Everything you need to know about money and exchange in Iran


Rial or Toman? which one is used in Iran?

When it comes to money in Iran, everyone gets confused. But don’t worry I will explain everything here. The official rate here is Iranian Rial(IRR), it means that in banks and on our bills the currency is Rial.

In order to know Toman you need to omit one zero from the price. For example 10,000 Rial equals 1,000 Toman. On the paper bill, you will see the Rial always, but normally local people say costs in Toman because it is easier as it has one zero less.

Someties we also make it easire and say 1 Toman instead of 1,000 Toman. 1,000 Toman is almost the minumum amount of products and you will usually not expect change under this amount. So you will not amounts under 1.000 Toman a lot and when we say for example 50 Toman. It means:

50 Toman = 50,000 Toman = 500,000 Rial


In resturants most of the time you will you see the first two type.
Don’t worry if you get confused, sometimes it is also confusing for us. So I think people will understand and will help you calculate or just give you time to get clear before paying.

Or you could easily use Iranian prepaid debit cards which makes your mind free of calculating and gives you the option to see the price of everything you buy in Rial and euro or dollar at the same time.

For better understanding of the world’s most confusing currency in Drew Binsky point of view, watch the below video.

How and where to exchange in Iran?

In Iran, unfortunately, you can not use your credit or debit card, there is no international bank or ATM in Iran. So you need to bring cash with you. For the exchange you go to exchange offices, you can of course exchange in the airport if it is necessary, but usually the exchange rate is not high. If you are entering Tehran, you can go to Ferdowsi square where is the place where you can find many exchange offices. Ferdowsi square is close to the city center and you can manage to visit other sightseeing parts besides exchanging your money. The prices usually fluctuates a lot and sometimes it is good to exchange at the begining and sometimes not.

For checking the exchange rate you can visit https://www.bonbast.com/

I will not suggest google because the exchange rate it suggest is not correct.


Can I use my credit card in Iran?

No, unfortunately, due to an embargo that the US declared on Iran trading, any international credit or debit card doesn’t work in Iran banking system. So none of your local or international bank cards will work here. That’s why you should bring all the money you will need for your trip in cash. 

Is there a debit card in Iran?

Yes, Iranian have their own debit cards here and they can have cards, shop online, and pay on bank poses while shopping even in small shops. These cards are connected to Shetab system that is approved by the central bank. If you also want to have Iranian debit card to avoid caring your cash and shop online from Iranian websites,  you can use our prepaid debit card.