Lakshadweep entry permit
You apply yourself, online. Here is the order that works, with the source and date for every rule.
Apply on epermit.utl.gov.inWho needs a permit
Everyone who isn't a Lakshadweep native needs an entry permit — Indian citizens too.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · epermit.utl.gov.in
Indian citizens and foreign nationals
Foreign nationals (with a tourist visa) may visit Agatti, Bangaram and Kadmat only. Indian citizens may visit the islands listed on their permit.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · lakshadweep.gov.in⇄ Sources disagree
The official tourism page (updated 4 Sep 2026) names Agatti, Bangaram and Kadmat. The 1967 Entry Rules say Kadmat, Agatti and notified uninhabited islands. Other source
Foreign nationals can't book ship tickets online — the ship booking site sends them to the Samudram package.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · IRCTC Lakshadweep FAQ
Apply in 5 steps
- Sign up on the e-permit portal with your name, email and mobile number (OTP).
- Apply under the Tourist category, listing every traveller.
- Pay the application and heritage fees online.
- Track the application status.
- The permit arrives by email — save a copy offline.
✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · epermit.utl.gov.in
Apply yourself online. Tourists no longer need a sponsor or a police clearance certificate.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · epermit.utl.gov.in✓ Confirmed locally · 13 Sep 2026
One application form covers up to six people.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · epermit.utl.gov.in
Fees
Fees: ₹50 application fee per person, plus a heritage fee of ₹200 per adult (₹100 for ages 12–18). Fees are non-refundable and payment-gateway charges are extra.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · e-permit fee notice
When to apply
Apply at least 14 days before you travel, listing your exact dates and every island — including ones you only pass through.! Not yet verified
Book in this order
- Permit first.
- Ship ticket (if you're sailing). Get your permit before booking a ship — ship tickets ask for your permit number, and bookings that don't match the permit's dates or islands are rejected.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · IRCTC Lakshadweep terms
- Flights. Flights guide
On arrival
Report to the island's Registration Officer within 24 hours of arriving, and carry your permit.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · Entry & Residence Rules 1967
Your permit is valid only for the islands listed on it.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · Entry & Residence Rules 1967
Transit happens only via Kavaratti or Agatti, for up to 12 hours.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · Entry & Residence Rules 1967⇄ Sources disagree
The 1967 Rules apply the 12-hour transit limit to foreign tourists. News reports on the April 2026 circular apply it to all tourists.
Rules while you're there
Don't touch, collect or damage coral or marine life, and never anchor on coral.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · Tourist Trade Guidelines 2026
Single-use plastic is banned, including PET water bottles and plastic cups.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · UT order, 25 Jan 2019
A 2026 regulation may allow alcohol at approved resorts. No licensed outlet is confirmed, so don't plan on it.! Not yet verified⇄ Sources disagree
One report says the Lakshadweep Excise Regulation 2026 came into force on 12 Jun 2026; others say it takes effect on a date still to be notified.
Dress and photography guidance is coming — we haven't found an official source yet.! Not yet verified
What changed
- 29 Apr 2026A circular dated 29 Apr 2026 dropped the sponsor and police-clearance requirements for tourists; Lakshadweep Police now do the background check.! Not yet verified
- 18 Aug 2026The Samudram cruise package is suspended “until further directions” while its ship is maintained.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · samudram.utl.gov.in notice
- 1 Sep 2026Hotels, resorts, homestays and water-sports centres need a Lakshadweep Tourist Trade Permit — new ones before opening, existing ones by 30 Sep 2026.✓ Verified · 13 Sep 2026 · UT Department of Tourism
Permit checklist
What only you can do. Print it or screenshot it.
- Permit application submitted — every island listed, including ones you only pass through
- Application and heritage fees paid
- Permit email saved offline
- Ship ticket booked in your own IRCTC Lakshadweep account, with your permit number
- Flights booked (small planes: check the baggage allowance)
- Photo ID that matches your bookings