01
What cards can I use in Iran (Visa or Mastercard)?
Iran is a cash-only country, meaning you must bring cash in USD or EUR, find the best exchange rates, and frequently exchange money for transactions. However, with the Iran money card, you can make purchases at any vendor and withdraw cash from Pasargad Banks' ATMs. The iRUN tourist card offers a cashless experience while traveling.
02
Can I use ATMs in Iran?
International credit cards (Visa or MasterCard) cannot be used in Iranian ATMs. However, you can withdraw cash from Pasargad Banks' ATMs using the iRUN Tourist Card.
03
What is an iRUN tourist card?
The iRUN tourist card provides travelers with transparency, flexibility, and convenience in their financial transactions. It functions like a debit card without requiring a bank account setup. Track your transactions and balance via Pasargad Bank ATMs, and check your card balance on any ATM or POS machine connected to the SHETAB Network. Deposits in USD or EUR can be made before arriving in Iran, and unspent funds can be withdrawn at the end of your visit.
04
How much cash can I take to Iran?
Although there are no official limits, it's generally recommended to carry no more than 5,000 EUR/USD for tourism purposes.
05
How much money should I take to Iran?
A daily budget of around 100-150 EUR/USD per person is suggested, depending on accommodation, food, and transport choices.
06
What can you do with your Tourist Card?
The Tourist Card allows you to make payments up to 2,000,000,000 Rials per day through POS machines, and ATM withdrawals with a daily limit of 2,000,000 Rials from Pasargad Banks. You can check your transaction history via Pasargad Bank ATMs, and use the card for payments at hotels, restaurants, and most shops across Iran.
07
How do I top-up my card?
You can top-up your card by exchanging your funds as follows:
- Method 1: Cash deposits in major cities like Tehran, Tabriz, Isfahan, and Shiraz.
- Method 2: Online bank transfers (7% transfer fee) via PayPal, WISE, or bank transfer.
- Method 3: Exchange your money to IRR at an official exchange and transfer it through irunpay.com.
Note: You cannot transfer money from your card to another card.
08
What happens if I have money left on my card after my trip?
Remaining balance refunds are available in two ways:
- Method 1: Bank transfer in EUR or USD (7% transfer fee applies).
- Method 2: Exchange at a reputable exchange office at the daily rate through a POS machine.
You may check the exchange rate on websites like Bonbast.com.
09
Is the iRUN tourist card accepted everywhere?
The prepaid iRUN debit card is accepted wherever bank cards are accepted, covering most stores, restaurants, museums, hotels, attractions, kiosks, and street vendors across Iran.
10
What do I need to sign up for an Iran tourist card?
Complete the Iran tourist card application with your name, email, passport information, a passport scan, and travel details. Specify your deposit amount and preferred top-up method.
11
Do I have to pass a credit check?
No credit or background checks are required. Your information is used solely for identity verification.
12
What kind of info is in the welcome letter?
Your welcome letter includes your account username/password, card PIN, and detailed usage instructions.
The iRUN team will contact you via WhatsApp before arrival to coordinate delivery, which takes place exclusively at your hotel in Tehran. Delivery to Tehran airport or other cities is not available.
14
Where can I use my card to purchase goods?
The prepaid iRUN debit card is accepted at almost all stores, restaurants, museums, hotels, attractions, kiosks, and street vendors across Iran.
15
How much can I deposit?
There is no limit on deposits; however, it's recommended to keep some cash on hand.
16
Who provides the card?
The iRUN tourist card is provided by iRUN, linked to Iran’s SHETAB network and recognized by the Central Bank of Iran.
17
Can I use my debit card in Iran?
International debit and credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are not accepted in Iran. With the iRUN tourist card, you can make purchases at any vendor and withdraw cash from Pasargad Banks' ATMs.