New Delhi, November 17, 2025 — Iran has suspended the visa-waiver facility for ordinary Indian passport holders, following a series of incidents where Indian nationals were lured into travelling to Iran under false promises of jobs or onward transit to other countries. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that this measure will come into effect from November 22, 2025.
According to the MEA, the Government of India has received multiple reports of Indians being deceived by illegal agents who exploited the visa-free entry system. Several victims were allegedly kidnapped for ransom after being taken to Iran under the pretext of employment opportunities or transit to third countries.
Misuse by Criminal Networks
The MEA statement highlighted that criminal elements were taking advantage of the visa waiver. Many Indian nationals, often seeking overseas jobs, were persuaded to travel to Iran without a visa, believing that they would soon be taken onward to destinations like Europe or Gulf countries.
However, upon arrival in Iran, numerous individuals were held hostage, forced to pay money, or made to work in exploitative conditions.
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Effective November 22: Visa Mandatory
In response, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has notified India that the visa-waiver facility is suspended for Indian travelers.
- Indian nationals must obtain a visa to enter or transit through Iran.
- The rule applies to all ordinary passport holders.
- Diplomatic and official passport protocols remain governed by separate bilateral agreements.
MEA Issues Advisory to All Indians
MEA Issues Advisory to All Indians The MEA has strongly advised Indian citizens to:
- Exercise utmost caution
- Avoid any travel agent offering visa-free travel to Iran
- Ignore promises of onward travel to other countries via Iran
- Verify job offers abroad through proper channels such as the MEA’s e-Migrate system
- The Ministry emphasised that Indians should not rely on unverified recruitment agents, as many of the victims were trafficked through illegal networks operating in India and the Middle East.
Background: India–Iran Visa Regime
1. Visa Waiver Facility (Earlier Rule)
Until now, Indian passport holders could travel visa-free to Iran for:
- Short-term tourism
- Business visits
- Pilgrimage
- Transit
The stay permitted was generally up to 15 days depending on the purpose.
2. Why Was the Waiver Introduced?
The visa-free entry was part of:
- Strengthening bilateral ties
- Boosting tourism and trade
- Facilitating people-to-people contact
3. Why Has It Been Suspended?
The suspension is a protective and temporary measure due to:
- Rising exploitation by organised crime groups
- Fake recruitment schemes
- Trafficking and kidnapping cases involving Indian citizens
- Misuse of the facility for illegal migration pathways
5. Impact on Travelers
- Tourists now need to apply for an Iran tourist visa in advance.
- Transit passengers must have an Iran transit visa, even if not exiting the airport.
- Indian workers cannot travel to Iran without a legitimate job visa issued directly by Iranian authorities.
Conclusion
The suspension of Iran’s visa-waiver facility marks a significant policy shift aimed at safeguarding vulnerable Indian travellers from fraud, trafficking, and exploitation. The MEA has urged all citizens to remain alert and refrain from engaging with unauthorised travel agents or schemes promising quick overseas opportunities via Iran.
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