Money and duty free for Iran

Currency and Money

Currency information

Iranian Rial (IRR; symbol Rs) = 100 dinars. Notes are in denominations of Rs 100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 200 and 100. Coins are in denominations of Rs 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 250, 100 and 50.

Credit cards

MasterCard is accepted in some places, but credit cards should emphatically not be relied on as the sole means of payment. Be aware too that if the card was issued in the USA, it may not be usable due to the US trade embargo.

ATM

ATMs can be used only by holders of local bank accounts.

Travellers cheques

It is not possible to exchange travellers' cheques.

Banking hours

Sat-Wed 0800-1600, Thurs 0800-1230.

Currency restrictions

The import and export of local currency is limited to Rs500,000. Any amount larger requires authorisation from the Central Bank. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided declared on arrival. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival.

Currency exchange

It is advisable to bring hard currency for exchange purposes.

Iran duty free

Overview

The following goods may be imported into Iran without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.

Importing alcohol is illegal.

Banned Imports

Prohibited items include alcoholic drinks, narcotics, gambling devices, weapons and ammunition, explosives, counterfeit goods, anti-Islamic publications, and publications, photos and films considered to be against the religious and national dignity of Iran.

Restricted items include animals, fish, plants, medicines (other than those prescribed for personal use), and telecommunications equipment. 

Banned Exports

All prohibited imports are also banned from export, along with antiquities and cultural artefacts.

The export of gold is restricted to 150g and the export of silver is restricted to 3kg.