Iran has officially ended its one-way visa-free entry for Indian citizens, a policy shift that will take effect from November 22. The new rule requires Indians to hold a valid visa not only for visiting Iran but also for transiting through its airports. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi issued a fresh advisory urging Indian travellers to exercise caution, citing a surge in incidents where Indians were deceived with fraudulent job offers and onward travel promises and then kidnapped on arrival.

The MEA highlighted that several individuals were lured into Iran through the earlier visa waiver system by agents who promised employment opportunities or transit routes to other countries. Upon reaching Iran, many were held captive for ransom. To curb such misuse, Iran has suspended the visa-free facility for ordinary Indian passport holders. Airlines have also been instructed to verify visas before boarding passengers to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Under the updated guidelines, all Indian nationals must apply for an Iranian visa in advance before boarding their flights. This applies not only to those visiting Iran but also to travellers using Iran as a transit destination to other Central Asian countries. Authorities caution Indians against trusting agents offering visa-free travel, onward transit, or job placements through Iran. The earlier visa waiver policy was introduced with the intention of strengthening diplomatic relations and boosting tourism between the two nations.

India and Iran have traditionally maintained strong diplomatic ties, and Iran’s cultural and historical attractions draw many Indian visitors each year. However, the latest decision marks a significant shift in Iran’s travel policy as both nations respond to rising criminal exploitation of the visa-free system. The MEA continues to advise travellers to remain vigilant, verify all employment or travel offers, and follow official guidelines before planning any trip to Iran.