Iran customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Iran enforces strict Islamic customs regulations. In 2026, non-resident adult travellers may import up to 1 litre of alcohol (only for personal use, though alcohol is officially prohibited for Muslims) and 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco duty-free. Cash amounts exceeding USD 10,000 or equivalent must be declared. Personal goods up to USD 800 are duty-free.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits or wine. Alcohol is strictly prohibited for Iranian Muslims; non-Muslim travellers may bring small amounts for personal use, but import is subject to customs discretion and may be confiscated.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash, traveller's cheques, or monetary instruments exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the arrival form. Iranian rials over IRR 5,000,000 must also be declared.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 (or equivalent in IRR) are duty-free. Items above this value are subject to customs duty and tax.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine)
  • Alcoholic beverages (for Muslim travellers; non-Muslims may bring limited amounts for personal use)
  • Pork and pork products
  • Any items deemed contrary to Islamic morals (e.g., obscene literature, pornography, gambling devices)
  • Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and weapons (except with special permit from the Ministry of Defence)
  • Satellite phones and GPS devices without prior approval from the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing narcotic or psychotropic ingredients (require a prescription and prior approval from the Ministry of Health)
  • Plants, seeds, soil, and agricultural products (require a phytosanitary certificate and permit from the Plant Protection Organization)
  • Pets (dogs and cats require a valid rabies vaccination certificate, import permit, and quarantine upon arrival)
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (require a permit from the Civil Aviation Organization)
  • Cultural artefacts, antiques, and artworks (require an export permit from the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization)

Rules worth knowing

Currency Import Restrictions

Travellers may bring up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent) without declaration. Amounts above must be declared. Iranian rials over IRR 5,000,000 must be declared. Export of Iranian rials is strictly limited to IRR 500,000.

Alcohol and Pork Prohibition for Muslims

Iranian Muslims are strictly prohibited from importing alcohol or pork products. Non-Muslim travellers may bring limited quantities for personal use, but customs officers may confiscate them if deemed excessive.

Religious and Political Material

Any printed or digital material deemed offensive to Islam, the Iranian government, or the Supreme Leader is prohibited. This includes anti-Islamic literature, Zionist propaganda, and materials promoting Baháʼí faith.

Duty-Free Allowance for Non-Residents

Non-resident travellers aged 18+ may bring personal goods up to USD 800 duty-free. This includes gifts, clothing, electronics, and other personal effects. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty at rates up to 30%.

Frequently asked questions

Alcohol is officially prohibited for Iranian Muslims. Non-Muslim travellers may bring up to 1 litre of spirits or wine for personal use, but customs officers have discretion to confiscate it. It is safest to avoid bringing alcohol altogether.
You may bring up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any currency) without declaration. Amounts above USD 10,000 must be declared on the arrival form. Iranian rials over IRR 5,000,000 must also be declared.
Yes. Over-the-counter medicines for personal use are generally allowed. Prescription medications containing narcotics or psychotropic substances require a doctor's prescription and prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Carry medicines in original packaging with a prescription.
Yes, but you need an import permit from the Iran Veterinary Organization, a valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days old but not more than 1 year), and a health certificate. Pets may be subject to quarantine upon arrival.
Goods valued over USD 800 are subject to customs duty and tax. You must declare them on the arrival form and pay the applicable duty (typically 15-30% of the value). Failure to declare may result in confiscation and fines.
Satellite phones and GPS devices require prior approval from the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology. Drones require a permit from the Civil Aviation Organization. Without permits, they will be confiscated.

Official source

Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA) before travelling.