U.S. Citizens Urged to Depart Iran Immediately Amid Escalating Protests and Disruptions

The U.S. Department of State has issued an urgent advisory for American citizens in Iran, strongly recommending their immediate departure from the country due to escalating protests, potential violence, and significant disruptions to essential services. The advisory, released by the U.S. Virtual Embassy Tehran, highlights ongoing security measures, road closures, transportation issues, and internet blockages that are impacting the ability of citizens to travel and communicate. Airlines have also reduced or suspended flights to and from Iran, further complicating departure options.

The government of Iran has implemented widespread restrictions on mobile, landline, and national internet networks, making communication with the outside world increasingly difficult. These developments follow a period of continued protests across the country that have the potential to turn violent, leading to arrests and injuries. In light of these volatile conditions, American citizens are advised to make independent arrangements to leave Iran, as the U.S. government cannot provide direct assistance.

For those unable to leave immediately, the advisory recommends seeking a secure location within their residence or another safe building and ensuring a sufficient supply of food, water, medications, and other necessities. It is also crucial to avoid demonstrations, maintain a low profile, and remain aware of surroundings. Monitoring local media for breaking news and being prepared to adapt travel plans are essential steps for staying informed and safe. Maintaining a charged phone and communicating with family and friends about one’s status is strongly advised, along with utilizing alternative communication methods. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is encouraged to receive the latest security updates.

A particularly critical point is raised for U.S.-Iranian dual nationals. The Iranian government does not recognize dual nationality and will consider these individuals solely as Iranian citizens. This policy places U.S.-Iranian dual nationals at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention. Even the presentation of a U.S. passport or evidence of ties to the United States can be grounds for detention by Iranian authorities. These individuals must exit Iran using Iranian passports.

For those planning to depart by land, as of Tuesday, January 13, the Turkish land border crossings at Gürbulak/Bazargan, Kapıköy/Razi, and Esendere/Serow remain open. U.S.-Iranian dual nationals intending to enter Türkiye on Iranian or Turkish passports do not need advance approval. However, U.S. citizens planning to enter Türkiye with their U.S. passports or those lacking valid travel documents must email the U.S. Embassy Ankara American Citizens Services Unit at Ankara-ACS@state.gov with their name, date of birth, passport details, intended border crossing, and a photograph of their passport’s biodata page.

The Armenian land border at Agarak/Norduz is also open as of Tuesday, January 13. U.S. citizens entering Armenia from Iran with a valid U.S. passport are permitted to stay for up to 180 days visa-free. U.S. citizens requiring assistance with this route should contact the U.S. Embassy Yerevan American Citizens Services Unit at ACSYerevan@state.gov, providing the same personal and passport information as required for entry into Türkiye.

Turkmenistan’s land borders are open, but U.S. citizens require special authorization from the Turkmen government before approaching the border. This approval must be facilitated by the U.S. Embassy Ashgabat. Individuals seeking entry into Turkmenistan should submit their name, date of birth, passport information, border crossing details, and a passport biodata page photograph to the U.S. Embassy Ashgabat American Citizens Services Unit at AshgabatUScitizen@state.gov.

Travelers considering Azerbaijan as an exit route should be aware that entry for U.S. citizens from Iran has been restricted during periods of heightened tension, as observed during the June 2025 conflict between Iran and Israel. Therefore, alternative departure routes from Iran are strongly advised for those wishing to enter Azerbaijan.

Furthermore, the U.S. Department of State advises American citizens against traveling to Afghanistan, Iraq, or the Pakistan-Iran border area due to security concerns.

The U.S. government does not maintain diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran, acting as the protecting power for U.S. interests, can be contacted for inquiries at +98-21-22-54-21-78, +98-21-22-56-52-73, +98-21-22-77-24-63, or via email at tehran.fi@eda.admin.ch.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from the U.S. Department of State

---