Big relief for travellers!! Lakshadweep scraps sponsor, police clearance rules

The Lakshadweep administration has significantly simplified the process for travellers seeking entry to the islands, rolling out major relaxations aimed at boosting tourism. In a circular issued on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, officials announced that several long-standing requirements for visitors have now been withdrawn to streamline travel and improve accessibility.

Under the updated guidelines, tourists no longer need a local resident or organisation to sponsor their visit, a rule that previously acted as a barrier for many planning trips to the archipelago. The administration has also removed the obligation to submit a police clearance certificate from the traveller’s home state. Instead, security vetting will be conducted internally by the Lakshadweep Police once applications are filed.

Key changes to permit requirements

The circular states that applicants must submit their permit requests at least 14 days before their planned journey, allowing authorities sufficient time to complete background checks. Each application must specify the exact islands the traveller intends to visit, along with the dates. Access will not be granted to any island not listed in the approved permit.

Travellers must also include details of all islands they will pass through en route to their destination. Transit is restricted to Kavaratti or Agatti, with a maximum stopover of 12 hours.

Travel advisory and merit-based approvals

Authorities have clarified that tourist entry applications for Lakshadweep will be processed strictly on merit and only after all eligibility conditions are met. Travellers have been advised not to book flights or accommodation until their entry permits are officially approved, as premature bookings could lead to last-minute cancellations. The administration has also urged applicants to submit requests well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season between October and March, with permits issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

The reforms aim to encourage tourism while maintaining strict regulatory oversight across the islands, which remain among India’s most sensitive and carefully managed destinations. Approved permits will clearly specify the islands that can be visited as well as permitted transit routes, with inter-island movement restricted and stopovers allowed only at designated points for limited durations.

Who needs an entry permit

All non-residents are required to obtain a permit before visiting the islands. This includes both Indian citizens and foreign nationals.

Exemptions apply only to native residents of Lakshadweep and government officials travelling on official duty. All other travellers must secure prior approval before arrival.

Islands open to tourists

Tourism is permitted only on select islands within the Union Territory. Indian nationals are allowed to visit five designated islands:

• Kavaratti
• Agatti
• Bangaram
• Kadmat
• Minicoy

Travel is restricted strictly to these islands, and visitors must ensure their permits clearly specify each destination.

How to apply for a permit

Travellers can apply for entry permits through two methods:

• Online Application: Applicants can register via the official ePermit portal at https://epermit.utl.gov.in/pages/signup. After creating an account, users must fill in personal details, select travel dates and islands, upload required documents, and pay applicable fees. Approved permits are issued electronically and typically sent via email around 15 days before travel.
• Offline Application: Alternatively, applicants may download forms from the Lakshadweep administration website or collect them from the District Collector’s office in Kavaratti. Completed forms, along with supporting documents, must be submitted physically. Processing times are generally longer under this method.

Documents required

Applicants must submit the following:

• Passport-sized photograph
• Valid identity proof (such as Aadhaar card or voter ID)
• Proof of travel arrangements (flight or boat tickets)
• Accommodation confirmation, where applicable