Entry Permit for Lakshadweep: Step by Step Guide

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:
   • Go to the e-Permit portal dedicated to Lakshadweep at 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