Banking & Foreign Exchange in Iran

Foreign exchange regulations in Iran affect almost every cross-border deal: how a foreign buyer pays an Iranian seller, how an exporter brings currency back, and how an investor moves capital and profits. PAD International Group explains the legal options and limits for payments, currency transfers and repatriation of funds, and the documents Iranian banks and authorities usually ask for. Our work is limited to lawful structures that comply with Iranian law and applicable international sanctions.

How currency rules work in Iran

Foreign exchange in Iran is regulated by the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Currency transactions must go through licensed banks and authorised exchange offices, and the rules distinguish between imports, exports, services, investment and personal transfers. The applicable rate, channel and paperwork can differ for each category and change frequently, so every transaction should be checked against the rules in force at the time.

Matters we advise on

Repatriation of funds from Iran

Moving money out of Iran is often the hardest part of a transaction. The available route depends on the source of the funds, such as investment profits, the sale of property, an inheritance or a commercial receivable, and on the documents that prove that source. Foreign investors with a FIPPA licence have a statutory framework for transfers; other cases rely on the general foreign exchange rules. See our regulatory and compliance advisory for investment licences.

Risks of informal currency channels

Unlicensed currency dealing is a criminal matter under Iran’s law on combating the smuggling of goods and currency, and informal channels also expose the parties to fraud and loss with little legal protection. We explain lawful alternatives and the documentation that protects you if a transfer is later questioned.

How we help

1. Facts and flow of funds. We map who pays whom, for what, in which currency and through which banks.
2. Legal options. You receive a short note on the lawful channels, conditions and expected documents.
3. Documents. We prepare or review contracts, invoices, powers of attorney and bank letters in English and Persian.
4. Follow-up. Where needed, we liaise with Iranian banks or counsel to resolve requests and queries.

Example: transferring sale proceeds abroad

A UK resident inherited an apartment in Tehran and sold it. The bank asked for proof of inheritance, the sale deed and tax clearance before processing any transfer. By preparing these documents in advance and using a properly drafted power of attorney, the seller avoided months of delay. This example is hypothetical. For the inheritance side, see Iranian inheritance support.

Frequently asked questions

Legal reference

Monetary and Banking Law of Iran; Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Act (2002); Law on Combating the Smuggling of Goods and Currency; Central Bank of Iran foreign exchange regulations. General information reviewed 30 October 2026. Rules change frequently and must be confirmed for each transaction. Nothing on this page is advice on sanctions.