From this date, all Indian citizens must gain a visa to travel to Iran or use its airfields as conveyance points.

The Ministry of External Affairs( MEA) has issued updated advisories following the decision, warning of pitfalls such as hijacking and job fraud.

“ The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has suspended the visa disclaimer installation for ordinary Indian passport holders to help prevent abuse by felonious elements, ” the MEA stated.

“Indian nationals are strongly advised to remain vigilant and avoid agents offering visa-free travel or onward transit to third countries via Iran.”

The MEA noted several incidents in which Indian citizens were lured to Iran under false promises of employment or onward travel.

Many were reportedly kidnapped for ransom upon arrival, taking advantage of the previous visa-free policy.

Under the new rules, Indians must now apply for and obtain a valid Iranian visa before boarding their flights.

Trippers using Iran as a conveyance route through Central Asian countries are also required to hold a visa.

Airlines have been instructed to corroborate the visa status of passengers travelling to or via Iran.

This decision marks a significant shift in Iran’s trip policy.

Preliminarily, visa-free entry was intended to promote tourism and strengthen political ties with India and Central Asian nations.

India and Iran have maintained strong political relations, with numerous Indian excursionists visiting annually to explore the country’s rich artistic and literary heritage