It is important to know the payment methods in Iran to experience a worry-free purchase. Given the fact that the banking system in Iran does not interrelate with international financial systems, foreign cards such as Visa and MasterCard are not accepted within the country. Nevertheless, safe and convenient alternatives for travelers are available.
At Irun2Iran, we ensure that you book your trip easily by making international payments online before you arrive. This article covers all the Iranian payment methods, including local debit cards, cash and online payments, so you can confidently travel to Iran with ease.
Iran Tourist Debit Card
The Iran Tourist Debit Card is one of the most convenient payment methods in Iran, especially for visitors. The use of this prepaid card is the best option for international travelers, since there is no possibility of using an international credit and debit card within the country.
You are also able to load your card with Iranian Rials and use it like a local card to shop, eat, and even make purchases online. Hotels, restaurants, shops and even ATMs of Iran accept the use of the Tourist Debit Card. It does not require you to carry so much cash and it assists you in tracking the expenses, making it among the best Iran payment methods.
Iranian Bank Cards
The Tourist Debit Card is the main payment method for foreign tourists, while localsalmost exclusively use Iranian bank cards. The cards are processed via the “Shetab” network that links all banks in Iran and is capable of handling millions of transactions a day.
Usually, it is not possible for tourists to open local bank accounts, yet the Iranian payment system is still very effective. If your stay in Iran is long-term or you are working there, it is possible to open an account with certain permissions to allow you to use a local bank card.
However, for the majority of travelers, the Tourist Debit Card is one of the best Iran payment methods, as it is accepted at nearly all places where locals pay.
Cash
Cash is still one of the most reliable payment methods available in Iran for short trips since ATMs do not allow the use of foreign bank cards. To ensure that money is not lost, it is best to bring euros or dollars for the initial needs and have them converted into the local currency at the “Sarafi” exchange offices.
They are authorized and located at airports, hotels and tourist areas. Small retailers, taxi drivers and local markets prefer cash to cards for payment. It is better to carry small notes and distribute cash among different pockets or wallets to prevent losing it all at once.
In many areas, especially rural ones, cash is still the only accepted payment method, particularly in farms and traditional marketplaces.
Iran Payment Methods Online
Local Iran payment methods online are very modern and primarily for local use, thus facilitating payment of bills, local purchases and ticket booking through Iranian websites and applications by the local people. Nonetheless, the tourists are not allowed to use these systems directly as there is an Iranian bank card requirement.
Irun2Iran enables tourists to settle the payment for the tour, hotel and transport via international platforms like PayPal before entering Iran, thereby removing the need for local banking.
The remaining amount can either be cleared in cash or via a Tourist Debit Card upon arrival. This hybrid method provides access to local accessibility through the use of international credit cards, giving total control and thus lessening the stress associated with it.
If you’re planning to travel to Iran, make sure to review the latest information on Iran visa fees and payment
Iran International Payment Methods
Iran’s international payment methods, like Visa, MasterCard and PayPal, aren’t available in the country because of international sanctions. Iranian ATMs and shops won’t accept foreign cards, and the international online gateways are blocked. These restrictions will also affect many global payment apps and will be applied to all financial transactions.
Although payment in Iran may be difficult for tourists, with just a little bit of preparation, travelers can manage their costs more easily. Before arriving in Iran, you can make prepayments to Irun2Iran through PayPal or other international options.
Is PayPal Available in Iran?
No, PayPal is not available officially in Iran due to international sanctions and banking restrictions. Nevertheless, Irun2Iran offers a helpful solution by accepting PayPal prepayments from overseas. It indicates that you can securely book your tours, hotels and transfers before your trip.
Payment in Iran can be done in cash or by using your Iran Tourist Debit Card. With this method, you will never encounter payment problems for your travel experiences, even in a country that lacks direct access to international banking networks.
Understanding the Rial vs. Toman
When you need to make an Iranian payment, the first thing you ought to do is to grasp the distinction between the Rial and the Toman. The Rial (IRR) is the official currency, but people commonly employ the Toman when talking about money. A Toman equals 10 Rials.
Thus, if you see a price tag of 1,000,000 Rials, you should expect that Iranians will say “100,000 Tomans.” Even if it might take some time to get used to it, you will eventually manage it without difficulties.
Always check if the price you are given is in Rials or Tomans—especially when you are paying in cash. Most receipts, ATMs and bank statements indicate prices in Rials, while people prefer to use the simpler Toman in their everyday dealings.
Book and Pay Easily for Your Trip to Iran
Irun2Iran streamlines the whole booking and payment process, letting travelers pay via PayPal or other international methods in advance before they even come to Iran. When they arrive, they can either use cash or a Tourist Debit Card to pay for the remaining balance. This system is very helpful for international travelers, especially those who have banking restrictions.
They will definitely not get stuck with no money while participating in cultural tours, desert adventures and private transfers since the system offers a variety of payment options. We ensure your Iran payment methods are reliable and hassle-free!
If your next destination is Iran, start by filling out the Iran Visa Application
