Lakshadweep Permit Guide 2026: How to Get Your Entry Permit

Lakshadweep is one of the few places in India where you cannot simply book a ticket and turn up. Every visitor who is not a native of the islands needs an entry permit issued by the Lakshadweep Administration. The good news: since the administration's circular of 29 April 2026, the process is much simpler. This guide covers the current rules, what you need, and how Coral Nest can help.

"The permit is not a hurdle — it is the reason these lagoons still look the way they do."

What changed in 2026

• No local sponsor needed — tourists no longer need a resident or host to sign a sponsor undertaking.
• No Police Clearance Certificate from your home town — security verification is now done by the Lakshadweep Police after you apply.
• Apply at least 14 days before your travel date.
• New official portal from 15 October 2026: lak.e-permit.utl.gov.in (the old epermit.utl.gov.in portal is being retired).

Who needs an entry permit?

• Every Indian citizen who is not a native of Lakshadweep, including children and infants.
• Foreign nationals, who also need a valid passport and Indian visa and may visit only the islands open to them.
• Only government officials, armed forces personnel on duty and their families are exempt.

Documents you should keep ready

• Government photo ID for every traveller (Aadhaar, passport or voter ID).
• A recent passport-size photograph in digital form.
• Your planned travel dates and the exact islands you will visit or pass through.
• Accommodation details on each island — a Coral Nest booking works well here.

How the application works

How long it takes

In the December to April high season, apply earlier than the 14-day minimum. Fees and rules are revised from time to time, so always confirm on the official portal before paying.

Island by island

Mistakes that get applications rejected

• Applying less than 14 days before travel.
• Names or spellings that do not match the ID exactly.
• Leaving out an island you will visit or transit through — you cannot enter islands not on the permit.
• Booking non-refundable flights before the permit is approved.
• Using the old portal after 15 October 2026.

Let Coral Nest help

Coral Nest is run from the islands. Book a stay through us and our hosts and permit assistance partners can guide you through the new portal so your application is right the first time.