India Guides

Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Permits and  Restrictions

For Foreigners

Foreigners need a permit to visit the Andaman islands. The permit can be obtained on arrival at Port Blair (either by air or sea) from the immigration authorities. The permit is valid for a maximum of 30 days. Apart from Port Blair, permits can also be obtained from –
Indian Missions Overseas.
Foreigners registration Office at Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai.
Immigration Authorities on airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai.

The following islands are open for night halts–
South Andaman Island
Middle Andaman Island
Little Andaman Island
Neil Island
Havelock Island
Long Island
Diglipur (the only island open for visit in North Andaman)
Baratang
Islands in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (excluding Boat, Holiday, Twin, Tarmugli, Malay and Pluto Islands)
One will have to further seek permission to take a night halt at the park.

Day long excursions to the following islands are also allowed – Ross Island, Narcondum Island, Interview Island, Brother Island, Sister Island and Barren Island (where you are not allowed to disembark from the vessel).

The Nicobar Islands are off limits to all foreigners.

For Indians
Indian nationals need no permit to visit Andamans. However, visiting the tribal areas of Andaman and Nicobar is restricted and permits are granted by the Deputy Commissioner, Andaman District, Port Blair for special cases like research, government business or trade.