Iran has suspended its visa-free entry facility for Indian citizens following a surge in human trafficking and fraudulent job offers targeting Indians. The new rule, effective from November 22, requires all Indian travelers, including those transiting through Iran, to obtain a visa in advance. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the Iranian government’s decision aims to curb trafficking networks exploiting visa-free access to lure Indians with promises of high-paying jobs or easy routes to Gulf and European countries. Investigations revealed that many victims were kidnapped or held for ransom upon arrival in Iran. The Indian government had earlier warned citizens about fake job agents misusing the visa-free policy, which was originally introduced in February last year to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote tourism. Under the previous arrangement, Indian passport holders could visit Iran for up to 15 days every six months without a visa. Tehran’s move reflects growing concern over the misuse of this facility by criminal syndicates.