US urges citizens to leave Iran as airspace partially reopens

The United States has advised its citizens to leave Iran immediately after the country partially reopened its airspace on April 21.

Travellers are urged to monitor local media for updates and stay in contact with airlines regarding available outbound flights.

Americans seeking to exit Iran may also consider overland routes through Armenia, Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Turkmenistan. However, authorities warn against travelling to Afghanistan, Iraq or areas along the Pakistan-Iran border due to heightened security risks.

US officials caution that Iranian authorities may restrict departures or impose exit fees. Dual US-Iranian nationals are required to leave the country using Iranian passports, as Iran does not recognise dual nationality.

There are also concerns that US citizens may face questioning, detention or arrest, particularly if they display a US passport or demonstrate ties to the United States.

The land border between Iran and Armenia at Agarak/Norduz remains open, allowing US citizens visa-free entry into Armenia for up to 180 days. Crossings into Türkiye are also operational, although travellers must ensure their passports meet validity requirements and should be aware that border regions are classified as high-risk areas.

Entry into Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan is more restricted, requiring prior government approval, which must be arranged through US embassies. Azerbaijan’s borders remain largely closed, with limited exceptions for urgent cases.

For those unable to leave, US authorities recommend sheltering in place, staying indoors and avoiding windows. Citizens are advised to maintain communication with family, keep travel documents accessible, and stock essential supplies including food, water and medication.

The US does not maintain diplomatic relations with Iran.

Assistance is provided through the Swiss Embassy in Tehran, which acts as the protecting power for US interests, though its operations are currently suspended due to security concerns.

Officials continue to urge Americans in Iran to remain vigilant, avoid public gatherings and protests, and closely follow instructions from local authorities.