A couple of scuba divers underwater near reefs with fish swimming around

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE: VISA & SPECIAL AREA PERMIT FOR DIVING IN THE ANDAMANS

By Sayali Ranadive

Dreaming of exploring the vibrant marine life of the Andaman Islands? Diving with Barefoot Scuba offers an unforgettable underwater experience in one of India’s most pristine regions. Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand the visa and permit requirements to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from Indian visas to Special Area Permits—so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your dives.
 

UNDERSTANDING THE INDIAN VISA PROCESS

Types of Visas Suitable for Diving

If your primary purpose is recreational activities such as scuba diving, you should apply for a tourist visa. Please check this site before applying for a visa.

1. Tourist Visa (T Visa)
• Most common option for leisure travel
• Usually valid for up to six months
• Ideal for extended diving holidays

2. e-Tourist Visa
• Available for citizens of eligible countries
• Applied online
• Allows stays of up to 180 days per year
• Suitable for short or multiple trips

Processing Time & Costs

• Regular Tourist Visa: 2 - 4 weeks (may vary by country)
• e-Tourist Visa: 3 - 5 business days
• Fees: Typically USD 25 - 100, depending on nationality


Application Requirements

When applying, you may be asked to provide:
• Passport with sufficient validity
• Completed application form
• Passport-size photographs
• Proof of funds
• Flight and accommodation details
• Travel itinerary

Some applicants may also need to attend an appointment for biometrics or interviews.

An open visa next to a closed Indian passport with the stamp Approved marked

SPECIAL AREA PERMIT (SAP) FOR CERTAIN FOREIGN NATIONALS


In addition to a valid visa, some foreign nationals must obtain a Special Area Permit (SAP) to visit parts of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. This regulation is enforced for security and administrative purposes.
 

Who Needs a Special Area Permit?

Nationals from certain countries are generally required to obtain an SAP, including but not limited to:
• China • Pakistan • Afghanistan • Iran • Iraq • Sudan • Syria • Nigeria • Somalia • Sri Lanka • Myanmar • Bangladesh

Regulations may change. Always confirm current requirements before travel.

2 cards laid out on a map for Special Area Permit to Andaman Islands with the approved stamp

Areas Where SAP May Apply

A permit may be required for visiting:
• Tribal reserve areas
• Restricted islands
• Border-sensitive regions
• Remote zones

Popular diving destinations such as Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), and Port Blair (Sri Vijayapuram) are generally accessible, but additional permissions may still apply for some nationalities.
 

HOW TO OBTAIN A SPECIAL AREA PERMIT

1. Apply Through Indian Missions Abroad
Apply via:
• Your nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate, or
• Along with your visa application

Mention your intention to visit the Andaman Islands.
 
2. Ministry of Home Affairs Approval
Some applications require clearance from:
• Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India
• Andaman & Nicobar Administration

This is usually coordinated through official channels.
 
3. Required Documents
You may need to submit:
• Passport and visa copies
• Recent photographs
• Confirmed itinerary
• Hotel bookings
• Dive operator confirmation (e.g. Barefoot Scuba)
• Purpose of visit letter

4. Processing Time
• Typically 2–4 weeks or more
• Apply well in advance

Last-minute applications are often rejected.
 

Important SAP Guidelines

• Do not travel without the permit if required
• Carry printed copies at all times
• Permits are checked at airports and ferry terminals
• Permits are issued for specific dates and locations
• Violations may lead to penalties or deportation
 

How Barefoot Scuba Can Help

While we cannot issue permits, our team can:
• Provide booking confirmations
• Share supporting documents
• Guide you through the process
• Assist with local coordination

We recommend sharing your nationality with us at the time of booking.

A map of Nicobar and Andaman Islands

SPECIFIC VISA & PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR DIVERS

Before arriving, ensure that:
• Your visa permits tourism and diving
• Your stay does not exceed allowed duration
• You have obtained an SAP if required
• All documents are valid throughout your stay
• You carry printed copies of permits and visas

Failure to comply may result in denied entry.

A couple of scuba divers underwater near reefs with fish swimming around

PLANNING YOUR TRAVEL TO THE ANDAMANS

Best Time to Visit

• Dive Season: October to May
• Best Visibility: November to April
• Avoid: Peak monsoon (June to September)
 

Flights to the Andamans

• Major hubs: Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi
• Destination: Port Blair (Sri Vijayapuram)
• Book early for best fares
• Use comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner.

Accommodation & Transport

• Stay at dive resorts for convenience.
• Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is ideal for divers since we have access to most of the dive sites in Andamans.
• Local transport includes taxis, autos, and ferries.
• You would have to arrange for Ferry transport to come to Havelock. You can check multiple ferry operators and their ferry timings here. Alternatively, Barefoot Scuba also helps you with end-to-end transfers.
 

SUSTAINABLE DIVING & MARINE CONSERVATION

We encourage all divers to protect the underwater ecosystem:
• Follow dive briefing and safety rules
• Maintain good buoyancy
• Avoid touching marine life
• Never collect shells or corals
• Reduce plastic usage
• Support local conservation efforts

Responsible diving helps preserve the Andamans for future generations.
 

CONCLUSION

With the right visa, permits, and preparation, your Andaman diving adventure can be seamless and unforgettable. Plan early, double-check documentation, and let Barefoot Scuba take care of your underwater experience. Contact Barefoot Scuba to dive in Havelock, Andamans.

The azure waters, vibrant reefs, and thrilling dives of the Andamans are waiting for you.

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