Is Iran Safe to Visit? Official Travel Advice, November 2026

Official advisories checked: 6 November 2026. The dates in the table are the dates shown by the issuing authorities.

Reviewed by Saye Shams, SURFIRAN.

As of 6 November 2026, the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and Germany all advise against travel to Iran. The advisories describe risks including arbitrary detention, armed conflict, terrorism or unrest. Read the advice issued for your citizenship, especially if you are a dual national or already in Iran.

We are an Iranian travel company and we want you to be able to make an informed decision. This page summarises what each government says, what it means for your insurance and your plans, and where to check for updates.

Is Iran safe? Official travel advice by country

Advice can change quickly. Always read the full advice from your own government before you make or confirm any plans, and check it again shortly before you travel.

What the advisories say

Arbitrary detention and dual nationals

The UK says British and British-Iranian dual nationals face a very high risk of arrest, questioning or detention, and that holding a British passport or having perceived connections to the UK can be reason enough to be detained. The US cites the arbitrary arrest and wrongful detention of US citizens, Australia says Australians, including dual nationals, are at high risk of detention, and Germany warns of the danger of arbitrary arrests. Iran does not recognise dual nationality, so dual nationals are treated as Iranian citizens.

Security in the region

The US advisory lists terrorism, unrest and kidnapping among its reasons. Australia’s update of 29 October 2026 describes the security situation as extremely volatile, refers to recent military strikes and reprisal attacks in the region, including in Iran, and warns that airports and airline operations can change or close without warning.

Limited consular help

Some Western embassies in Tehran have reduced or suspended their services. Australia says its embassy’s operations are suspended and Germany says its embassy’s ability to help is currently extremely limited. If something goes wrong, your government may not be able to assist you quickly.

What this means for your trip

• Travel insurance. The UK FCDO warns that travelling against its advice could invalidate your insurance. Ask your insurer in writing whether your policy covers Iran under the current advisory and what exclusions apply.
• Flights and borders. International routes and land borders have changed at short notice. Our Iran travel update tracks flights, borders, visas and transport inside the country.
• Plans and bookings. If you are considering a future trip, talk to us before you pay for anything that cannot be changed, and ask about the terms of any booking.
• If you are already in Iran. Follow your government’s advice, keep your passport and documents with you, monitor the news and local instructions, and stay in touch with family and your travel provider.

Local laws every visitor should know

Whatever you decide, it helps to know the rules that apply to all visitors in Iran:

• Dress code. Women are legally required to cover their hair and wear loose clothing that covers the arms and legs; men should not wear shorts in public. See our guide to the dress code in Iran.
• Alcohol and drugs. Alcohol is illegal for Muslims and visitors, and drug offences carry very severe penalties, including the death penalty.
• Photography. Do not photograph government buildings, military sites, airports or security personnel, and do not fly drones without permission.
• Politics and religion. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and be careful what you post on social media while in Iran.
• Money. International bank cards do not work in Iran because of sanctions, so visitors need to bring cash; read about the currency used in Iran.

Ramadan. Do not eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours. This is a legal and religious restriction, not just a courtesy, and restaurants may not be open or allowed to serve you.

Religious sites. Shrines and mosques can set stricter dress rules than the street. Ask at the entrance before you go in.

Documents. Carry copies of your passport photo page and visa, keep the originals safe, and keep emergency contacts to hand.

Our commitment

We love sharing Iran with travellers, but we will not tell you that a trip is safe when your government advises otherwise. When the official advice changes, we will update this page with the date and the source. If you have questions about a future trip, contact our team and we will give you an honest answer.

Is Iran safe to visit? Frequently asked questions