Do You Need a Passport or Permit for Andaman? (2025–26 Rules Updated)
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a dreamscape of shimmering white sands and ancient mangroves. But because of their unique geographical location—closer to Thailand and Myanmar than to the Indian mainland—and their sensitive tribal ecosystems, many travelers feel a sense of legal anxiety.
Do I need a passport? Is there an “Andaman Visa”? What is a RAP permit?
If these questions are keeping you up at night, take a breath. While the rules are specific, they are also quite straightforward once you break them down. In this guide, we cover the updated 2025–26 entry regulations for both Indian citizens and foreign nationals.
1. For Indian Citizens: Is a Passport Required?
The most common question we receive is whether Indian travelers need a passport to fly to Port Blair.
The Answer: No.
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a Union Territory of India. Flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Bengaluru are domestic flights. You are not crossing an international border.
Mandatory Indian Tourist Documents for Andaman
While a passport is not required, valid government-issued photo identification is mandatory for flights, ferries, and hotel check-ins.
| Aadhaar Card | Highly Recommended | Standard ID for airport security and hotel check-in |
| Voter ID Card | Accepted | Valid for flights, ferries, and accommodation |
| Driving License | Accepted | Required if you plan to rent a scooter in Havelock |
| Passport | Optional | Can be used as primary ID but not mandatory |
| PAN Card | Not Recommended | Often not accepted by hotels and ferry operators |
Pro Tip for Families: If traveling with children without Aadhaar cards, carry a school ID or birth certificate. Airlines and ferries are strict about age verification.
2. For Foreign Nationals: Passports, Visas & the RAP
For international travelers, Andaman is classified as a Restricted Area and falls under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The Passport & Visa Rule
All foreign nationals must carry:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- A valid Indian Visa
- E-Visas: E-Tourist Visas are valid for Andaman.
- OCI/PIO Cardholders: Treated as foreign nationals and must carry their foreign passport along with OCI/PIO card.
What Is the RAP Permit?
RAP (Restricted Area Permit) allows foreigners to visit specific inhabited islands.
2025–26 Update: Foreign nationals (except citizens of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan) no longer require pre-approved RAPs for major tourist islands such as Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep).
How to Get the RAP
- On Arrival: Issued at Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
- Cost: Free
- Validity: 30 days (extendable by 15 days with police permission)
Important: All foreigners must still report to the immigration counter for passport stamping and registration.
3. Restricted Zones: Where No One Can Go
- Tribal Reserves: Entry without special permission is illegal.
- Nicobar Islands: Closed to tourists except with government permits.
- Marine National Parks (Night Stay): Overnight stays require Forest Department approval.
4. Permits for Special Activities
- Drones: Highly restricted. Registration on the Digital Sky platform and police clearance required.
- Research / Journalism: Requires special visas and MHA approval.
5. The “Permit” for Inter-Island Ferries
There is no separate government ferry permit, but valid documentation is required.
- Indian Travelers: Government-issued ID
- Foreigners: Passport + RAP
IDs are checked against the ferry manifest at the jetty.
6. Why These Rules Exist
- Ecological Protection: Prevents over-tourism in fragile areas
- Tribal Safety: Protects indigenous communities
- National Security: Ensures regulated maritime borders
7. Checklist Before You Fly to Port Blair
For Indian Citizens
- Original Aadhaar / Voter ID / Driving License
- Digital ID backups
- Hotel booking & return flight printouts
- Marriage certificate (for honeymoon inclusions)
For Foreigners / OCI Holders
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Printed Indian Visa / E-Visa
- RAP (issued on arrival)
- Return flight ticket
8. FAQs
Q. Can I travel on a Student ID?
A. Student IDs may be accepted by airlines but are often rejected by hotels and ferries.
Q. Is RAP required for OCI holders?
A. Yes, OCI holders must register at immigration on arrival.
Q. What if I lose my ID?
A. Report immediately to the nearest police station and obtain an FIR.
Q. Can I visit Baratang Island?
A. Indian tourists can visit in regulated convoys. Foreigners must ensure RAP coverage.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, visiting Andaman is as simple as carrying a valid ID or getting a quick airport stamp. The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has made travel easier than ever in 2025–26. At SeaShell Hotels & Resorts, our concierge team assists with ferry bookings, permits, and documentation—so your only decision is which beach to visit first.
Ready to start your Andaman adventure? Book Now.
Disclaimer: Entry rules may change based on government notifications. Always verify with the official Andaman Tourism website before travel.