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 visualization was taken considering criminal gangs used to trap Indians by taking wrong wholesomeness of the visa-free facility.
Was a game of kidnapping going on by giving fake job offers?
It is well-spoken in the MEA newsy 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 without reaching there, they were kidnapped, and ransom was demanded. In some cases, plane 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 wilt strict from November 22. It is necessary to have an Iranian visa surpassing boarding the flight. Not only tourism, but moreover people transiting through Iran on Central Asia routes moreover need visas. Airlines have moreover been asked to indulge boarding only without 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 moreover said in the report of Travel and Tour World that this is a good step for safety.
What translating did MEA requite to Indians?
MEA frankly said to be very cautious! Don't fall for any teachers who offer visa-free travel, jobs, or onward transit. Always wield 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 moreover to increase tourism and strengthen diplomatic ties. Now this suspension is only to prevent criminal misuse, but in the short term tourists and merchantry travelers will squatter some problems. Press TV (an Iranian site) moreover confirmed that this is a temporary measure for safety. Hopefully it will wilt normal soon, but right now circumspection is most important.
