Passport Guide
No, Indian citizens can visit the Andaman Islands without a passport. The Andaman Islands are part of India. Traveling there is just like a domestic trip. You can fly or sail to these islands with a valid government photo ID.
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Andaman Islands Are Part of India
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands belong to India. They lie far from the mainland. They are one of India’s Union Territories.
Going there is like flying to another state in India without leaving the country.
No Passport Needed for Indian Travelers
Indian travelers can visit Andaman without a passport. You only need to show a valid photo ID along with your ticket.
Airport staff and ship officials accept Aadhaar, voter ID, driving license or similar ID. Indian travelers bypass immigration and visa checks because the trip is domestic.
Carry a Valid Photo ID
Carry at least one government photo ID on your trip. It will serve as your identity proof at the airport, seaport, and hotels.
- Aadhaar Card: Airports accept Aadhaar as a primary photo ID.
- Voter ID Card: Airports and ports accept a voter ID card for travel.
- Driving License: Airlines accept driving licenses as valid ID.
- PAN Card: Security staff accept a PAN card with photo as ID.
- Passport: You can also use your passport as an ID if you carry it.
- Student ID: A school or college ID card with a photo works for young travelers.
- Birth Certificate: Airlines allow an infant’s birth certificate as ID for babies.
- Other Government ID: Authorities also accept other government-issued IDs, such as a government employee card or pension card.
Note: The name on your ID should match the name on your ticket.
How to Reach Andaman (Flight & Ship)
There are two ways to travel from mainland India to the Andaman Islands. You can go via air or via sea. In both cases, you must carry a valid ID and your ticket. Neither mode of travel requires a passport.
Flying to Andaman: Use ID at the Airport
- Show your photo ID and ticket at the airport entrance.
- Check in and get your boarding pass (keep your ID handy if asked).
- At the gate, show your ID and boarding pass to board the plane.
Sailing to Andaman: Use ID at the Port
- Arrive at the departure port with your ship ticket.
- Show your ID and ticket at the port boarding gate or counter.
- Board the ship. Crew members may ask to see your ID again as you get on board.
For both flights and ships, keep your ID handy for the entire journey.
Permits and Restricted Areas
Indian travelers need no permit to visit Andaman’s tourist areas like Port Blair or Havelock.
However, some areas of Andaman and Nicobar are off-limits to tourists. These include areas where protected tribal communities live. Most of the Nicobar Islands are closed to the public unless you have special government permission.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Trip
A few precautions can help you avoid problems during your Andaman trip.
- Make sure the name on your ticket matches the name on your ID.
- Carry a physical photocopy or digital copy of your ID as a backup.
- Keep your ID with you instead of in checked luggage.
- If you travel with children, bring their school ID or birth certificate for identification.
- Book your flight or ship tickets well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Check official government or airline notices for any updates before your trip.
When Do You Need a Passport?
A passport is only needed when you travel outside India. For any international flight or crossing into another country, you must have a valid passport.
If you plan to visit any country abroad, you will need a passport (and a visa as well). You can travel anywhere within India, such as Andaman, without a passport. You can carry it as an extra ID if you want, but it’s optional.
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Getting a Passport for Future Travel
If you plan to travel abroad in the future, consider getting a passport now. Applying for a passport involves filling out forms and submitting documents. You will also need to visit the passport office to give fingerprints and have your photo taken.
Our passport assistance service can assist you at each step so the process is easier for you. You can contact us for help with paperwork, appointments, or any questions about getting your passport.
