MEA issues travel advisory for Indians in Iran, urges citizens to avoid non-essential travel as protests spread

Unrest on the streets of Iran prompts India to ask its citizens to pause long-haul travel plans and stay connected with the Indian Embassy in Tehran.

• India urges citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran amid ongoing unrest
• Indians in Iran advised to avoid protest zones and monitor embassy updates
• Resident visa holders must register with Indian Embassy for emergency assistance.

Did our AI summary help?

India has urged its nationals in Iran to exercise heightened caution and to put off any non-essential travel plans as unrest spreads across several cities. The advisory, issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on January 5, 2026, applies to Indian citizens as well as persons of Indian origin (PIO) currently residing in the Islamic Republic.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the notice in a post on X, saying, “In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice.” The ministry emphasised that travellers should stay away from neighbourhoods witnessing demonstrations and remain alert to local regulations and security announcements.

Travel Advisory for Iran ⬇️

🔗 https://t.co/O92nERv37cpic.twitter.com/kSmSpDqbOj — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) January 5, 2026

The MEA has also asked Indians and PIOs already in Iran to keep a close watch on updates released by the Indian Embassy in Tehran through its website and official social media handles. Those living in the country on long-term or resident visas have been requested to register with the embassy if they have not done so, to ensure quicker assistance during emergencies.

Why the advisory was issued

Iran is experiencing what observers describe as the largest wave of protests in three years, with demonstrations even directed at Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The turmoil was triggered by a steep decline in the Iranian rial against the US dollar, which led to rising prices, sporadic violence and disruption of public transport in some regions. Indian authorities have advised citizens to follow the travel advisory page on the MEA’s official website for further developments.

Safety guidance for Indian nationals in Iran

• Stay informed: Regularly monitor verified information from the Embassy of India in Tehran and local news channels.
• Register early: Resident-visa holders should complete embassy registration to help authorities reach them swiftly.
• Avoid protest zones: Refrain from visiting areas with demonstrations, large gatherings or security operations.
• Travel only if essential: Postpone tourism or business trips unless absolutely necessary.