Mizoram is an Inner Line Permit state, so an Indian visitor needs a permit to enter, even though it is part of India.
You can apply online on the official Mizoram government portal, ilp.mizoram.gov.in, and it is also commonly issued on arrival at Lengpui airport in Aizawl and at the main road entry points. Carry it with you. If you come from abroad, the rule is different and stricter, and it changed at the end of 2024. That part is explained lower down.
Who needs a Mizoram Inner Line Permit
- Every Indian citizen who is not a resident of Mizoram needs one to enter the state.
- It is checked when you arrive, at Lengpui airport in Aizawl and at the road entry points such as Vairengte on the Assam side.
- Add each traveller so the names match your identity proof.
- A resident of Mizoram does not need one.
How to apply, step by step
- Go to the official portal ilp.mizoram.gov.in, fill in your details, add each traveller, upload a photo and your identity proof, and pay the fee.
- Download and print your pass.
- Keep it on your phone and carry a printout, because it is checked on arrival.
Getting it on arrival
Many visitors get the permit on arrival rather than online.
- At Lengpui airport in Aizawl, there is a counter that issues the permit to visitors on landing.
- At the main road entry points, the local office issues it as well.
- Carry passport size photos and copies of your identity proof to make this quick.
For a smooth trip, especially if you land late or travel in a group, applying online in advance saves time.
What it costs
The permit carries a small government fee, paid on the official portal or at the counter. The Mizoram fee schedule lists more than one category, and the small tourist pass is separate from the longer regular permit, so the exact tourist amount is best taken from the official portal or the counter at the time you apply, rather than from any other site. [Exact tourist pass fee to confirm on the official source. Last checked 13 September 2026. Take the live amount from ilp.mizoram.gov.in or the arrival counter.]
Validity
- The tourist pass is a short duration permit, commonly issued for about 15 days, and it can be extended for a longer stay through the same official channel.
- If you plan to stay longer, ask about the extension when you apply, so you are not caught short.
Documents you need
- One government photo identity for each traveller. Indians can use Aadhaar, a voter card, a driving licence, or a passport.
- Two passport size photos, which help most at the arrival counter.
- A working mobile number.
For foreign travellers (read this carefully)
The rule for foreign nationals changed at the end of 2024. Mizoram is now back under the Protected Area system.
- A foreign national needs a Protected Area Permit to visit Mizoram. This is granted by the Union Home Ministry or the state authorities, not simply bought online like the Indian permit.
- On top of the permit, a foreign visitor must register with the local Foreigners Registration Officer within 24 hours of arriving in the district.
- Citizens of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan, and people of Pakistani origin, need prior approval from the Union Home Ministry.
- Because this is not a simple online form, WayToIndia arranges the Protected Area Permit for you from start to finish, so you do not have to find your own way through it.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Arriving without a permit and without photos, which slows you down at the counter.
- Names on the permit not matching the identity proof you carry.
- Carrying only a phone copy. Also carry a printout.
- Letting a short pass lapse when you meant to stay longer. Ask about the extension in advance.
- A foreign traveller assuming the Indian permit applies to them. It does not. Foreigners follow the Protected Area rule above.
Questions people ask
Do Indians need a permit for Mizoram?
Yes. Every Indian visitor who is not a resident needs an Inner Line Permit for the state.
Can I get it on arrival?
Yes. It is commonly issued at Lengpui airport in Aizawl and at the main road entry points. Applying online in advance saves time.
How long is it valid?
The tourist pass is short, commonly about 15 days, and can be extended.
What does it cost?
A small government fee. Take the exact tourist amount from the official portal or the arrival counter, because the schedule has more than one category.
Do foreigners need an Inner Line Permit?
Foreigners follow a stricter rule. Since December 2024 they need a Protected Area Permit and must register with the local Foreigners office within 24 hours. WayToIndia can arrange this for you.