Andaman and Nicobar Islands Passport Requirements

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a stunning Union Territory of India, beckon travelers with their pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re an Indian citizen dreaming of a tropical getaway or an international visitor eager to explore this paradise, understanding the passport requirements for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is essential for a hassle-free trip. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the documentation needed for Indian and foreign travelers, including visa rules, permits, and practical tips to ensure a smooth journey.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Passport Requirements

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are an integral part of India, which simplifies travel for Indian citizens but imposes specific requirements for foreign nationals. Indian citizens do not need a passport to visit most areas of the islands, while international travelers must comply with Indian immigration laws, including passport, visa, and permit regulations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the passport and travel document requirements for both groups, covering entry procedures, restricted areas, and additional considerations for a seamless visit.

Passport Requirements for Indian Citizens

As a Union Territory of India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are accessible to Indian citizens without the need for a passport or visa. This makes the islands an attractive destination for domestic travelers seeking an exotic yet accessible getaway. Here’s what Indian citizens need to know:

• No Passport Required: Indian citizens can travel to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands without a passport, as the islands are part of India’s domestic territory.
• Government-Issued Photo ID: A valid government-issued photo ID is sufficient for travel, such as:
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Voter ID
  • Driver’s License
  • PAN Card
  • These IDs are required for booking flights, ferries, or accommodations and may be checked upon arrival at Port Blair.
• No Visa or Permit for Populated Areas: Indian citizens can visit and stay in populated areas like Port Blair, Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) without any visa or permit for an unlimited duration.
• Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Tribal Areas: Certain areas, such as Nicobar Islands, North Sentinel Island, and other tribal reserves, are restricted to protect indigenous communities. Indian citizens need a special permit from the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to visit these areas, which is rarely granted for tourism purposes.
• Travel Documentation:
  • Carry a printed copy of your flight or ferry ticket and accommodation booking for verification at check-in points.
  • A valid ID must be presented at the airport or port upon arrival in Port Blair.

Key Notes:

• Always carry a government-issued photo ID during travel, as it may be requested by local authorities or hotels.
• Check with your travel agent or the Andaman and Nicobar Administration for updates on restricted areas before planning visits to less accessible islands.

Passport Requirements for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, must meet stricter entry requirements to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as mandated by Indian immigration laws. A valid passport, Indian visa, and Restricted Area Permit (RAP) are essential for legal entry and stay. Here’s a detailed overview:

• Valid Passport:
  • Foreign nationals must carry a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry into India and two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
  • The passport must match the details provided in the visa application.
• Indian Visa:
  • A tourist visa is required for all foreign nationals, valid for entry into India, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
  • Types of Visas:
    • e-Tourist Visa: Available for 30 days, one year, or five years, with multiple entries. Apply online at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in. U.S. citizens can obtain a 10-year multiple-entry tourist visa.
    • Regular Tourist Visa: Obtained through Indian embassies or consulates for longer stays or specific purposes.
  • The visa must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
  • All foreign nationals require an RAP to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as they are designated a Restricted Area under Indian law.
  • Obtaining the RAP:
    • The permit is issued free of charge upon arrival at Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport or Sea Port by Immigration authorities.
    • Validity: 30 days, with a possible 15-day extension upon application to the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) in Port Blair.
    • Covers populated areas like Port Blair, Havelock Island, Neil Island, and parts of North and Middle Andaman.
  • Restricted Areas: The RAP does not cover tribal reserves (e.g., North Sentinel Island, Nicobar Islands), which require separate permits rarely granted to tourists.
• Proof of Onward Travel:
  • Foreign nationals must show proof of a return or onward ticket (e.g., flight or ferry booking) to demonstrate they will leave India within the visa’s validity period.
• Health Requirements:
  • As of 2025, no COVID-19 vaccination or testing is required for entry, but travelers should check the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for updates.
  • A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission (e.g., parts of Africa or South America).

Key Notes:

• Ensure your passport and visa are valid for the entire trip to avoid immigration issues.
• The RAP is issued automatically upon arrival for most tourists but verify eligibility with the Indian Embassy if traveling from a restricted country.

Entry Procedures for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The entry process differs for Indian citizens and foreign nationals, with specific checkpoints at Port Blair:

• For Indian Citizens:
  • Arrival: Most travelers arrive at Veer Savarkar International Airport or by sea at Haddo Wharf in Port Blair. Present your government-issued photo ID and travel documents at check-in and upon arrival.
  • Verification: Local authorities or hotels may verify your ID during check-in or at tourist sites.
  • Processing Time: Minimal, typically 5–10 minutes at the airport or port, unless additional checks are required for restricted areas.
• For Foreign Nationals:
  • Arrival: Foreigners must clear immigration at Port Blair’s airport or sea port, presenting their passport, visa, and proof of onward travel.
  • RAP Issuance: Immigration officers issue the RAP upon arrival, requiring basic details like passport number, travel purpose, and stay duration. No additional forms are typically needed.
  • Customs: Declare any restricted items (e.g., satellite phones, drones) to avoid penalties. Duty-free allowances include 2 liters of alcohol and 200 cigarettes.
  • Processing Time: Immigration and RAP issuance take 10–20 minutes, depending on passenger volume.

Key Notes:

• Arrive with all documents ready to streamline entry procedures.
• Foreign nationals should carry a copy of their passport and RAP while exploring the islands, as local authorities may request them.

Restricted and Tribal Areas in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands include 572 islands, but only a few are open to tourists due to ecological and cultural sensitivities. Certain areas are restricted to protect indigenous tribes and biodiversity:

• Restricted Areas for All Travelers:
  • Nicobar Islands: Including Car Nicobar, Great Nicobar, and Little Nicobar, are largely off-limits due to tribal populations like the Nicobarese and Shompen.
  • North Sentinel Island: Home to the Sentinelese, a protected tribe, and strictly prohibited for all visitors.
  • Other Tribal Reserves: Areas like parts of Little Andaman and Strait Island require special permits from the Andaman and Nicobar Administration.
• Permit Requirements:
  • Indian citizens and foreigners need a special permit for restricted areas, issued by the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Port Blair or the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.
  • Permits are rarely granted for tourism and are typically reserved for research or official purposes.
• Accessible Areas:
  • Popular tourist spots like Port Blair, Havelock Island, Neil Island, Ross Island, and Baratang are open without permits for Indian citizens and with an RAP for foreigners.

Key Notes:

• Respect restrictions to protect indigenous communities and avoid legal consequences.
• Check with local authorities or tour operators for updates on accessible areas before planning your itinerary.

Travel Modes and Documentation

Travel to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is primarily by air or sea, with documentation varying by mode:

• By Air:
  • Flights: Regular flights operate from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bengaluru to Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport.
  • Indian Citizens: Present a government-issued photo ID at check-in and arrival.
  • Foreign Nationals: Show a valid passport, Indian visa, and proof of onward travel. The RAP is issued upon landing.
• By Sea:
  • Ferries: Passenger ships run from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair, taking 2–4 days.
  • Indian Citizens: Carry a photo ID for boarding and arrival verification.
  • Foreign Nationals: Present a passport, visa, and onward ticket. The RAP is issued at Haddo Wharf.
• Inter-Island Travel:
  • Ferries and private boats connect Port Blair to Havelock, Neil, and other accessible islands. Both Indian and foreign travelers need a valid ID (or passport for foreigners) for ticketing and boarding.

Key Notes:

• Book flights or ferries in advance, especially during peak seasons (October–March), to secure seats.
• Foreign nationals should carry their RAP for inter-island travel, as it may be checked.

Additional Travel Requirements

Beyond passports and permits, other documents and considerations ensure compliance with local regulations:

• Accommodation Booking:
  • Both Indian and foreign travelers should carry proof of hotel or resort booking, as it may be requested upon arrival or at check-in.
• Minors:
  • Indian children under 18 traveling without parents need a notarized letter of consent from guardians, along with a photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar Card).
  • Foreign minors require a valid passport, Indian visa, and RAP, with parental consent if traveling alone.
• Customs Regulations:
  • Indian citizens can bring personal goods within domestic limits. Foreign nationals are subject to Indian customs rules, with duty-free allowances for personal items.
  • Prohibited items include coral, seashells, and wildlife products to protect the islands’ ecosystem.
• Health Precautions:
  • No mandatory vaccinations are required except for yellow fever for travelers from affected countries.
  • Carry travel insurance covering medical emergencies, as healthcare facilities in the islands are limited.

Tips for a Smooth Visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

• Carry Valid ID: Indian citizens should always have a government-issued photo ID handy for flights, ferries, and hotel check-ins.
• Prepare Documents for Foreigners: Foreign nationals should keep their passport, visa, RAP, and onward ticket accessible during travel.
• Book Early: Secure flights, ferries, and accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak season (October–March).
• Respect Local Restrictions: Avoid attempting to visit restricted tribal areas without permits to respect indigenous communities and avoid legal issues.
• Check Travel Advisories: Monitor updates from the Indian Ministry of Tourism or U.S. Department of State for safety and health guidelines.
• Pack Light: Bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and light clothing, as the islands have a tropical climate.
• Contact Authorities: For questions, reach out to the Andaman and Nicobar Tourism Department or the Indian Embassy for clarification.

Summary Table: Andaman and Nicobar Islands Passport Requirements

Requirement	Indian Citizens	Foreign Nationals
Passport	Not required.	Valid passport with 6 months’ validity, 2 blank pages.
Visa	Not required.	Indian tourist visa (e-Visa or regular, valid for stay).
Permit	No permit for populated areas; special permit for tribal reserves.	Restricted Area Permit (RAP), issued free on arrival for 30 days.
ID/Documents	Government-issued photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar, Voter ID).	Passport, visa, proof of onward travel, RAP.
Restricted Areas	Special permit needed for Nicobar Islands, tribal reserves.	RAP covers populated areas; separate permit for tribal reserves (rarely granted).
Health	No mandatory vaccinations.	Yellow fever certificate if from affected countries.
Processing	5–10 minutes at airport/port.	10–20 minutes for immigration and RAP issuance.

FAQ: Common Questions About Andaman and Nicobar Islands Passport Requirements

Do Indian citizens need a passport to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
No, Indian citizens do not need a passport to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as they are a Union Territory of India. A valid government-issued photo ID like an Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Driver’s License is sufficient for travel and accommodation.

What documents do foreign nationals need to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
Foreign nationals require a valid passport (with six months’ validity and two blank pages), an Indian tourist visa (e-Visa or regular), and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is issued free upon arrival at Port Blair for 30 days. Proof of onward travel is also mandatory.

Is a permit required to visit Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
Indian citizens do not need a permit to visit Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), a popular tourist destination. Foreign nationals are covered by the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) issued on arrival, which includes Havelock Island and other populated areas.

Conclusion

Traveling to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a dream for many, with its turquoise waters and rich biodiversity. For Indian citizens, the process is simple, requiring only a government-issued photo ID and no passport or visa. Foreign nationals, however, must carry a valid passport, Indian visa, and obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) upon arrival. By preparing the necessary documents, respecting restricted areas, and booking travel in advance, you can enjoy a seamless visit to this tropical paradise. For the latest information, consult official Indian government or tourism websites to ensure a worry-free trip.