India issues advisory after Iran scraps visa-free entry for Indian passport holders

With the new rules in place, all Indian nationals with ordinary passports will now need to obtain a valid visa before planning their trip.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday issued a public advisory after Iran suspended the visa-waiver facility extended to Indian nationals.

Iran has announced that it is ending its one-way visa exemption for Indian nationals holding ordinary passports, bringing an immediate change to travel requirements. Starting November 22, Indian travellers will no longer be allowed to enter Iran without a visa and must secure one in advance for both entry and transit.

According to the MEA, several Indians were recently lured to Iran on false promises of jobs or assured onwards travel to third countries. Taking advantage of the visa-free entry provision, these individuals were enticed into travelling to Iran, where many were subsequently kidnapped for ransom.

In response to these incidents, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has suspended the visa-waiver facility for ordinary Indian passport holders with effect from 22 November 2025. Indian travellers will now be required to obtain a visa for both entry into and transit through Iran.

The MEA has urged all Indian nationals to exercise caution, remain vigilant, and avoid dealing with agents claiming to offer visa-free travel or onward transit via Iran.

The earlier arrangement had permitted visa-free visits for Indian tourists under certain conditions as part of Iran’s efforts to boost tourism and deepen regional ties. With the new rules in place, all Indian nationals with ordinary passports will now need to obtain a valid visa before planning their trip.

As per the updated instructions, passengers must carry their approved Iranian visa before boarding any flight to the country. The same requirement applies to those transiting through Iranian airports, as visa-free transit will no longer be permitted.

*With Agency Inputs