New Delhi | November 18, 2025
Iran has suspended its one-way visa-free entry facility for Indian nationals, a move that will take effect from November 22, 2025. The decision ends a policy that previously allowed Indian passport holders to enter Iran without a visa under certain conditions, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.
In a statement issued on Monday, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the waiver had been withdrawn to curb its misuse by criminal networks.
“The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has suspended the visa waiver facility available to ordinary Indian passport holders with effect from 22 November 2025. From this date, Indian nationals will be required to obtain a visa to enter or transit through Iran,” the MEA said.
The ministry also issued a strong advisory highlighting recent incidents in which Indian citizens were lured to Iran under false job promises, or offered visa-free transit to third countries. Several individuals, the MEA noted, ended up being kidnapped for ransom after arriving in Iran.
“The attention of the Government has been drawn to several incidents of Indian nationals being lured to Iran on false promises of employment or onward transit. Many were kidnapped for ransom,” the advisory stated.
Indians planning to travel to Iran have been urged to avoid unauthorised agents and remain vigilant against claims of easy entry or onward travel using Iranian territory.
Under the revised rules:
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All Indian travellers—whether visiting Iran or transiting through its airports—must obtain a valid Iranian visa before boarding flights.
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Airlines have been instructed to verify visa status prior to allowing passengers to travel.
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The exemption for visa-free entry and transit will cease entirely on November 22.
Iran’s earlier visa-free arrangement for Indian visitors was introduced to promote tourism and deepen regional ties, particularly with India and several Central Asian countries. The new restrictions mark a significant policy shift.
Despite the change, India and Iran continue to maintain historically strong diplomatic relations, with cultural and economic exchanges drawing thousands of Indian visitors to Iran each year.
