Iran has officially withdrawn its visa-free entry facility for ordinary Indian passport holders, a move triggered by rising cases of Indian nationals being misled into traveling to the country under false promises. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), several Indians were enticed with fake job offers or assured onward travel to other nations — only to face dangerous situations upon arrival.
The MEA revealed that some individuals who entered Iran using the visa waiver were later kidnapped for ransom by criminal networks exploiting the system. In response, the Iranian government has suspended the waiver to curb further misuse and protect vulnerable travellers.
Effective November 22, all Indian citizens — including those merely passing through — must secure a valid Iranian visa before traveling. Airlines have also been instructed to ensure passengers possess the required visa before boarding.
The advisory is clear: Indians must remain extremely cautious and avoid any agents or intermediaries claiming to provide visa-free travel or easy transit through Iran. What appears to be an opportunity may be a trap orchestrated by trafficking or criminal syndicates.
What does the new rule require?
Under the updated policy:
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Every Indian citizen needs a valid Iranian visa, even for transit.
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No one will be permitted to board a flight to Iran without approved documentation.
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Airlines must verify visas before check-in.
This change is designed to protect travellers, reduce exploitation, and ensure no individual falls prey to false promises that place their safety at risk.
