Iran visa-free travel: Four conditions you should be aware of

PTC Web Desk: In a recent development, Iran has introduced a visa-waiver programme for Indian tourists, marking a significant step in fostering tourism ties between the two nations. Now, Indian citizens can enjoy visa-free entry to Iran for a maximum stay of 15 days. However, this new privilege comes with four essential conditions outlined by the Iranian embassy.

What are the conditions?

Firstly, individuals holding ordinary passports from India will be permitted to enter Iran without a visa once every six months, and their stay is limited to a maximum of 15 days. It's crucial to note that this 15-day period is non-extendable, making it imperative for travellers to adhere to the specified timeframe.

Secondly, the visa-free arrangement is exclusively applicable to tourists entering Iran for leisure purposes. This means that individuals seeking entry for other reasons must obtain the necessary visa clearance.

Thirdly, should Indian visitors wish to extend their stay beyond the stipulated 15 days or plan multiple entries within a six-month timeframe, they are required to obtain a visa, emphasising the importance of complying with the prescribed regulations.

Lastly, the visa-free privilege is applicable solely to those entering Iran by air. Travellers choosing alternative modes of entry should be aware that this waiver may not be extended to them.

Iran's decision to facilitate visa-free access for Indian tourists aligns with similar moves made by several countries in recent months, including Vietnam, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, all of which have taken steps to ease visa restrictions for Indian travelers.

Notably, Iran has expanded its visa-waiver programme to include a total of 33 countries, encompassing India, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and others. This strategic initiative aims to boost tourism and enhance diplomatic relations, offering a warm welcome to visitors from around the globe. As travel restrictions continue to evolve, these measures demonstrate Iran's commitment to fostering international tourism and cultural exchange.

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