Iran Ends Visa-Free Travel for Indians, India Warns Citizens of Fraud and Abductions

New Delhi: The Iranian government on Monday decided that its one-way visa-free entry program for Indians is ending. From November 22, Indians with ordinary passports will have to first obtain a visa to travel to or transit through Iran. This decision was taken because criminal gangs used to trap Indians by taking wrong advantage of the visa-free facility. 

Was a game of kidnapping going on by giving fake job offers?

It is clear in the MEA advisory that many Indians were lured to Iran with false job promises or the lure of going to a third country. Being visa-free, they could reach easily, but after reaching there, they were kidnapped, and ransom was demanded. In some cases, even human trafficking came to light. MEA had given a similar warning in September also, but now Iran itself has suspended this facility so that such criminal elements can be controlled. 

What will travelers have to do now?

The rules will become strict from November 22. It is necessary to have an Iranian visa before boarding the flight. Not only tourism, but also people transiting through Iran on Central Asia routes also need visas. Airlines have also been asked to allow boarding only after checking the visa. Earlier this visa-free (15 days, once every 6 months) was only for tourism. But now a visa is compulsory for everyone. It was also said in the report of Travel and Tour World that this is a good step for safety.

What advice did MEA give to Indians?

MEA bluntly said to be very cautious! Don't fall for any agents who offer visa-free travel, jobs, or onward transit. Always apply for a visa through the official channel. If any fraud occurs, immediately inform the Indian Embassy. MEA's statement has been quoted as saying that this step is only for the safety of Indians.

What will be the impact on India-Iran relations?

Relations between the two countries are good, and cultural and historical ties are strong. Earlier the visa-free policy was also to increase tourism and strengthen diplomatic ties. Now this suspension is only to prevent criminal misuse, but in the short term tourists and business travelers will face some problems. Press TV (an Iranian site) also confirmed that this is a temporary measure for safety. Hopefully it will become normal soon, but right now caution is most important.