Iran Revokes Visa-Free Travel for Indians Amid Rise in Abductions, False Promises
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The Iranian government has abruptly ended visa-free travel for Indian nationals due to a spate of kidnappings and false employment promises. Effective November 22, Indian passport holders will no longer be eligible for the visa waiver, which was introduced in February to boost tourism. According to the external affairs ministry, several Indian nationals have fallen prey to false promises of employment or onward transit to other countries. Once in Iran, they were either kidnapped for ransom or deceived. The Iranian government has taken this step to prevent further exploitation by criminal elements. As a result, Indian nationals will now need to obtain a visa to enter or transit through Iran. The external affairs ministry has warned Indian citizens to be cautious and avoid agents offering visa-free travel or onward transit to third countries via Iran. The move is a significant development in the context of travel between India and Iran, and Indian nationals are advised to plan accordingly.
