Question 1

1. What is the best currency to bring to Iran?

Accepted Answer

The best currencies to bring are US Dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR), as they are widely accepted at authorized exchange offices (Sarrafi) and offer the best exchange rates. Other currencies like British Pounds (GBP), Australian Dollars (AUD), or Turkish Lira (TRY) may be accepted in major cities but often have less favorable rates or limited availability. Tips: Bring crisp, new bills (post-2017) with no tears or marks, as damaged or old notes may be rejected. USD and EUR are easiest to exchange in tourist hubs like Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz. Avoid bringing less common currencies (e.g., Indian Rupees or Chinese Yuan), as they may not be accepted outside specialized exchanges.

Question 2

2. Can I use credit cards or ATMs in Iran?

Accepted Answer

No, international credit cards (e.g., Visa, Mastercard) and debit cards are not accepted in Iran due to sanctions disconnecting the country from global banking networks. Similarly, ATMs are not accessible for foreign cards. What to Do: Bring enough cash (USD or EUR) to cover your entire trip, as you’ll rely on Rials for all expenses. Exchange money at authorized Sarrafi offices for the best rates (~82,200 IRR per USD in 2025). Some high-end hotels or tour agencies may accept bank transfers, but this is rare and requires pre-arrangement. Alternative: Consider prepaid Iranian debit cards (available at some banks for tourists), but these are less common and require setup in Iran.

Question 3

3. What’s the difference between Rial and Toman?

Accepted Answer

The Iranian Rial (IRR) is the official currency, but locals often use Toman in everyday transactions. 1 Toman = 10 Rials. For example, if a price is quoted as 50,000 Tomans, it equals 500,000 Rials. How to Avoid Confusion: Prices on banknotes and official receipts are in Rials, but markets, shops, and restaurants typically quote in Tomans. If a price seems unusually high, it’s likely in Rials; if lower, it’s probably in Tomans. Always ask, “Is this in Toman or Rial?” Use a mental trick: drop one zero from a Toman price to convert to Rials (e.g., 10,000 Tomans = 100,000 Rials).

Question 4

4. Where is the best place to exchange money in Iran?

Accepted Answer

The best places to exchange money are authorized exchange offices (Sarrafi), which offer the free market rate (~82,200 IRR per USD in 2025). Popular locations include: Tehran: Ferdowsi Square, a hub for Sarrafi with competitive rates. Isfahan: Near Naqsh-e Jahan Square or Chahar Bagh Avenue. Shiraz: Zand Boulevard or Vakil Bazaar area. Avoid: Airport exchange counters (poor rates) and unlicensed street vendors (risk of scams).

Question 5

5. Is it safe to exchange money in Iran?

Accepted Answer

Yes, exchanging money at authorized Sarrafi offices is safe, as they are regulated by the Central Bank of Iran. However, you should avoid black market dealers to prevent scams like counterfeit Rials or shortchanging. Safety Tips: Stick to licensed Sarrafi in tourist areas or recommended by your hotel. Count your Rials before leaving the counter and verify the amount. Be cautious when carrying large amounts of cash; use a money belt or hotel safe. Avoid exchanging money on the street, even if offered “better rates.” If Scammed: Report to local police or your embassy, but prevention is key—always use authorized offices.

Question 6

6. How much money can I exchange in Iran?

Accepted Answer

There are no strict limits on exchanging money at the free market rate in Sarrafi offices, but the official rate (~28,500 IRR per USD) is capped at 2,000 EUR or 2,100 USD per year per person, requiring a passport and visa. Practical Advice: Exchange only what you need for a few days to minimize carrying large sums. Budget ~50-100 USD per day for moderate travel (accommodation, food, transport), adjusting for your travel style. Monitor exchange rates, as the free market rate fluctuates (e.g., ~82,200 IRR per USD in 2025). Tip: Bring extra cash to cover emergencies, as you can’t rely on cards or ATMs.

Question 7

7. Should I exchange money before arriving in Iran?

Accepted Answer

It’s generally not recommended to exchange money before arriving, as Iranian Rials are rarely available outside Iran, and rates abroad are often poor. Instead: Bring USD or EUR in cash and exchange at Sarrafi offices in Iran for the free market rate. If you must exchange a small amount at the airport (e.g., for a taxi), limit it to 50-100 USD, then head to a Sarrafi in the city for better rates. Check with your local bank or exchange office before traveling, but expect limited availability of IRR.

Question 8

8. Can I take Iranian Rials out of the country?

Accepted Answer

es, but there are restrictions. You can take up to 5,000,000 IRR (approximately 60 USD at the 2025 free market rate) out of Iran. Larger amounts require special permission from the Central Bank. Tips: Keep exchange receipts to show the source of your Rials if questioned at customs. Convert excess Rials back to USD or EUR at a Sarrafi before leaving, as Rials have little value outside Iran. Plan your budget to avoid leftover Rials, as exchanging them abroad is difficult.

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