Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament) has amended an article of a bill aimed at countering foreign infiltration, providing for fines of up to €10,000 and deportation for foreign nationals who enter Iran illegally or reside in the country without valid authorization.

According to Tasnim News Agency, lawmakers approved the amendment to Article 23 of the bill on Sunday, 3 Aqrab (October 25, 2026). Under the provision, in addition to a financial penalty and deportation, the individual’s biometric information will also be recorded. The amount of the fine will be determined by judicial authorities based on the person’s financial capacity.

Exceptions: Individuals whose unauthorized presence results from a valid excuse or delays in the administrative process of renewing their permits will not be subject to these penalties.

Foreign nationals who entered legally: The article also covers foreign nationals who entered Iran legally, provided they take action against national security, disrupt public order, or engage in activities that violate the fundamental restrictions of their visas or residence permits. These individuals will also face fines and deportation.

Increased penalties: Under the same amendment, the punishment for discretionary offences committed with the support, direction, or training of a foreign agent will be increased by one degree.

Persian-language media outlets based outside Iran have noted that Iran has previously detained and deported undocumented migrants, particularly Afghan nationals. However, they say this is the first time a financial penalty has been specified for them. Iran hosts a large number of Afghan nationals.

Legal status: The vote concerns one article of the bill. As of the publication of this report, no date has been announced for the bill’s final approval, its review by the Guardian Council, or its implementation. Until these stages are completed, the €10,000 fine cannot be considered an enforceable law.

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