This in-depth article offers valuable insights into Iran's land border crossings and terminals, catering to travelers planning to enter the country overland. It's particularly useful for those journeying in their own vehicles, on bikes or motorcycles, by bus or train, as well as backpackers exploring various countries or famous routes like the Silk Road. It highlights key border points with countries such as Turkey, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Armenia. It includes insights into the facilities, services available at these terminals, and the significance of each crossing for travelers. Additionally, there are tips for travelers regarding visa requirements and necessary documentation when crossing these borders.
Historically, the territory of Iran has acted as a vital crossroads for adventurers and international travelers moving between the west and the east, as well as from the north to the south of the globe. The Silk Road and Spice Road are renowned routes once traversed by many explorers. In contemporary times, numerous individuals explore Iran using motorcycles, bicycles, off-road vehicles, and both private and public transport. Exciting car and bike rallies, such as the Mongol Rally, also pass through Iran. Participants may begin their journey in the UK and conclude in Mongolia, or they might start from Australia and end in the United States.
Below, we provide an overview of the current status of Iran's land border terminals with its neighboring countries. You can find a complete list of Iran's borders and land terminals with its neighbors, including details such as the name of the land border, the neighboring country sharing this border with Iran, and the nearest cities to Iran's borders across the country. Then, we will introduce each border crossing individually.
Afghanistan - Iran Borders
Armenia - Iran Borders
Azerbaijan - Iran Borders
Iraq - Iran Borders
Pakistan - Iran Borders
Turkey - Iran Borders
Turkmenistan - Iran Borders
Entering Iran by land is comparable to arriving by other means, such as by water or through one of the country's major international airports. At any of the numerous land border crossing checkpoints, visitors are required to present the necessary identification documents, you will need to have the following documents:
It's important to note that border control officers may ask for additional documentation depending on your circumstances. Make sure you have all the necessary documents before you travel to ensure a smooth entry into Iran.
Tourists arriving in their own vehicles will need to provide additional documents to ensure proper importation and authorization to operate on Iranian roads. The following items are required:
It's important to note that the specific requirements may vary depending on the type of vehicle, country of origin, and other factors. It's recommended that you check with the Iranian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.
To enter Iran from Turkey via land, you have a few options:
Razi Border – Closest City: Khoy - West Azerbaijan
Bazargan Border – Closest City: Maku – West Azerbaijan
Serow Border – Closest City: Urmia - West Azerbaijan
The land border terminals between Iran and Turkey play a significant role in passenger transportation. Three of Iran's border terminals include the Bazargan border near the city of Maku, Razi near Khoy, and Serow near Urmia. Each of these borders offers facilities such as parking and transfer services. However, Bazargan is primarily dedicated to transit transportation, while the Razi border, due to higher passenger traffic, features special facilities for land travel to Van and other Turkish cities.
Many travelers enter Iran and Turkey through Razi or Kapikoy border, heading towards cities like Khoy on Iranian side and Van and Igdir on Turkish side. This border crossing is situated in the northwestern region of Iran and the eastern area of Turkey. Razi Border is an excellent choice for those without a personal car, as it offers a greater number of vans and transfer options. Razi Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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Located near the city of Maku on Iranian side and Dogubayazit on Turkish site , the Bazargan border is recognized as one of the busiest terminals on the land borders between Iran and Turkey. It is primarily used by travelers with their vehicles or on public transport. Bazargan Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Sero border terminal is the closest crossing point to the city of Urmia on Iranian side and Esendere on Turkish side , making it an excellent choice for those traveling from Urmia to Turkey. Sero Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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Travelers should be mindful of the weather and climate conditions at the Iranian land border terminal throughout the year. Winter typically brings cold temperatures with snow, potentially causing delays during crossing. Summer offers improved crossing conditions due to reduced rainfall, making it more suitable for family trips
Additionally, it's essential to be well-informed about the regulations regarding permitted and prohibited items at land borders before embarking on your journey.
The land border crossings between Iran and Iraq serve as a significant tourism and pilgrimage means due to the presence of revered Shiites holy site in Iraq and also Kurdistan region in Iraq that attract many Iranian travelers boasting numerous tourist attractions and also many Iraqis who travel into Iran. The primary borders utilized for this type of travel include:
Tamarchin Border – Closest City: Piranshahr city - West Azerbaijan
Bashmaq Border – Closest City: Marivan city - Kurdistan
Parvizkhan Border – Closest City: Qasr-e Shirin city - Kermanshah
Khosravi Border – Closest City: Qasr-e Shirin city - Kermanshah
Mehran Border – Closest City: Mehran city - Ilam province
Chazabeh Border – Closest City: Bostan city - Khuzestan
Shalamcheh Border – Closest City: Khorramshahr city - Khuzestan
Situated near the city of Piranshahr in West Azerbaijan province and Chooman in Iraq, the Tamarchin border is among the busiest entry points between Iran and Iraq. Its closeness to important cities in Iraqi Kurdistan amplifies its importance for travelers crossing the border. Additionally, the customs facilities at this crossing facilitate smoother passage for those traveling through. Tamarchin Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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Located near Marivan in Kurdistan Province of Iran and Penjwen in Iraqi Kurdistan, the Bashmaq border stands out as a primary crossing between Kurdistan of Iraq and Iran. It is recognized as a vital route fortourism among Iran's land borders. Travelers and traders benefit from commercial facilities and welfare services available at this crossing. Bashmaq Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Parviz Khan border, located near the city of Qasr Shirin in Iran's Kermanshah province and the Kurdistan region of Iraq along the historic Silk Road, serves a vital function for travelers crossing between Kurdistan of Iraq and Iran. Renowned for its customs and commercial facilities, this border is ideally positioned close to key cities in Iraqi Kurdistan. Bashmaq Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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Khosravi Border, also near Qasr Shirin of Iran and Manzariya of Iraq, is recognized as the oldest official crossing between Iran and Iraq. It is located along the historic Silk Road and is the most western border of Iran. This border, with well-developed road access, accommodates thousands of people traveling between Iran and Iraq. Khosravi Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Mehran border, located 85 kilometers from Ilam of Iran and , is a crucial crossing between Iran and Iraq especially for pilgrims. It becomes particularly busy during religious events such as Arbaeen. Mehran Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Chazabeh border, situated near Bostan in Khuzestan Province and Amarah of Iraq , serves as a vital route for pilgrims traveling between Iran and Iraq. Its significance is heightened by its closeness to Iraq's religious cities, especially during pilgrimage seasons. Chazabeh Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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Located near Khorramshahr in Khuzestan Province and Basrah of Iraq, the Shalamcheh border is a primary point for both pilgrimage and tourism journeys between Iran and Iraq. Equipped with customs and welfare facilities, it has become one of the busiest routes.
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The land border terminals between Iran and Pakistan serve as vital gateways for travel between the two nations. Located in the Sistan and Baluchestan province, these borders play a significant role in fostering tourism and cultural ties. The Mirjaveh and Rimdan borders each offer facilities for travelers. In this section, we will explore the specifics of these two border points.
Mirjaveh Border – Closest City: Zahedan city - Sistan and Baluchestan
Rimdan Border – Closest City: Chabahar city - Sistan and Baluchestan
The Mirjaveh Border Terminal is one of the oldest and busiest land border crossings between Iran and Pakistan, making it essential for both trade and travel. Situated approximately 80 kilometers from Zahedan and near Quetta in Pakistan, this border has historically served as a crucial route for travelers. A good road connects Zahedan to Mirjaveh, facilitating quick and easy travel for both passengers. Mirjaveh Border is open from 8 am to 20 pm.
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The Rimdan Border Terminal is one of the newest land border crossings located near Chabahar of Iran and Gwadar of Pakistan. This strategic border offers extensive facilities for traders travelers. The Rimdan Border operates from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with the exception of Fridays.
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Iran and Afghanistan Border Terminals Iran and Afghanistan have several land borders that are very important and strategic for the passage of travelers. These borders are especially useful in the field of trade, pilgrimage trips and personal travel. Note that these borders are legal and official crossing borders and you must have identification documents and permission to cross at the border. Otherwise, you are not allowed to enter Iran or Afghanistan.
Dogharoon Border – Closest City: Taybad - Khorasan Razavi province
Milak Border – Closest City: Zabol - Sistan and Baluchestan
Yazdan Border – Closest City: Qaen - South Khorasan
The Dogharoon border terminal, situated in Khorasan Razavi Province near Taybad and Herat in Afghanistan, stands as oldest, one of the busiest and most significant land border crossings between Iran and Afghanistan. This border plays a vital role as a strategic passage for travelers. The Dogharoon Border operates from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the exception of Fridays.
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The Milk border terminal, located in Sistan and Baluchestan Province near Zabul and Zaranj in Afghanistan, represents another land border between Iran and Afghanistan linked by Silk bridge. This border primarily facilitates the passage of travelers. The Rimdan Border operates from 7:00 AM to 19:00 PM, every day of the week.
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The Yazdan border, located in South Khorasan Province near Qaen and Birjand of Iran and Kalat-i-Nazar Khan and SHndhand of Afghanistam, is one of the newer and more practical land borders for both travelers and traders crossing into Afghanistan. The Yazdan Border operates from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The operating hours for border activities and closures may be subject to change.
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The land border terminals between Iran and Turkmenistan serve as the primary routes for travel to and from neighboring countries. Most of these terminals operate 24 hours a day, although traffic conditions and transfer processes may fluctuate based on the season and time of day. Iran and Turkmenistan are linked by three main land borders.
Bajgiran Border – Closest City: Dargaz - Khorasan Razavi province
Lotfabad Border – Closest City: Taybad - Khorasan Razavi province
Sarakhs Border – Closest City: Sarakhs - Khorasan Razavi province
The Bajgiran border terminal is situated in northeastern Iran, near the city of Dargaz in Khorasan Razavi Province and Ashgabat in Turkmenistan. This terminal serves as one of the main access points for passengers with Turkmenistan. Its proximity to the center of Turkmenistan makes this border an essential route for transportation. The terminal is equipped with adequate customs facilities and border services for travelers. The Bajgiran Border operates from 8:00 AM to 17:00 PM, every day of the week.
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The Lotfabad border terminal, located in Khorasan Razavi Province near Dargaz and Artyk and Ashgabat in Turkmenistan, is another significant crossing point between Iran and Turkmenistan. Known as a crucial gateway for the passage of travelers between Turkmenistan and Iran, its strategic location near major routes enhances its significance. Open to travelers planning to visit Turkmenistan, this border is frequently crossed by tourists. The Lotfabad Border operates from 7:30 AM to 16:30 PM, every day of the week.
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The Sarakhs border is situated in Khorasan Razavi Province, close to the city of Sarakhs in Iran and Serakhs in Turkmenistan. It is recognized as one of the busiest crossings between the two countries. Once a significant stop along the Silk Road, this border now facilitates the movement of travelers between Turkmenistan and Iran, providing convenient passenger services. Sarakhs Border operates from 7:00 AM to 17:00 PM, every day of the week.
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Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan share four primary land borders utilized for travel. Border crossings between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Iran serve as crucial hubs for the travel and cultural interactions. They significantly facilitate the exchange of peopl, acting as vital communication. For a smooth land journey, simply visit the customs office and ensure that all documents are properly checked and stamped.
Astara Border – Closest City: Astara - Gilan province
Bilesavar Border – Closest City: Bilesavar – Ardabil province
Jolfa Border – Closest City: Jolfa – East Azerbaijan province
Poldasht Border – Closest City: Poldasht – West Azerbaijan province
The Astara border, located near the city of Astara in Gilan Province, stands as one of the busiest land border terminals between Iran and Azerbaijan. Its geographical location and closeness to the Caspian Sea bestow significant tourism relevance.
The Astara Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Bilesavar border, situated in Ardabil Province near the city of Bilesavar of Iran and Bilesuvar of Azerbaijan , holds particular importance for land travel between Iran and Azerbaijan. It serves as a key traffic route between Ardabil Province and the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The Bilesavar Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Jolfa border terminal, located near the city of Jolfa in East Azerbaijan Province in Iran and Jolfa of Azerbaijan, is one of the most significant and historically important border crossings between Iran and Azerbaijan. Its strategic relevance is underscored by its railway connection and proximity to the Aras Free Zone. The Jolfa border terminal is easily reachable from central and northwestern Iranian cities, playing a critical role in international transportation.
The Jolfa Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Poldasht border terminal, located near the city of Poldasht in West Azerbaijan Province and Shahtakhti border of Azerbaijan, serves as an important travel crossing between Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan. Positioned strategically in West Azerbaijan, this border has access to various regions of Iran via major roads.
The Poldasht Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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The Norduz border, situated near the city of Jolfa in East Azerbaijan Province in Iran andMeghri in Armenia, is the only official land border terminal connecting Iran and Armenia. This crossing is crucial for travel and cultural exchanges between the two countries. The Norduz border terminal is accessible via main roads that connect through Tabriz, Marand, and Jolfa.
The Norduz Border is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
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Iran is a country with various entry points for international tourists. However, due to diplomatic and security reasons, there are some Iranian land borders that are currently not open to civilian tourists. Here are the details of some of these borders and why it is not advisable to travel via these routes:
Astara border
Astara border between Iran and Azerbaijan is currently closed to the public. At the time of writing, it is unknown whether or not this border will be reopened.
Most nationalities are required to obtain a visa in advance to enter Iran overland. However, specific nationalities, including citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, must enter Iran exclusively through a guided tour arranged by a travel agency. In this case, a tour guide will meet them at the border and accompany them throughout their stay in Iran until they depart. The American, British and Canadians have limitations in traveling by their own vehicles in Iran also.
