Iran Suspends Visa-Free Entry for Indian Citizens After Rise in Trafficking and Kidnapping Cases

Iran has withdrawn visa-free entry for Indian citizens holding ordinary passports, ending the facility from November 22, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Monday.

Tehran had introduced the visa waiver in February 2024 for over 30 countries—including India—to boost tourism.

Why the Visa Waiver Was Suspended

The MEA said the decision follows multiple incidents in which Indian nationals were lured to Iran with fake job offers or promised onward transit to third countries. Many were subsequently kidnapped for ransom upon arrival.

The visa-free provision was meant solely for 15-day tourist visits, allowed once every six months, and did not cover employment—a rule frequently violated due to fraudulent agents and traffickers.

“These individuals were tricked into travelling to Iran by exploiting the visa waiver facility… many of them were kidnapped for ransom,” the MEA noted.

New Rules From November 22

Starting November 22, Indian travellers with ordinary passports will need a valid visa to enter or transit through Iran. The MEA said the suspension aims to prevent “further misuse” of the facility by criminal networks.

Government Advisory

The MEA has urged Indian citizens to remain cautious and avoid agents offering:

• Visa-free travel to Iran

• Job opportunities routed through Iran

• Onward transit to third countries using the Iranian visa waiver

The ministry had earlier—at a September briefing—warned of kidnappings involving Indian job-seekers in Iran, as highlighted by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.