Iran halts visa-free entry for Indians amid trafficking and fraud surge
Iran has suspended its visa-free entry policy for Indian nationals following a rise in fraud and human trafficking cases. The decision, announced on 22 November 2025, comes after multiple incidents of Indians being deceived under false job offers or illegal travel schemes to Australia. The move marks a significant shift from the policy introduced just last year to encourage tourism between the two nations.
The visa-free facility, launched in February 2024, allowed Indian passport holders to enter Iran for up to 15 days every six months—strictly for tourism. However, authorities reported growing misuse, with many travellers lured by false promises of employment or onward journeys to Australia. In May 2025, three men from Punjab were kidnapped in Iran after attempting to reach Australia through illegal routes.
The suspension takes effect immediately, ending the short-lived visa-free arrangement. Indian travellers must now apply for visas before visiting or transiting through Iran. Authorities in both countries have stressed the importance of verifying travel offers and avoiding unofficial agents.
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