Important Tips Before Traveling to Iran for Medical Treatment (2026 Guide)

Iran has become one of the most popular and fast-growing destinations for medical tourism in the Middle East. Thanks to highly skilled doctors, modern hospitals, and significantly lower treatment costs, thousands of international patients—especially from Arabic-speaking countries—travel to Iran every year for medical care.

Whether you are planning cosmetic surgery, IVF treatment, dental implants, eye surgery, or other specialized medical procedures, careful planning before your trip can make your experience safer, smoother, and much more successful.

If you want a trusted team to manage your medical trip from start to finish, Shiraz Tourist is the best consultant for you. From choosing the right doctor and hospital to organizing your visa, airport pickup, accommodation, and follow-up care—Shiraz Tourist helps you avoid stress and focus only on recovery.

1. Why Iran Is a Top Destination for Medical Tourism

Before booking a flight, it is important to understand why Iran is becoming a major choice for international patients in 2025. Medical tourism is not only about finding cheaper treatment—it is about receiving high-quality care, working with experienced specialists, and having a safe recovery process.

Here are the main reasons why Iran is an excellent option for medical travel:

High Medical Expertise and Experienced Specialists

Iran has a strong medical education system, and many doctors have international training or years of experience treating both local and international patients. Iranian surgeons are widely known for:

• Cosmetic and plastic surgery
• Hair transplantation
• Fertility and IVF treatment
• Dentistry and dental implants
• Eye surgery (LASIK and cataract surgery)
• Orthopedic treatments and joint care

This wide range of specialties makes Iran a complete destination for medical services.

Modern Hospitals and Advanced Medical Technology

Many hospitals and private clinics in Iran—especially in major cities—are equipped with modern technology and follow international medical protocols. Patients can expect

• Clean and well-organized facilities
• Advanced surgical equipment
• Professional nursing and staff support
• Specialized medical departments
• Post-treatment follow-up systems

Competitive Treatment Costs

One of the strongest advantages of medical tourism in Iran is affordability. In many cases, the total cost of treatment—including surgery, hospital stay, and doctor fees—can be 50% to 70% lower compared to other countries.

This is especially attractive for patients who want quality care without paying extremely high prices.

Personalized Services for International Patients

Many hospitals and medical tourism companies provide extra support for foreign patients, such as

• Medical translators (Arabic/English)
• VIP services
• Private transportation
• Accommodation arrangements
• Airport transfers
• Full trip planning

 This is exactly why many patients choose professional support through a trusted consultant. Shiraz Tourist is the best consultant for you, offering complete medical travel planning in Iran—especially for patients traveling to Shiraz.. Preparing Medical Do

 

2. cuments Before Your Trip

One of the biggest mistakes medical tourists make is arriving without proper medical records. Preparing your documents in advance helps doctors understand your health condition faster and design a more accurate treatment plan.

Essential Medical Documents You Should Bring

Before traveling to Iran, prepare the following

• Medical reports from previous doctors
• Recent lab tests and blood work
• Radiology images (X-rays, MRI, CT scans, ultrasound)
• A list of medications you currently take
• Any allergy information (especially medication allergies)
• History of surgeries or chronic illnesses

If you are traveling for a specific procedure (for example IVF, cosmetic surgery, or dental implants), include any specialized tests related to that procedure.

Keep Digital Copies (Very Important)

In 2025, digital preparation is a major part of medical travel planning. You should save all documents in

• Your email
• Google Drive / iCloud / Dropbox
• A USB drive (optional but useful)

This way, even if you lose paper copies, your medical history will still be accessible.

Translate Your Documents (Recommended)

Although many Iranian doctors can understand English, translating key medical documents into English or Arabic can speed up communication and prevent misunderstandings.

This is especially important for:

• Previous diagnoses
• Medication names and dosages
• Medical allergies
• Surgery history

 If you book your medical trip through a professional consultant, they can help you prepare the correct documents. Shiraz Tourist can guide you step by step, so you don’t miss anything important.

3. Medical Visa for Iran: What You Need to Know

Many international patients are surprised to learn that Iran has a specific visa type designed for medical travelers. If your main purpose is treatment, you may need a medical visa instead of a regular tourist visa.

?What Is an Iran Medical Visa

A medical visa is a visa issued to foreign patients who travel to Iran for

• Specialized treatment
• Hospital admission
• Long-term recovery programs
• Medical check-ups and procedures

This visa may allow you to stay longer than a normal tourist visa, depending on the type of treatment

Common Documents Required for a Medical Visa

Although requirements may vary by country, the most common documents include:

• A valid passport (with enough validity)
• Passport photo
• Medical documents (basic reports)
• A confirmation letter from a clinic or hospital in Iran
• Travel details (sometimes required)

?When Should You Apply

To avoid delays, it is recommended to start the visa process:

At least 3 to 4 weeks before your planned travel date

Some patients apply even earlier, especially if they need:

• Multiple entry permissions
• Longer stays
• Visa for a companion

?Can You Travel With a Companion

Yes. In most medical travel cases, patients can travel with one or more companions, especially for surgeries, fertility treatments, or procedures requiring recovery time.

A companion is strongly recommended if you are planning

• Major surgery
• Cosmetic surgery
• IVF and fertility procedures
• Orthopedic surgery
• Eye surgery (temporary vision limitations)

📍 For international patients, handling the visa process alone can be confusing. This is where professional support becomes valuable. Shiraz Tourist is the best consultant for you, and can assist with your medical visa steps, documentation, and travel planning.

4. How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital in Iran

Choosing the right hospital and doctor is the most important decision in your entire medical journey. The success of your treatment depends heavily on

• Doctor’s experience
• Hospital quality
• Proper communication
• Transparent pricing
• Safe post-treatment care

Check Credentials and Specialization

Before confirming your appointment, you should verify

• Years of experience
• Medical license and certifications
• Type of procedures performed regularly

For example, if you want cosmetic surgery, you should choose a surgeon who performs that procedure frequently—not a general surgeon.

Ask for a Clear Treatment Plan

A professional medical center should provide:

• A full treatment plan
• Procedure details
• Recovery timeline
• Expected results
• Possible risks
• Total cost estimate

This is not only important for trust—it is also important for financial planning.

Read Reviews and Patient Experiences

Patient reviews can give you a realistic idea about:

• Hospital cleanliness
• Doctor communication
• Results and satisfaction
• Post-surgery care
• Staff professionalism

However, you should also be careful with fake reviews. The best way is to work with a trusted medical tourism consultant.

Why a Professional Medical Consultant Matters

Many international patients do not have enough information to choose safely. A trusted consultant helps you:

• Compare hospitals and clinics
• Verify doctor credibility
• Communicate with medical staff
• Organize appointments
• Prevent scams or poor-quality centers

 If you want a safe and well-planned medical trip, Shiraz Tourist is the best consultant for you. Their team helps you select the right doctor and hospital based on your condition, budget, and expectations—especially in Shiraz, one of Iran’s most famous medical cities.

5. Medical Insurance and Health Coverage for International Patients

Even if you are traveling for affordable treatment, insurance is still important. Medical travel always includes possible unexpected costs, such as:

• Extra tests
• Longer hospital stays
• Medication changes
• Emergency complications
• Follow-up procedures

Check Your Current Insurance Policy

Before traveling, ask your insurance provider:

• Does my plan cover treatment abroad?
• Does it cover Iran specifically?
• Does it cover complications after surgery?
• Does it cover hospital stays and medications?

In many cases, local insurance does not cover international medical tourism.

Consider Travel Insurance With Medical Coverage

If your insurance does not cover treatment abroad, it is recommended to purchase:

Travel insurance with medical and emergency coverage

A good travel insurance plan can cover:

• Emergency hospitalization
• Medical evacuation (if needed)
• Unexpected complications
• Additional medical visits

Why Insurance Matters in Medical Tourism

Insurance provides:

• Financial protection
• Peace of mind
• Faster emergency response
• Better post-treatment planning

 For a safer experience, many patients prefer to arrange their insurance and travel plan with professional support. Shiraz Tourist can guide you in choosing the right coverage and planning a complete medical trip without stress.

6. Culture, Language, and Communication in Iran (What Medical Tourists Should Know)

Traveling to another country for treatment is not only a medical decision—it is also a cultural experience. When patients feel comfortable and understand the environment, they recover faster and have a smoother overall journey.

Iran is known for its hospitality, respect, and strong cultural values. Understanding a few key points before you arrive can help you avoid confusion and enjoy your stay.

Understanding Local Culture (Basic Medical Travel Etiquette)

Here are some cultural points that are helpful for international patients:

Respect and Politeness Are Highly Valued

Iranian people, including medical staff, are generally polite and welcoming. Saying “thank you” and showing respect can create a positive connection quickly.

Dress Code in Hospitals and Public Areas

Iran has a modest dress culture, especially in public areas. Hospitals usually follow standard medical dress policies, but patients and companions should dress respectfully.

For female travelers, wearing a headscarf in public is required. Inside many private clinics and medical centers, the environment is often more relaxed, but it is best to follow local rules.

Family and Companions Are Common

It is normal in Iran for family members to support patients. Many hospitals are used to having companions with the patient, especially in recovery periods.

 If you are unsure about cultural expectations, Shiraz Tourist is the best consultant for you, and can provide a full medical travel guide for your stay in Shiraz and Iran.

Language in Iranian Hospitals: Do Doctors Speak English or Arabic?

The official language in Iran is Persian (Farsi). However, many medical centers that work with international patients have:

• English-speaking doctors
• Arabic-speaking coordinators
• Translators (Arabic / English / Turkish / Russian)

Still, language can be a challenge in some situations—especially when discussing:

• detailed treatment plans
• medication instructions
• consent forms
• post-surgery care
• complications or side effects

Best Communication Tips for International Patients

To ensure smooth communication:

 Ask for a translator during medical appointments
Request written instructions in English or Arabic
Use translation apps for basic daily communication
Keep your medical documents in English whenever possible

Why Medical Translation Matters (Especially for Surgery)

In medical tourism, misunderstanding is risky. Even small errors in medication dosage or post-treatment instructions can affect results.

This is why many international patients choose to work with a trusted medical travel consultant.
Shiraz Tourist provides full translation and communication support, ensuring that you clearly understand every step of your treatment.

7. Costs, Currency, and Payment Methods in Iran (2025 Update)

Understanding medical tourism costs in Iran is essential for planning your trip safely. Many patients choose Iran because of affordability, but cost planning is still important to avoid stress.

?What Costs Should You Expect

Your total medical travel budget usually includes:

1) Medical Treatment Cost

This includes:

• doctor consultation
• surgery or procedure fees
• hospital admission
• anesthesia and operating room costs
• medications during hospitalization
• lab tests and imaging

The final cost depends on:

• the hospital level
• the doctor’s experience
• your medical condition
• whether additional procedures are required

2) Accommodation and Recovery Stay

Depending on your treatment, you may need:

• a hotel near the hospital
• a private apartment
• a recovery-friendly accommodation

Some patients require longer stays for follow-up appointments, dressing changes, or medical monitoring.

Shiraz Tourist can arrange accommodation based on your budget, including options close to your clinic or hospital.

3) Transportation and Daily Services

Transportation may include:

• airport pickup
• private car service
• clinic-to-hotel transfers
• VIP medical transportation (if needed)

4) Companion and Family Costs

If you travel with a companion, you should include:

• their accommodation
• meals
• transportation
• possible visa costs

Important Note: International Bank Cards Often Do Not Work in Iran

One of the most important things international patients must know is that many international bank cards (Visa/Mastercard) may not work in Iran.

Because of this, you should plan payment carefully.

Best Payment Options for Medical Tourists

The most common solutions are:

 Bring cash (USD or EUR) and exchange it at official exchange offices
Arrange payment through the hospital or a medical tourism coordinator
Use local payment solutions (if provided through a trusted agency)

Should You Carry a Large Amount of Cash?

Carrying too much cash is not recommended. Instead:

• bring what you need for the first days
• keep extra funds in a safe place
• avoid exchanging money in unofficial places

📍 With professional planning, this becomes much easier. Shiraz Tourist helps patients handle currency exchange, payment planning, and secure financial steps during their medical trip.

How to Avoid Hidden Costs

To protect your budget, always request:

• a written treatment plan
• a clear cost estimate
• a list of what is included and what is not included

Examples of hidden costs can include:

• extra lab tests
• additional medication
• extended hospital stay
• additional post-surgery visits
• unexpected complications

Working with a trusted consultant helps reduce these risks.

8. Post-Treatment Care in Iran and After Returning Home

Post-treatment care is one of the most important parts of medical tourism. Many patients focus only on the surgery or procedure, but the recovery phase is what determines long-term success.

Why Post-Treatment Care Is Critical

Good post-treatment care helps:

• prevent infection
• reduce complications
• improve final results
• speed up recovery
• reduce pain and discomfort
• ensure proper healing

This is especially important for:

• cosmetic surgery
• dental implants
• IVF and fertility treatments
• orthopedic surgery
• eye surgery
• major hospital procedures

Key Post-Treatment Tips for Medical Tourists

Here are essential recovery tips that international patients should follow:

1) Stay in Iran Long Enough for Follow-Up

Many procedures require follow-up visits. Leaving too early can increase risks.

Your doctor may need to:

• check the surgical site
• remove stitches
• review test results
• adjust medication
• confirm healing progress

2) Get Written Instructions Before Discharge

Always request:

• medication schedule
• wound care instructions
• activity restrictions
• diet recommendations
• emergency contact numbers

3) Plan Your Return Travel Carefully

After certain treatments, flying too soon may be risky. For example:

• after major surgery, you may need extra recovery days
• after cosmetic procedures, swelling may still be present
• after eye surgery, you may need rest and follow-up

4) Monitor Symptoms and Report Immediately

If you experience:

• high fever
• unusual pain
• heavy bleeding
• severe swelling
• breathing difficulty
• infection signs

You should contact your medical team immediately.

Post-Treatment Follow-Up After Returning Home

One major concern for medical tourists is:
“What happens after I return to my country?”

In modern medical tourism (especially in 2025), many doctors provide follow-up support through:

• WhatsApp communication
• video calls
• email check-ups
• remote medical monitoring

📍 Shiraz Tourist provides continuous follow-up support, helping patients stay connected with their doctor even after leaving Iran. This makes the medical travel experience safer and more professional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Iran safe for medical tourism in 2025?

Yes. Iran has many modern hospitals, experienced specialists, and organized medical tourism services. With the right planning and choosing a trusted hospital, medical tourism in Iran can be safe and successful.

How early should I plan my medical trip to Iran?

Ideally, you should start planning 1 to 2 months in advance, especially if you need a medical visa, a companion visa, and a confirmed hospital appointment.

Do Iranian doctors speak Arabic?

Some doctors and coordinators speak Arabic, especially in clinics that regularly treat patients from Arabic-speaking countries. Many centers also provide translators.

Can I travel with a companion?

Yes. Traveling with a companion is common, especially for surgery, fertility treatment, and long recovery procedures.

Will I be able to pay with my Visa or Mastercard?

In many cases, no. It is best to bring cash (USD/EUR) and plan payment with the hospital or a medical tourism consultant.

What is the best city in Iran for medical tourism?

Several cities offer high-quality treatment, but Shiraz is one of the most popular medical tourism cities, known for experienced doctors, modern clinics, and excellent patient care.

Final Conclusion: Plan Smart, Travel Safely, and Get the Best Results

Traveling to Iran for medical treatment can be one of the smartest decisions you make—especially if you want high-quality care at affordable prices. However, the success of your medical journey depends on proper planning.

Before traveling, always remember to:

 Prepare your medical documents
Apply for the correct medical visa early
Choose a qualified doctor and reputable hospital
Plan your budget and payment method
Arrange post-treatment care and follow-up
Understand cultural and communication factors

 And most importantly:
Shiraz Tourist is the best consultant for you if you want a safe, professional, and stress-free medical tourism experience in Iran.

From the moment you contact the team until your full recovery, Shiraz Tourist supports you with:

• doctor and hospital selection
• medical appointment scheduling
• visa assistance
• accommodation and transportation
• translation services
• post-treatment follow-up