Iran suspends visa-free entry for Indian passport holders amid rising fraud, trafficking concerns
New Delhi: Iran has suspended its visa-free entry facility for Indian passport holders, citing a surge in cases where Indians travelling to the country on false job promises or en route to third countries were becoming entangled in criminal networks. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday confirmed the development, warning Indian citizens to exercise extreme caution.
According to MEA officials, several incidents were brought to the government’s notice where Indians were lured to Iran by agents offering fake employment opportunities or promising transit assistance to reach other countries. Once in Iran, many were allegedly defrauded, exploited, or even kidnapped for ransom, prompting authorities to reassess the visa-free access policy.
The Iranian government has now suspended the visa-waiver facility for ordinary Indian passport holders with effect from November 22. Officials said the decision aims to prevent individuals with criminal intent from further misusing the exemption.
As per the updated travel rule, Indians holding regular passports will now require a visa to enter Iran or even transit through Iranian territory en route to another country. The restriction applies strictly from November 22 onwards.
MEA sources said that the misuse of visa-free travel had exposed several Indian citizens to serious risks, including confinement, extortion and trafficking. “Given the pattern of fraudulent recruitment and third-country transit scams, Iran has halted visa-free access for Indian nationals,” an official noted.
Issuing an advisory, the MEA urged all Indians planning to visit Iran to remain vigilant. “Travellers must be cautious about agents claiming to provide visa-free travel or assistance in reaching third countries via Iran. All Indian nationals intending to visit Iran should ensure they have valid travel permissions,” the ministry said.
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