Why Iran Has Rules on What You Can Name Your Child

In Iran, naming your child isn’t just about personal choice—it’s also about following government rules. Parents can’t freely pick any name they like, because the country has strict laws on what names are considered acceptable. These rules are tied to cultural traditions, religion, and a desire to preserve certain values. For many families, it can be surprising to learn that a name they love may never make it onto an official birth certificate.

The law in Iran requires that a newborn’s name must be approved by the Civil Registration Office. This office keeps a list of permitted names, most of which are rooted in Persian history or Islamic heritage. Names that are considered foreign, Western, or “unfitting” according to cultural norms are usually rejected. The idea behind this is to protect the country’s cultural identity and prevent influences that authorities believe could dilute it.

If parents want to choose a name not already on the approved list, they must submit a request for review. In many cases, such requests are denied unless there is a strong cultural or historical reason for the name. This has led to debates inside the country—some people believe these rules keep traditions alive, while others feel they restrict personal freedom and creativity in naming children.

This system means that names like Mohammad, Fatemeh, and Ali remain extremely common, while more modern or unique names are rare. Interestingly, the rules don’t just apply to foreign-sounding names—some older Persian names that have fallen out of favor are also blocked if they are deemed outdated or inappropriate by officials.

For Iranians living abroad, these restrictions are not binding, which is why you might meet people of Iranian origin with names you would never hear inside the country. But for parents living in Iran, naming a child often involves balancing personal preference with cultural compliance—a choice that reflects both family identity and national tradition.