Reinforced concrete structures require effective strengthening methods to improve shear capacity and ductility. Conventional external systems such as steel plates or CFRP sheets are limited by premature debonding and member damage. This study experimentally evaluated the shear performance of concrete beams strengthened with iron-based shape memory alloy (Fe-SMA) strips. Static loading tests compared the effects of prestressing activation, retrofit type and retrofit ratio. The activation of Fe-SMA effectively delayed the formation of shear cracks and reduced width. Also, the Fe-SMA suppressed the shear deformation of stirrups and concrete, resulting in enhanced shear performance and ductility of the strengthened beams. Overall, the Fe-SMA strengthening method was found to be effective in improving the serviceability and maintenance performance of reinforced concrete beams.