Entry Formality and Permit to visit Andaman Islands

As a Destination Management Company (DMC), we ensure our partners have a clear understanding of the travel regulations for Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Entry permits and formalities are a critical part of travel planning, especially for international guests. Below is a simplified guide for reference when designing itineraries and packages.

For Indian Nationals
  • Indian nationals do not require any permit to visit the Andaman Islands.
  • Travel to the Nicobar Islands and tribal reserves is highly restricted and permits are rarely issued, except under exceptional cases approved by the Deputy Commissioner, Andaman District, Port Blair.
  • Can safely promote the Andaman sector to Indian clients without permit concerns, except for the restricted zones.
For Foreign Nationals
  • Foreign travellers require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit and stay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
  • The permit allows a stay of 30 days, extendable by 15 days with immigration approval in Port Blair.
  • RAP can be obtained from:
    1. Indian Missions Overseas
    2. Foreigner’s Registration Offices (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata)
    3. Immigration counters at major Indian airports
    4. On arrival at Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) airport and seaport

For smooth ground handling, we recommend informing clients in advance about RAP requirements.

  • Always advise clients to carry valid travel permits and passports.
  • RAP extensions must be applied for before expiry.
  • Visits to tribal reserves are strictly prohibited and should not be promoted in itineraries.
  • Our on-ground team in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) regularly updates associates with updated immigration formalities.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do Indian travel groups need any permit to visit the Andaman Islands?

No, Indian nationals do not require permits to visit popular destinations like Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), Baratang, or Diglipur. However, travel to the Nicobar Islands and tribal reserves is highly restricted and permits are not available for tourism purposes.

Q2. Do foreign tourists need a special permit to visit the Andamans?

Yes, foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit the Andaman Islands. The permit is valid for 30 days and can be extended by 15 days with approval. RAP can be arranged through Indian Missions overseas, Foreigner’s Registration Offices, immigration counters at major Indian airports, or on arrival at Port Blair.

Q3. Can group tours for foreign nationals obtain RAP in advance?

Yes, group tours can arrange Restricted Area Permits in advance through Indian Missions abroad or Foreigner’s Registration Offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. However, for ease of operations, permits are also available on arrival at Port Blair airport and seaport, making group handling convenient for travel partners.

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