IRAN: Know Before You Go

Iran Travel Guide
A female foreign tourist wearing head scarf looking at Iran's ancient architecture.

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In the Name of God, the Most High

To: Travel and Tourism Service Offices/Companies
(Notification)
(Prohibited Items Accompanying Inbound Tourists)

As you are aware, informing inbound tourists about customs laws and regulations—particularly regarding prohibited items accompanying inbound tourists—not only saves travelers time but also prevents legal and customs issues. Observing these matters helps tourists have a safe, comfortable, and worry-free travel experience. With emphasis on the obligation to inform the passengers and tourists of your company/office about the detailed laws and regulations below, it is essential to ensure their proper implementation through serious attention and supervision.

According to Article 136 of the Customs Law Executive Regulations:
Inbound passengers are required to declare the goods accompanying them to customs. This declaration can be made orally, and if a passenger customs declaration form is provided to them by customs, they must complete it accurately and submit it to customs. If a passenger conceals their goods and fails to declare them to customs, and customs discovers them through inspection, they will be subject to smuggling regulations.

Reminder of Part of the Regulations on Accompanying Passenger Goods:
Pursuant to Article 122 of the Customs Affairs Law, the permanent import of the following items is prohibited:
… Transmitting devices of any kind and their components…,
Aerial photography and filming equipment…,
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Eavesdropping systems, transmitters, and small recording devices, including micro-cameras and micro-microphones with espionage capabilities, high-speed special and covert transmitters, any goods or systems capable of monitoring and intercepting wired and wireless communications (monitoring), and encryption systems used for espionage purposes…

Note: The import of electronic and telecommunication goods with commercial applications and specific models that are susceptible to espionage misuse, as well as pharmaceutical, food, mineral, toxin, and organic materials and goods that are misused as dual-purpose goods for bioterrorism, is prohibited based on notifications from the Ministry of Intelligence, as applicable.

Furthermore, the import of professional photography and filming cameras is prohibited.

  • The import, supply, transfer, transportation, storage, use, or any form of utilization of micro-drones, including (small drones and quadcopters, drones, or robots) or their components and parts,
  • The import, use, transportation, or storage of unlicensed satellite internet communication electronic devices such as Starlink, is strictly prohibited.

Office of Review and Cooperation
Azar 1404

Photo Source: https://www.visitouriran.com/blog/things-you-shouldnt-do-while-traveling-to-iran/