Chinese embassy urges nationals to evacuate Iran, announces five exit routes

The Chinese Embassy in Iran on Sunday issued an urgent notice advising Chinese nationals to leave the country as soon as possible through five available border crossings, after the United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28.

The advisory followed earlier warnings from the embassy a day prior, when it first urged citizens to depart "as soon as possible" amid rapidly evolving security conditions.

According to the embassy, five land routes were accessible for evacuation as of the evening of March 1:

Astara Border Crossing (Iran–Azerbaijan)

Sarakhs Border Crossing (Iran–Turkmenistan)

Nordooz Border Crossing (Iran–Armenia)

Razi, Bazargan and Sero Border Crossings (Iran–Türkiye)

Shalamcheh Border Crossing (Iran–Iraq)

The embassy said that Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports with at least six months' validity may enter Azerbaijan, Armenia and Türkiye visa-free via the designated crossings.

For those traveling to Iraq, an electronic visa must be obtained in advance through the official online platform. Processing typically takes about half a day.

Evacuation via Turkmenistan requires prior visa approval. Chinese nationals must contact the Chinese Embassy in Iran beforehand and submit a color copy of their passport information page, valid for at least six months, along with proof of onward travel. Only after receiving authorization from Turkmen authorities may they proceed to the border to apply for a transit visa. Upon entry, evacuees will be transported collectively to Ashgabat International Airport and are required to leave Turkmenistan promptly in accordance with local regulations.

The embassy urged citizens choosing to evacuate independently to carefully plan their routes and stay informed about security conditions along the way. Those encountering difficulties during their departure are advised to promptly contact Chinese diplomatic missions in Iran for assistance.

Noting that the situation are subject to change, the embassy said it will continue to monitor developments at border crossings and provide timely updates to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals. 

(Cover: Missiles launched from Iran are seen in the skies over the city of Hebron, West Bank, March 1, 2026. /VCG)