In an effort to streamline and simplify visitor access to the islands, the Union Territory of Lakshadweep has eliminated several restrictions from the entry permission process.

Tourists can apply for entry permits without a local sponsor, according to a circular released on Wednesday by the island administration. Previous certificates of police clearance from applicants’ home areas are likewise no longer required by the administration.

Alternatively, the Lakshadweep Police will be in charge of conducting security checks following the submission of applications. Reportedly, the goal of the measures is to increase tourism to the islands without compromising safety.

Still, tourists need to plan ahead by applying for permits at least 14 days before their trip and being very explicit about which islands they’re visiting and when. In addition, the government now requires all applications to specify which islands they will be visiting or passing through.

No tourist will be granted access to any island that is not specifically mentioned on their permit. According to the circular, the only points of transit will be Kavaratti or Agatti, and the maximum period for a transit will be 12 hours.

According to the authorities, in order to avoid cancellation fees, visitors should wait to book their flight tickets until they have received their entry permits. The circular further said that eligibility and document completeness will determine the processing of all applications.

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