Everyone who is not an islander needs an entry permit to visit Lakshadweep, Indian and foreign alike.
The good news is that the rules are now easier. You apply online on the official site, epermit.utl.gov.in, and for tourists a police clearance is no longer needed. The fee is small.
Who needs the permit
- Every visitor who is not a native of the islands needs the permit. This includes all tourists.
- Government officials and armed forces members with their families are the main exception.
- Visitors from abroad also need it, along with a valid passport and an Indian visa.
What changed in 2026 (good news)
Lakshadweep has made the permit easier for tourists.
- A police clearance certificate is no longer needed for a tourist permit.
- A local sponsor is no longer needed for a tourist permit.
- The whole thing is done online, with up to six people on one application.
These changes make a Lakshadweep trip much simpler to plan than before.
How to apply, step by step
- Go to the official site epermit.utl.gov.in and start a tourist application.
- Add the travellers, up to six on one form, with their details.
- Upload the documents asked for, and pay the small fee online.
- Track the status on the same site and receive the permit by email.
- Carry a printout of the permit and your original identity for the journey, because you travel to the islands by ship or air and the permit is checked.
What it costs
The official fee is small and has two parts: - Application fee: 50 rupees for each applicant. - Heritage fee: 200 rupees for each person above 18, and 100 rupees for each child aged 12 to 18. - So an adult pays about 250 rupees in total. [Fees last checked 13 September 2026 on the official fees list. Confirm the live amounts on the official site.]
Documents you need
- A government photo identity for each traveller. Indians can use Aadhaar. Visitors from abroad need a passport and a valid Indian visa.
- A passport size photo as asked on the form.
- The travel details for your trip.
How long it takes and how long it is valid
The permit is issued online and sent to your email after the application is processed. Apply well ahead of your travel dates so the permit is ready before you book your ship or flight. [Exact processing time and validity are set by the administration and shown on the official site. Confirm there. Last checked 13 September 2026.]
Common mistakes to avoid
- Thinking no permit is needed. Every non islander needs one.
- Leaving the application to the last minute, before the permit is issued.
- Forgetting that a foreign traveller also needs a valid Indian visa.
- Carrying only a phone copy. Carry a printout.
- Applying on a look alike site. Only epermit.utl.gov.in is official.
Questions people ask
Do I need a permit for Lakshadweep?
Yes. Everyone who is not an islander needs an entry permit, including all tourists.
Is a police clearance needed?
Not any more for tourists. That rule has been relaxed.
How much is the permit?
About 250 rupees for an adult, made of a 50 rupee application fee and a 200 rupee heritage fee. Confirm the live figure on the official site.
Can foreign tourists apply?
Yes, on the same official site, with a passport and a valid Indian visa.
Where do I apply?
Only on the official site, epermit.utl.gov.in.