Frequently asked questions about the situation in Iran

Since October 2022, a red travel advisory has applied to all of Iran. This means it is advised against travelling to Iran, regardless of your situation, because it is too dangerous there. And it means that if you are in Iran, you should leave the country as soon as possible if you can do so safely.

Read the current travel advisory for Iran (information in Dutch)

We hope that you are somewhere safe. Below are some things you can do:

• Keep up with the local news and follow the local authorities’ instructions.
• Leave Iran if you can do so safely. The Dutch government cannot help you leave the country.
• Check the travel advisory for Iran regularly for updates (information in Dutch). And sign up for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Information Service (information in Dutch), so the ministry can send you information and contact you if necessary.
• Let your family and friends know how you are doing.

It is your own responsibility to decide whether to stay or go. Consider your options carefully. But be aware that the Dutch embassy cannot help you if you encounter problems.

We hope that your family members/friends are somewhere safe. It is important that they sign up for the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Information Service so that the ministry can send them information or contact them if necessary.

You can also sign up for the Information Service yourself so that you receive messages from the ministry too.

Keep in mind that communication channels in Iran such as internet and phone services may be disrupted. If you cannot reach your family or friends, keep trying.

The embassy is open on a limited basis. You can make an appointment for a Dutch passport, document legalisation, consular declarations and MVV applications. The number of available appointments is gradually being increased.

Make an appointment at the embassy in Tehran

VFS Global in Tehran is currently operating on a limited basis. At the moment, pending visa applications that were submitted before VFS Global closed in February 2026 are being processed.

It is not known when VFS Global will reopen for new visa applications. Please check the VFS Global website regularly for updates.

You can currently only apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands if you have received a letter from the Dutch embassy via VFS Global. You will receive this letter if you have a pending visa application.

Find out how to apply for a Schengen visa in Iran

It is not known when VFS Global will reopen for new visa applications. Please check the VFS Global website regularly for updates.

In some situations you can apply for a Schengen visa outside Iran. For example, if you have a valid residence permit for a neighbouring country.

Do you need to travel to the Netherlands urgently? For example, for the funeral of a first-degree or second-degree family member? Please contact the IND.