Tue Nov 18 01:34:23 UTC 2025: News Article:
Iran Suspends Visa Waiver for Indian Nationals Amid Human Trafficking Concerns
New Delhi – November 18, 2025: Iran has suspended its visa waiver program for ordinary Indian passport holders, effective November 22nd, 2025, due to a surge in incidents involving Indian citizens being lured to the country under false pretenses of employment or promises of onward transit to other nations.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the suspension, stating that the government has become aware of numerous cases where Indian nationals were tricked into traveling to Iran using the visa waiver facility, only to be subsequently kidnapped for ransom or exploited.
“This measure is intended to prevent further misuse of the facility by criminal elements,” stated the MEA. “Indian nationals with ordinary passports will now be required to obtain a visa to enter or transit through Iran.”
The MEA has strongly advised Indian citizens planning to visit Iran to exercise caution and avoid agents offering visa-free travel or transit options to third countries through Iran.
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