Iran

Overview

Due to the deteriorating security situation in Iran, the New Zealand Embassy in Tehran has been temporarily closed from 16 January 2026 until further notice.

While the ability of the New Zealand Government to provide assistance to New Zealanders in Iran is extremely limited, those needing consular support should contact:

MFAT’s 24/7 consular emergency call centre on +64 99 20 20 20

Or

The New Zealand Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye

Telephone: +90(312)4463333

Email: [email protected]

All New Zealanders in Iran should leave now, if it is safe to do so. 

Commercial options for departure remain available, but could quickly become limited. Airspace closures and flight cancellations may occur, making it difficult to leave later.

Violent protests are occurring across Iran, and the security situation is volatile. Security forces have responded by using tear gas and force to disperse demonstrators. The protests have resulted in a number of deaths, injuries, and a significant number of arrests. New Zealanders in Iran should avoid all demonstrations, rallies, and large public gatherings as they could turn violent with little warning. 

Tensions in the region are heightened and there is an ongoing risk of military conflict. Remain security conscious and monitor media for updates. Read our advice about keeping yourself when there is a threat of violence or conflict.

Transportation, particularly flights in and out of the country, may continue to be disrupted at short notice. Contact your travel provider about air and land transport options and availability. We continue to advise New Zealanders in Iran to leave now if it is safe to do so. We are providing further advice about the current situation in the Middle East here: Middle East security situation.

Violent civil unrest, the risk of arbitrary arrest or detention, and the volatile security situation in the region are significant threats to New Zealanders in Iran. 

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East.

Some concerns for New Zealanders travelling or living in Iran are: 

• Conflict
• Terrorism
• Civil unrest
• Military patrols and closed borders. 

There is water scarcity currently in some parts of Iran. Local authorities may ration water supplies, and running water may not always be available. If you’re in Iran, keep supplies of bottled water and water purification tablets on hand and stay informed of the current situation and any restrictions by monitoring local media.

New Zealanders in Iran should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place, which includes provision for medical evacuation by air. Confirm that the policy covers Iran. 

See below for detailed travel advice. 

Consular assistance

The ability of the New Zealand Government to provide consular assistance to New Zealanders in Iran is extremely limited. We can't guarantee consular access or assistance if you are detained, encounter difficulties, or a military conflict occurs.

Iran doesn't recognise dual citizenship. Under Iranian law, Iranian dual nationals must enter and exit Iran on their Iranian passport. This further constrains the New Zealand Government's ability to provide consular assistance within Iran.

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