Land Border Crossings with Armenia and Turkey Remain Open Amid Airspace Closures

Key Takeaways

• Land border crossings with Armenia and Turkey remain open for evacuation from Iran as of June 18, 2025.
• Over 700 foreign nationals have crossed to Armenia and Azerbaijan; Indian, Chinese, and U.S. citizens mostly evacuated.
• Embassies coordinate evacuations; special authorizations required for Azerbaijan; Iranian restrictions may limit crossing to Turkey.

Land Border Crossings with Armenia and Turkey Remain Open for Evacuation from Iran

As of June 18, 2025, land border crossings between Iran and its neighbors Armenia 🇦🇲 and Turkey 🇹🇷 remain open, providing a critical escape route for foreign nationals amid the ongoing regional conflict and the closure of Iranian airspace. Despite the dangers and uncertainty caused by escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, these land routes have become the main option for those seeking to leave Iran safely. Hundreds of people from countries including the United States 🇺🇸, India, China, and several European nations have already used these crossings in the past week.

This article explains who can use these land border crossings, how the process works, what restrictions and requirements exist, and what the current situation means for people trying to leave Iran. It also provides practical steps for evacuees, background on the border situation, and the latest official guidance from embassies and governments.

Why Are Land Border Crossings So Important Right Now?

The closure of Iranian airspace has made it impossible for most people to fly out of the country. This airspace shutdown is a direct result of the recent conflict between Iran and Israel, which has led to deadly strikes on both sides. With airports closed and flights canceled, land border crossings are now the only way out for many foreign nationals.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the land borders with Armenia and Turkey have become lifelines for evacuation, with embassies and governments working together to help their citizens leave Iran safely. The situation is changing quickly, but as of June 18, these routes remain open and are being used by hundreds of people every day.

Who Is Using These Land Borders to Leave Iran?

Since the start of the conflict, more than 700 foreign nationals have crossed from Iran into Armenia 🇦🇲 and Azerbaijan, and over 600 people from 17 different countries have evacuated via Azerbaijan alone. More than 100 Indian students have left through Armenia, and many U.S. citizens have also used these routes. Chinese nationals are among those being evacuated, with their embassy listing Armenia, Turkey 🇹🇷, and Turkmenistan as possible exit points.

The people leaving Iran include:

• Tourists and business travelers stranded by the sudden closure of airports
• Students studying in Iran, especially from India and China
• Diplomats and embassy staff
• Dual nationals and expatriates working in Iran

Which Land Borders Are Open and How Are They Being Used?

Armenia 🇦🇲

The main crossing point is at Agarak, on the border between Iran and Armenia. This border is open for foreign nationals who need to evacuate. The Armenian government is working closely with foreign embassies, especially those of India and China, to help people cross safely. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has coordinated directly with other countries to make sure evacuations go smoothly.

Turkey 🇹🇷

Turkey’s land borders with Iran at Gürbulak, Kapiköy, and Esendere are open. However, there are some important restrictions:

• The Iranian government may not allow non-Turkish nationals to cross into Turkey in some cases.
• Onward travel from eastern Turkey is limited, as flights and transportation options are reduced due to the conflict.

Turkish authorities have confirmed that these borders are open, but travelers should check with their embassy before attempting to cross.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan’s land borders have been closed since 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the Astara checkpoint has been temporarily opened for evacuations. Entry into Azerbaijan requires special authorization, which must be arranged through your embassy. The Azerbaijani government is currently processing requests from over 1,200 foreign nationals from 51 countries.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is listed as an option for evacuation by the Chinese embassy, but travelers should check with their embassy for the latest status and requirements.

Iran

Iranian officials have confirmed that as of June 17, none of the land border crossings are closed. This means that, at least for now, people can still leave Iran by land if they follow the proper procedures.

What Are the Steps for Evacuation Through Land Borders?

The process for leaving Iran by land depends on your nationality and which border you plan to use. Here are the main steps for U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals:

For U.S. Citizens

1. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland ([email protected]) or call +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444 for guidance.
2. If using the Azerbaijan border (Astara): Email the U.S. Embassy in Baku ([email protected]) with your personal details and a passport photo. You must get special authorization before going to the border.
3. If using the Armenia border (Agarak): Proceed to the border crossing, but confirm with your embassy or consulate for any required documents or help.
4. If using the Turkey border (Gürbulak, Kapiköy, Esendere): These borders are open, but check for any Iranian restrictions on non-Turkish nationals. Onward travel options from eastern Turkey may be limited.

For Indian, Chinese, and Other Foreign Nationals

• Contact your embassy in Tehran for instructions and to be included in evacuation lists.
• Follow embassy guidance for reaching the Armenian or Turkish border.
• Armenia and Azerbaijan are working with foreign governments to help group evacuations.

General Tips for All Evacuees

• Bring your passport and any other identification documents.
• Carry proof of your nationality and any embassy-issued evacuation letters or permits.
• Stay in touch with your embassy for real-time updates and instructions.
• Be prepared for possible delays at the border due to security checks and high numbers of evacuees.

What Are the Main Restrictions and Challenges?

While the land borders with Armenia and Turkey are open, there are several important restrictions and challenges to keep in mind:

• Iranian authorities may limit which foreign nationals can cross into Turkey. This means some people might be turned back or asked to use a different border.
• Onward travel from border areas can be difficult. Flights and buses from eastern Turkey are limited, so evacuees may need to wait or arrange private transport.
• Azerbaijan requires special authorization. You cannot simply show up at the Astara border; you must have embassy approval in advance.
• The situation can change quickly. Borders may close or new restrictions may be put in place with little warning, depending on the security situation.

How Are Embassies and Governments Helping?

Embassies and consulates are playing a key role in organizing evacuations and helping their citizens leave Iran safely. They are:

• Creating lists of eligible evacuees and arranging group departures
• Coordinating with Armenian, Turkish, and Azerbaijani authorities to ensure safe passage
• Providing special permits or letters needed to cross certain borders
• Offering real-time updates through official websites, social media, and direct communication

For example, the U.S. State Department is working through the Swiss Embassy in Tehran (which acts as the U.S. Protecting Power in Iran) to help U.S. citizens. The Indian and Chinese embassies are also actively involved in helping their nationals.

What Does This Mean for People Still in Iran?

For anyone still in Iran who needs to leave, the land border crossings with Armenia and Turkey are currently the best options. However, it is essential to:

• Stay in close contact with your embassy
• Follow all official instructions
• Prepare for possible changes in the situation

If you are not already on an embassy evacuation list, contact your embassy immediately to register and receive guidance.

Background: Why Are These Borders Open Now?

The opening of these land borders is unusual and reflects the seriousness of the current crisis. Normally, the Armenia-Turkey border has been closed since 1993 because of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and lack of diplomatic relations. Azerbaijan’s borders have also been closed since 2020 due to the pandemic.

The current temporary openings are exceptional measures, taken to help foreign nationals escape the dangers of the conflict. Regional security experts say this level of cooperation between countries with long-standing disputes is unprecedented.

What Are the Risks and Humanitarian Concerns?

The situation remains dangerous and unpredictable. Israeli strikes have killed at least 224 people in Iran and wounded over 1,000, while Iranian attacks have killed at least 24 in Israel. Humanitarian organizations warn that people without diplomatic representation in Iran may have a harder time evacuating and could be at greater risk.

There are also concerns about:

• Overcrowding at border crossings
• Possible shortages of food, water, and medical care
• Delays due to security checks and paperwork

What Happens Next? Future Outlook

The current openings of land border crossings with Armenia and Turkey are expected to be temporary. They depend on the security situation and ongoing talks between governments. If the conflict gets worse, borders could close again or new restrictions could be put in place.

Embassies are likely to keep organizing group evacuations as long as the land routes remain available. People who need to leave should act quickly and follow all official advice.

Official Resources and Where to Get Help

If you are in Iran and need to evacuate, use these official contacts:

U.S. Citizens:
– U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland: [email protected]
– U.S. Embassy in Baku, Azerbaijan: [email protected]
– U.S. Department of State: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
– Swiss Embassy in Tehran (Protecting Power for U.S.): Contact via U.S. State Department channels

Indian Citizens:
– Indian Embassy in Tehran: Check the official Ministry of External Affairs, India website for updates

Chinese Citizens:
– Chinese Embassy in Tehran: Refer to the official embassy website for evacuation notices

General:
– Monitor embassy websites and social media for real-time updates
– For Armenia border crossing: Check with Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs
– For Turkey border crossing: Check with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Summary Table: Land Border Status for Evacuation from Iran (as of June 18, 2025)

Practical Takeaways for Evacuees

• Land border crossings with Armenia and Turkey are open, but the situation can change quickly.
• Contact your embassy immediately if you need to leave Iran.
• Follow all official instructions and bring the required documents.
• Be prepared for possible delays and limited travel options after crossing the border.
• Stay informed by checking embassy websites and official government sources.

Final Thoughts

The current crisis in the region has forced many foreign nationals to rely on land border crossings with Armenia and Turkey to escape Iran. These routes are open for now, but they are not guaranteed to stay that way. Coordination between embassies, governments, and border authorities is essential for safe passage. Anyone needing to leave Iran should act quickly, stay in close contact with their embassy, and be ready for changes in the situation.

For the latest official updates on border crossings and evacuation procedures, visit the U.S. Department of State Iran Crisis page.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the cooperation between Armenia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and foreign governments is a rare example of countries putting aside differences to help people in need during a dangerous and uncertain time. The hope is that these land border crossings will remain open long enough for everyone who needs to leave Iran to do so safely.

Learn Today

Land border crossing → A legal entry or exit point between countries on land for travelers or goods.
Evacuation → The organized process of moving people from a dangerous area to safety.
Authorization → Official approval required to cross or enter certain border points legally.
Onward travel → Further transportation or movement after crossing an international border.
Protecting Power → A country or institution representing the interests of another’s citizens in a hostile nation.

This Article in a Nutshell

Land borders with Armenia and Turkey offer critical evacuation routes from Iran amid airspace closure. Diplomatic efforts aid safe crossings, yet restrictions and delays persist. Over 1,300 people have evacuated since June 2025. Travelers must coordinate with embassies and prepare for changing conditions while crossing these vital escape paths.
— By VisaVerge.com