U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason and should depart Iran immediately if they are there.  U.S. citizens who are unable to depart Iran should be prepared to shelter in place for extended periods.

In order to receive regular updates and alerts please register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) (see details below).  You can also receive alerts from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs via WhatsApp.

U.S. citizens seeking to depart Iran:  please refer to the latest Department of State Security Alert regarding land border crossings on the U.S. Virtual Embassy Iran website

The U.S. government cannot guarantee your safety if you choose to depart using these options. You should leave only if you believe it is safe to do so.

The Swiss Protecting Power  is limited in its ability to assist U.S. citizens in Iran at this time. U.S. citizens may reach the Department of State directly by:

  • Emailing the U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland at BernACS@state.gov. Include “IRN” in the subject line. In your message, for all affected U.S. citizens include:
  • Full name as shown on U.S. passport
  • U.S. Passport Number
  • Date of Birth
  • Place of Birth
  • Current location
  • Phone number
  • Are you a dual national? If so, which country?
  • Are you in possession of a valid travel document?
  • What is your request?
  • U.S. citizens may also call +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444 for assistance. 


Actions to Take:

  • Leave Iran now. Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help.
  • If you cannot leave, find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.
  • Keep your phone charged and maintain communication with family and friends to inform them of your status.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive information and alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency overseas.
  • Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook Twitter/X . Visit travel.state.gov  and the U.S. Virtual Embassy Iran website.
  • Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.

Foreign Interests Section
Foreign Interests Section © FDFA

In the absence of diplomatic or consular relations of the United States of America with the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Swiss government, acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the Protecting Power of the USA in Iran since 21 May 1980. The Swiss Embassy's Foreign Interests Section provides consular services to U.S. citizens living in or travelling to Iran. Please note that the U.S. government warns that U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason.

U.S. Travel Advisory Iran

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the U.S. Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency.  U.S. citizens in Iran are strongly encouraged to enroll in STEP.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Important notice regarding limited passport and citizenship services overseas

Due to our mandate we are not able to issue an emergency passport in Iran for an adult or a minor,  like U.S. representations. However,  please contact us if you urgently need a travel document due to life-or-death emergencies such as serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family that require you to travel.  Although this service might take several weeks.

General Information

Any consular services require a prior appointment. To make an appointment please call the Foreign Interests Section , from Sunday to Thursday between 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Please make sure to be on time for your appointment; late arrivals or no shows need to make a new appointment. If you have to cancel your appointment please inform this section at least 24 hours in advance.

U.S. passport holders living in Iran are kindly invited to register at this office and to keep their contact information updated. 

The following consular services cannot be provided

The Foreign Interests Section is not authorized to perform any immigration services (visas, green cards etc.).

For information on U.S. immigration matters please refer to the following link

U.S. Immigration Affairs (visa, green card etc.)

Please feel free to contact us for any further information.