Money, banking & prices - Living in Tehran (LiT) Forum

Carrying money in Iran: cash, exchange offices and tourist cards

LiT Team — Mon, 09 Nov 2026 17:25:07 +0000

Because foreign-issued bank cards do not work in Iran, visitors and newcomers have to plan how they will pay for things. Most people bring cash and change it at licensed exchange offices, and some banks offer prepaid tourist cards that can be topped up in rials.

How do you handle it? Please keep everything within the law and international sanctions, and never post account or card numbers.

Opening a bank account as a foreign resident

LiT Team — Mon, 09 Nov 2026 17:25:07 +0000

Once you have residency, opening a local account makes daily life much easier, from paying bills to using card readers in shops. Which bank did you use, what did they ask for and how long did it take?

Include the date, and let others know about any branches that were particularly helpful.

What does a month in Tehran cost you?

LiT Team — Mon, 09 Nov 2026 17:25:07 +0000

Cost of living depends hugely on your area, your household and how you live. If you are comfortable sharing, give a rough monthly breakdown: rent, bills, food, transport, school fees and going out.

Say whether you are single, a couple or a family, and the month you are describing. Figures in rials or tomans are fine, as long as you say which.

What are you paying for everyday things this month?

LiT Team — Mon, 09 Nov 2026 17:18:50 +0000

Prices in Tehran move quickly. Share what you are paying right now for everyday items: bread, eggs, a taxi across town, a coffee, a mobile data package or a month of rent.

Say roughly where you are in the city and the date. It all helps to build a real picture alongside the live exchange rates.

Budgeting in Tehran: how do you manage your money?

LiT Team — Mon, 09 Nov 2026 17:18:50 +0000

Living with a currency that changes value from week to week takes some planning. How do you budget, what do you pay in cash and what by card, and how do you cope with price rises?

Please keep everything within the law and international sanctions, and never share account or card numbers.