Iran Central Bank Orders New Customer Protection Rules for Lenders

Iran's central bank issued new customer protection rules for credit institutions in a circular dated October 31, 2026 (9 Aban 1405). According to Mehr's account of the directive, banks must comply 15 days after its notification, replacing the previous complaints-handling rules adopted in Iranian year 1393. The new framework also covers protecting customers' information and assets.

Beyond resolving complaints after harm occurs, the rules aim to prevent violations of customers' rights and require fair treatment, clear disclosure of service terms, data security and an accessible complaints process. The central bank said lenders must update their business-continuity and crisis-readiness plans at least once a year. The compliance date is in the future, not a report that nationwide implementation has already begun.