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Tehran/Iran: In a historic turn of events, Iran has inaugurated a visa-free policy for Indian citizens, further simplifying travel procedures and potentially encouraging tourism and trade exchanges between the two countries. The strategic shift, expected to strengthen diplomatic ties and boost mutual economic interests, will form part of Iran’s broader campaign to open its borders to international visitors and revive its global image.
The Narendra Modi-led government has given wings to Indians going abroad for leisure and adventure, among other purposes, thereby creating a huge market of outbound Indian tourists, which has made foreign tourist destinations more popular among Indians. Left behind in the race to open up and meet their needs.
The Ministry of External Affairs has played a significant role in increasing the number of outbound Indian tourists, issuing more than 10 crore passports in the last decade and ensuring visa-free and visa on arrival access to more than 60 countries. The tourism sector in India is experiencing unparalleled growth, with projections indicating substantial growth in spending by Indian travelers.
Countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Kenya have recently extended visa-free entry to Indians, reflecting a significant increase in foreign travel among Indians. In a digital leap, India is set to launch e-passports by the end of the year under the Passport Seva Program 2.0.
Iran’s announcement to offer visa-free entry to 33 countries, including India, is a significant step towards its objective of increasing global connectivity. This unilateral decision was taken in line with the priorities established by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts. Ezzatollah Zarghami, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, confirmed that the decision sends a message to the international community of Iran’s readiness to host visitors from all corners of the world and equip them with advanced facilities for a fulfilling experience.
The visa-free policy is also part of Iran’s efforts to combat negative perceptions and ‘Iranophobia’. The roster of 33 countries includes UAE, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Lebanon, Japan among others.
Adding to the diplomatic progress, Iran is set to restart the Umrah pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia after an eight-year hiatus, signaling an uptick in ties between the two countries. Indian travelers wishing to explore Iran’s rich cultural heritage, historical sites and natural beauty can now do so with fewer bureaucratic impediments, thanks to these new regulations.
