Official Import Rules
Iran requires a microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old), and an import permit from the Iranian Veterinary Organization (IVO). A health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, endorsed by the origin country's veterinary authority, is required. Documents may need Farsi translation. Despite geopolitical complexities, Iran has clear pet import procedures.
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Turn these rules into your dog's step-by-step planCabin/cargo call, breed check, crate size and paperwork timing.Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip fitted before the rabies vaccination. The microchip number must match every certificate.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination must be valid before travel. Most routes require at least 21 days after a primary vaccination.
Health certificate or pet passport
Use an EU pet passport where accepted, or a government-endorsed animal health certificate for this route.
Travel day
Carry originals, confirm airline pet acceptance, and keep the official authority page saved offline.
Breed & Public-Space Rules
No major national breed ban found
Still check airline policies, local rules, insurance requirements and any transit-country restrictions before booking.
Flying In: Cabin, Hold or Cargo
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Notes
Tehran (northern districts like Tajrish, Niavaran, Elahieh), Isfahan, and Shiraz are the main cities. Iran has a surprisingly strong pet culture, particularly in Tehran's affluent northern neighbourhoods. Persian dogs originated here, naturally.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Good vet care in Tehran, especially in northern districts. Several modern clinics with trained staff. Isfahan and Shiraz also have adequate facilities. Costs are very affordable. Summer heat in southern Iran requires AC for indoor dogs.
Leaving Iran With Your Dog
Exit requires a health certificate from an IVO-approved vet and an export permit. Processing takes 3–5 working days.
Videos & Route Walkthroughs
Use videos as lived-experience context, not as legal authority. Search for recent dog-owner route reports, airport collection walkthroughs, crate-loading examples and relocation-agent explainers, then verify every rule against the official source above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iran dog-friendly?
Surprisingly yes. Persian dogs originated in Iran, and there's a genuine dog culture. Tehran's northern neighbourhoods have many pet owners and modern vet clinics.
Are there restrictions due to sanctions?
Sanctions complicate international banking and flights but don't directly affect pet import regulations. Limited airline options may affect routing.
Is vet care affordable?
Very. Iran has well-trained vets at a fraction of Western costs. A routine vet visit in Tehran costs around $5–15.
Community Tips & Nearby Routes
Community reports are useful for practical details such as which cargo desk answers the phone, how long collection took, or whether a landlord asked for insurance. Treat them as tips, then verify rules with the authority and airline.