India - Restrictions

India Restrictions for Yachts

Many restricted areas in India require special permits to visit. See a full list at https://boi.gov.in/boi/public/pages/ea8303e5-a167-48cb-857a-31b475fe7575

Satellite Phone:

The use of any type of satellite telephone in India is permitted only after obtaining a license from the Department of Telecommunications.

Persons caught using a satellite phone without a license will be prosecuted, and any unauthorized satellite phones found in their possession will be confiscated.

Drones:

The Government of India has issued guidelines for the use of drones in India, and it is important to comply with them to avoid any legal issues.

A Unique Identification Number (UIN) and an Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP) for your drone must be obtained from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which is required for all commercial and non-commercial drone operations in India. For more information, visit the webpage of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

For application and procedure for registration: https://digitalsky.dgca.gov.in/home

Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

Foreign tourists are permitted to visit the 30 Islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands without the need for a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

Visit the official website for Andaman & Nicobar Tourism website for more details.

Lakshadweep Islands:
https://lakshadweep.gov.in/

For foreign tourists, possessing a valid passport and an Indian visa is mandatory for entry into India, including Lakshadweep. An Entry Permit is required and must be obtained in advance.

The entry permit form is available online and requires submission to the administrator. Visitors can create an account, fill out the form with the relevant information, select the preferred island and travel dates, upload the required documents, and pay. The permission is usually sent via email 15 days before the trip.

Entry Permit Portal: https://epermit.utl.gov.in/

Alternatively, you can download the application form from the Lakshadweep Administration website or obtain it from the District Collector's office in Kavaratti. The completed form, along with the required documents, should be submitted to the Collector's office.

Note: The offline process may take longer, so make your plans well in advance.

Navigation:

India's coastal waters are teeming with small craft and great care must be taken especially when sailing at night, as most of them do not carry lights; collisions are frequent.

Last updated:  February 2024