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TRAVEL REPORT
Iran

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 6 has been updated (information on Avian Influenza removed).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Iran

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Iran.

Canadians face some risks in Iran. Iranian authorities are suspicious of foreigners, including Canadians, and any behaviour, such as the use of cameras and cellular phones in public places, is misinterpreted. Canadian travellers can be questioned, arrested, and detained for a long period without apparent reason. Canadians travelling alone or beyond conventional tourist sites are particularly vulnerable to such treatment by Iranian authorities.

The ability of the Embassy of Canada in Tehran to provide consular assistance to Canadians who are arrested or detained is very limited. In some cases, Iranian authorities have not permitted the embassy to have consular access to detainees. Canadian travellers should therefore register with Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.

Dual Nationals

The Government of Iran does not recognize the Canadian citizenship of Canadian-Iranian dual nationals. As a result, Iran does not allow the Embassy of Canada in Tehran to provide consular assistance to an Iranian-Canadian in difficulty.

Numerous cases have been reported of a Canadian or dual-national woman being stranded in Iran or mistreated by her Iranian husband or a male member of her family. Women in difficulty should know that the Embassy of Canada in Tehran cannot intervene in family matters.

See Section 8 of this Travel Report for more information on dual nationality.

Demonstrations

Between mid-2009 and early 2010, political demonstrations and gatherings occurred in major cities across Iran, most notably in Tehran. On several occasions, demonstrations resulted in violent clashes. People near demonstrations have been assaulted, and deaths have been reported. Further incidents of political unrest may occur with little warning.

Visitors are strongly advised to monitor current developments closely. Avoid all situations where demonstrations may occur, and leave large gatherings and crowded places.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the regions bordering Afghanistan, Iraq, and Pakistan. Canadians contemplating travel to regions near the Afghan border should contact the Embassy of Canada in Tehran for the latest security information.

You are advised against all travel to the Sistan and Baluchestan and to the Khuzestan provinces as these regions are regularly affected by ethnic conflicts and there have been a number of kidnappings involving foreign tourists.

Bandits in border areas with Afghanistan and Pakistan are usually involved in drug trafficking and use kidnapping operations to secure the release of group members from prison. On August 18, 2007, bus passengers were taken hostage by armed bandits near Jakigar; they were released the next day in Pakistan. On August 13, 2007, two Belgian tourists went missing while travelling on a road to Fahraj.

Furthermore, terrorist attacks sometimes occur in the region bordering Pakistan, in the Sistan and Baluchestan province. On October 18, 2009, at least 42 people were killed and dozens more injured when a suicide bomber struck in this region.

If you decide to travel overland to Pakistan and Afghanistan despite this warning, exercise a high level of caution at all times, travel only on main roads and in official parties, and avoid travelling after dark.

Travel to Iraq

Before undertaking any trip to Iraq, Canadians should read our Travel Report for Iraq.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Terrorism

Heightened tensions throughout the region, together with increased threats globally from terrorism, put Canadians at greater risk. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice.

Crime

Violent crime affecting both Iranians and foreigners has increased. Travellers have occasionally been victims of petty theft. Do not show signs of affluence. Ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure and carry a photocopy of your passport’s identification page at all times.

Travellers should watch for fraudulent plainclothes police officers who may ask to see foreign currency and passports. If approached, politely decline to cooperate, but offer to go to the nearest police station.

Women's Safety

Physical and verbal harassment of women can be a problem. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

General Safety Information

You should carry photo ID and/or a photocopy of your passport’s identification page at all times. It is also advisable to leave a photocopy of your travel documents with a relative or a friend at home.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the Iranian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Iran. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from Iran. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa. Canadians who wish to travel to Iran must submit their visa application to the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Ottawa well in advance of departure. Travellers should not overstay their visa as they may be required to remain in Iran until the situation has been resolved.

Canadian business visitors can now obtain a visa at any point of entry. This visa is valid for 72 hours. However, the host company must contact the Passport and Visa Department of the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, prior to the arrival of the Canadian guest, to complete the necessary paperwork.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
Pilgrimage Visa: Required
Press Visa: Required
Transit Visa: Required

If your Canadian passport is lost or stolen or if it expires during your stay in Iran, the Embassy of Canada in Tehran can issue a replacement passport. Following the issuance of this passport, and in order to exit Iran, you will also need to obtain a mandatory confirmation letter, issued by the Embassy of Canada, which you will take to the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and then submit to the Alien Office for the issuance of a visa extension or exit permit.

Travellers should be aware that all luggage is subject to search upon arrival and departure from Iran.

Foreign visitors should be aware that their passport might be confiscated in business disputes.

Regional Travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Iran because their passports bore: (a) an Israeli visa; (b) an Israeli border stamp; or (c) an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel (such a stamp would indicate the traveller entered from Israel).

Canadians travelling in the Middle East are advised that their passports could come under increased scrutiny by immigration authorities, and the authenticity of their passports could be questioned due to incidents of possible misuse. Canadians experiencing problems are encouraged to contact the nearest Canadian government office or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa for advice and assistance.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Iran - TEHRAN, Embassy of Canada
Address: 4 Shahid Sarfaraz Street, Ostad Motahari Avenue, Tehran, 15868, Iran
Postal Address: P.O. Box 11365-4647, Tehran, 15868, Iran
Tel.: 98 (21) 8152-0000
Fax: 98 (21) 8873-3200
E-Mail: teran@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.iran.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Tehran and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease. It is caused by a parasite which is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. There is no vaccine available against malaria. Travellers can reduce their risk by following the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

The quality of medical care varies and is generally not up to Canadians standards. Carry a sufficient supply of medications, particularly prescription medicines, as they may not be readily available. Main hotels frequented by foreigners have access to English-speaking doctors. To obtain a list of doctors and hospitals, contact the Embassy of Canada in Tehran.

Consumption of untreated water and water-based foods greatly increases chances of illness. Do not drink tap water. Travellers should ensure that water is boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected before drinking; avoid ice and dairy products from unreliable sources; avoid eating fruits and vegetables unless they have been peeled or cooked; and avoid purchasing food from street vendors. It is also advisable to carry an oral rehydration solution (available at pharmacies) in case you develop severe watery diarrhea. If this is the case, start taking the oral rehydration solution immediately and seek medical attention.

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request. Please note that consular access is regularly delayed for weeks or even longer.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

The work week is from Saturday to Thursday. However, many private companies and government offices are closed on Thursday.

Religion

Iran is an Islamic theocratic republic. A conservative interpretation of Islamic practices and beliefs is closely adhered to in the country's customs, laws, and regulations. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Visitors should dress conservatively. Men should not wear shorts and women should cover their head with a scarf and cover their arms and legs. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), visitors should refrain from drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. In 2010, Ramadan is expected to begin on or about August 11.

Former Muslims who have converted to other religions have been subject to arrest and prosecution.

Illegal and/or Restricted Activities

Possession, use, or trafficking of drugs and alcohol is forbidden. Individuals found guilty of such an offence are subject to very severe penalties, including capital punishment.

It is prohibited to import alcohol or pork products.

People who challenge the Islamic faith or attempt to convert Muslims to another religion may be condemned to death.

Penalties for those who engage in sexual relations outside of marriage include the death penalty. Public displays of affection between two people of the opposite sex, especially between a non-Muslim man and a Muslim woman, should be avoided.

Magazines and DVDs with sexual or explicit content are forbidden.

Homosexual activity is a criminal offence. Those convicted may be sentenced to lashing, a prison sentence, and/or death.

Photography of government and military installations, such as ports and airports and their surroundings, is strictly prohibited. Such sites are not always identifiable. Refrain from taking pictures whenever you are not at a recognized tourist site. When in doubt, ask for permission.

Playing music loudly in public, including in cars, is prohibited by law.

Dual Nationality

Dual nationality is not recognized in Iran. Canadian-Iranian nationals have to enter and exit Iran using their Iranian passports. When returning to Canada from Iran, they must carry their Canadian passport.

The Embassy of Canada is unable to assist Canadian-Iranian nationals. Naturalized Canadians who are Iranian by birth should be aware that Iranian authorities could take an interest in them for reasons related to politics, security, property, or professional background. The following are various issues related to dual nationality:

Exit visas

If a dual national enters Iran with a transit pass issued by an embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran abroad, it may take anywhere from one to 12 months to obtain an Iranian passport to exit Iran or return to Canada.

Military service

Male Iranian citizens aged 18-34 are required to perform military service, unless exempt. This requirement also applies to Iranian-Canadians, even those born in Canada. Iranian-Canadians who have turned 17 years of age will no longer be allowed to leave Iran without first having completed their military service.

Foreign passports

Iranian immigration authorities have been known to confiscate the foreign passports (including Canadian) of Iranian dual nationals.

Iranian passports

Iranian authorities sometimes insert an observation in Iranian passports limiting the bearer to one trip to Iran per year. Dual nationals using an Iranian passport to enter Iran should take note of this limitation as it is strictly enforced. Those who have exceeded this limitation have been prohibited from leaving Iran, and have thus been separated from their family in Canada. This situation seems to occur more frequently for dual nationals who have not completed their military service in Iran.

Dual nationals who have obtained their Canadian citizenship after being accepted as refugees in Canada may have their Iranian passport seized at a port of entry and be prohibited from leaving the country for a year.

Marriage and divorce

The Canadian Embassy in Tehran can provide only very limited assistance if a Canadian woman married to an Iranian man has marital difficulties and/or encounters difficulties leaving Iran.

Canadian women married to Iranian nationals who register their marriage with the Iranian authorities automatically become Iranian citizens and are deemed to be Iranian citizens according to Iranian law, even if they travel to Iran on a Canadian passport with an Iranian visa. Iranian immigration authorities often impound the Canadian passports, particularly those of women who intend to reside in Iran. Women who are considered to be Iranian by marriage must have their husband's permission to travel and to leave Iran, even if they intend to use their Canadian passport.

Iranian women married to Iranian nationals and divorced in Canada need to have their divorce certificate issued in Canada authenticated by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, in Ottawa. The divorce certificate must then be sanctioned by a court of justice in Iran in order to be valid under Iranian law.

Iranian women married to Iranian nationals in Iran and divorced in Canada cannot use their Canadian divorce certificate for official purposes in Iran unless it is first authenticated by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, in Ottawa, and properly sanctioned in Iran by a court of justice. A Canadian divorce certificate that is not sanctioned by an Iranian court would automatically be void in Iran, meaning that the divorce would not be recognized under Iranian law. Therefore, in Iran, an Iranian woman would still be considered to be married to her husband.

In order to avoid any difficulties in Iran related to a Canadian divorce, women should consult both a Canadian and an Iranian lawyer before travelling to Iran.
 
Custody of children
 
Under Iranian law, children of divorced parents—even if they were born in Canada—are under the sole custody of their father, regardless of what a Canadian court may decide. Therefore, if such children are travelling with their mother in Iran, they may encounter great difficulty in returning to Canada. Women in such situations should consult both a Canadian and an Iranian lawyer before travelling to Iran.

In the case of divorce or of the husband’s death, an Iranian man’s foreign-born wife may renounce her Iranian citizenship. However, the couple’s children will irrevocably be Iranian citizens, and will have to enter and leave Iran with an Iranian passport.
 
Guardianship of children under the age of seven usually goes to the mother and is automatically transferred to the father when the child turns seven. In rare cases, Iranian courts may grant legal custody to the paternal grandfather or to the mother if a court determines that the father is unsuitable to raise his children. Women can only gain custody under these circumstances if they hold Iranian citizenship and are residents of Iran.
 
Even if a woman is granted custody of her children, children under the age of 18 still need permission from their paternal grandfather or the court to leave the country. Such permission is also required for other activities involving legal decisions, such as applying for a passport.
 
Canadian children of Iranian fathers

Canadian children whose father is an Iranian national face difficulties while in Iran. Under Iranian law, children of a male Iranian national, including Canadian-Iranian nationals, are in the sole custody of their father. Children require their father's permission to leave Iran.

Iran is not a signatory to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Borders

The borders with Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan are open only to nationals of those countries. Foreigners travelling in sensitive border areas (Azerbaijan, Khuzestan, Kurdistan, and Baluchistan) often attract the attention of local security forces, which can result in short periods of detention.

The border with Iraq is usually closed. It can be opened on a case-by-case basis to allow the passage of certain foreigners or to allow refugees access to containment camps located on the Iranian side of the border.

Road Travel

Road conditions are good in cities, and the highway system is relatively well developed. Due to poor driving standards, travellers should hire cars with a driver familiar with local conditions. Driving is dangerous on poorly lit city streets, as some motorists drive without headlights. Motorists routinely ignore traffic lights, traffic signs, and lane markers, and almost never yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.

Sidewalks on main roads in urban areas may be obstructed by cars. Sidewalks are rare in residential areas.

In the event of a car accident, drivers should remain at the scene until authorities have made an official report. The use of four-wheel-drive vehicles is not recommended due to the high risk of theft.

Hire only official taxis from agencies or hotel-based companies and always pre-negotiate the fare. Most taxis do not have meters, and foreigners are often overcharged.

Residents must possess an Iranian driver's licence in order to drive. Non-residents need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Rail Travel

Trains are comfortable and punctual, but service is limited and slow.

Sea Travel

The waters around the islands of Abu Musa and Tunbs in the southern Persian Gulf are politically sensitive and patrolled by the military. Foreigners navigating Iranian waters have been arrested and detained in the past.

Air Travel

Some domestic carriers have been involved in fatal accidents. Some airlines may not meet international safety standards. Canadians are advised to check if their airline company meets these standards before booking their ticket.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The economy is exclusively cash-based. The currency is the Iranian rial (IRR). Credit cards and traveller's cheques are not accepted in Iran. Automated banking machines (ABMs) exist only for local banking by Iranians. Travellers should bring sufficient cash, preferably in U.S. dollars, to cover all expenses. Only crisp U.S. banknotes are accepted. Travellers should declare all foreign currency upon arrival in order to avoid difficulties.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Iran is located in an active seismic area, and travellers should be aware of appropriate steps to take in case of an earthquake. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Tehran, in the event of an emergency.

Dust storms and sand storms may occur in some areas.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption by foreigners who are not of Muslim faith is impossible in Iran.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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