Currency: Iranian Rial (IR) = 100 dinars. Notes are in denominations of IR10,000, 5000, 2000 and 1000. Coins are in denominations of IR250, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5.
Currency exchange: It is advisable to bring hard currency for exchange purposes.
Credit & debit cards: MasterCard is accepted in some places, but credit cards should not be relied on as the sole means of payment. Be aware that if the card was issued in the USA, it may not be usable due to the US trade embargo.
Although some places will accept a Master Card (subject to an additional 4% charge) we recommend that you use cash during your visit as it is the most convenient and widely accepted form of payment.
You can buy Rial at foreign exchange banks and other authorized money exchangers. At the Tehran international airport , currency exchange counters are usually open during normal office hours. The exchange rate fluctuates daily depending on the money market. Beware of fly-by-night changers in bazaars although they may offer you a more advantageous rate than the official rate.
In compliance with new currency policies and for the convenience of the foreigners, hotel and travel tour rates and the price of carpets are expressed in US dollars.Travellers Cheques: It is not possible to change travellers cheques.
Currency Restrictions: The import and export of local currency is limited to IR500,000. Any amount larger than this requires authorisation from the Central Bank. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided declared on arrival (there is a special form). The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival. There are no ATMs.
Exchange rate indicators: The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Iranian Rial against Sterling and the US.