The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced that emigration clearance is now mandatory for all Indian citizens traveling to Iran. This revokes the previous exemption, making the clearance a requirement for emigration to the country.

The MEA has made this emigration clearance mandatory for Indians going to Iran. The reasons behind this decision have not been explicitly stated in the available sources. Emigration clearance is generally required for individuals with Emigration Check Required (ECR) passports traveling to specific countries for employment.

Emigration Clearance: Key Points

• Emigration clearance is required for individuals with ECR passports traveling to certain countries for employment.
• The Protector of Emigrants (POE) grants emigration clearance after verifying the application and supporting documents.
• The MEA previously issued an advisory stating that Indian nationals traveling to 18 specified countries for employment must register with the eMigrate portal at least 24 hours before departure.
• These countries include Afghanistan, Bahrain, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
• For unskilled workers, farm workers, and women emigrants, an employment agreement attested by the Indian Embassy is mandatory.

It is important to note that this new regulation from the MEA is effective immediately. Indian citizens planning to travel to Iran should ensure they comply with this requirement to avoid any disruption to their travel plans.