Background and objectives: BK virus (BKV) reactivation is a major challenge for renal transplant recipients. The purpose of this study was to summarize current knowledge on the status of BKV in Iranian renal transplant recipients.

Methods: Specific terms, including “BKV” and “Renal Transplantation” were used to search the online databases. I2 and Cochran’s Q-value were tested for heterogeneity. The incidence rate was determined at 95% confidence interval. Publication bias was also investigated using funnel plot, the Egger’s and Begg’s statics.

Results: Twelve studies were included in the study. The random model's overall evidence rate was 0.347 (CI 95%, 0.225-0.493, p-value=0.04).

Conclusions: In Iran, the estimated prevalence of BKV among renal transplant recipients is 34.7% (~10-60%), which is higher than the rate reported from other parts of the world. Therefore, it is recommended to screen organ donors for BKV in Iran.