India advises nationals to avoid Iran travel, asks them to leave immediately

Amid the political scenario in Iran, the Indian Government has strongly repeated its strong recommendation that Indian citizens should not travel to Iran until further notice.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also drew attention for travelers of its earlier notice dated January 5, 2026, which advised against non-essential travel to Iran.

The uncertainty associated with the situation has led to the recommendation for Indian citizens in Iran to leave the country as soon as possible utilizing the available commercial options.

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Those who cannot leave immediately are advised to be very careful, limit their movements, stay away from crowded and sensitive places, and keep in regular contact with the Indian Embassy for updates and help.

Iran unrest triggers fresh concern for foreign nationals

The scenario in Iran is confusing and gives rise to a lot of tension due to the political and social unrest that is taking place in many different parts of the country.

The periodic protests, demonstrations, and security forces harshest measures have raised the issue of safety in the first place for the local people, and at the same time, for foreign people who are living or visiting the country.

Reasons behind the protests and the instability

The protests and unrest in Iran are grounded in public discontent that has been boiling over for a long time and is related to being very social restricted, economic difficulties, and wrong political management.

Economic pressures due to rising inflation, high unemployment, and currency devaluation, alongside Iran's isolation due to international sanctions, are factors that increasing suffering of the people daily.

On the other hand, the oppressive enforcement of law and restrictions on people's liberties have caused discontent and the protesting mainly with the youth and city residents coming forward.

The protests have been violent sometimes, which has resulted in the government deploying more security personnel, arresting more people, and shutting down communication services temporarily in particular regions.

The security situation continues to be very unpredictable

The ever-changing situation in the country has created an unpredictable security environment.

Any time the protests may come up, and the authorities will most likely respond by restricting the movements of people or increasing the surveillance in certain locations.

During times of unrest, transportation services may be disrupted, internet services may be cut, and there may be a lot of police checks.

All these conditions worsen the situation for tourists, students, business people, and pilgrims, and thus it becomes even harder for foreign nationals to move about safely or to get help during emergencies.

Guidance for Indians staying back

The advisory has depicted a picture of the utmost caution for those who will not be able to leave immediately.

Citizens of India have been asked to stay away from the sites of protests or rallies, keep their movements to a minimum, and be updated with the local news.

They are also advised to have a set of travel and identity documents always available and to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy for help.

Embassy support and registration

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has made available emergency helplines and an official email as support to distressed nationals.

Indians who have not yet registered with the Embassy have been asked to do so via the official website.

If there is no internet access, family members in India can complete the registration for them. Authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation as safety is the number one priority.

Emergency helpline numbers (India Embassy, Tehran):

+98 912 810 9115

+98 912 810 9109

+98 912 810 9102

+98 993 217 9359

Official email ID for assistance:

cons.tehran@mea.gov.in

Indian nationals in Iran are encouraged to make use of these contact details for emergency support, guidance, or evacuation-related assistance and to keep in touch with the Embassy for updates.