Khomeini international airport. See Terrorism

Iran is a Muslim country in which Islamic law is strictly enforced. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend. See Local laws and customs

There have been sporadic protests across the country about the economic situation in Iran. You should exercise caution and avoid any protests or rallies and follow the instructions of the local authorities.

It is possible to exchange GBP in certified exchange bureaux, though you may still experience difficulties in changing money. See Money

Consular support is limited in Iran. If you need consular assistance you should contact the British Embassy on telephone: +98 (0)21 6405 2000 to make an appointment. See Consular assistance services