Top payment methods in Iran: A guide on best ways to pay
Wondering what the most popular ways to pay are in Iran? Explore the top payment options and choose wisely.
Iran, with a population of around 87.50 million people, has a GDP of approximately 341.01 billion making it the 44th largest economy in the world. The official currency of Iran is the Iranian Rial (IRR)
The economy is based on its large oil and natural gas reserves, though it is heavily impacted by international sanctions. It maintains strong trade relationships with China and neighboring countries like Iraq and Turkey.
| Country | Iran |
|---|---|
| Population | 87.50 million |
| GDP (USD) | 341.01 billion |
| Global Ranking | 44th |
| Currency | Iranian Rial (IRR) |
Spend abroad with the mid-market exchange rate - no markups, and no sneaky transaction fees.
What is the main payment method in Iran?
The Iranian payment system is dominated by Shetab, the national card network, with its domestic debit cards being used for nearly all non-cash transactions. Physical cash, the Rial, is still used for smaller transactions and in traditional bazaars. Mobile payment apps like Asan Pardakht are also widely used for P2P transfers and bill payments, all running on the underlying Shetab network.
How to pay in Iran
Each country has its own way of moving money, and choosing the right method can sometimes be difficult. That’s why we have curated the most popular and best payment options for you to use in Iran.
| Payment Method | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Cash (Iranian Rial) | Cash is the primary and most essential payment method for everyday transactions due to international sanctions that isolate the country from global financial networks. | In-person |
| Local Debit Cards (Shetab) | The Shetab network is the national electronic payment system connecting all Iranian banks. Domestic debit cards are widely used for POS payments and online. | Online/In-person |
| Local Payment Gateways | Local payment gateways like ZarinPal are used for online transactions within Iran, linking to the domestic Shetab card system. | Online |
| Bank Transfers | Direct bank transfers between Iranian banks are a common method for larger payments. | Online |
| Mobile Banking Apps | Mobile apps from local banks are used for P2P transfers and managing accounts, but their merchant payment functionality is still developing. | Online |
Is PayPal available in Iran?
No, PayPal is unfortunately not accepted in Iran.
Cover all your international travel expenses with the Wise Multi-Currency Card
Whatever you need to buy during your trip, whether it’s a travel adapter, train ticket or an extra bottle of sunscreen, the Wise Multi-Currency Card has you covered.
You can spend like a local in 150+ countries, as this clever contactless card automatically converts currency at the mid-market exchange rate whenever you spend - for just a small conversion fee.
And for extra convenience, you can add your Wise Multi-Currency Card to your Google Wallet or Apple Wallet. Then you can travel even lighter and pay using just your phone, with no need to pack the physical card.
Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.