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Can I go to India? Rules for travelling from the UK

The rules on travel to India have changed regularly during the pandemic, due to Covid variants and lockdowns. But can we go there now, and what are the entry requirements? Here's what you need to know. 

Can I travel to India now?

Technically yes, although scheduled international flights to India are currently suspended. A limited number of flights are currently operating between India and the UK under a bilateral agreement but these arrangements may be subject to change at short notice. 

What are the entry requirements for India?

From Monday 14 February 2022 those who do need to travel to India are no longer required to take a Covid test before flying, or quarantine on arrival, if they're fully vaccinated. Before flying all travellers should submit a self-declaration form on the online ‘ Air Suvidha’ portal and include proof of Covid vaccination status on the form. 

Those who are not vaccinated should take a PCR test within the 72 hours before departure and submit proof of a negative result on the portal. 

Is India still in lockdown?

Some states in India still have some restrictions and curfews in place, and are changing these restrictions constantly in response to case numbers. We advise checking updates for your specific destination before travelling as the rules can change quickly.

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UK bans travel from India starting Friday. Here’s what it means

Following the cancellation of UK prime minister Boris Johnson's India visit due to the COVID-19 crisis, India has become the 40th country on the UK's Red List. By implication, most travellers won't be allowed to enter the UK if they are coming from or through India. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said India would be placed on the list starting Friday, 23 April, 4am GMT (9.30am IST). So what does it mean to be on the UK's Red List?

Why is India on the UK's Red List?

With concerns that the emerging variants of COVID-19 are highly infectious and that the vaccines may not be as effective, the UK has banned travel from 39 countries, including Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Philippines in Asia. India will become the 40th country to join the list. Health authorities say 103 cases of a new COVID variant from India have been detected in the UK.

In mid-February, the UK had introduced mandatory hotel quarantine for 33 Red-listed countries including the UAE, Brazil and South Africa where new COVID-19 variants had been reported; these countries remain on the list.

How does this impact plans for travel?

There is no flight ban. Travellers from a Red-listed country, or those who have passed through a Red-listed country in the last 10 days, will be denied entry to the UK. Exceptions are made for British and Irish passport-holders and UK residents.

What are the current rules for travel to the UK from a country not on the Red List?

The UK closed all travel corridors in mid-January 2021. With the UK under lockdown, no leisure travel is permitted. All travellers to the UK need to provide a negative RT-PCR test result taken within the last 72 hours and provide a passenger locator form with contact info and journey details. They need to book a post-arrival travel test package, and self-isolate for 10 days with testing on the second day and the eighth day after arrival. A positive test result would require further quarantine. Rules differ for England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .

What proofs do UK-passport holders and residents need?

They will have to present a negative RT-PCR test taken within the last 72 hours, and a passenger locator form. They will also have to book a post-travel managed isolation package, which is a 10-day mandatory hotel quarantine for GBP1,750/Rs1,83,260 per adult for all meals, stay, transport and testing, and GBP325/Rs34,040 for a child aged between five to 12 years.

There's also a traffic light system?

Once England opens to leisure travel, the plan is to ease restrictions on Red-listed countries by sorting them into three categories. While the rules for a Red rating would be the same, it is likely that travellers that are from or have recently passed through Amber-listed countries would need to self-isolate for 10 days, with the option of the test-to-release on day five to end self-isolation early. Those from Green-listed countries would no longer need to quarantine, but like those from Amber-listed countries, would need to pre-book the post-arrival test package.

What goes into taking a country off the Red List?

Key factors in the assessment include the percentage of the Red-listed country's population that have been vaccinated, the rate of infection, the prevalence of the emerging variants, and the country's access to reliable scientific data and genomic sequencing.

More on the UK's Red List here and the traffic light system here .

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UK flight restrictions explained: Guidelines for passengers

Currently, indian airlines air india and vistara, in addition to british airways and virgin atlantic, are operating flights between the two countries..

India has extended the restrictions on flights to and from the United Kingdom till February 14, allowing airlines to operate only 30 weekly flights between the two countries. Earlier, the restrictions, which were imposed since January 8, were in place till January 23.

Why did the government impose restrictions on UK flights?

Last month, the Indian government decided to suspend all flights from the UK — and these were partially resumed January 8 onward. This was done in light of a mutated strain of the novel coronavirus , which originated in the UK and spread to over two dozen countries at the time, including in India. Now, after assessing the situation pertaining to this Covid-19 variant, the government has decided to further extend the restrictions on the number of flights from the UK till February 14.

Currently, Indian airlines Air India and Vistara, in addition to British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, are operating flights between the two countries. The two British carriers have been notified by the DGCA about the extension and have been asked to file their schedules under the existing India-UK air bubble with the regulator for approval.

What do passengers arriving from the UK need to do?

The travel guidelines for passengers remain the same. In line with the guidelines for other international arrivals, all inbound passengers from the UK will have to submit a self-declaration on the online portal (www.newdelhiairport.in) at least 72 hours before the scheduled travel. All passengers also need to carry a negative RT-PCR test report, for which the test should have been conducted within 72 hours prior to departure. Airlines have been asked to ensure every passenger is carrying the negative test report prior to allowing them to board the flight.

Upon arrival at Indian airports, all passengers coming in from the UK would be mandatorily subjected to self-paid RT-PCR tests. This means that any passenger taking a connecting flight via one of the international hubs, such as Dubai, Doha, etc, would also be subject to mandatory testing. For the passengers who await their test results at Indian airports, adequate arrangements for isolation have been made.

There are some state government guidelines that are applicable to passengers as well. For example, the Delhi government has said all passengers arriving from the UK must undergo mandatory institutional quarantine upon arrival, even if they are carrying negative certificates.

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What happens if a passenger tests positive for Covid-19 upon arrival?

Passengers testing positive shall be moved in to an institutional facility in a separate (isolation) unit coordinated by the respective State Health Authorities. They would earmark specific facilities for such isolation and treatment, and take necessary action to send the positive samples to Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium ( INSACOG ) Labs. If the test report reveals that the Covid-19 variant is not the new one, then the ongoing treatment protocol, including home isolation or treatment at the facility as per case severity, will be followed. If the test report reveals that a passenger has tested positive for the new variant, then the patient will continue to remain in a separate isolation unit.

While necessary treatment as per the existing protocol will be given, the patient will be tested on the 14th day, after having tested positive in the initial test. The patient will be kept in the isolation facility till their sample is tested negative.

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What happens in case one has traveled next to a Covid-19 positive passenger?

For passengers who test positive upon arrival, all their contacts will be subject to institutional quarantine and will be tested as per ICMR guidelines. For this purpose, the contacts will include co-passengers seated in the same row, three rows in front and three rows behind along with identified cabin crew.

The state-wise passenger manifest of flights from the UK landing at Delhi, Mumbai , Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai airports for the said period shall be conveyed by the Bureau of Immigration to state governments and/or the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).

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Can I travel to India from the UK? Entry requirements, Covid tests and quarantine rules explained

Uk nationals arriving in india must quarantine for 10 days and take three pcr tests under new rules that mirror the restrictions faced by indian nationals entering the uk.

A tit-for-tat travel row between London and Delhi over the recognition of vaccines administered in India means that quarantine-free holidays to India are off the cards for UK visitors.

As of Monday 4 October, UK nationals arriving in India must quarantine for 10 days and take three PCR tests under new rules that mirror the restrictions faced by Indian nationals entering the UK.

What are the current travel rules to India?

As of Monday 4 October, travellers from the UK arriving in India, irrespective of vaccine status, must do the following.

Pre-departure

• Submit a self-declaration form online at newdelhiairport.in .
• Upload a negative PCR result from a test conducted within 72 hours prior to boarding.

On arrival in India

• Take a PCR test at the airport (at traveller’s own cost)
• Take a PCR test on day eight (at traveller’s own cost)
• Abide by a mandatory quarantine at home or at the destination address for 10 days after arrival

On return arrival to the UK

India was removed from the UK’s red list on Sunday 8 August, meaning that UK residents vaccinated in the UK do not need to self isolate on return to Britain.

• A single PCR test on or before day two following arrival in the UK is required. PCR tests are due to be scrapped in favour of the faster, cheaper antigen tests by the end month.

Why did India impose its new restrictions on UK arrivals?

The regulations come in response to the Government’s refusal to recognise the vaccination status of anyone vaccinated in India – a decision believed to have been made due to concerns over the country’s vaccine certification system.

Britain’s policy means that Indian nationals arriving in the UK are treated as unvaccinated and must therefore quarantine for 10 days, take a PCR test before departure, another test on or before day two, and a further test on day eight.

The Indian government has retaliated with identical restrictions.

Why does the UK not recognise vaccinations administered in India, and could this change?

Alex Ellis, British High Commissioner to India, has said that the UK government does not have a problem with Covishield, the Indian-made version of AstraZeneca’s Vaxzevria jab, but with Indian vaccination certificates.

“We’re clear Covishield is not a problem,” Mr Ellis said. “We have been having detailed technical discussions regarding certification, with the builders of the CoWIN app and the NHS app, about both apps.

“They’re happening at a rapid pace, to ensure that both countries mutually recognise the vaccine certificates issued by each other”.

Following India’s decision to impose reciprocal measures, the British High Commission spokesperson in India said that the UK is “continuing to engage” with India “to expand UK recognition of vaccine certification”.

EU nations including Italy, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Greece, Ireland, Spain and Estonia have all confirmed that they will recognise vaccines authorised in India.

Iceland and Switzerland have also agreed to do the same.

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Flying to India from UK? Latest travel guidelines and quarantine rules here

‘important update for passengers travelling from united kingdom to india,’ air india tweeted.

Starting today, visitors arriving in India from the United Kingdom will have to undergo go a mandatory 10-day quarantine even if they are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus disease (Covid-19). 

“Important update for passengers travelling from United kingdom to India,”Air India tweeted.

The guidelines for travellers from the United Kingdom shall now be as follows and will come into force from 4 October 2021.

Pre-Boarding:

1) All travellers should submit self-declaration form on the online "Air Suvidha" portal (www.newdelhiairport.in) before the scheduled travel

2) Passengers should upload a negative COVID-19 RTPCR report. This test should have been conducted within 72 hrs prior to undertaking the journey.

3) Each passenger shall also submit a declaration with respect to the authenticity of the report and will be liable for acriminal prosecution if found otherwise.

On Arrival:

1) Travellers irrespective of their vaccination status, arriving in India will undertake COVID-19 RT-PCR test on arrival at the airport and on day 8 after arrival at their own cost and will undergo mandatory quarantine at home or at the destination address for 10 days after arrival in India.

2) All such passengers under isolation/quarantine shall be regularly monitored by State/District Health Authorities.

Meanwhile, the UK on Friday said that it is continuing to cooperate with other countries across the globe to expand recognition of COVID vaccine certification in a phased approach. This statement comes after India decided to impose reciprocal measures on British nationals under which UK nationals arriving in the country from Britain will have to undergo mandatory quarantine at home or in the destination address for 10 days after their arrival.

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Passengers flying to domestic destinations must follow the following health protocols:

• Flyers are advised to self-monitor health and travel only if they have no symptoms of COVID-19.
• Announcements regarding COVID-19 and COVID appropriate behaviour will be made at the airport. Travellers flying via domestic flights are advised to follow these precautionary guidelines.
• Passengers must use a face mask/ cover, hand hygiene, and physical distancing of six feet as far as feasible.
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• If a passenger develops fever while travelling, he shall inform the cabin crew/ TTE/ bus conductor as per the situation.
• Passengers developing COVID-19 signs after reaching the destination should inform the District Surveillance Officer or the State National Call Centre (1075).
• For information on state-wise quarantine rules for domestic flights, flyers are advised to go through the state-wise travel guidelines section.

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Disclaimer: Passengers travelling to India are advised to check official websites of relevant authorities and local government agencies for the latest updates on travel retrictions and plan accordingly.

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For International travel, please check with the nearby Embassy or the Airline Concerned.

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As on : 29 Aug 2024 11:54 PM

84,51,80,590 (63.4%) 2nd dose administered

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Data from : CDC, WHO, ECDC, Wikipedia - The New York Times

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'Visa at Your Doorstep' service sees surge in demand with growing number of UK tourists to India

Britain featured among the top three source countries for foreign tourist arrivals making up a 9.82 per cent share between january and june this year..

There has been a significant surge in demand for the "Visa at Your Doorstep” service amid a growing number of UK visitors choosing India as a travel destination, visa facilitation service VFS Global said on Tuesday.

(Also Read | Travel 101: How to pack light when you're a woman solo traveller with just a carry-on; 7 essentials tips )

Surge in britain tourists arriving in india.

According to the latest Ministry of Tourism statistics, Britain featured among the top three source countries for foreign tourist arrivals making up a 9.82 per cent share between January and June this year. It comes as overall foreign tourist arrivals to India increased by around 64 per cent compared to previous years.

“The Visa at Your Doorstep (VAYD) service has recently experienced a significant surge in demand,” said Anirudh Singh, COO of Europe and CIS region at VFS Global – the technology services provider for governments and diplomatic missions, including the Indian mission in the UK. (Also read | Top places to experience Hong Kong's nightlife )

"The demand for convenient and personalised services is rising, and our VAYD service is perfectly positioned to meet this growing need. Equipped with mobile kits for biometric capture, our staff visit the preferred location of applicants, whether at their workplace, their hotel or their home. This seamless and convenient approach significantly enhances the travel experience, allowing travellers to focus on their plans rather than administrative paperwork,” he said.

Recently, when UK-based television production company South Shore Productions were planning their visit to India for a documentary on England cricket legend Freddie Flintoff, they opted for the VAYD service.

"The Visa at Your Doorstep service was used for a group of 14 of our staff ahead of a trip to India. VFS Global staff came to our office to process these rather than our team having to go to the visa office in person, which was helpful. The passports were returned with the visas in good time,” said a company spokesperson.

(Also Read | September travel alert: Top 6 most beautiful treks in India for those who love nature )

The service is designed to allow applicants to complete the Indian visa application process where they are, instead of having to visit a VFS Global visa centre located in different UK cities including London. It is intended as a time-saving solution for businesses and production houses that must apply for visas for several people simultaneously.

VFS Global said it also operates a form-filling optional service to ensure that forms are not rejected because key details have been missed to make the process of travel from the UK to India as smooth as possible.

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Our customers’ health and safety are of top priority for us. Here is an overview of the measures we are undertaking on ground and in air:

International COVID-19 Guidelines and Travel Advisory

For passengers travelling to india.

• Green Channel for passengers not having any dutiable or prohibited goods.
• Red Channel for passengers having dutiable or prohibited goods.

All passengers arriving from an international destination should collect their bags and clear customs at the first entry point in the country. This applies even if the bags are tagged until the final domestic destination. Passengers can recheck in from the transfer area check-in counters, post customs clearance.

Citizens of Afghanistan, China, Macau, Hong Kong and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these respective countries require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands, after obtaining prior approval either from the Ministry of External Affairs or Ministry of Home Affairs.

Click  here  to read the applicable arrival procedure for all international passengers. 

Please read the  FAQs  related to international departures and arrival.

For passengers travelling outside India

For Vistara operated flights to Abu Dhabi from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

Only the following categories of passengers will be allowed entry to Abu Dhabi:

• Holders of all types of visas i.e., newly issued Employment visa, newly issued residency visa, newly issued short/long stay visa, newly issued visit visa are permitted to travel to Abu Dhabi whether vaccinated or not vaccinated & do not require GDRFA or ICA Approval.
• GDRFA approval is required if the resident visa is stamped on the old/expired passport.
• Visitor visa holders, return ticket, and travel insurance is mandatory.
• Passenger must have a visitor visa, or a green card issued by the United States or passenger is holding a Residence Permit issued by the United Kingdom or European Union.
• The holders of a valid visa issued by the United States, United Kingdom, or European Union with a minimum validity period of 6 months.
• All customers May download the COVID-19 Al Hosn App before entering Abu Dhabi. Click to download –  Android  and  iOS  versions of the app.

When Transiting Abu Dhabi, please note the below requirement:

• Transiting passengers are not required to present a COVID-19 RT-PCR certificate unless it is mandated by their final destination.

All passengers to please take note of the below requirement; and if any of the Prohibited Scenario is Applicable will not be allowed to Travel to UAE

• The passenger with single name may get “ OK to Board” but Immigration may not allow the pax to enter the country .
• Only  Resident Visa  holders with a single name are allowed, rest all kinds of visa holders should have their  First Name & Surname  mentioned on the passport and the same should be mentioned on the VISA.
• If a person has only first name which is “ RAM DAYAL”, in such cases the passenger would be allowed to travel.
• Person with same first name and second name, the person would be accepted.
• In case the passport has only one name, but the Visa is issued with more than one name and Passenger Passport and has Father or Family Name; passenger will be allowed to travel.
• Passengers wanting to avail visa on arrival (VOA); passengers will be accepted if the father or family name is mentioned in passport.

The following examples are stated: 

• First name: Sultan Ahmed
• Surname: No surname

Status: Allowed

• First name: Monica
• Surname: Monica
• First Name: Ahmed
• First name: S
• Surname: Ahmed

Travel Update for Passengers Travelling on Tourist / Visit Visas to UAE

Due to the new regulations introduced at Abu Dubai International Airport, please note that all passengers travelling on Visit or Tourist visas will be required to carry the following documents with them to avoid the risk of deportation. 1. Passport with a minimum of 6 months' validity from the departure date.

•    Confirmed return ticket.
•    Proof of accommodation or hotel booking.

2. Sufficient funds of a minimum of AED 3000 or CC with an available Credit limit of AED 3000 to cover the expenses in the UAE.    

Please note that customers who do not meet these requirements may not be able to board their Vistara flight at the departure airport.

When travelling to UAE, please note the below requirement:

“OK To Board” message is not required for the following categories of passengers for travel to UAE:

• Passengers holding valid resident permits or passports stamped with Resident Visa.
• Passengers eligible for “Visa on Arrival” irrespective of nationality.
• Passengers travelling with a print-out of Business and Tourist e-visa.

“Ok To Board” message is mandatory for the below categories:

• All passengers holding ECR (Immigration Check Required) passport.
• All passengers travelling with a print-out of labour and work e-visa.

Protector of Emigrants (POE)

• Employment visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. Indian Citizens travelling on this visa with ECR (Emigration Check Required) stamp on the Passport must carry a valid Protector of Emigrants (POE) letter.

For Vistara operated flights to Bangkok from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as of date:

Pre - Departure

• A valid Health Insurance of USD 10000, that covers Covid 19 medical expenses is recommended while in Thailand.

During Stay in Thailand

• Wearing a mask in crowded areas.

Passengers are requested to check this document for all travel-related information.

For Vistara operated flights to Bali from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

For Visa Related information, please visit the following link - https://www.indonesia.travel/gb/en/trip-ideas/types-of-Indonesian-visas-you-need-to-know

Travellers must complete an Electronic Customs Declaration before departure to Indonesia and present the completed form with the QR code to the Customs Officer. Please Visit the link -   https://ecd.beacukai.go.id/

Passengers are requested to check the link for all travel-related information:  https://www.indonesia.travel

Starting from February 14, 2024, the Bali Government will introduce a Tourism Fee, for international travellers ,of IDR 150000 per person. Prior to their arrival in Bali, travellers can make the payment through the following website: https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id/

For Vistara operated flights to Colombo from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

• Passengers are requested to check the following link for all travel-related information -  https://sltda.gov.lk/en/important-notices

Post arrival requirements -

• Passengers could be subject to quarantine. For more information please check the link below http://epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?lang=en

If you are flying to The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the health authorities in Saudi Arabia request you to follow the health guidelines below to keep you protected:

Passengers can obtain a Visitor visa for the Purpose of Tourism (Visa on arrival) (VOA) at Dammam Airport, provided they comply with the following:

• Having a valid Tourist or Commercial visit visa from USA, UK or Schengen after ensuring that the visa has been used (travelled) at least once to enter that Country who has granted the visa. This includes the First-Degree Relatives of the visa holder coming with them.
• Holders of Permanent Residence from USA, UK or Schengen after ensuring presence of the Residence. This includes the First-Degree Relatives of the Visa holder coming with them.

Requirements for passengers travelling to perform Hajj/Umrah/Makkah/Medina:

• Passengers travelling to perform Hajj/Umrah/Makkah/Medina are only allowed to enter from Jeddah.
• Visit the link to know more about who is allowed to travel:  https://www.haj.gov.sa/en/
• For more details, visit :  www.visitsaudi.com/en
• Indian Citizens travelling on an Employment visa with ECR (Emigration Check Required) stamp on the Passport must carry a valid Protector of Emigrants (POE) letter.

For Vistara-operated flights to Doha from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

• For details regarding Health Insurance requirements for visitors entering the state of Qatar, please visit https://www.moph.gov.qa/english/derpartments/policyaffairs/hfid/Pages/Health-Insurance-Scheme.aspx .
• For details regarding the Ehteraz application requirements, if any, please visit https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/EN/travel-and-return-policy/Pages/default.aspx
• For further information, please visit Qatar Ministry of Public Health https://covid19.moph.gov.qa/EN/travel-and-return-policy/Pages/default.aspx . 
• https://www.moph.gov.qa/english/derpartments/policyaffairs/hfid/Pages/Health-Insurance-Scheme.aspx
• https://www.moph.gov.qa/english/derpartments/policyaffairs/hfid/hirs/insurancecompanies/Pages/default.aspx
• https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/practical-info/qatar-entry-rules
• Passport valid for at least three months
• Confirmed round-trip ticket
• Confirmed hotel reservation booked through Discover Qatar - https://www.discoverqatar.qa/
• Health insurance from an accredited insurance company - List of approved Insurance companies -  Ministry of Public Health - Home (moph.gov.qa)
• Passengers must carry cash worth USD 1400/- (per person) OR have a credit card.

When travelling to Qatar, please note the below requirement:

“OK To Board” message is not required for the following categories of passengers for travel to Qatar:        

• Passengers holding valid resident permits or passports stamped with Resident Visa. 
• Passengers eligible for “Visa on Arrival” irrespective of nationality. 
• Passengers travelling with a printout of Business and Tourist e-visa.
• All passengers holding ECR (Immigration Check Required) passports. 
• All passengers travelling with a printout of labour and work e-visa. 
• Employment visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. Indian Citizens travelling on this visa with an ECR (Emigration Check Required) stamp on the Passport must carry a valid Protector of Emigrants (POE) letter. 

For Vistara operated flights to Dhaka from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

  When travelling to Dhaka, please note the below requirement:

“OK To Board” message is not required for the following categories of passengers for travel to Dhaka:

• Passengers holding valid resident permits or passport stamped with Resident Visa.
• Passengers travelling with a print-out of Business and Tourist e-Visa.
• Employment visa is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. Indian citizens travelling on this visa with ECR (Emigration Check Required) stamp on the passport must carry a valid Protector of Emigrants (POE) Letter.

Please click here for all travel-related information for Dhaka.

For Vistara operated flights to Dubai from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

Only the following categories of passengers will be allowed entry to Dubai:

• Holders of all types of visas i.e., newly issued Employment visa, newly issued residency visa, newly issued short/long stay visa, newly issued visit visa are permitted to travel to Dubai whether vaccinated or not vaccinated & do not require GDRFA or ICA Approval.
•  Passenger must have a visitor visa, or a green card issued by the United States or passengers is holding a Residence Permit issued by the United Kingdom or European Union.
• All customers must download the COVID-19 Dubai Smart App and generate a QR code on their device before entering Dubai. Click to download –  Android  and  iOS  versions of the app.

When Transiting Dubai, please note the below requirement:

Due to the new regulations introduced at Dubai International Airport, please note that all passengers travelling on Visit or Tourist visas will be required to carry the following documents with them to avoid the risk of deportation. 1. Passport with a minimum of 6 months' validity from the departure date.

• Confirmed return ticket.
• Proof of accommodation or hotel booking.

2. Sufficient funds of a minimum of AED 3000 or CC with an available Credit limit of AED 3000 to cover the expenses in the UAE.

Please note that Vistara operates from Terminal 1.

For Vistara operated flights to and from Frankfurt, please note the following guidelines as on date:

Passengers are requested to check the link below for all travel-related information.   https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/EinreiseUndAufenthalt#content_0   

Vistara operates from Terminal 2 at Frankfurt Airport.

For Vistara-operated flights to and from Hong Kong, please note the following guidelines as on date:

Passengers with Indian Passports need to have an ETA for Hong Kong SAR. You are requested to check the link:  https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/pre-arrival_registration_for_indian_nationals.html

All passengers must undergo health screening upon arrival in Hong Kong.

After successful application of the Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) form, all passengers must print the notification slip generated by the PAR system on a sheet of blank A4 white paper. Before boarding your flight, the check-in staff will check the notification slip. If a passenger fails to present the notification slip along with the passport used to apply for PAR, it will lead to refusal of boarding and refusal of entry to Hong Kong SAR.

Passengers are requested to check the link below for all travel-related information:  https://www.discoverhongkong.com/hk-eng/index.html 

Passengers can obtain a Visitor visa for the Purpose of Tourism (Visa on arrival) (VOA) at Jeddah Airport, provided they comply with the following:

For Vistara operated flights to Kathmandu from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

• Passengers travelling to Nepal are no longer required to show a negative RT-PCR report
• Passengers are requested to check the following link for all travel-related information -  https://ntb.gov.np/en/latest-travel-updates

For Vistara operated flights to London from India, please note the following guidelines as on date:

Passengers are requested to check the  link  for all travel-related information.

Please note: All departures and arrivals to and from India will be at Terminal 3 of Heathrow Airport.

For Vistara operated flights to Malé from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as of date:

The following categories are allowed to travel:

• Tourists – Must have confirmed hotel reservation for the entire stay at a registered tourist facility: https://www.tourism.gov.mv/en/registered/facilities
• Maldivian Nationals
• Special Visa Holders
• Business Visa Holders
• Foreign diplomats and their accompanying family members
• Crew of ships who arrive by air to sign on to a ship
• Holders of a valid work permit or work visa
• Holders of any other resident permit of Maldives

Pre-Departure Requirements in general for all passengers –

a. All passengers must complete and submit the online traveler health declaration form available on the Maldives immigration website portal:  https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/  within 96 hours of the flight time before arrival to the Maldives.

b. All Passengers travelling for the purpose of tourism shall be issued a visa on arrival

c. Passengers must be in possession of valid return ticket

Departure from the Maldives:

All departing passengers must complete an online declaration form available on the Maldives Immigration website portal: https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/ethd  within 96 hours of the flight time before departure from the Maldives.

For Vistara operated flights to Mauritius from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

• Any passenger holding a valid visa, with a confirmed return ticket and hotel stay.
• Indian nationals are eligible for visa on arrival in Mauritius.

Entry Guidelines:

• Filling of all-in-one travel form is recommended prior to boarding  (but not mandatory for boarding) : https://safemauritius.govmu.org/
• Wearing a surgical or N95/FFP2 mask during the flight is not mandatory but recommended.
• Wearing a mask at the airport is not mandatory but recommended.
• Any person having been tested positive for COVID-19 within 7 days of departure date shall not be allowed to board a flight to Mauritius.

For Vistara-operated flights to Muscat from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date: 

• Any passenger with a valid visa can enter Oman
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months prior to entering Oman
• For more information related to visas, please visit:  https://evisa.rop.gov.om/

Visa on arrival (VOA) to enter Muscat

• All professions under the sponsor of the company can get a visa on arrival
• Professions under the sponsor of GCC Residents should travel with the sponsor to get a visa on arrival i.e. (housemaid, family driver) Also, the Families of GCC residents Should travel with the sponsor written on GCC Resident Card.
• Indian nationals with valid Schengen/USA/UK/Japan visa can also enter Oman on visa on arrival
• Student are NOT eligible for visa on arrival

When travelling to Oman, please note the below requirement:

“OK To Board” message is not required for the following categories of passengers for travel to Oman:

o Passengers holding valid resident permits or passports stamped with Resident Visa

o Passengers eligible for “Visa on Arrival” irrespective of nationality

• Indian Passport passengers holding ECR (Immigration Check Required) passport
• Indian Passport passengers travelling with a print-out of labour and work e-visa
• Indian Passport Passengers holding e-visa
• Indian Passport Passengers with Short-term E-visa – Passport with ECR and ECNR Category
• Indian Passport Passengers with Long-Team E-visa – Passport with ECR and ECNR Category
• The employment visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. Indian Citizens travelling on this visa with ECR (Emigration Check Required) stamp on the Passport must carry a valid Protector of Emigrants (POE) letter.

For Vistara-operated flights to Paris from India, please note the following guidelines as on date:

Passengers are requested to click  here  for all travel-related information.

IMPORTANT ADVISORY:

Airport Transit Visa (ATV) for transit via France:

As on 27- April-2021, the French authorities have implemented new travel requirements. Passengers holding Indian passports must be in possession of a valid Airport Transit Visa (ATV) to transit via France if their final destination is outside the Schengen Area. To know more, visit  https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/airport-transit-visa . 

For Vistara operated flights to Singapore from India, please note the following eligibility guidelines as on date:

• Please refer to the link to check the travel eligibility:   https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-transit-depart/entering-singapore
• It is mandatory for all passengers to submit the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) ( https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard ), within 3 days before the date of arrival in Singapore and present their SGAC acknowledgment email with any relevant supporting documentation at check‑in for their flight to Singapore. Please note that the physical arrival card (white card) is no longer accepted. There are three sections on the SGAC to be completed.

i. Personal Particulars

ii. Vaccination status, including the submission of proof of vaccination for those who are vaccinated outside Singapore. Those vaccinated in Singapore do not need to upload their proof of vaccination

iii. Health declaration

• Details on entry requirements and health protocols can be found on the SafeTravel website ( https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-transit-depart ).

Kindly note that all Toy or replica guns are controlled under the Regulation of Imports and Exports Regulations (RIER) and approval is required for its import. Travellers entering Singapore with any toy or replica guns must obtain prior approval for import from the Police Licensing and Regulatory Department. Any travellers who do not have the required approval shall declare the toy or replica guns to the immigration officers at the red channel upon arrival.

All passengers arriving in or departing Singapore are required to declare if they are carrying more than SGD 20000 (or its equivalent in foreign currency) in physical currency, or by other means. Travellers arriving or departing are to submit the declarations after submitting the SG Arrival Card or separately via the ICA website.

For frequently asked questions (FAQs) pertaining to international travel, please click  here .

Web check-in for international travel opens 96 hours prior to departure.

To ensure minimum physical contact and smooth movement given the ongoing pandemic, passengers are advised to carry a negative RT-PCR test report with QR code for boarding international flights departing from lndia. This is applicable only to those passengers who are required to carry negative RT-PCR test report as per the guidelines/requirements issued by the destination countries.

• Customers are requested to report at least 2 hours prior to departure for smooth facilitation. Check-in counters will close 1 hour prior to flight departure for domestic flights.
• All customers are encouraged to web check-in.
• Boarding gates will open 1 hour and close 20 minutes before departure.
• Staggered and sequential boarding will be followed. Priority boarding for Business Class customers, CV members, and Vistara Priority customers through a separate lane.
• Our aircraft are equipped with powerful HEPA filters that trap 99.9% of particulates such as viruses (including coronaviruses), bacteria and fungi and purify the air inside the cabin every two to three minutes.

How can you help?

We urge you to wear a mask at all times and follow necessary personal precautions to make flying feel safe.

 We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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India’s Latest Guidelines on International Travel

This timeline summarizes the most recent developments in the rules and regulations governing international travel to and from India.

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February 2023

• From February 13, 11 AM , passengers coming to India from or via China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand will not require a negative RT-PCR report from a pre-departure test for COVID-19. Travelers from these five countries will no longer have to fill the self-health declaration form on the Air Suvidha portal either. The 2% random testing on arrival in India [from any country of origin] policy that was started December 24 last year, shall continue.

January 2023

• Reported by Times of India , all Indians traveling to Sri Lanka will have to follow the country’s revised COVID-19 protocols. Sri Lanka has announced that all tourists to the country will be required to carry their vaccination cards, and unvaccinated travelers must carry a negative PCR report obtained 72 hours prior to their arrival.

December 2022

December 29, 2022.

• On December 29, 2022, India’s Federal Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that RT-PCR test would be mandatory from January 1, 2023 for international passengers travelling to India from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand . The test must be conducted within 72 hours of undertaking the journey to India. 
• These negative RT-PCR reports must be uploaded on the Air Suvidha portal before travel.
• This requirement is in addition to the random two percent tests of all international passengers in all incoming international flights on their arrival in India irrespective of their port of departure.

December 28, 2022

Air India Express, India’s first international budget carrier that offers flights to the Middle East and Southeast Asia, has issued guidelines for the maintenance of Covid-appropriate behaviour by travellers travelling from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India. The guidelines include:

• All passengers from UAE should preferably be completely immunised as per the approved primary schedule of Covid vaccination. 
• All visitors should preferably use masks and follow physical distancing on flights/travel and at all points of entry.
• Post-arrival random testing is not required for children under the age of 12. However, if they have Covid-related symptoms upon arrival, they have to undergo testing in accordance with protocol. 

December 26, 2022

• On December 24, 2022, Indian Health Ministry announced that international arrivals from China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand will have to mandatorily present RT-PCR test results . In case any passengers from these countries are symptomatic or test positive for Covid-19, they will be quarantined. 
• Economic Times reporting that Air Suvidha form filling to declare current health status will also be made compulsory for international passengers arriving from China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand.
• Times of India reporting that Qatar has reinstated visa-on-arrival (VOA) facility for Indian travellers , which were temporarily halted due to FIFA World Cup 2022 in the country. Indian nationals can get a free VOA in Qatar for a maximum stay of 30 days or as per the hotel reservation and under the following conditions: valid passport for at least six months, confirmed return tickets, and confirmed hotel reservation through ‘Discover Qatar’ website only.
• Times of India  reporting that effective from January 1, 2023 , Serbia has discontinued visa-free travel regulations for Indian citizens , keeping in line with the requirements of European Union (EU) visa policy and measures to control illegal migrants. 

December 23, 2022

New guidelines applicable for international arrivals from December 24, 2022: “All travelers should preferably be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID-19 in their Country.” See here for the official Ministry of Health and Family Welfare notification issued December 22.

India will randomly test 2 percent of international travelers arriving in the country’s airports for COVID, with effect from Saturday (December 24) 10 am IST , as announced by Mansukh Mandaviya, Health Minister on Thursday December 21. Travelers will be allowed to leave the airport after submitting their sample. After the random testing, if found COVID-positive, the person’s sample shall be sent for genomic testing at a designated INSACOG laboratory network; reports shall be hared with Integrated Disease Surveillance Program at [email protected] by the concerned testing laboratory (besides sharing with the airport health organization APHOS) to be in turn shared with concerned state or union territory for further follow-up action.

• India is becoming increasingly cautious after a surge in cases recorded in neighboring China as well as in Brazil, US, Japan, and Korea, besides it being the ongoing holiday and festive season, which witnesses a jump in travel. In another move, visitors to the Taj Mahal (Agra, Uttar Pradesh state), will undergo a COVID-19 test before they enter, as per reporting from news agency ANI. While wearing masks are not currently mandatory in most parts of the country, it will likely be increasingly encouraged. For example, the southern state of Karnataka has made wearing masks mandatory indoors and in closed spaces in guidelines released December 22.

December 14, 2022

• DNA  reporting a travel advisory issued due to the ongoing chaos at Delhi international airport: “To ensure a quick security check, Air India has urged all travelers to bring just one piece of carry-on luggage and arrive at least 3.5 hours early.”
• Times of India  reporting that Hong Kong and Nigeria are among the latest to remove COVID-19 travel rules for international travelers. 
• Business Today  reporting that IndiGo has announced 32 connecting flights between India and Europe – flying to Milan, Manchester, Birmingham, Rome, and Venice – starting December 7, 2022. These international flights will operate in partnership with Turkish Airlines.

November 2022

• Times of India  reporting that Germany is relaxing visa appointment rules for Indian tourists. According to German Missions in the country, Indian travelers can book their visa appointment at any VFS global Visa Application Centre in major Indian cities and the Schengen visa can be applied for three months before the travel date. However, this relaxation does not apply to the D-visa category – students, employment, and family reunion visas, among others.
• New Air India flights announced between India and US, Europe ( Business Traveller ): – Air India is launching new flights connecting Mumbai with New York, Paris, and Frankfurt, and resuming non-stop flights connecting Delhi with Copenhagen, Milan, and Vienna. The new daily Mumbai-New York service to John F Kennedy International Airport will commence February 14, 2023, which will take Air India’s India-US frequency to 47 non-stop flights per week. – The new Air India flights from Delhi to Europe announced are: four weekly Delhi-Milan from February 1, 2023 and three weekly flights each on the Delhi-Vienna and Delhi-Copenhagen routes starting February 18 and March 1, 2023, respectively. – From Mumbai, new Air India flights are currently being planned to Paris* (thrice-weekly) and Frankfurt* (four weekly) from the next quarter. 
• India is discontinuing the Air Suvidha self-declaration form starting November 22, 2022. Passengers flying into India will no longer need to fill out the Air Suvidha form from November 21-22 midnight and will not need to take an RT-PCR COVID-19 test.

On November 14, the Canada  government concluded an expanded Canada-India Air Transport Agreement “to allow unlimited flights between both countries”. The announcement said: “The expanded agreement allows designated airlines to operate an unlimited number of flights between the two countries. The previous agreement limited each country to 35 flights per week. The new rights under the expanded agreement are available for use by airlines immediately. Money Control reports that this will give Canadian airlines access to the Indian cities of Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai while Indian airlines will receive access to Toronto, Edmonton, Montreal, and Vancouver as well as two additional points (Canadian cities) selected by India. India is Canada’s fourth largest international air transport market and there are an estimated 1.5 million Indians living in Canada. Presently the only non-stop direct flights in this market are from Air India and Air Canada.

October 2022

The Financial Express  reports plans of Air India to add 20 weekly, non-stop flights to the US and UK between October and December. “With five additional flights a week to Birmingham, nine additional flights to London, and six additional flights a week to San Francisco, Air India said it will be able to offer over 5,000 additional seats every week.” Soon there will be seven Indian cities offering direct Air India flights to London.

September 2022

• No new updates were made to the “Risk Levels” and “Safety and Security” sections of the Canadian government’s travel advisory for India: The Hindu report .
• Hong Kong is lifting compulsory quarantine requirement for arrivals starting from September 26. There will be three days of medical surveillance during which inbound persons are free to go out but are obliged to comply with Amber Code restrictions under the Vaccine Pass, followed by a four-day self-monitoring period, making it a 7-day observation period in total, as per the Hong Kong government’s notification .
• Taiwan will end mandatory quarantine for travelers arriving in the country from October 13 as per reporting from Reuters . Speaking to the media, Taiwan’s Cabinet spokesperson Lo Ping-cheng stated that from September 29, visa-free entry will be resumed for overseas travelers that previously enjoyed that status. Under its ‘New Taiwan Model’, the government is set to increase weekly arrival limits for international travelers to 60,000 from 10,000 and will not require PCR tests for arrivals. If the pandemic situation is stable, the country will end quarantine from around October 13 and increase the weekly arrival limit to 150,000.
• Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced travel relaxations in Japan while in New York for the UN General Assemebly session. “… from 11 October, Japan will relax border control measures to be on par with the US, as well as resume visa-free travel and individual travel.”  BBC  reports that the cap on daily arrivals will also be lifted.
• Fiji removed its COVID-19 test requirements for international travelers from September 5, 2022.
• Media is reporting that Indians traveling to Indonesia can fast track their visa applications on arriving in Jakarta as VFS Global has reached an exclusive agreement with the Indonesian Immigrant Department.
• See India’s guidelines for international arrivals – dated September 2, 2022 – which came in effect the next day. The document provides protocols to be complied by international travelers as well as those to be followed by airlines and all points of entry (airports, seaports, and land border). 
• International flights resumed operations starting September 3, in Guwahati’s (Assam state) Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA), after a gap of two years. In the next few months, officials speaking to the  Hindustan Times said that the LGBIA airport will start flights from Guwahati to Yangon (Myanmar), Kathmandu (Nepal), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Hanoi (Vietnam), and Bangkok (Thailand).

January – August, 2022

• Airlines and travel agents in India have to share details of international travelers with the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBIC) 24 hours before departure and arrival. The information will be provided to the National Customs Targeting Centre-Passenger (NCTC). While this rule had been proposed five years ago, to combat tax avoidance and tax evasion, the government has only now developed a regulatory framework to implement this. India is among 60 countries collecting such details of international passengers. The Ministry of Finance issued the notification on August 8, 2022, as per media reports .
• China no longer requires COVID test information for international arrivals from August 31, 2022 : On Thursday, August 25, 2022, China’s General Administration of Customs released  a new health declaration form for international arrivals, which removes the requirement for visitors to report their nucleic acid test results, infection status, and vaccination dates. This ninth version of the health declaration form will be implemented starting from August 31, 2022, and international visitors can report their health status online by filling out a form on the related WeChat account or webpage. Some  media  interpret that with this update, the current entry requirement, that is, the requirement to have international passengers take two PCR tests for COVID-19 within 48 hours of their departure, the second of which must be within 24 hours of their departure — will be lifted.  However, considering that China is still sticking to its dynamic zero-COVID strategy, we recommend that international travelers double-check with their flight companies for further information.
• The Chinese Embassy in India has updated its “ Application Procedures and Material Requirements of China Visa “, to be implemented from August 24, 2022. See here for the list of requirements and procedures for various types of Chinese visas, including the M-Visa (commercial and trade activities) and the X1-Visa (long-term study): http://in.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/lsfw/qz/202208/t20220822_10748221.htm 
• The  Business Standard  noted in a report that China was working to facilitate the return of foreign students, including from India, who have been stuck due to the COVID-19 visa restriction. The paper quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin who told media that the Chinese side were working intensively for the return of foreign students to China. In updated comments on the foreign ministry website, Wenbin said: “We are confident in seeing the return of the first group of Indian students in the near future. Building on that, the Chinese side will further proceed with the return of other Indian students in a well thought-out and orderly manner.”
• India’s domestic air fare caps will end from August 31, as the civil aviation regulator DGCA rolls back restrictions imposed in 2020. This minimum to maximum price band had been introduced to avoid sky high ticket prices due to pent up demand in the domestic travel market. 
• India’s passport offers visa-free access to 60 countries , including Bhutan, Nepal, Macao, Oman, Qatar, and Fiji. According to the latest Henley Passport Index, published by immigration consultancy Henley & Partners, India’s passport ranked 87th. India had ranked 90th in Q3 and Q4 in 2021. The latest index is topped by Japan, whose passport offers visa-free access to 193 countries, followed by South Korea and Singapore (at 192 countries each), and Germany and Spain (190). As per reporting by the Hindustan Times: Indians have ‘visa-on-arrival’ access in Thailand, Indonesia, Maldives, and Sri Lanka as well as 21 countries in Africa.
• Speaking at the World Economic Forum on Tuesday, the Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, promised to relax restrictions on international travel in an “orderly” way , which would include facilitating the return of foreign students to rejoin Chinese colleges. Around 500,000 foreign students are enrolled at universities in China, including 23,000 Indians. Li said: “All international students may return to China to continue their studies should they so wish, and outbound commerce and trade activities and cross-border travel for labor services will be advanced in an orderly fashion.” The comments were made during a Special Virtual Dialogue with Global Business Leaders hosted by the forum. Foreign diplomatic missions in China are presently trying to speed up the process to facilitate the return of international students to China. While this is now in a small-scale trial mode, any large-scale opening can be expected only when the country’s epidemic outbreaks slow down.
• Competent authorities in China and India are communicating on securing the resumption of flights and to bring back the first group of Indian students to China at the earliest as reported in  The Economic Times.
• Bhutan is allowing travelers into the country from September 23, 2022 – after a two-year gap. Tourists from India should note the levy of a sustainable development fee (SDF), charged at 1,200 ngultrums (approx. INR 1200) per day; children between the age of six and 12 are charged INR 600 per day and no fee is charged from children below the age of five. The SDF fee is not applicable everywhere – there are exemptions to the levy in 11 districts in the less popular Eastern Bhutan region, until December 2024. 
• India is working to roll out e-passports as per its external affairs minister S. Jaishankar. The minister also informed that the Passport Seva System had been integrated with the DigiLocker system to facilitate paperless documentation. Jaishankar added: “The Ministry in collaboration with the Department of Posts operationalized 428 Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) to reach out to our citizens at their doorsteps. The Ministry has successfully integrated the passport issuance systems in 178 of our Embassies and Consulates abroad.” 
• Saudi Arabia has lifted COVID-related travel restrictions on citizens travelling to India, Ethiopia, Turkey, and Vietnam and is accepting pilgrims for the forthcoming annual Hajj season, The Hindu  reports June 20, 2022. The requirement to wear face masks in closed places has also been relaxed.
• China has updated its visa policy for Indians , including Indian professionals and students. China will accept visa applications of foreign nationals and their accompanying family members seeking to return to China for resumption of work in all fields. Visas for tourism and private purposes remain suspended. The details of over 12,000 Indian students have reportedly been forwarded to the Chinese government for visa processing. (Over 23,000 Indian students – mostly enrolled in medical colleges in China – had to return to India and were stuck during the last few years due to the coronavirus pandemic, which first broke out December 2019.) However, China is yet to announce resumption of normal flight facilities between the two countries.
• The US does not require arriving international travelers to take a COVID-19 test within a day before boarding their flights to the country from June 12, Sunday. “As of 12:01AM ET on June 12, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will no longer require air passengers traveling from a foreign country to the United States to show a negative COVID-19 viral test or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board their flight. For more information, see Rescission: Requirement for Negative Pre-Departure COVID-19 Test Result or Documentation of Recovery from COVID-19 for all Airline or Other Aircraft Passengers Arriving into the United States from Any Foreign Country .”
• Media reports say the DGCA has made masks mandatory at Indian airports and during flights. India recorded 7,240 new cases in 24 hours [ June 9 MoHFW update], the highest since March.
• On Wednesday, June 8, India’s aviation regulator DGCA announced fresh guidelines for COVID-appropriate behavior. The wearing of masks is now mandatory inside the flight / throughout the air travel , and mask removal is permitted only under exceptional circumstances. Violators could be treated as ‘unruly passengers’ and removed from the flight before departure. This is in line with a Delhi High Court order, which stipulates that violators can be put on ‘no fly list’. 
• India’s  overall passenger traffic  (both domestic and international) at airports reached 93 percent of pre-COVID levels in May 2022. International passenger traffic reached 63 percent and 72 percent of pre-COVID levels in April and May, respectively. Recovery of domestic travel reached 98 percent of pre-COVID levels in May 2022.
• Turkey has relaxed all the conditions for Indian travelers entering the country, Turkiye Tourism Board said on Monday, June 6.​​ Now, Indian travelers no longer have to show proof of vaccination or proof of recovery from COVID-29 or negative RT-PCR test report.
• The United States Embassy in India has tweeted (8.23pm, May 29): “The US Mission to India is pleased to announce that we are resuming routine in-person tourist visa appointments in September 2022. Previously scheduled placeholders have now been cancelled. Applicants whose placeholder appointments were cancelled may now reenter the scheduling system to book regular appointments. Appointments have been opened through 2023.”
• Media reports say that Israel has removed COVID-19-linked travel requirements for foreign visitors, such as presenting a negative RT-PCR test prior to departure, undergoing an RT-PCR test upon arrival, and quarantine observation.
• Livemint reports: “Malaysia Airlines will add new routes, increase frequencies and upgrade aircraft to cater to the Indian market, which remains a key geography for the airline.”
• Saudi Arabia has banned its citizens from travelling to sixteen countries, including India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, after the Gulf state has recorded a five-fold rise in COVID-19 cases. News18 reports : “Saudi Arabia’s General Department of Passports dropped several Covid-19 restrictions towards the end of last year but are now reimposing some of them as Covid-19 cases are being reported from various parts of the world and China and North Korea bearing the brunt of the Omicron variant which is leading to fresh cases.”
• Indian announced on May 12 that citizens planning to travel abroad are now eligible to get a third (booster/precaution) dose of vaccine three months after their second dose. The rules otherwise stipulate a nine-month gap between the second dose and booster shot. 
• Scoot, the budget airline from Singapore Airlines Group, has launched daily flight services between Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) and Singapore, up from three times a week. As per reporting by The Hindu  [April 27, 2022], Scoot has a network of 42 destinations in 16 countries and territories, including Australia and Southeast Asia.
• VietJet has announced that it will resume operations of six flights – on the Delhi-Hanoi route and Delhi-Ho Chi Minh City route from April 29, 2022. New flights have also been added by VietJet on the Mumbai-Phu Quoc route and New Delhi-Phu Quoc route, which are scheduled to start from September 9, 2022.
• Hong Kong has banned Air India flights till April 24 due to COVID-19 as three passengers on board one of its flights had reportedly tested positive on arrival.
• On April 11,  Times of India  reported that fully vaccinated passengers from the UAE traveling to India will not necessarily require a pre-departure RT-PCR test at the airport. The move is on a reciprocity basis. However, UAE travelers will need to fill out the passenger locator form on the Air Suvidha portal – same as travelers from any other destination visiting India. Also, travelers need to upload their COVID-19 vaccination certificate onto the Air Suvidha portal.
• Scheduled international flight services have resumed from Sunday, March 27, 2022 after being suspended for two years due to COVID-19. Starting March 27, six Indian airlines and 60 foreign airlines will connect India with 63 countries . Under the new summer schedule (March 27 to October 29), foreign airlines will operate 1,783 weekly flights and Indian carriers will operate 1,466 departures every week. Among domestic airlines, IndiGo will operate 505 departures per week, followed by Tata Group-owned Air India at 361 weekly flights and its subsidiary Air India Express will operate 340 flights per week.
• From the  Indian Express : More international airlines add flights to India : “Emirates said… it will be operating the 35 weekly flights from Mumbai, 28 from Delhi, 24 from Bengaluru, 21 each from Chennai and Hyderabad, 14 from Kochi, 11 from Kolkata, nine from Ahmedabad and seven from Thiruvananthapuram.”
• On March 21, 2022, Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced  that from April 1, the Government will lift the flight ban on nine countries (i.e., Australia, Canada, France, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, the UK, the USA, and Nepal)  and cut the hotel quarantine period for arrivals. Currently, passenger aircraft from these nine countries are not allowed to land in Hong Kong. The Chief Executive also announced the preconditions for boarding a flight to Hong Kong and the COVID-19 control and prevention measures to be implemented upon arrival. Given this, there are  comments  saying that traveling to Hong Kong will not get much easier even after the ban is lifted. Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. plans just one inbound flight every two weeks for fear to be subjected to the city’s 14-day ban on airlines that carry too many passengers found to be infected with COVID-19.
• Singapore announced it is lifting restrictions for all vaccinated travelers from next week. According to officials, from April 1, fully vaccinated adults and unvaccinated children will be allowed to enter Singapore without quarantining, if they take a pre-departure test . Only travelers on a ‘restricted list’ will face curbs in entering Singapore; as of March 24, 2022 – there are no countries on this list.
• On March 21, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) announced relaxed COVID-19-related regulations. NDTV reports MoCA saying “cabin crew members need not wear PPE kit, airlines need not keep three seats vacant on international flights for medical emergencies and security personnel at airports can resume pat-down search of passengers.” However, the use of face mask and maintenance of hand hygiene/sanitizer continues to be mandatory . Airlines may carry additional PPE protective gear, sanitizers, and N-95 masks to handle any respiratory infections related to cases on air – for passengers as well as the crew.
• Cochin International Airport announces summer schedule (March 27 to October 29) with 1,190 weekly operations (international and domestic flights). 20 airlines will operate flights to destinations abroad (including 16 international carriers). Indigo has the most weekly departures to international destinations (42) and Air India Express accounts for 38 weekly departure operations. Other prominent carriers are Air Asia Berhad, Ethihad, Emirates, Oman Air, Qatar Air, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Kuwait Airways, Thai Airways, Sri Lankan Airlines, Gulf Air, and Fly Dubai. 44 weekly departures are scheduled for Dubai, followed by Abu Dhabi with 42. Air India Express will continue its weekly operations to London and Thai Air Asia will resume Kochi operations in June, with 4 weekly direct flights to Bangkok. Source:  The Hindu Business Line
• Useful Quick Links from the Air India portal: – Official Circular on Restoration of Indian Visa (E-Tourist Visa and Tourist Visa) for Foreign Tourists   – Circular For Generating and Accessing International Digital Covid 19 Vaccination Certificate – International Travel Advisories
• Singapore Airlines Group press release: All Singapore Airlines flights from India to Singapore will operate as vaccinated travel lane (VTL) services from March 16, 2022. This will provide eligible customers with quarantine-free entry into Singapore from eight points across India. Scoot, SIA’s low-cost subsidiary, will also progressively convert its non-VTL services from Amritsar, Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchi, and Visakhapatnam to VTL services. Short-term visitors and Singapore work-permit holders who seek to avail VTL services must apply for a Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP) prior to their visa application. VTP applications should be made between three and 60 calendar days before the person’s intended date of entry into Singapore. Travelers must ensure their eligibility to use the VTL services before their flight. 
• Regular international flights to resume March 27, 2022 after two years suspension. This is the start of the summer schedule 2022.
• Economic Times reporting “ Global travel shedding Covid baggage as several nations ease restrictions for Indians “. 
• India has once again extended its ban on regular commercial international passenger flights – until further orders – as per a circular dated February 28, 2022 issued by the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Flights under air bubble arrangements and international cargo flights will continue.
• On February 28, 2022 , the Indian government updated its “ List of Countries/Regions in respect of which primary vaccination schedule completion certificate is allowed to be uploaded ” on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website: see document here . There are 88 countries now on this list . (The Union health ministry has removed the at-risk categorization of countries.) 
• India and Thailand have finalized an air bubble arrangement, bringing the total number of such bilateral flight agreements to 37. Airline carriers between India and Thailand will begin operating flights starting in March, which will be subject to approval from the government. Thai Airways will commence flights between India and Thailand starting March 1 under this air bubble. Travelers should note the health protocols and the respective schedules of approved flights between Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Bangkok. Meanwhile, on February 25, SpiceJet announced it will launch six new international flights to Bangkok, commencing from March 10 in a phased manner. SpiceJet plans to launch flights connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata with Bangkok. India reportedly has plans to reopen its regular international travel from March 15, but this is still a tentative date.
• Singapore, UAE, and Kuwait have updated their travel guidelines and COVID-prevention protocols for travelers from India. See here to know more.
• The Airport Authority of India has updated its state-wise guidelines for arriving passengers – by region. The PDF links may be accessed here: COVID Guidelines India Northern Region 14-02-2022 COVID Guidelines India Western Region 21.02.2022 COVID Guidelines India Southern Region 22-02-20212 COVID Guidelines India Eastern Region 18-02-2022 COVID Guidelines India North East Region 17-02-2022
• Dubai ends rapid RT-PCR rules for Indian travelers. Under the new rules , travelers from India have to produce a negative COVID-19 test certificate issued by an approved health service provider and generated 48 hours before scheduled departure of the flight. Passengers will undergo a PCR test upon arrival in Dubai. Transit passengers will be expected to follow rules governing entry at their final destination.
• It is being reported in The Economic Times that the aviation ministry has requested approval from the health ministry to allow resumption of international flights from mid-March. Reason cited by unnamed government source is that domestic traffic has rebounded.
• The government has removed restrictions on the number of flights that can be operated between India and Ukraine under their bilateral air bubble arrangement to facilitate travel of Indians from the eastern European country. India has advised its citizens to temporarily leave Ukraine amid its deteriorating relations with Russia.
• Indian media are reporting that the government is soon to make a decision on whether regular international flights can resume in the summer (March/April). It is being reported by The Economic Times that the aviation ministry has set an internal target of resuming international flight services once domestic airlines capacity touches 80% of pre-COVID flights. (Domestic airlines operated over 2,800 flights before the pandemic struck in 2020; as of February 13, they operated 2,058 flights. To reach the 80% mark, this number has to exceed 2,200.)
• No testing or mandatory quarantine required for international travelers from February 14, 2022: On February 10, India revised guidelines for international arrivals, which will come into effect February 14, 2022 (Monday, 00.01 Hrs IST). The new guidelines remove the category of ‘at risk’ countries and has scrapped the seven-day mandatory quarantine. Instead, India’s health authorities recommend self-monitoring of 14 days for symptoms . The Union Health Ministry stated that there is “need to monitor the continuously changing” COVID-19 virus but accepted that “economic activities need to be taken up in an unhindered manner”. As per the latest guidelines, all foreign arrivals have to fill a self-declaration form online (Air Suvidha web portal), including a travel history of the past 14 days. They must also upload a negative RT-PCR test conducted within 72 hours of the departure date. Alternatively, they can upload a certificate confirming that they are fully vaccinated. This alternative option is only available for passengers arriving from the 72 countries whose vaccination program are recognized by the Indian government. They include Canada, Hong Kong, USA, UK, Bahrain, Qatar, Australia, New Zealand, and some European countries. See here for the official notification on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare portal.
• Australia will reopen its borders for international tourists from February 21 , subject to conditions. The move comes after almost two years of pandemic-linked travel restrictions. Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison said while making the announcement: “The condition is you must be double vaccinated to come to Australia. That’s the rule. Everyone is expected to abide by it.” However, travelers to Australia should note the state-wise rules and restrictions.
• Vietnam reported to reopen for tourism, welcome foreign travelers from March 15, 2022. See here for information pertaining to travel to Vietnam .
• On February 5, Bali reopened its borders for international travelers and resumed direct international flights. See here for information on travel to Indonesia .
• On February 4, the state of Kerala released revised guidelines for international travelers. ( See here for the official notification by the Kerala government.) Any international traveler coming to Kerala, irrespective of their duration of stay, must undergo symptom surveillance. If they are found symptomatic, they must undertake an RT-PCR test at cost at the airport and take further action as per the test results. The revised rules advise home quarantine for international travelers who do not show symptoms; they must self-monitor their health for 7 days from the date of arrival and undergo testing if they develop symptoms. Rapid Antigen Test is advised on the 8th day after arrival. There will be random testing of 2% of international travelers on the flight, irrespective of the country of departure, and the costs will be borne by the Kerala state government. 
• Singapore Airlines has restarted the vaccinated travel lane (VTL) with India. VTL flights allow quarantine-free travel into Singapore. There are VTL flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai into Singapore. (Singapore has also restarted its vaccinated travel lane with Malaysia.) Passengers should note that there are limited flights and reduced seat quota on these routes.
• The West Bengal state government announced on January 31, that it is rolling back its ban on all international direct flights coming from the United Kingdom to Kolkata.
• Indians who are fully vaccinated can reportedly travel to these seven countries: UK, Thailand, Singapore, Cyprus, Vietnam, Israel, and Saint Lucia in the Caribbean.
• Canada has relaxed COVID-19 testing requirements for travelers from India, starting January 28, 2022. People traveling on direct flights or on a one-stop flight from India do not have to show a negative RT-PCR test done at the Delhi airport within 18 hours of their departure. However, Canada still requires travelers from India to show an RT-PCR test report from an ICMR-approved lab . Fully vaccinated travelers must upload their relevant details onto the ArriveCAN app or website. 
• India’s Ministry of External Affairs – Guidelines for International Arrivals – Quick Access to Documents: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf 
• India has extended the ban on scheduled international commercial flights to 23:59 February 28, 2022: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This ban does not apply to international all-cargo operations and the DGCA-approved flights. The notification was released by the DGCA on January 19, 2022.
• Hong Kong bars flights from India, U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, France, Pakistan, and Philippines over Omicron fears, reports The Hindu (Jan.5, 2022).
• Countries reported to be requiring mandatory vaccine booster shots for travelers include Kuwait, Netherlands, Switzerland, France, Croatia, Austria, Greece, and Israel. 
• Gulf News is reporting that India is currently making a “day to day” assessment on the resumption of normal international flights. “One has to balance the concerns of public safety and travel,” said Rakesh Kumar Verma, Additional Secretary, Tourism, Government of India. “We will take very expeditious action as and when things improve and the assessment is carried out. I’m hopeful that [full] international travel will resume soon.”
• Starting January 1, 2022, India’s air bubble arrangement with Saudi Arabia will be in effect. 
• India has reached an air bubble agreement with Australia. According to reporting from Livemint : “Australian airline Qantas has recently started flights between Sydney and New Delhi. The airline is also set to start flights between New Delhi and Melbourne before Christmas. Air India also operated direct commercial flights connecting New Delhi with Melbourne and Sydney before scheduled international flights were suspended by the Indian government. Air India flights between India and Australia will resume in coming days, said a senior official with the airline.”
• As of December 7, 2021 , India’s Civil Aviation and Health Ministry has made contactless self-declaration at Air Suvidha Portal mandatory for purpose of contact tracing. Exemption forms from the Air Suvidha portal has been discontinued. All international passengers arriving in India must fill in all the details.
• 108 countries recognize India’s COVID-19 vaccination certificate for travel purpose as per data available on December 6, 2021 .

Commercial international flights were suspended in India since March 25, 2020 due to the coronavirus outbreak. Travel restrictions have begun to be gradually relaxed from October 2021.

Below we highlight the latest guidelines for international travel to and from India.

Latest updates

Status of india’s international air operations.

• On March 8, an order from the government confirmed resumption of regular international flights from March 27, 2022 . “After being recognized the increase of vaccination coverage across the globe and in consultation with the stakeholders, the government of India has decided to resume scheduled commercial international passenger services to/from India from March 27, 2022, ie [that is] start of the summer schedule 2022,” said the order. India had suspended international flights for the first time in March 2020 and began operating air bubble arrangements since July 2020. 
• As of February 28, 2022, India has extended its suspension of scheduled international flights “till further orders”. 
• India rolled back its intention to resume normal international flight schedules from December due to the emergence of the Omicron COVID variant. On December 9, 2021, the civil aviation regulator announced announced the postponement of international scheduled commercial flights till February 28, 2022. Air bubble and evacuation flights schedules, approved flights, and air cargo will function.

India releases periodic guidelines for international passengers coming into India based on the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic and emergence of regional variants and their threat assessment. The latest travel guidelines for international arrivals to India were released on February 10, 2022 (and supersede previous notifications): https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf

• The Air Suvidha portal for submission of Self Declaration Form, which is mandatory: https://www.newdelhiairport.in/airsuvidha/apho-registration 

For evacuation flight schedule Phase 14 (October 1, 2021 to March 26, 2022), see Air India Vande Bharat Mission here (download PDF): https://www.airindia.in/images/pdf/VBM-schedule-dtd-30sep2021-PHASE14.pdf . The evacuation mission has been in place since May 7, 2020. For destinations operated under air bubble arrangement Phase 13 ( September 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021), click here for PDF download .

• As of April 15, 2021, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has restored electronic visa (e-visa) facility for foreigners from 156 countries. The e-visa facility is applicable for international tourists who wish to visit India for conferences, medical purposes, or business. The e-visa also extends to medical attendants.

Air Transport Bubbles

India has also established “Transport Bubbles” or “Air Travel Arrangements”, which are temporary arrangements between two countries aimed at restarting commercial passenger services when regular international flights are suspended as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. They are reciprocal in nature, meaning airlines from both countries enjoy similar benefits.

The details of such arrangements were last updated in February 2022.

India now has 37 air bubble arrangements in place: Afghanistan, Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Canada, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Ukraine, UAE, UK, USA, and Uzbekistan.

More details can be seen on the government website here: https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles 

• Full service carrier Vistara has started non-stop flight services to Paris from Delhi under the air bubble agreement between India and Europe, according to reporting from The Economic Times . Under the air bubble pact, Vistara’s Boeing 787-9 (Dreamliner) aircraft will fly twice a week between Delhi and Paris – on Wednesday and Sunday. London, Frankfurt, Dubai, Doha, Sharjah, and Male are the other international destinations covered by Vistara, which is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines.
• The US will be lifting travel restrictions on foreign countries from November 8, Monday. Travelers must show proof of vaccination (WHO-approved vaccines); unvaccinated minors will be subject to testing requirements; and all travelers will need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test 72 hours before departure to the US. See here for Reuters coverage of the changing rules.
• Air India will offer non-stop flights between Delhi and Sydney starting November 15, 2021. Air India will operate the thrice-a-week service on the Delhi-Sydney-Delhi route under the Vande Bharat Mission. Australia has also formally recognized Covaxin, India’s COVID-19 vaccine.
• India’s new visa norms stipulate that visas will be granted to foreigners only if they use water and air routes, not land routes. The Ministry of Home Affairs has allowed the gradual resumption of international travel to start from October 15, 2021 and tourist and e-visas will be issued for only a single entry per month. From November 15, all individual foreign nationals (on fresh tourist visas) will be allowed to enter India after observing prevailing COVID-19 protocols as notified by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. 
• The Union Home Ministry announced on Thursday that India will allow foreign tourists traveling by chartered flights (Vande Bharat and air bubble flights) from October 15, rest from November 15, 2021. Foreigner tourists will be allowed to come in on non-charter flights from November 15 unless the extended restrictions on scheduled flights is substantially lifted. See the Home Ministry’s press briefing here  and reporting by the Economic Times here .
• The Hindustan Times reporting on October 2 : “Australia’s visiting trade and tourism minister Dan Tehan said foreign students will be able to start “returning towards the end of this year and the beginning of next year”, ahead of the start of the first semester in February-March 2022. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia listed Covishield and China’s Coronavac (Sinovac) as “recognised vaccines” after an initial assessment of data on protection offered by the two jabs.”
• CoWin, India’s digital platform for COVID-19 vaccination, is allowing travelers to download an international version of their COVID-19 vaccine certificate, which is compliant with WHO’s international travel guidelines. This feature went live on September 30, 2021, and allows fully vaccinated individuals to update their existing photo identity to passport number and date of birth to get their International Travel Certificate. See website: https://www.cowin.gov.in/
• The Indian Bureau of Immigration noted the specific categories of foreign nationals who are permitted to enter India by water routes or by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission, or ‘Air Bubble’ (Bilateral Air Travel Arrangements) Scheme, or by any non-scheduled commercial flights as allowed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in its notice MHA O.M. No.25022/24/2020-F.V/F.I dated October 21, 2020. See here for reference.
• Air India has said it will run direct services between Muscat and Vijayawada “once a week or thrice from the first week of July”. The Vijayawada International Airport resumed international flights to Gulf destinations, such as Dubai, Kuwait, Muscat in June, to Singapore in April.
• Budget carrier Air India Express will operate a total of 64 flights between Malaysia and India in July under Vande Bharat Mission. More below.
• Foreign nationals who wish to travel to India for medical treatment can apply for a fresh visa under this category and choose one attendant to accompany them as per the visa category provisions (that is, if the original applicant has their medical visa approved).
• On October 8, 2020, India’s civil aviation authority said the future of international flights will depend on the availability of a vaccine, hinting at the extension of air travel bubble arrangements into March-April next year.
• Low-cost carrier SpiceJet announces its new flight operations connecting Delhi and Mumbai with London, starting December 4, which will come under the India-UK air bubble agreement.
• New standard operating protocol announced August 22, 2020 for non-scheduled commercial flights under the repatriation scheme, Vande Bharat Mission, and Air Transport Bubble Agreements.

(Note: This article was originally published on August 4, 2020 and last updated on February 10, 2023.)

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From London to Lock-Up: After 22 Years of Long Wait, NRI's Return to India Proved Risky

Curated By : Diksha Modi

Translation Desk

Last Updated: August 29, 2024, 18:58 IST

New Delhi, India

Fateh Singh was handed over to the IGI Airport Police for further investigation. (Representational Image: PTI)

Fateh Singh, who had longed to return to his homeland, was met with an unexpected and unsettling situation when he arrived at the Delhi airport.

Fateh Singh, a 71-year-old NRI who had been living in London since 2002, found himself at the centre of a major immigration case upon arriving at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on August 23. Singh, who had longed to return to his homeland, was met with an unexpected and unsettling situation when he arrived at the Delhi airport via Air India flight AI-166.

Singh had moved to London to pursue his dreams and had avoided returning to India for over two decades due to a problematic past. He hoped that the passage of time would obscure his previous transgressions. However, the reality proved otherwise when he was intercepted by immigration authorities upon his arrival.

The trouble began when Singh’s passport was checked through the immigration software ‘Pride.’ The system displayed a blank travel history for Singh, prompting further scrutiny by the immigration officers. During the subsequent interrogation, it was revealed that Singh had used a fraudulent passport to enter London in 2002. Singh admitted to the deception, acknowledging that he had arrived in London by using someone else’s passport.

Singh was promptly taken into custody by the Bureau of Immigration and handed over to the IGI Airport Police for further investigation. He now faces charges under sections 319 (2) and 318 (2) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Further investigation led the police to arrest Sukhdev Singh from Kaithal, Haryana, who was allegedly involved in helping Singh obtain the fraudulent passport. Inspector Sumit and his team are continuing their investigation into the case.

• Delhi airport
• fake passport