Entry Permit for Lakshadweep: Step by Step Guide

How to Get the Entry Permit for Lakshadweep Tour
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To visit Lakshadweep, an archipelago of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea, travelers must secure an entry permit issued by the Lakshadweep Administration. This requirement applies to both Indian nationals and foreign visitors and is essential for protecting the islands’ delicate ecosystem and preserving their unique cultural heritage. The process involves obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate, securing sponsorship, preparing necessary documents, and submitting an application either online or offline. Following these steps ensures a smooth and well-organized journey to experience the pristine beauty of Lakshadweep.

New Entry Rules for Visiting Lakshadweep Islands (Updated on November, 2024)

The Union Territory of Lakshadweep Administration has introduced updated rules to streamline the entry permit process and preserve the unique ecology of the islands. These rules are intended to make visits smoother for travelers while ensuring the islands’ environmental sustainability.

1. Advance Permit Application Requirement

  • Travelers must apply for entry permits at least 14 days before their intended travel date. This period allows the administration to conduct necessary checks and due diligence.

2. Island-Specific Permit

  • Permits will be issued for specific islands and specific travel dates only. Visitors must list each island they plan to visit or pass through en route to their final destination. Permits will not allow access to any unlisted islands.

3. Clear Document Submission

  • All documents attached to the application must be clear, legible, and properly formatted. Poor-quality attachments may result in delays or rejections of the application.

4. Sponsorship Requirement

  • Each visitor must have a local sponsor who will be responsible for ensuring the visitor’s comfort and well-being. Ideally, the sponsor should reside on the same island as the visitor’s intended destination to facilitate smooth travel and stay arrangements.

5. Application Review Based on Compliance

  • Permit applications will be assessed based on merit and fulfillment of all required criteria. Only fully compliant applications will be processed to prevent ecological strain from excessive or unregulated tourism.

6. Flight Booking Advisory

  • Travelers are advised to book flights only after receiving their entry permit to avoid potential cancellations. This helps ensure that all necessary travel permissions are in place before confirming travel plans.

Lakshadweep Entry Permit New Circular 2024

New Heritage Fee for Environmental Preservation

1. Introduction of Heritage Fee

  • A Heritage Fee of ₹200 per day per person will be charged for each day that a traveler stays on the islands. This fee will apply to all entry permit applications.

2. Purpose of the Fee

  • The collected Heritage Fee will go towards sanitation, waste management, and environmental preservation efforts on Lakshadweep, helping to counterbalance the ecological impact of tourism.

3. Fund Allocation

  • All Heritage Fee proceeds will be deposited into a designated account and utilized exclusively for ecological and environmental maintenance across the Lakshadweep islands.

4. Immediate Implementation

  • The Heritage Fee is effective immediately and will be applied to all new permit applications going forward.

These new rules are designed to help the Union Territory of Lakshadweep balance tourism with ecological preservation, ensuring a sustainable future for the islands’ natural beauty and unique environment.

Revision of Heritage Fee on Entry Permits to Lakshadweep Islands

Lakshadweep Entry Permit for Indian Nationals

Step 1: Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate of Non-Involvement in Offence

A Police Clearance   (PCC) of Non-Involvement in Offence is a crucial document required for visiting Lakshadweep. This certificate verifies that you do not have any criminal records and is issued by the police authorities in your area of residence.

Steps to Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate:

  1. Check State-Specific Procedures:
  2. Online Application (If Available in Your State):
  3. Offline Application:
  4. Verification Process:
  5. Issuance of Certificate:

For more details click on the link: Lakshadweep Police Clearance Certificate

Required Documents:

  • Aadhaar Card or any other valid ID proof
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Completed application form
  • Proof of address (if different from Aadhaar)

Tips for a Smooth Process:

  • Ensure Accuracy: Make sure all information provided in the application form is accurate and matches your identification documents.
  • Follow Up: Visit your local police station to follow up on your application if it takes longer than expected.

Step 2: Choosing a Sponsor and Obtaining a Declaration of Sponsorship

To visit Lakshadweep, having a sponsor is essential for obtaining the entry permit. The sponsor can either be a local resident of Lakshadweep or an authorized organization like SPORTS (Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports) or a private tour operator.

Options for Sponsorship:

  1. Personal Connection:
    • If you know someone from Lakshadweep, they can act as your sponsor.
    • Your local sponsor must provide their ration card number and a declaration confirming they are sponsoring your visit.
  2. SPORTS (Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports):
    • SPORTS is the tour operator wing of the Lakshadweep government.
    • Book a package or government accommodation through SPORTS. They will handle the sponsorship and submit the necessary documents on your behalf.
  3. Private Tour Operators:
    • Private tour operators or hotels in Lakshadweep can act as sponsors.
    • Book your trip through them, and they will sponsor your visit and handle the necessary paperwork.

View the Lakshadweep Travel Guide

Obtaining a Declaration of Sponsorship:

For Personal Connections:
  1. Contact Your Sponsor:
    • Reach out to your local contact in Lakshadweep and request them to act as your sponsor.
  2. Prepare the Declaration:
    • The sponsor must draft a declaration stating their willingness to sponsor your visit. The declaration should include:
      • The sponsor’s name and contact details.
      • Their ration card number.
      • Your details (name, relationship with the sponsor, purpose of visit, duration of stay).
  3. Sign and Authenticate:
    • The sponsor should sign the declaration.
    • Get the declaration notarized or signed in the presence of a local authority if required.
For SPORTS or Private Tour Operators:
  1. Book a Package:
    • Choose and book a travel package through SPORTS or a private tour operator. Ensure the package includes sponsorship services.
  2. Provide Required Information:
    • Submit your personal details and travel plan to the tour operator.
    • The tour operator will prepare the sponsorship declaration and handle the documentation.
  3. Payment:
    • Pay any applicable fees for the sponsorship service. Sponsorship costs with a private tour operator typically range between ₹3500 to ₹4500 for a trip of two to three persons lasting 3 to 4 days.

Documentation Required from the Sponsor:

  • Declaration of Sponsorship: A formal letter stating the sponsor’s agreement to sponsor your visit.
  • Sponsor’s Identification Proof: Copy of the sponsor’s Aadhaar card or other valid ID.
  • Ration Card Number: The sponsor’s ration card number.
  • Proof of Residence: If required, proof of the sponsor’s residence in Lakshadweep.

Sample Declaration of Sponsorship:

[Date]

To,
The Administration of Lakshadweep,
[Address]

Subject: Declaration of Sponsorship for [Your Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, [Sponsor’s Name], resident of [Sponsor’s Address], holding Ration Card Number [Ration Card Number], hereby declare that I am sponsoring [Your Name] for their visit to Lakshadweep. The details of the visit are as follows:

– Visitor’s Name: [Your Name]
– Relationship with Sponsor: [Relationship]
– Purpose of Visit: [Purpose of Visit]
– Duration of Stay: [Dates of Stay]

I take full responsibility for their stay and will ensure compliance with all local regulations during their visit.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely,
[Sponsor’s Signature]
[Sponsor’s Name]
[Sponsor’s Contact Information]

By securing a sponsor and obtaining the necessary declaration, you complete an essential step toward obtaining your entry permit for Lakshadweep, ensuring a smooth and well-organized trip.

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Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents for Lakshadweep Entry Permit

Before applying for your entry permit to visit Lakshadweep, ensure you have gathered all necessary documents based on your permit category. Here’s a detailed guide on what documents are required:

Visit Permit Category (Tourists):

  1. Identity Proof:
    • Passport or Masked Aadhaar or Voter ID or Driving License (any one).
    • Ensure the identity proof is valid and matches the details provided in your application.
  2. Passport Size Photo:
    • Recent passport-sized photograph.
    • Standard specifications apply (e.g., white background, frontal view).
  3. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) or Non-Involvement in Offence Certificate:
    • This certificate verifies that you do not have any criminal records.
    • Obtain the PCC from your local police authority or through the online portal of your state (if available).
  4. Declaration of the Sponsor:
    • A formal declaration from your sponsor (either a local resident of Lakshadweep, SPORTS, or a private tour operator) stating their sponsorship for your visit.
    • Include sponsor’s details, ration card number, and their agreement to sponsor your stay.

LTC (Leave Travel Concession) Category:

  1. Identity Proof:
    • Passport or Masked Aadhaar or Voter ID or Driving License (any one).
    • Ensure the identity proof is valid and matches the details provided in your application.
  2. Passport Size Photo:
    • Recent passport-sized photograph.
    • Standard specifications apply (e.g., white background, frontal view).
  3. LTC Sanction Letter:
    • Obtain the LTC sanction letter from your Institution/Ministry/Department.
    • This letter confirms your eligibility for LTC and specifies the purpose of your travel to Lakshadweep.

Tips for Document Preparation:

  • Validity: Ensure all documents are valid for the duration of your intended stay in Lakshadweep.
  • Accuracy: Double-check that the information provided in your documents matches your application details.
  • Submission: Prepare both physical and digital copies of your documents as required by the application process.

By preparing these documents meticulously, you will streamline the application process for your Lakshadweep entry permit, making your travel arrangements smoother and hassle-free.

Step 4: Fill Up the Application Form for Lakshadweep Entry Permit

After gathering all the necessary documents, the next step is to fill out the application form for your Lakshadweep entry permit. Here’s how you can do it, whether online or offline:

Online Application:

  1. Visit the Official e-Permit Portal:
  2. Create an Account:
    • If you don’t already have an account, register on the portal by providing your email address and creating a password.
  3. Fill Out the Application Form:
    • Log in to your account and fill out the application form with accurate personal details.
    • Provide information such as your name, contact details, purpose of visit, preferred island, and travel dates.
  4. Upload Documents:
    • Upload scanned copies of the required documents:
      • Identity proof (Passport, masked Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License).
      • Passport-sized photograph.
      • Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) or Non-Involvement in Offence Certificate.
      • Declaration of Sponsorship.
  5. Payment:
    • Pay the necessary fees online, if applicable, for processing your application.
    • Fees typically include an application fee and heritage fee based on age (if applicable).
  6. Submit the Application:
    • Review all information entered for accuracy.
    • Submit the completed application form and documents through the portal.
  7. Receive Confirmation:
    • Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your application reference number.
    • The permit processing time varies, but you can expect the permit to be emailed to you approximately 15 days before your scheduled travel date.

Offline Application:

  1. Download the Application Form:
    • Visit the official website of the Lakshadweep Administration or obtain the form from the District Collector’s office in Kavaratti.
    • Download the application form for the entry permit.
  2. Fill Out the Application Form:
    • Complete the application form manually with accurate information.
    • Provide details such as your name, contact details, purpose of visit, preferred island, and travel dates.
  3. Attach Documents:
    • Gather physical copies of the required documents:
      • Identity proof (Passport, masked Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License).
      • Passport-sized photograph.
      • Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) or Non-Involvement in Offence Certificate.
      • Declaration of Sponsorship.
  4. Submit the Application:
    • Visit the District Collector’s office in Kavaratti or the designated submission location.
    • Submit the completed application form along with all necessary documents.
  5. Verification and Processing:
    • The offline process may take longer than online submission due to physical handling of documents.
    • Await further communication from the Lakshadweep Administration regarding your application status.

Tips for Filling Out the Application Form:

  • Accuracy: Ensure all information provided is accurate and matches the details in your supporting documents.
  • Legibility: Write or type clearly if filling out the form manually.
  • Checklist: Use a checklist to ensure you have included all required documents before submission.

The next and final step after submitting your application for the Lakshadweep entry permit would typically involve:

5) Wait for Processing and Approval:

  1. Confirmation Email: After submitting your application online or offline, you should receive a confirmation email or acknowledgment from the Lakshadweep Administration. This email may include your application reference number for tracking purposes.
  2. Processing Time: The processing time for the entry permit varies but generally takes around 15 days before your scheduled travel date. During this period:
    • Check Application Status: If an online tracking option is available, monitor the status of your application periodically.
    • Prepare for Travel: Use this time to make any necessary travel arrangements, including booking flights or arranging for transportation to Lakshadweep.
  3. Receive Permit: Once your application is processed and approved:
    • Permit Issuance: You will receive the entry permit via email or through the communication method specified during application.
    • Print or Save: Print a physical copy of the permit or save a digital copy on your mobile device. You will need to present this permit upon arrival in Lakshadweep.
  4. Further Instructions: Follow any additional instructions provided with the permit, such as specific guidelines or restrictions during your stay in Lakshadweep.
  5. Contact Information: Keep contact information handy in case you need to reach out to the Lakshadweep Administration or your sponsor for any queries or updates regarding your permit.

Additional Tips:

  • Document Checklist: Double-check all required documents are submitted and accurate to avoid delays.
  • Stay Informed: Stay updated on any changes in regulations or procedures related to travel to Lakshadweep.
  • Local Support: If you have a local sponsor or tour operator, they can provide valuable assistance in navigating the process and addressing any issues that may arise.

By following these steps and staying organized throughout the process, you will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the beautiful islands of Lakshadweep.

Lakshadweep Entry Permit for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals wishing to visit Lakshadweep must obtain a special entry permit. The process is slightly different and involves additional steps and documentation compared to Indian nationals.

Steps to Obtain the Entry Permit:

Step 1: Sponsorship

  1. Choosing a Sponsor:
    • As a foreign national, you must have a sponsor for your visit to Lakshadweep. The options include:
      • SPORTS (Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports): Book a package or government accommodation through SPORTS, which will act as your sponsor.
      • Private Tour Operators: Book through a private tour operator or hotel in Lakshadweep that provides sponsorship services.
  2. Obtaining the Declaration of Sponsorship:
    • The sponsor will provide a declaration confirming they are sponsoring your visit.
    • The declaration should include the sponsor’s name, contact details, and their agreement to sponsor your stay.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Foreign nationals must gather and prepare the following documents:

  1. Passport:
    • A valid passport with a clear photocopy of the identification page.
  2. Visa:
    • A valid Indian visa. Ensure your visa permits travel to restricted areas like Lakshadweep.
  3. Passport Size Photo:
    • Recent passport-sized photographs as per standard specifications.
  4. Declaration of Sponsorship:
    • A declaration from your sponsor, as described above.
  5. Travel Itinerary:
    • Detailed travel itinerary including dates, accommodation details, and activities planned.
  6. Proof of Accommodation:
    • Booking confirmation from the hotel or resort where you will be staying.

Step 3: Application Submission

  1. Online Application:
    • Visit the e-Permit Portal: Go to e-Permit Portal.
    • Create an Account: Register on the portal if you haven’t already.
    • Fill Out the Application: Provide personal details, travel dates, and other required information.
    • Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
    • Payment: Pay the necessary fees online.
    • Submit: Submit the completed application and note the application reference number.
  2. Offline Application:
    • Obtain the Form: Download the application form from the Lakshadweep Administration’s website or get it from your tour operator.
    • Fill Out the Form: Complete the application with accurate information.
    • Attach Documents: Attach physical copies of all required documents.
    • Submit: Submit the application form and documents to the relevant authority or through your tour operator.

Step 4: Verification and Approval

  1. Processing Time:
    • The processing time for foreign nationals may vary. It typically takes longer than for Indian nationals due to additional verification processes.
  2. Status Updates:
    • If applying online, track your application status using the reference number provided.
  3. Receive Permit:
    • Upon approval, you will receive the entry permit via email or through your tour operator. Print a copy or save a digital version.

Step 5: Upon Arrival in Lakshadweep

  1. Carry Your Permit:
    • Ensure you carry the entry permit, passport, visa, and other travel documents at all times.
  2. Follow Local Regulations:
    • Adhere to all local rules and guidelines during your stay in Lakshadweep.

Additional Notes

  • Advance Planning: Start the application process well in advance to account for any delays in permit issuance.
  • Local Assistance: Engage a reputable tour operator to assist with the process and provide local support.

Extension Rules

If you need to extend your stay in Lakshadweep beyond the period initially granted in your entry permit, you must apply for an extension. Here are the steps and rules regarding extensions:

Extension Procedure

  1. Application for Extension:
    • Submit an application for an extension of your stay to the Lakshadweep Administration. This can usually be done through your tour operator or directly with the local authorities in Lakshadweep.
  2. Required Documents:
    • Original Entry Permit: Your original entry permit document.
    • Passport and Visa: Valid passport and visa.
    • Reason for Extension: A written statement explaining the reason for the requested extension.
    • Proof of Accommodation: Confirmation of extended accommodation arrangements.
    • Additional Fees: Pay any additional fees required for the extension.
  3. Approval Process:
    • The application will be reviewed by the Lakshadweep Administration.
    • Extensions are granted based on availability, the reason for the request, and compliance with local regulations.
  4. Processing Time:
    • The processing time for an extension request can vary, so it is advisable to apply well before your current permit expires.

Fees for Extension

  • The fees for extending your stay are typically additional to the original permit fees.
  • Check with the Lakshadweep Administration or your tour operator for the exact fee structure and payment methods.

Important Notes

  • Advance Application: Apply for an extension well before your current permit expires to avoid any legal issues.
  • Compliance with Local Laws: Ensure you comply with all local laws and regulations during your extended stay.
  • Consult Your Sponsor: Keep your sponsor informed about your plans to extend your stay, as their support might be required for the extension process.

By following these steps and ensuring all necessary documentation is in order, foreign nationals can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free visit to the beautiful Lakshadweep islands

Written by 

Me, Debojyoti Dey Mazumder, one of the directors of Promise India Tourism Pvt Ltd, has been in the tours and travel business since 2010. Having experience of operating tours to different destinations of India I wish to share my knowledge to promote them through discussions, blogs, articles, photo stories etc on different platforms.

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