As tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, several countries have begun to relax their visa rules.
This comes as some governments worldwide have announced moves to prioritize humanitarian stability through new visa policy updates.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that the Middle East crisis escalated after the United States and Israel jointly launched strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026.
Since the strikes, Iran has been retaliating, striking bases of the U.S. in the Middle East.
With the development, some countries in the Middle East have begun to relax their visa rules.
The nations closest to the conflict are implementing “mercy extensions” to prevent visitors from falling into irregular immigration status due to grounded flights and closed airspaces.
Recall also that airspace has been fully or partially closed in several countries, including, Iran, Israel, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Iraq, and Qatar.
Many airlines have already suspended or rerouted flights to avoid the affected areas.
Also, several embassies have been closed in the Middle East.
To help travellers stuck due to cancelled flights, several countries have introduced policies to relax visa rules.
Below are the countries;
India
India is one of the countries to relax its visa rules amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
Foreign nationals currently in India who cannot travel due to disruptions can contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). Authorities may grant visa extensions or help regularise stay so travellers do not face penalties.
Israel
Also, Israel has unveiled automatic visa extensions for many visa categories expiring between February and May 2026. Eligible visas include:
- B-1 work visa
- B-2 visitor visa
- Student and temporary residence visas
- Family reunification permits
It was also gathered that some re-entry visas for foreign workers have also been extended automatically.
This allows travellers to return without submitting a new application.
Kuwait
In Kuwait, the government has unveiled automatic one-month extensions for visit visas that have expired or are about to expire. Key points include:
- Overstay fines will be waived during the extension period
- Residents stuck outside Kuwait may receive a three-month absence permit
Qatar
Qatar is also one of the countries that has moved to relax its visa rules due to the ongoing crisis.
The country is offering a one-month automatic extension for entry visas that are close to expiry. Travellers can complete the extension process online without paying extra fees. However, previous visa violations must be cleared before applying.
Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, temporary emergency entry arrangements are in place in limited situations. Some travellers may be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia via land borders and continue their journey through major airports.
Indian nationals in Qatar and Bahrain may receive assistance from their embassies to enter Saudi Arabia under special arrangements.
Thailand
Foreign nationals unable to leave Thailand because of Middle East flight disruptions can stay without penalties. Travellers may:
- Leave once flights resume without an overstay fine
- Apply for a temporary stay extension of up to 30 days
- Applicants may need to provide a copy of their passport and a brief explanation for the extension request.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE has introduced several relief measures which include the following;
- Overstay fines waived for travellers unable to depart
- Some emergency visas were granted in special cases
- Residents stuck outside the UAE can return without applying for a new entry permit until March 31, 2026
- Affected travellers may receive help with accommodation costs during disruptions
Canada
Similarly, the government of Canada has introduced temporary support measures for Iranian nationals currently staying in the country as temporary residents. These measures aim to provide flexibility for those unable to travel due to disruptions.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has also introduced limited visa concessions and entry exemptions to support travellers affected by the Middle East disruption. Eligibility and available options may vary depending on nationality, travel route, and other immigration circumstances.
