Iran Suspends Visa-Free Entry for Indians Amid Rise in Job Scams

The Iranian government announced on October 17 that it will end its one-way visa-free entry for Indian nationals from November 22, citing growing misuse of the facility by criminal networks targeting Indian workers.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on October 17 issued an advisory stating that Iran has suspended its visa waiver programme, and warned Indian citizens against bogus job scams, urging them to remain vigilant.

In September, the ministry had similarly warned Indians about risks associated with travelling to Iran for work. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had noted that several Indians were being lured by fake job offers, only to be kidnapped on arrival and held for ransom by criminal gangs.

The revised regulations now make visas mandatory for all Indian travellers to Iran. Indian nationals must apply for and secure an Iranian visa in advance, ensuring they have valid documentation before boarding their flight.

The Indian ministry also urged citizens to thoroughly verify any employment-related travel opportunities before making commitments, to avoid falling victim to organised criminal networks.