In a shocking development for Indian nationals, Iran has decided to end its one-way visa exemption for Indian citizens holding ordinary passports. Starting November 22, Indian travellers will no longer be able to visit Iran without a visa.
This means that all travellers to Iran, including those only transiting through an Iranian airport, will now be required to apply for a visa before travel.
Iran Visa-Free Travel for Indians
Until now, Indian travellers have been eligible to enter Iran visa-free if they meet the conditions. The visa-free travel policy was part of Iran’s plan to attract Indian tourists and build closer ties with the country.
The visa-free entry allows Indian travellers to enter the country for short stays, often for tourism or pilgrimage, without prior visa approval.
What Has Changed Now?
As Iran ends its visa-free entry policy, all Indian travellers now need a valid visa before boarding a flight to Iran. This visa requirement also applies to those who are just passing through the country.
Even if passengers do not leave the airport, they must still obtain a transit visa to travel through Iran. All airlines operating flights from India to Iran have also been instructed not to let travellers board without a valid visa.
Visa Options for Indian Citizens
Iran offers many visa options for travellers to visit the country. Most Indians travel there for tourism, business, and pilgrimage. Now that the country has ended visa-free entry, here are the best visa options for visiting Iran.
1. Tourist Visa
Those who are travelling to Iran for leisure travel, sightseeing, or visiting family/friends can apply for the Tourist visa.
- Validity: Up to 30 days (extendable)
- How to Apply: Apply online via the Iranian eVisa portal or at an Iranian embassy
2. Business Visa
You can apply for an Iranian business visa. If you want to travel to Iran for business meetings, dealings, or any other commercial activities, you require an invitation from an Iranian company or government entity
- Validity: As per the invitation.
- How to Apply: Through the embassy with supporting documents.
3. Transit Visa
The Iranian Transit Visa is a short-term visa issued to international travellers, including drivers, tourists and businessmen who intend to travel to another country through Iran.
- Validity: Up to 7 days
- How to Apply: Apply in advance via the embassy or the online eVisa system.
4. Pilgrimage Visa
The pilgrimage visa is a visa issued to non-Iranian citizens (Muslims) for ziarat and pilgrimage purposes in Iran for visiting holy cities like Qom or Mashhad. For non-Muslim applicants, a letter from a local Islamic centre is required.
- Validity: Short-term
- How to Apply: Through the embassy or an approved travel agency.
Why Iran Ended Visa-Free Entry
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), several Indians were recently deceived into travelling to Iran with false promises of overseas jobs or onward travel to other countries.
They took advantage of the visa-free entry policy and entered Iran easily. Once they arrived, many were kidnapped or held for ransom. The new visa requirement aims to reduce these incidents and make the screening of travellers entering the country stricter.
Why the Change Matters
Iran has long been popular with Indian travellers looking for culture, history, and spirituality. Cities like Isfahan, Shiraz, and Tehran draw visitors for their rich heritage and beautiful architecture.
Meanwhile, Mashhad and Qom attract pilgrims from around the world. The new rule may complicate trips to these destinations and increase costs for Indians.
Iran has also been a transit point for budget travellers heading to Europe or Central Asia. With the new visa requirement, this convenience will disappear. Travellers will have to rethink their flight routes and connections.
What Travellers Should Do
- Apply for a visa at least 2–3 weeks before travel.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
- Keep printed copies of your visa and flight details.
- Check for official updates from the Iranian embassy before booking flights.
India’s Passport Ranking Drops Further
Amid the recent changes in visa-free travel policies, India’s passport has fallen to the 85th position in the Henley Passport Index 2025, allowing visa-free access to only 57 countries. With Iran now taking India off its visa-free list, that number effectively drops to 56 destinations where Indian travellers can enter without a visa.
Final Thoughts
This change marks a shift in Iran’s travel policy and will affect how Indians plan their trips. Whether you are travelling for tourism, transit, or pilgrimage, it’s important to get the visa process right.
More details from Iranian authorities are expected soon. However, travellers should start preparing now to avoid last-minute surprises.
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