WANA (Nov 10) – The Iranian Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts has outlined details of the implementation of the “Tourist Card” initiative, emphasizing that the program will significantly enhance the safety of travelers.
In response to a question about the rollout of the Tourist Card for foreign visitors, Reza Salehi-Amiri explained that the main challenge until now had been determining the exchange rate. After consultations with the Central Bank, it was decided that the rate would be set on a negotiated basis and announced daily by the bank.
He noted that the rate is slightly lower than the open market rate, but it greatly improves tourist security, while also eliminating the need for travelers to carry cash. The program is currently operational at the country’s airports, with plans to expand it to land border crossings in the next phase.
On November 5th of this year, the Central Bank announced the start of a pilot phase allowing foreign tourists and other non-residents in Iran to purchase currency at international airports through the Tourist Card.
The initiative aims to institutionalize the use of incoming foreign currency through official exchange channels, facilitate rial-based payment services for foreign visitors, and enhance transparency in the flow of currency into the country.
Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage and Tourism
