Travel Report for Iran

Country Profile for
Iran

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: December 5, 2006 15:22 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 21:59 EST

Iran

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. Sections 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 have been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)

You are advised 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 (see Section 7 below) for the latest security information.

You are advised against all travel to the Sistan and Baluchestan province in southeastern Iran as this region is regularly affected by ethnic conflicts and there have been a number of kidnappings involving foreign tourists in that province. For the same reasons, you are also advised against all travel to the Khuzestan province.

Canadians are reminded against all travel to Iraq under any circumstances. For more information, see our Travel Report for Iraq.

Heightened tensions throughout the region, together with increased threats globally from terrorism, put Canadians at greater risk. Acts of political violence, including assassinations of political figures and bomb attacks against the Iranian Government, have occurred in the past. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Avoid situations where political violence and demonstrations may occur and exercise appropriate caution in large gatherings and crowded places, including pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, and restaurants. Monitor local developments, register and remain in regular contact with the Embassy of Canada in Tehran or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Two explosions occurred on January 23, 2006, hitting a bank and a government building. Reports indicate eight dead and many more injured. Since 2005, the region has seen an increase in violence. The security situation in Iran remains stable, although civil disobedience appears to be on the rise. Personal safety risks have not increased. Travel is safe in most areas.

Violent crime has increased but it is not necessarily targeted at Westerners. Travelers 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. Travelers 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.

Physical and verbal harassment of women can be a problem. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to encourage Canadian women to travel safely.

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4. LOCAL 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. Motorists routinely ignore traffic lights, traffic signs and lane markers, and almost never yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. Driving is dangerous on poorly lit city streets, as some motorists drive without headlights. 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.

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

The borders with Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan are open only to nationals of those countries. Avoid travelling overland to Pakistan. If doing so, exercise a high level of caution, travel only on main roads and in official parties, and avoid travelling after dark. 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.

Residents must possess an Iranian driver's licence in order to drive. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is also accepted.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Iran is located in an active seismic area, and travelers should be aware of appropriate steps to take in case of an earthquake. Dust storms and sand storms may occur in some areas. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Tehran (see Section 7 below) in the event of an emergency.

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6. LOCAL 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 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Capital punishment can be expected for persons found guilty of possession, use, or trafficking of drugs, those who challenge the Islamic faith or attempt to convert Muslims to another religion, and those who engage in sexual relations outside marriage. Former Muslims who have converted to other religions have been subject to arrest and prosecution.

It is prohibited to import alcohol or pork products.

Iran is an Islamic theocratic republic. Islamic practices and beliefs are 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 (e.g., women should cover their head with a scarf and also cover their arms and legs). Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Playing music loudly in public, including in cars, is prohibited by law.

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. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on or about September 24, 2006.

Homosexuality 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 information.

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

Dual nationality

Dual nationality is not legally recognized in Iran. Dual nationals have to enter and exit Iran using their Iranian passports. When returning to Canada from Iran, Canadian-Iranian nationals must carry both Canadian and Iranian passports, as airlines require a Canadian passport. The Embassy of Canada's ability to assist Canadian-Iranian nationals is very limited. 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 problems have occurred:

a) 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 twelve months to obtain an Iranian passport to exit Iran or return to Canada.

b) If a male dual national has not completed his Iranian military service, he will be required to do so. Iranians who reside outside Iran are temporarily exempted from military service while abroad and are permitted to visit Iran once a year for a period limited to three months. Dual nationals ignoring this limitation may be prohibited from leaving Iran.

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

d) 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.

e) Canadian children whose father is an Iranian national may also face difficulties while in Iran, as according to Iranian law, children of a male Iranian national, including Canadian-Iranian nationals, are in the sole custody of their father. The father's permission is required for the children to leave Iran.

f) 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. Canadians who have exceeded this limitation have been prohibited from leaving Iran, separating them from their family in Canada. This situation seems to be more frequent for dual nationals who have not completed their military service in Iran.

g) Iranian authorities sometimes allow entry to dual nationals travelling with an Iranian passport along with a Canadian citizenship card or a Canadian passport that is valid for less than six months or has expired. Upon departure, these individuals are often stopped at border crossings and are not allowed to leave Iran until they have obtained the appropriate documents.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

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

Iran - TEHRAN, Embassy of Canada
Address: 57 Shahid Sarfaraz, Ostad Motahari Ave., Tehran, 15868, Iran
Postal Address: P.O. Box 11365-4647, Tehran, 15868, Iran
Tel.: 98 (21) 8152-0000
Fax: 98 (21) 8152-3399
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, or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. Canada Direct service is available only at dedicated phones displaying the Canada Direct symbol at the Azadi and Esteghlal hotels in Tehran as well as at the Tehran Airport. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with Iranian authorities and was valid on October 11, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries 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 country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

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 the country. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa. Obtain the visa 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.

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

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

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.

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 visa requirements for this and other countries, 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 may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries 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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9. MONEY

The economy is primarily cash-based. The currency is the Iranian rial (IRR). Credit cards and traveller's cheques are not accepted in Iran. Banks have stopped accepting credit cards and do not give cash advances. ATMs exist only for local banking by Iranians. Travellers should bring sufficient cash, preferably in U.S. dollars, to cover all expenses. They should carry crisp bills as well-worn or used U.S. banknotes may not be accepted. Travellers should declare all foreign currency upon arrival in order to avoid difficulties.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

The Islamic Republic of Iran (capital: Tehran) is a Middle Eastern country bordered by Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, and Turkey. The work week is from Saturday to Thursday. However, many private companies and government offices are closed on Thursday. The official language is Persian (Farsi), but Kurdish, Turkic dialects, and other languages are also spoken.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

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 Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Current Issues on Avian Influenza.

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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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

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; avoid purchasing food from street vendors; and carry oral rehydration solution (available at pharmacies) when travelling in affected areas. If you develop severe watery diarrhea, begin taking oral rehydration solution immediately and seek medical attention.

The quality of medical care varies and is generally not up to Western standards. Carry a sufficient supply of medications, particularly special prescriptions, 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.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

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

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. 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.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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18. ANNEX

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