Indians need permit to visit Lakshadweep islands: Here's why and how

Lakshadweep, India's smallest Union Territory is in the spotlight and trending on Google Search too after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to the island last week.

PM Modi expressed admiration for Lakshadweep's tranquil charm. He posted pictures of his undersea exploration on microblogging site X and shared his "exhilarating experience" of the islands located in the Arabian Sea.

"For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list. During my stay, I also tried snorkelling - what an exhilarating experience it was," he wrote.

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But, did you know Indians too need an entry permit for Lakshadweep.

Here's why:

As per the rules, every person, who is not a native of Lakshadweep, shall have to obtain a permit. The reason for this, as per the Lakshadweep Tourism website, is to protect the Scheduled Tribes residing there.

How to Apply?

While applying online, one needs to visit the ePermit portal (https://epermit.utl.gov.in/pages/signup), create an account, and fill out the form with the necessary details.

Through this process, the expected time for you to receive the permit via e-mail is 15 days before your trip

While applying offline, one has to download the application form from the Lakshadweep Administration website or get it from the District Collector’s office in Kavaratti.

After filling in the details, and attaching the documents, one has to submit them to the Collector’s office. The second process may take longer.

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Documents Required

• A passport-sized photograph
• A photocopy of one’s valid ID proof (Aadhaar card, voter ID, driver's license etc.)
• Proof of travel (flight tickets or boat reservation details)
• Booking confirmation from the place of accommodation

The application fee is Rs 50 per applicant, and the heritage fee is Rs 100 for children aged between 12 and 18.

For individuals above 18, the heritage fee is Rs 200.

Who is Exempted? 

According to the Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands (Restriction on Entry and Residence) Rules, 1967, every person, who is not a native of these islands, shall have to obtain a permit in the Prescribed Form from the Competent authority, for entering into and residing in these islands. Only the Government Officials and Armed Forces members working or visiting these islands and their family members are exempted from this.

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