Andaman Permit and Entry Rules for Indian and Foreign Visitors
Andaman permit and entry rules explained: ID needed for Indian visitors, the restricted area permit for foreigners, closed areas and what to carry.
Many travellers ask whether they need a permit for the Andamans. The short answer is that tourists do not need a complicated permit for the main islands, but the rules differ for Indian and foreign visitors, and some areas are closed.
This guide explains the rules in plain terms, with one caution: rules change, so check the current position before you travel.
Cellular Jail, Port Blair.
Indian citizens | Foreign visitors | |
|---|---|---|
Permit for main tourist islands | Not needed | Restricted area permit issued on arrival |
ID needed | A valid government photo ID | Passport and visa |
Cost | None | Usually no fee |
Closed areas | Tribal reserves and some islands | The same |
Indian visitors
Indian citizens do not need a permit to visit the main tourist islands, including Port Blair, Havelock and Neil. You should carry a valid government photo ID such as an Aadhaar card, passport or driving licence. You will be asked for it at the airport, at the ferry terminals and at some hotels.
Foreign visitors
Foreign nationals need a valid Indian visa and a restricted area permit, often called a RAP. For most tourist islands it is issued on arrival at Port Blair airport or at the entry point, without a fee. The permit is usually valid for a limited number of days and may restrict some islands.
Rules for specific nationalities vary, and some areas require extra approval. Confirm with the immigration authorities before you travel.
Areas that are closed
Visitors cannot go to:
Tribal reserves: including the Jarawa reserve areas and North Sentinel Island. Photographing the tribes is illegal.
Certain islands: some are military or protected areas.
Some beaches and reefs: closed for protection or safety reasons.
On the road to Baratang, the convoy rules apply when you cross the reserve, and photography of local people is not allowed.
What to carry
Valid photo ID, or passport and visa for foreigners.
Printed or digital ferry and flight tickets.
Hotel confirmations, as some check-ins ask for them.
A small amount of cash, since ATMs on Havelock and Neil can be unreliable.
Any permits issued on arrival, kept until you leave.
Entry fees you should know about
Some sites charge entry fees, and a few charge a separate camera fee. Cellular Jail, Ross Island and the marine parks are examples. Our Ross Island guide shows what it costs on the island.
Our advice
Treat the rules as a checklist, not a hurdle. Carry ID, keep digital copies, and check the current position with your tour operator. We confirm the permit position for each guest before they travel.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a permit for the Andamans?
No permit is needed for the main tourist islands. Carry valid photo ID.
Do foreigners need a permit?
Yes, a restricted area permit, issued on arrival for most tourist islands.
Is the permit free?
Usually yes, but confirm.
Can I visit tribal areas?
No. They are closed, and photography of tribes is illegal.
What is the safest approach?
Carry ID, confirm the rules with your operator and keep digital copies.
Plan your Andaman days with us
We check the paperwork, book the ferries and the stays, and brief you before you fly. Explore the Andaman destination page or talk to a trip designer.
Photo credits
Cellular Jail: Harvinder Chandigarh, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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