Iran suspends visa-free entry for Indians from November 22: What travellers must know

Indian travellers will now need a visa to enter or transit through Iran from November 22, 2025. Plan ahead and stay alert to avoid travel scams.

From November 22, 2025, Indian travellers will no longer be able to enter or transit through Iran without a visa, following the suspension of the one-way visa exemption.

Iran has announced the suspension of its visa-free entry for Indian nationals holding ordinary passports. Previously, Indian tourists could visit Iran without a visa under specific conditions, as part of Tehran’s efforts to boost tourism and strengthen ties with Asian countries. However, from November 22, every Indian national carrying an ordinary passport will now be required to secure a valid visa before travelling.

According to new regulations, passengers must have their Iranian visa before boarding their flight. The rule also applies to travellers in transit—transit without a visa will no longer be allowed.

The decision follows multiple incidents where Indian nationals were lured to Iran under false promises of employment or onward travel to other countries. Many were reportedly kidnapped for ransom after entering Iran using the visa waiver facility.

“The attention of Government has been drawn to several incidents of Indian nationals being lured to Iran on false promises of employment or with assurances of onward transit to third countries. These individuals were tricked into journeying to Iran by taking advantage of the visa waiver facility available for ordinary Indian passport holders. On arrival in Iran, many of them were kidnapped for ransom," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

The Iranian embassy in India confirmed the suspension on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “The implementation of the one-way tourist visa cancellation regulations for Indian nationals holding ordinary passports in the Islamic Republic of Iran has been suspended as of 22nd November 2025. From this date, Indian nationals with ordinary passports will be required to obtain a visa to enter or transit through the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

Iran has long been a favourite destination for Indian travellers. Cities like Isfahan and Shiraz attract visitors with stunning architecture and rich heritage, while Qom and Mashhad are important pilgrimage sites. Many also visit Iran for its desert landscapes and historic Silk Road routes.

Previously, the visa-free entry was limited to tourism purposes, valid for 15 days once every six months, and did not cover employment. Iran also served as a convenient transit hub for budget travellers heading to Europe or Central Asia—a route now affected by the new rules.

The MEA has strongly advised Indian nationals intending to visit Iran to remain vigilant. “All Indian nationals intending to visit Iran are strongly advised to remain vigilant and avoid agents offering visa-free travel or onward transit to third countries via Iran,” the ministry said.

With the suspension of the visa waiver, Indian travellers will need to plan ahead and obtain the appropriate visa before visiting or transiting through Iran, ensuring a safe and hassle-free journey.