British nationals crossing from Iran into Turkey must request embassy facilitation
British nationals planning to enter Turkey overland from Iran must contact the FCDO to request facilitation from the British Embassy in Ankara before travelling to the border.
- In effect from
- 13 Sept 2026
- Published
- 13 Sept 2026
Provide the border crossing you intend to use, your name, date of birth and details of the travel document you will use to enter Turkey. Say whether you are contacting the FCDO from Iran or from the UK on behalf of a relative.
The border remains open for UK and Iranian passport holders for visa-free stays of up to 90 days. British nationals remain subject to the usual limit of 90 days in any 180-day period.
Turkish authorities report that Iran has closed the Iranian side of the Esendere-Serow crossing to daily traders entering and leaving within the same day. The FCDO warns that leaving Iran overland is at your own risk.
Countries affected
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Turkish authorities report that Iran has closed the Esendere–Serow crossing on its side to daily traders entering and leaving within the same day.