The Chinese Embassy in Iran issued an urgent evacuation advisory on March 1, 2026, urging nationals to leave the country immediately through five designated border crossings. This follows military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran that began on February 28, with security conditions remaining volatile as of March 2.
Evacuation Routes and Visa Requirements
Chinese citizens may utilize these land crossings:
Astara (Azerbaijan)
Sarakhs (Turkmenistan)
Nordooz (Armenia)
Razi/Bazargan/Sero (Türkiye)
Shalamcheh (Iraq)
Visa-free entry applies to Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Türkiye for passport holders with at least six months' validity. Iraq requires advance e-visa applications, while Turkmenistan mandates pre-approved transit visas coordinated through embassy channels.
Safety Precautions and Embassy Support
The embassy emphasized the importance of verifying real-time border conditions and maintaining communication with diplomatic missions. 'Those facing difficulties during evacuation should immediately contact us,' stated an embassy representative, noting they will provide continuous updates as the situation evolves.
Over 2,000 Chinese nationals had registered with the embassy's consular protection system as of March 1 evening. Authorities confirmed Ashgabat International Airport in Turkmenistan will serve as a transit hub for air departures.
