With a steady increase in the volume of passenger traffic on air bubble flights to India, Kerala has eased restrictions and quarantine rules for international arrivals in the unlock 7.0. Kerala is one of the few states to have scrapped mandatory institutional quarantine for asymptomatic international flyers from abroad. All of Kerala’s four international airports – Cochin, Trivandrum, Kannur, and Calicut – are open for international arrivals and departures. However, travel to Kerala is subject to certain regulations before departure and after arrival amid the pandemic.
Before you undertake travel to India
After booking air bubble flights tickets to Kerala, international travelers need to fill out a self-reporting form on Air Suvidha (download the app or log on to Delhiairport.in), and register their details on Kerala’s COVID Jagratha portal. They are also required to apply for an e-pass and show the same to health officials at the arrival airport in Kerala. Please note the e-pass is mandatory for you to exit the terminal.
Other than filling a self-reporting form on Air Suvidha, you must fill a self-declaration form provided by the Government of Kerala before departure or after arrival.
If Kerala is your first port of entry
If Kerala is your first port of entry in India, you need not apply for exemption from institutional quarantine on condition of being asymptomatic. It means you don’t need a negative RT-PCR test report for flying directly into Kerala. You will only undergo 7-14 days of mandatory home quarantine as per Kerala’s quarantine rules for international arrivals.
If Kerala is not your first port of entry
If Kerala is not your first port of entry in India and you travel on United Airlines or Air India’s air bubble flight to Kerala via Delhi or Mumbai, a negative RT-PCR certificate is mandatory for taking domestic connection flights to Kerala from the first port of entry, Delhi or Mumbai. You can either travel with a negative COVID test report from the port of origin/departure or get tested upon arrival at the first port of entry, Delhi, Mumbai, or Hyderabad.
RT-PCR Testing for air bubble flights to Kerala
If you choose to travel with a negative COVID health certificate, you need to take a RT-PCR test and upload the test result to Air Suvidha within 72 hours before undertaking the journey from the port of origin/departure. Those who traveled before or on November 12 had to get tested for the Novel Coronavirus within 96 hours of their scheduled flights to India. It is now 72 hours, according to the Government of India’s new/revised guidelines for international arrivals. Those traveling with a negative RT-PCR certificate are exempted from both institutional quarantine and home quarantine. All they need to do is self-monitoring of their health for 14 days.
After arrival at Kerala airports
Carrying e-pass from the origin/departure is mandatory for traveling to Kozhikode/Calicut International Airport (CCJ) in Kerala. The airport has no counters to issue e-pass. If you travel to Trivandrum Airport (TRV) without an e-pass, you are likely to be put under institutional quarantine until an e-pass is arranged for you. Luckily, you won’t be sent back. At Cochin International Airport (COK), a handful of international arrivals can register their details manually upon arrival. Kochi Airport has the provision for flyers from abroad to fill the form manually.
Quarantine rules for travelers on a short trip
A short visit to Kerala is allowed for only 8 days, while you can make a regular visit to the state for only 6 months. Registration on Kerala’s COVID Jagratha portal is equally mandatory even for a short visit. Those on a short visit to the state are exempted from any sort of quarantine. Those on a short trip for any purpose other than tourism don’t have to obey the Kerala’s quarantine guidelines only on condition of being asymptomatic. Currently, tourist visa to India is suspended.
COVID Testing Facility at Cochin International Airport
Cochin International Airport is the first airport in Kerala and the sixth Indian airport to have launched a dedicated COVID testing facility in the airport premises. In addition to international arrivals and departures, the general public can choose to get tested at the airport’s COVID testing facility where both RT-PCR and rapid antigen tests are available. The RT-PCR test results are delivered within 6-8 hours from the time samples are collected. It takes only 15 minutes to provide antigen test results. A RT-PCR test costs Rs 2100 per individual, while a rapid antigen test is priced at Rs 625, as per the fixed rates from the government of Kerala. The 24-hr COVID testing counters are located in the arrival areas of T1 and T3 terminals.
Related to Air Bubble Travel to India
- No Regular International Flights to India till March 2021
- Qatar Airways may Resume US-India Services in December
- All about Travel to and from India in 2020
- How to Book COVID Tests at Airports in India
- Airlines operating US-India bubble flights
Thanks! Very informational.
Hi! I will be traveling to India from US on December 19th and then return back to the US on January 31st. I was wondering if it’s safe to do so and can we expect any more flight restrictions and/or the air bubble being scraped? I am just more worried about re-entry because the US may have some new rules after the new administration takes charge and may try to prohibit people from other countries while they impose a lockdown in the US.
Hi Vikas! As of now, it seems safe to return to the US if you have a valid visa. We are not able to predict what rules and restrictions will be there once the new administration takes charge in January 2021. The US-India air bubble travel agreement may be extended post November 30, 2020.
Hi Very useful information. Thanks for the initiative.
I intend to travel from Frankfurt to Trivandrum with Emirates.
1. Can i travel with Emirates or must I only fly with Air bubble flights?
2. When must i register in Covid Jagratha site, after the RT-PCR test result here in germany, correct?
3. Will i receive the travel pass or registration confirmation at Covid Jagratha site immediately per email?
Thanks for your help
Bala
Hi Bala! Yes, you can travel on Emirates from Frankfurt to Trivandrum. After booking your flight, you can register on the Jagratha portal.
So do we have to do mandatory institute quarantine or home quarantine
If we actually get a covid vaccine and covid negative paperwork
Hi John! May we know where you are traveling to and from?
I plan to fly direct to COK from London Heathrow on Air India. Since Kochi is my first port of entry and there are no connecting flights involved, I do not require to have a RT PCR done prior to travel from London. Am I right? Please would you confirm this? I understand I will have to undergo home quarantine.
Many thanks
Mathew
Hi Mathew! You are right. As Kochi is the first port of entry and final destination (you won’t take a domestic flight), a RT-PCR test is not compulsory for asymptomatic travelers from abroad.
Can US citizen with visa travel? I heard only OCI holder can travel. Any exception to US citizen kid with indian visa only?
Hi Raja! US citizens (without OCI cards) can travel to India given they have a valid visa to India. You can apply for an entry visa or emergency visa (in case of an emergency). Please note tourist visa and e-visa are currently banned by the Government of India.
Team,
i am planning to go india next week for 2 week i am going to take covid test and if it is negative then i am gonna travel to india
my question is like do i need to quarantine my self at home ?(if i have covid negative ) the thing is i am only going foe 2 week only i need to be back by 20th or i just need to do self monitoring my self and i will be ok ?
thanks,
Ankur
Hi Ankur! Usually, you are exempted from home quarantine for having a RT-PCR test certificate. Please note it depends on your final destination in India.
If I fly from Africa to Trivandrum via Bombay and carry a covid negative certificate will there be a need to quarantine in Bombay being first port of entry . From Bombay will connect to trivandrum . Do I need to quarantine in Bombay being first port of entry .
Hi Daniel! If you are traveling from South Africa, you will be subject to mandatory COVID testing upon arrival and 7-14 days of institutional quarantine in Mumbai. During institutional quarantine, you will be tested for COVID-19. If the result is negative, you will be released and allowed to travel further. If you are a foreigner, you won’t be able to visit India currently. Foreigners (except for business and diplomatic purposes) are barred from traveling to India currently.
Hi,
My wife and I are Indian citizens with GC. Our daughter is US citizen with OCI.
Can we travel from Chicago to COK on emirates?
Can we travel back from COK to chicago on emirates?
Hi I am Travelling from Maldives to Bangalore Via Kochi.. Transit time 3 hours in Cochin before flight to Bangalore
I am Traveling on 28th December 2020 for both the flights. should I require RT-PCR test. the test is very expensive on Maldives. Will I be allowed to take connecting flight?
Hi Revanth! In the current circumstances triggered by the wake of a new strain of the virus in the UK, it is recommended you take a test in the Maldives within 72 hours prior to your flight. You may not be allowed to connect on a domestic flight at Kochi Airport.
Hi. I am travelling to Kerala from US but my first port of entry is Delhi and then to Kochi by flight. In the Covid jagratha site should i register as a domestic entry or international entry?
Hi Merin! Since you are an international traveler, you need to register as an international entry or arrival.
Hi I will be flying from doha to bangalore via kochi… I will be having a Rt pcr test report with me.. do I need an e- pass or do I need to register in jagratha portal?
Hi Prajit! You need to register on both Kerala’s Jagratha portal and Karnataka’s SevaSindhu portal. You may not need the travel e-pass because Kerala is not your final destination. But there is no harm in obtaining the travel e-pass.
Hi while registering on jagratha portal for international travelers.. they are asking local kerala address – district and local body… I don’t have a Kerela address.. there is no option for transit passenger.
Hi Prajit! If you have a single PNR for the itinerary from Dubai to Bangalore, then you don’t need to register on Kerala’s jagratha portal because Kerala is not your destination.
What if I don’t have a single pnr.. different pnr for doha to cochin and another for cochin to bangalore… Layover is just 3..4 hrs.. will that be ok?
Hi, I will be returning to the US on Jan 13th and my route is Calicut – Delhi – Newark on Air India. My understanding is that RT-PCR is not required for the US flight. But will I need to carry an RT-PCR negative result to board the Calicut-Delhi leg of the flight ?
Thanks,
Manasree
Hi Manasree! Not required.
Hi,I am a student and I am going back to my college, I am travelling from Jharkhand to Calicut via Bangaluru . Can u please let me know,Do I need to have e-pass ??
Hi Sujata! If you are a domestic traveler, you don’t need an e-pass.
Hi,
If I’m planning to come in United airlines to Kochi via Delhi and if I have a negative COVID test report, will I have to do any form of quarantine?
Hi Abijith! You will have to serve home quarantine.
Hello Team,
I will be travelling to Kerala ( Trivandrum ) on 16th Jan 2021 from Frankfurt (Germany) to Banglore and I will take a domestic flight to Trivandrum. I have a few questions:
#1: Is it mandatory to have a RT-PCR test negative result before boarding from Germany?
#2: I am travelling with my 4-year kid. What does the exempted category children below 10 years mean?
#3: Other than getting an e-pass via Jagratha website should I report at local health office in Kerala before my travel?
Thank you in advance for answering me 🙂
best regards
Sajeer
Hi Sajeer! It is mandatory to take an RT-PCR test before departure from Frankfurt or after arrival at Bangalore (only if the layover/connection time is as long as 6-8 hours). You don’t need to report to any local health office in Kerala if you are asymptomatic. Until before the new variant of Novel Coronavirus was found in the UK and other countries, people traveling to India with kids below 10 years of age were exempted from institutional quarantine without any test. That relaxation may not be available to those from Europe.
Hi,
I am Indian citizen arriving from US on United Airlines to Delhi and my final destination is Trivandrum Kerala to visit family for 4 weeks. On the Jagratha Portal; do i have to register as International Entry and then do i need to fill out the Self Declaration to get a pass to travel from the airport to the house?
Thanks
Hi Shiv! Yes, you need to register yourself as an international arrival on the Jagratha portal.
I am planing to travels from dammam to Delhi on 2 nd feb.
Can I then fly from Kerala to Saudi directly any date of first week of March .
Hi Ifee! Yes, you can.
Hi.. I’m travelling from Mumbai to Kochi (no international travel prior to this) on 16th Jan 2021 and will be staying there for a few months.. Should I carry a negative RTPCR test certificate with me mandatorily? What are the other pre-requisites? How many days of quarantine should I serve?
Hi Hari! If domestic tourists/travelers are planning to stay for more than seven days in Kerala, they need to submit a COVID-negative certificate. They need to undergo an RT-PCR or Rapid Antigen test 48 hours prior to arrival or upon arrival in Kerala. The Covid-19 testing must be done at an ICMR or state government-approved laboratory. If the result is negative, then no quarantine.
Hi, I am planning to travel from US to Cochin, If I have RT-PCR negative certificate do I need to quarantine (home or institutional )
Hi Joseph! If you are asymptomatic and travel with a valid negative RT-PCR certificate issued within 72 hours prior to your departure from the US, you are likely to get exemption from institutional quarantine. However, home quarantine for 7-14 days is mandatory for all international arrivals.
Thanks! Very useful and answers many doubts! My question is where can I get the e-pass form? I’m traveling from Melbourne to Kochi via Dubai. So my first India port is Kochi. But I will have to stay in Dubai airport for 16 hours. I am asymptomatic.
Hi Sushma! You need to register for e-pass on https://covid19jagratha.kerala.nic.in/. Kochi Airport has a COVID testing facility where you can take a test after arrival. If you are asymptomatic and the test result is negative, you have fair chances for exemption from institutional quarantine.
Hi,
I will be travelling to Kerala ( Trivandrum ) on 17th Jan 2021 in Vandhe Bhrath Mission
Should I need PCR test report??
Hi Raja! Yes, you need a negative RT-PCR test report issued within 72 hours prior to boarding the flight for Kerala.
Hi,
Sorry, but I am a bit confused. As per this article and many other comments here, I though it was not required to take a PCR test if we are flying from other countries directly to Kerala. Please clarify.
And if we do not have a PCR test report do we need to be under institutional quarantine or home quarantine?
Hi Sachin! If you are asymptomatic and if the airline boards you without a negative RT-PCR test result, you can travel to Kerala without any COVID test report. You will be put under 14-day home quarantine.
Hey my name is John
Traveling from USA to abudubai to kochi with my family
I have a OCI AND MY SISTER GOT A visa on arrival receipt
We are there for her wedding is there any restrictions
Already know about the covid test within 72 hours
Hi John! There are no restrictions for OCI cardholders’ travel to India. If your sister has a physical visa (visa on arrival), she too can travel. Please note e-visa to India is currently banned.
Hi, I am planning to travel from the US to COK for less than 7 days with a negative RT-PCR to participate in a family funeral. Apart from the Air Suvidha exemption form, what are the other formalities for completion, and is there a home -quarantine mandatory?
Hi GJ! 7-day home quarantine is mandatory in Kerala. Based on your purpose of visit to the family, you can request exemption from home quarantine when you arrive at Kochi Airport. Apart from the exemption form, you need to fill out a self-reporting form on Air Suvidha and register on Kerala’s jagratha portal for a travel e-pass.
Hi,
I will be travelling to Kerala ( Trivandrum ) on 17th Jan 2021 in Vandhe Bhrath Mission
If i go tamilnadu. How many days stay in tiruvandrum.. please update me..
Hi Umar! We regret the delay in addressing your query. Hope you reached the destination safely and had a hassle-free journey.
Hi,
I am planning to travel from Qatar to Kerala (Cochin) in coming week in Qatar airways .
Do i need to do PCR test in Qatar before coming to Kerala?
Do in Kerala airport they are asking any PCR test result on arrival.
Hi Alex! Yes, you need to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before you board the flight from Qatar for Kerala.
Traveling from Toronto to Kochi via Qatar airways and returning back after 1 month. Do I need a negative Covid test ?
Hi Kochu! If you are asymptomatic, you can travel to Kochi without a negative RT-PCR test result. However, 14-day home quarantine applies. While going back to the USA, you will mandatorily need a negative RT-PCR report, according to the latest mandate for all international travelers flying into the USA.
Hi sorry But I am traveling from Canada to Kochi via Doha. i have a transit stop in Doha. Do i need covid test certificate ?
Hi,
I am travelling from US to TRV and travelling to Tamilnadu by road. What are the requirements for this travel?
I checked in Jagrata portal, but dont see any options as e-pass. Please advise how to apply for it.
Thanks in advance.
Dear Sir,
I m travelling from Bangalore to Doha via Cochin with flyover for 5 hours. PNR is single from Goindigo. Do I need e-pass or any other registration on Kerala website.? Thanks
Hi Gopal! In our opinion, you don’t need the e-pass as Cochin is not your final destination. Please check with the airline as well.
hi, I am travelling to Trivandrum from Philadelphia and then travelling to Tamil Nadu via road. What are the steps i need to take? Is quarantine mandatory with negative covid testing? Thank you in advance.
Hi Nagarajan! Based on a negative RT-PCR test result, you will be exempted from institutional quarantine. But home quarantine applies.
Do i need epass for traveling from Toronto to Kochi ?
Hi Kochu! Yes, you do need.
Hi, I am travelling to Trivandrum from Paris via New Delhi by Air India and then travelling to Tamil Nadu via road. What are the steps i need to take? Is quarantine mandatory with negative covid testing? Thank you in advance.
Hi Joseph! If you travel with a negative RT-PCR test result or take a COVID test upon arrival at Delhi Airport, you will be exempted from institutional quarantine. Only home quarantine will apply.
Hi,
Thanks to the author, found the article and comment responses useful. Got couple of queries. Hope you can answer.
Traveling from UK to Bangalore this weekend and then connecting to Trivandrum as final destination on a different airline/pnr. Will be taking PCR test in UK within 72 hrs and then on arrival at Bangalore apt as per current rules. Got 12 hours waiting at Bangalore apt which I believe is sufficient time for getting test results. Assuming the tests are negative…
1. Do I register as international or domestic passenger in Kerala Jagratha portal?
2. Is Kerala ePass required in addition to self declaration.
3. Does Only 14 days home quarantine as per Kerala rules apply and does this need an exemption application?
4. Is Arogyasethu or other app still required?
5. Any registration at Karnataka portals other than Air Suvidha ?
Thanks
Hi Kamal! You can register as either international or domestic passenger on the Jagratha portal. Yes, Kerala travel e-pass is required. You will be advised home quarantine for 14 days in Kerala. You have the option to take a COVID test on the 7th day; if the result is negative, you will be exempted from home quarantine for the next 7 days. You need to install the Aarogya Setu app. You need to register on Karnataka’s SevaSindhu portal.
Thanks. I believe Karnataka SevaSindhu ePass services are now disabled. As per FAQ in Bangalore airport website declaration in Air Suvidha portal only is required. Hoping it won’t be an issue.
I will be travelling to cochin from kuwait on 19th Feb 2021. Is RT-PCR test report need to travel? cochin is final destination.
if no test done prior to travel 14days home quarantine is allowed or is it mandatory for institutional quarantine?
Hi Samuel! You can take a COVID test, if it is mandatory, upon arrival at Cochin Airport. Cochin airport has a dedicated COVID testing facility for international arrivals. If you are asymptomatic and COVID negative, you will be asked to undergo home quarantine for 7-14 days.
I will be traveling with a 5 yr old from US to TRV via Emirates. My final destination is in Tamil Nadu via Road transport. I am already exempted because I fall under the category of parent travel less than 10 yr old. We will still take Covid test before we depart from here. Besides, doing exemption form, self-declaration form and Tamil Nadu ePass, what else should I do or carry ? Do we have to register at Kerala website too ? https://covid19jagratha.kerala.nic.in/ website by Kerala doesn’t have any info that is pertaining for Tamil Nadu passengers. Can you clarify ?
Hi Malida! You are well-prepared for the journey. You also need to register on Kerala’s Jagratha portal and apply for a travel pass so that you can exit the TRV airport.
Thanks. Now Airsuvida website says that there is no need to apply for exemption if your first port of entry is within the state of Kerala, Karnataka and Orissa. Jagratha website is only for people who are going to stay within Kerala. We had already gotten the TN ePass and Air Suvida self declaration. No idea how to do Jagratha portal to apply for travel pass as they need local Indian mobile number. We tried International Arrival form on that portal and all the information that they request are for the people whose final destination is within Kerala. In our case it is going to Tamil Nadu.
Hi Malida! Please be advised to check with the airline that you will travel on, whether you will be allowed to board and travel without Kerala’s travel pass. If the airline confirms that you don’t need Kerala’s travel pass, you are good to go.
Hello, hope you can help. I am planning to travel from US to Trivandrum on a very short trip – 1 week. Planning to land on 22nd Feb. I plan to bring my COVID test results with me. Will I be subjected to home quarantine? After landing in Trivandrum, I also plan to go to Pune. Will I have an issue with domestic travel and the subsequent international travel back to US from Mumbai?
Hi Latha! If you are asymptomatic, have a negative RT-PCR test result, carry confirmed return flight tickets and share your domestic travel plans upon arrival at the port of entry in India, you will be exempted from home quarantine. There are relaxations for asymptomatic international travelers on a short visit.
Hi, Next week I’m planning to travel from LHR to COK via DELHI/BANGLORE. I’m going for a 7day trip. I will be carrying RT_PCR test result from London. Also I’m vaccinated in UK. Do I need to Quarantine? If so at which airport? DELHI or BANGLORE which airport is flexible in terms of quarantine while travelling to COK.
Hi Joe! Both Delhi Airport and BLR Airport have the same policy for travelers from the UK. On having a negative RT-PCR test report, you won’t be quarantined either in Delhi or Bangalore. But you will be subject to COVID testing upon arrival at both Delhi and Bangalore airports.
Hi
I am travelling from UK to Delhi and had both doses of vaccine. I will have two negative RT-PCR( before boarding plane in UK and on arrival in Delhi).
I will do home quarantine in Delhi for 7 days and then travel to Kochi.
I will get RT-PCR test after 7 days of home quarantine in Delhi.
Do I still need to quarantine in Kochi ?
Please advise as I can’t see any guidance.
Hi Vijay! On completion of home-quarantine in Delhi, you don’t need to take an RT-PCR test to travel to Kochi as you won’t be quarantined in Kochi.
HI, Am travelling from US to Cochin via Dubai in Emirates. I have 10 months old infant (US Citizen with OCI card).
1. Do I need to take RT PCR for infant and adult
2. I believe US citizen with OCI card is allowed, Can you please confirm
HI Pradeep! US citizens with OCI card can travel to India. No restrictions. COVID testing is not mandatory for the infant. Do make sure to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha.
Hi. I’m planning on traveling from US to Delhi to kochi. I was planning on going for a short visit- for a total of 5 days and will be traveling back on the 5th day. Since it’s a short visit, do I still need to quarantine?
Hi Rose! If you are asymptomatic and have a negative RT-PCR test report, you will be exempted from home quarantine in Kochi. In addition, you need to show your confirmed return flight ticketed upon arrival at Delhi and Kochi airports.
Hi, I am planning to travel from US to Trivandrum Airport and go to Tamilnadu by road as soon as I arrive. Do I need to take Kerala epass?
Hi Nagarajan! In our knowledge, you need.
Lot of useful information here and help to sort out all the confusion regarding the quarantine rules. I am flying from US to Mumbai after getting negative Covid test within 72 hours of travel. Will stay in Mumbai for 2 days and in Pune for 3 more days before flying to final destination in Kochi. I will be staying in Kerala for 6 days before flying back to US via Delhi.
1) Do I specify myself as international or domestic on the jakarta website before entering Kerala?
2) Planning to get the second Covid test 48 hours before landing in Kochi. If the repeat test is also negative, do I need to home quarantine, even with short stay of 6 days?
3) Do I need to test again for domestic flight back from Kochi to Delhi?
Thanks for all the help.
Philip
Hi Phillip! Usually, international arrivals are subject to 14-day home quarantine in Mumbai or at their final destination in or outside of Maharashtra. In order to avoid 14-day home quarantine, you need to share your domestic travel plan upon and purpose of visit arrival at Mumbai International Airport. Of course, it is subject to approval. You don’t have to declare yourself as an international arrival while traveling to Kerala after 5 days of arrival in India. All travelers have to undergo home-quarantine for 14 days in Kerala, but those who visit the state for a short period (less than 7 days) are exempt to home-quarantine. Since you will travel to USA, you must take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of your departure from the first airport.
Hai
1.I booked my flight tickets from Edmonton (Canada) to via Abudhabi to TRV
TRV is my international entry in India ,what is the procedure before i leave from canada and after i arrived in thiruvanthapuram.
2.Once i arrived in TRV do i need to do self quarantine in kerala or not
3.After that i have to travel by road to tamil nadu .So Travel by road do i need to have E- Pass
Hi Anistan! You need to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before your scheduled journey from the US, upload the negative report onto Air Suvidha, fill out a self-declaration form on the same portal and take a printout of the form. Upon arrival, you will be asked to show the negative report and the self-declaration form. As you will transit in the Middle East, you will have to give your nasal/oral swab sample for a payable molecular test at Delhi Airport. You will be able to exit the airport without having to wait for the result. If you travel to Tamil Nadu within a few hours of arrival at TRV, you don’t have to undergo self-quarantine in Kerala.
I’m coming to India for my marriage and I only have 7 day from arrival to marriage but staying there for for a month
I won’t be able to do 14 day quarantine
So I have the proof of vaccine I got
And I can get the RT-PCR negative result is 14 day still mandatory
Hello,
As of now (2-27-2021), is quarantine, still, required for international passengers from the US to Kerala, for a family emergency, like, a funeral, even if they, already, have a negative test result, and have a confirmed reservation for return trip within one week (that is, on a short visit)??
Thank you.
Hi Alexander! You will be exempted from home-quarantine provided you are asymptomatic, have a negative RT-PCR test report uploaded on Air Suvidha within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from the US, have proofs of death in family, and confirmed return flight tickets.
I’m coming from USA to kochi do I have to do mandatory 14 days quarantine or 7 day quarantine
If I have the negative test ND proof of vaccine
Hi Albin! The newly issued guidelines that took effect on Feb 23 make 14-day home quarantine/self-monitoring health mandatory for international arrivals in any part of India.
I’m coming to India for my marriage and I only have 7 day from arrival to marriage but staying there for for a month
I won’t be able to do 14 day quarantine
So I have the proof of vaccine I got
And I can get the RT-PCR negative result is 14 day still mandatory
Hi Albin! There is no relaxation/exemption in India for vaccinated travelers from abroad. You will have to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey. Upon arrival at the entry airport in India, please share your purpose of visit so that you can be exempted from home quarantine.
I am traveling from USA to Trivandrum through Emirates(Transit in Dubai). Do I need to register in covid-19 Jagratha 72 hours before departing? Or can I register anytime(any time before 72 hours)?
Also, what is Exempt in the website(while registering)?
Hi Arun! You need to register on Kerala’s Jagratha portal within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from the US.
Hello , I am planning to travel from UK to Cochin(final destination) on March with wife & 3 yr old kid and have few queries . Can someone please clarify .
1. Which transist option among these would be better/hassle free while travelling with kid.
(i) London -> Mumbai/Delhi/Banglr -> Cochin OR
(ii) London -> Middle East -> Cochin.
2.Whether I need to take any Covid test in Middle East for the transit(3hrs) if I have 72hrs PCR test result ?.
3.Whether I need to take RT-PCR test for my 3yr old kid before and after arriving ?
4. Is that 7 or 14 days quarantine ?
Hi Ram! You can choose between London-Delhi/BLR-Cochin or London-Middle East-Cochin. All travelers from the UK, irrespective of their age, have to take a pre-arrival RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey from the UK and a COVID test upon arrival in Delhi/Bangalore/Cochin. Kerala has 14-day home quarantine for international arrivals.
So I got a question my whole family is coming in India over April 2nd through May 5th and I have a oci my mom and my dad they got green card play my sister she don’t have a Visa neither oci is Kerala Airport still accept visa on arrival
Hi Albin! Currently, visa on arrival or e-visa is suspended. The suspension may come to an end by the end of March.
HI. So helpful.
I wish to do a 72 hour business trip to Kerala from the UK and have a recently issued business visa.
Is it allowed to go UK, DOHA, Calicut?
I note the national advice changed on the 18th Feb re the UK
If I have a negative pcr test at 72 hours etc can I avoid mandatory quarantine? If so what is needed?
Hi David! You need to take a direct flight from the UK to India. There is no mandatory institutional quarantine in Kerala, Karnataka, and Delhi for asymptomatic travelers from the UK with a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test report. You will have to take a molecular test upon arrival and wait till you receive the result at the arrival airport.
I want to travel(return)from tvm to Frankfurt through delhi.shouls I get rtpcr test for free in the airport same day.or should I go to the airport 1 day before to take the test.Also does there any test also in Delhi airport?
Hi Raj! Kerala offers free RT-PCR tests to Kerala-origin international travelers flying to Kerala, not flying out of Kerala.
Thank you.
But can i clarify? When you say no mandatory institutional quarantine, do you mean that I still have to do home quarantine or can I complete my very short business trip?
Hello,
Traveling to Kerala on Emirates via Dubai from US on March 10th. What do I need to register on COVID Jagratha website? I do not have an India mobile number. The login screen is asking for an India mobile number.
Thanks
Hi Arun! Registration is a must. We regret not being able to help you with a solution to the problem you are facing.
Hi,
I have few questions.
1. Can I travel to India (Kerala) from USA without a negative RT-PCR test from USA?
2. Can I do that at Delhi Airport? How long will it take for the test results?
3. Will I be able to take the connection flight to Kerala from Delhi the same day?
Thank you in advance!
Hi Emma! With effect on February 23, 2021, India has made it mandatory that all international arrivals have to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before their scheduled departure from the US or any other country. Hence, the India-bound airline will not onboard you without a negative RT-PCR test report. Yes, you can take the connection flight on the same day.
Hi, I am planning to travel to Tamil nadu via Doha, Qatar from US. My port of entry in India will be Trivandrum and I will return to US in 6 days. I have few question.
1.Do I need to undergo quarantine once I reach India
2.Do I need to do PCR test while entering and exiting India,
3.What kind of documents I need to provide when I cross Kerala-Tamil Nadu Boarder
4. Is there any difference if my port of entry is Chennai instead of Trivandrum. Chennai is far away from my home and I prefer to go through Trivandrum
HI Madhavan! FYI, Tamil Nadu has made 7-day home quarantine mandatory for people traveling from Kerala. For travel from Kerala, you may need to apply for a travel pass on Kerala’s Jagratha portal. You need to take an RT-PCR test before traveling to India and traveling back to the US. Upon arrival at Trivandrum Airport, you will have to give your swab sample for a molecular test but you don’t have to wait for the result of the test.
Hi,
i am planing to take my flight from Frankfurt to Kochi via. Delhi.
I intend to carry the RT-PCR test results within the 72 hours with me. Hopefully the test being negative.
then,
can i catch the transit fly immediately to Kochi from Delhi, without a second test and quarantine at Delhi. as the first test is still within 72 hours to my flight to Kerala
Hi Ami! There is no quarantine in Delhi if the result of the molecular test that you will take upon arrival is negative. Please note you can exit the airport or proceed for the connecting domestic flight to Kochi after giving your swab sample for a molecular test. The test result will be communicated to you via email or over phone.
Thanks, so i don’t have to get tested in Delhi which is the transit point.
Hi Ami! Our initial reply to you was a mistake. We made the correction. You will have to take a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport.
Hi,
I am planning to go to Kerala from US on April second week (by Air India). I will stay in Kerala for 8 days and my purpose is medical treatment. What is the quarantine policy in this case (short visit). Is there a way I can be exempted from quarantine?
Hi Tina! There is no institutional quarantine in Kerala if you carry a negative RT-PCR report uploaded on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to traveling from the USA.
What about mandatory home quarantine or will I be exempted from that too since I am on a short visit and the purpose is medical. Thanks a lot for taking time to answer the questions. It is very helpful since the rules are changing frequently and most of us are not aware of them.
Hi Tina! There won’t be home quarantine. You will be advised to self-monitor your health.
I am traveling from US to Kochi for a month.
I am fully vaccinated. Do I still need to quarantine?
Hi Anstin! You don’t need to quarantine yourself in Kerala if you take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before your departure from the USA.
Hi, Myself , my wife and my 6 year old daughter travelling to kerala(TRV) on april 4th for 3 weeks due to some family emergency. We are taking PCR test within 72 hrs and provide all details as mentioned in the airsuvidha website. I got my vaccine also. Even if our PCR test is negative, do we still need to quarantine?
Hi Mahesh! May we know where are you traveling from? Also, you need to carry a negative RT-PCR test report not older than 72 hours before your departure.
Yes we are taking RT-PCR test tomorrow and will bring it with us and we are travelling from USA.
Hi Mahesh! If you are flying on a direct flight from USA, then you can exit the airport with your pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test. You should also be asymptomatic. You will be advised to self-monitor your health.
My connection is at Abu Dhabi but it’s etihad flight.
This is a direct flight but have a layover in Abu Dhabi for 1 he, but does that consider as a direct flight? But we are not going out or anything in Abu Dhabi it’s just a connection flight from there to Trivandrum. Please let me know is there a quarantine or not.
Hi Mahesh! You will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Trivandrum Airport before exiting. If tested negative, mostly self-monitoring of health will be advised.
HI
We don’t have any india mobile number to download the below step and to reeceive the EZpass, how do we do that? Is that mandatory?
All guests must add their details in the Covid-19 Jagratha portal to receive an E-Pass. To do this, click on ‘Citizen’ in the top menu, then select ‘International Entry’.
Hi Mahesh! It is mandatory to register on the Jagratha portal and apply for a travel e-pass.
I am traveling from Washington DC to TRV and taking a road trip to TamilNadu
1) I have upload my negative RT-PCT test in Airsuvidha and also downloaded the self declaration forms. Is that good enough to exit the TRV airport.
2) Should I register in Covid19 Jagratha, even if I am traveling to TamilNadu by road to exit TRV airport. I tried registering, but no options for TamilNadu passengers. How can we register if we are not residing in Kerala.
Hi Ravi! Please be advised to check with the airline.
I am an OCI holder travelling to TRV airport. I have registered on Air Suvidha and uploaded my negative test. Do I have to register on Covid-19 Jagradha if I plan on travelling to TamilNadu on road?
Hi Joveena! You might have to register yourself on the Jagratha portal. Please be advised to check with the airline.
Hello! I will be travelling from Russia to TRV (via Delhi), Kerala at the end of April for a 2-week medical treatment. I am planning to take a pre-departure PCR test and also take a test in Delhi. Do I need to have a home quarantine in Kerala, if both tests are negative? How long should be the quarantine? Would appreciate the name and date of the appropriate SOP or guidelines.
Hi Olga! If both tests are negative, you don’t need to quarantine in Kerala. You will be advised self-monitoring of health for 14 days.
Hello, we are US citizens wanting to travel to Kerala (Kochi or Trivandrum) on emergency visa to reach family member in hospital. We have been vaccinated and want to minimize any quarantines to visit the hospital as soon as possible. Available flights are either US > Delhi > COK/TRV or US > Middle East > COK/TRV. We know United Airlines and Air India is favored, but we don’t want to quarantine outside Kerala. Is it okay for US travelers to use Middle East layover, or would that change quarantine requirements?
Also, we plan on using international calling plan for our US phones. Can we use those numbers for Kerala Jagratha portal, or must we use Indian mobile number?
Thank you for your help!
Hi MZ! If you fly to India on a direct/non-stop flight from USA on Air India or United Airlines, you won’t be subject to any quarantine if you are asymptomatic and have a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report. If you travel through the Middle East, you will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at airport in Kerala and then exit the airport or take any connecting flight. Either way, mostly self-monitoring of health will be advised. You may have to give an Indian Number for registration on Jagratha portal.
My mother is traveling from US to Kochi, Kerala via Emirates (stop in Dubai) on 4/19. I am seeing conflicting information on when the negative PCR test must be taken.
Is the test valid if it is taken within 72 hours of departure from US, or,
Is the test valid if it is within 72 hours of arrival in Kochi?
The timing and cost is significant depending on the answer.
Thank you!
Hi Vimmi! Your mother requires a negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure from USA.
Thank you for the quick response!! I didn’t mention that she is fully vaccinated, not sure if that changes anything. But the real clarification needed is that she can take her test 72 hours before departure – not that the test has to be within 72 hours of arrival. Thank you for the time!
Hi Vimmi! The government of Kerala has not yet issued any relaxation for vaccinated travelers. So it does not change anything.
My spouse and two kids( OCI card holders) will be traveling from Texas, USA to Trivandrum by Emirates. We are from Tamilnadu, kanyakumari. Do I need to register for the in COVID-19 Jagratha site. If it is the case I don’t see any option to choose my District as Kanyakumari. Please advise.
Thanks,
Michael.
Hi Michael! Will your family be traveling to Coimbatore from Trivandrum by air or by road?
No. They need to travel from Trivandrum to Kanyakumari by road. I already got e pass from Tamilnadu. Just want to know the process or website link to apply for Kerala Epps’s.
Thanks,
Michael.
Hi Michael! You can apply for Kerala e-pass from here https://covid19jagratha.kerala.nic.in/
The site asks for a passport number. Can we entee a US passport number?
Hi Anita! You can try entering your US passport number.
Thanks so much for replying to all these queries! You all are fantastic.
Hello,
This is a great service. My question is that I plan to travel to Kerala my final stop from TX, US (US Citizens OCI card holders) through Emirates. I was looking up on the COVID-19 Jagratha site and everywhere it asks for a local mobile number to setup access to the site since they sent OTP to verify.
I do not have a local mobile number. How would I even register? Can I use my parents mobile number and call them for OTP to setup access just before I leave the US?
I will be arriving in TVM @3AM. Is there options to buy prepaid SIM at airport and register at that time? Will I end up be stuck in the airport till registration goes through? How would this work and what are my options or is there some other way to handle this?
Thanks.
Hi George! Maybe you can give your parents mobile number as a local number since you don’t have any other.
How quickly are RT-PCR tests returned at Kochi Airport (COK) COVID-19 testing facility? Are there any alternatives for a quick RT-PCR test, since Qatar Airways requires test within 48 hours.
Hi Arjun! As per the Kochi Airport website, the result of RT-PCR test taken in the airport will be available within 24 hours.
Hi, can you give me an update on what is expected of an international traveller from UK to Kochi, both before flying and following disembarking in Kochi
Hi Shalini! If the current rules are still in place, then before flying, you will have to carry a negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before your departure. You need to fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal and also upload your pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report onto the same portal. On arrival, you will have to submit your swab sample for a molecular test at Kochi Airport and wait for the result. Only if you test negative, you will be allowed to exit the airport or take your connecting flight and be advised to home-quarantine yourself for 7 days and take another test after 7 days. Please note you may also need to register yourself on the state government’s Jagratha portal for an e-pass.
Thank you so much.
Can I ask about registering on the governments jagratha portal for an e-pass. Is that needed for travelling from Kochi airport to my home in Kerala, or is it for travelling outside Kerala
Best wishes
Shalini
Hi Shalini! Yes, you might have to register on Jagratha portal for an e-pass.
Hi, I am planning to travel from Amsterdam, The Netherlands to Kochi, Kerala. What documents I will be requiring to carry along with me ? Are RT – PCR and Vaccination certificate enough ? We have been given the option of Moderna/Pfizer or Janssen (Johnson) vaccine here. I saw a document of Mumbai saying they need a certificate mentioning 2 doses of vaccination for all travellers from Europe to Mumbai and have not considered the Single Dose vaccine. Is this the same for Kerala ? Will I be requiring an institutional quarantine if I take a single shot vaccine ? Thanks.
Hi Balaji! There’s no institutional quarantine requirement upon arrival at Kochi like in Mumbai. You need to carry negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure. You will be allowed to exit the Kochi Airport after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test irrespective of your vaccination status. Please note you need to fill out self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal and also upload your pre-arrival negative COVID report onto the same portal.
I am traveling from US to Trivandrum via Delhi (US->Delhi, united airlines, Delhi -> TRV, Air India). I have a pretty long layover in Delhi (around 17 hours), so I plan to stay at a hotel. I have my RT-PCR test done from US – however, by the time I take the flight from Delhi to Trivandrum, it would be more than 72 hours since my test. Would I be required to take another test? If yes, can it be done at Trivandrum airport (provide sample and go home)?
Also, when do I have to apply for the e-pass?
Hi Giri! Yes, you have to take another RT-PCR test in Delhi and if you don’t, you will have to undergo RT-PCR test upon arrival at your own cost at facility outside the Trivandrum airport. You need to apply for the e-pass prior to your journey to Kerala.
One more question. I am a US citizen – so what option do I choose to register for ePass? I tried Pravasi – but that assumes I am an Indian citizen returning back. Thanks again for your help!
Hi Giri! We are not sure about this. Please be advised to check with the airline or call the helpline number of Trivandrum Airport.
Hi. I will travel from Riyadh to calicut directly . Then i will go to tamilnadu by train.but i complete my two dose of vaccine. Also i have negative covid certificate. I will register in jagartha portal also Airsuvida.
Can i leave from calicut airport. Or still i have to do anything?
Hi Yasir! You will be allowed to exit the Calicut Airport after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test. You need not wait for the result. Please note you might have to register on Tamil Nadu state government website and obtain TN e-pass as well.
hi, I need to catch flight from Trivandrum to US Chicago this weekend. I am travelling from Tamil Nadu, do i need to apply any epass for myself? Also my family members will come along with me to drop me at airport and my family will come back to Tamilnadu immediately do i need to apply any epass in kerala for myself and my family?
Hi Mano! Yes, you might have to register yourself and your family on Kerala Jagratha portal for an e-pass and only your family on Tamil Nadu state government website for TN e-pass since only they will be returning back to Tamil Nadu.
Hello, I will fly with my husband and children to Calicut from London via Doha. I know we need to get a PCR test before flying and upload it to Air Suvidha and that we will also get tested at arrival in Calicut airport. Can we exit the airport after giving the test? I see conflicting advice on whether arrivals from the U.K. can leave the airport after giving the sample or if they have to wait for results? Our final destination is Calicut itself.
Hi Sukanya! No, you cannot leave the airport after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Calicut Airport. You will be required to wait for the result. Please note a negative RT-PCR report is must and not a PCR report.
Hello, I am an Indian citizen from US planning to visit Trivandrum for duration of 6 days. I plan to get negative PCR test before travel, Is quarantine mandatory if the trip is less than 7 days?
thank you
Hi Anil! No, you won’t be subject to any quarantine. You need to inform the district/state health authorities at Trivandrum Airport on arrival about your travel plan and also show your confirmed return tickets and other related documents to the satisfaction of the in-charge officer for a smooth return.
Hi,
I am a US citizen (OCI card) planning to visit family in Kerala in September. The plan is to fly into to Kochi via Dubai on Emirates. A couple of questions I have are:
1. Is a negative RT-PCR report taken in the US (within 72 hours of departure) sufficient, or do I need to take another COVID test upon arrival in Kochi?
2. I plan on staying in Kerala for 10 days only and will return to the US after that, via the same route. The way I understand this, for short term stays like this, I just monitor myself and there are no other quarantine or restrictions. Is that correct?
3. For the return trip to US (transit via Dubai), is a negative RT-PCR test taken in Kochi (within 72 hours of departure) sufficient? I ask because somewhere I read (I think) something like a COVID test needed within 4 hours of departure for people traveling from India to Dubai (even transit).
Thank you,
Ravi
Hi Ravi! Because of your transit in the Middle East, you need to give your swab sample for a molecular test on arrival at Kochi Airport. However, you will be able to exit the airport without having to wait for the test result. If the test result comes negative, you will be advised self-monitoring of health. There are no other restrictions. For return travel to USA from India and transit in Dubai, you need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to boarding in India.
Wife wife and I are flying to Cochin via Dubai on Emirates. Both of us have taken two dose of Covid Vaccination. Do we need to have RT-PCR Test taken from US? Do we need any quarantine after we get home ?
Thanks
Rajan/Kumari
Hi Jayarajan! As per Kerala’s entry guidelines, you need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey from the US. You will be advised self-monitoring of health.
Thanks a lot for the reply
Hi Jayarajan! Wish you a happy and safe trip!
I have one more question. I am travelling to Cochin from USA ( thru Dubai transit) on Sept 27th , reaching Cochi on sept 29. I will carry RT-pcr test result with me. I already registered in Kerala Jagratha port.
Do I need to register in Air-Suvidha port too ?
Thanks in advance
Jayarajan
Hi Jayarajan! Yes, it is mandatory for all international arrivals into India to fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal and upload their pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure onto the same portal.
Thanks a lot for your quick response and information.
Jayarajan
I am an US citizen with a 10 year multiple entry tourist visa. I do not have an oci card. My mother is not well and I would like to visit her. Can you help me to understand how to move forward to go to India soon?
Hi Beena! Unfortunately, the tourist visa to India is currently suspended. You need either a regular entry visa or an emergency visa on medical grounds.
I am traveling to COK from JFK and my stop is at Doha. I know I need to go through RT-PCR test and register in Air Suvidha. In order to register Jagratha portal they are asking for an Indian cell phone number which they will send a code to perform registration. I don’t have an indian cell phone number and how can I do that registration. I read that they won’t allow me to exit without e-pass from Jagratha portal
Hi Anil! You can enter the family number of an immediate family member or a close relative/friend who is in India.
Hi,
I am traveling from Chicago to Cochin via Delhi (overnight layover). I will be carrying a negative RT-PCR report and I’m vaccinated (Pfizer 2 doses + 1 booster dose). In addition to the self-declaration on the Air Suvidha and Jagratha portals, do I also need an e-pass ? Would I also have to quarantine in Cochin? If yes, for how many days?
Hi DJT! You do not require any e-pass other than registering yourself on Air Suvidha portal and Jagratha portal. You won’t be subject to any kind of quarantine in Cochin and will be advised to self-monitor your health instead.
Hi
Are passengers originating in the UK now being allowed to enter Kerala via the middle east (UEA and Qatar)?
Hello! Yes, Travelers from UK flying via the Middle East can enter Kerala.
Hi I am travelling from Singapore to Trivandrum, vaccinated with 2 doses of pfizer. Please advise about Any quarantine required at trivandrum . Can I travel to chennai then to Trivandrum as only flights available from Singapore is to Chennai.
Hi Kumar! You can travel to Trivandrum from Chennai on the same day of arrival. Make sure to take a RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling from Singapore.
I’m traveling from JFK to COK via DEL on December 3rd with my family (in AirIndia). My kids are US Citizens and they have an e Visa approved after October 6th. I hope they can enter in eVisa now if it is issued after October 6th.? Can you pls confirm?
Hi Ratheesh! An e-tourist visa issued after October 6, 2021 is valid for travel to India only on or after November 15.
Hello, my husband is scheduled to travel from Washington Dulles to Trivandrum via Abu Dhabi via Ethihad on Nov 15th. What are the travel requirements given the relaxation of the rules for international travel into Kerala?
Thanks.
Hi Lekha! The pre-departure requirements are taking an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling to India, filling out a self-declaration form and uploading the negative RT-PCR report on Air Suvidha and giving a declaration ascertaining authenticity of the COVID-19 report.
Thanks for the prompt response. Does he have to undergo any test after landing in Trivandrum airport? Also, he will be travelling by road into Tamil Nadu(after couple of days stay in Tvdm). Any travel travel requirements for road travel between Kerala & Tamil Nadu?
In addition to registering on Air Suvidha portal, does he need to do anything in Jagratha portal as well?
Hi Lekha! If you are traveling to Kerala, you need to register your details on the Jagratha portal.
Hi, I am planning to arrive Trivandrum airport (Origin UK) and then immediately travel to Kanyakumari by road. The jagartha portal asks to choose a district after entering the destination address, but the district to choose are only from Kerala. For those not having an address from Kerala, how to complete this mandatory information section in jagartha? Many thanks.
I am reaching Calicut from US via Qatar on 14th Jan.
US citizen with OCI card holder; how should I register in jagratha portal?
Is there a quarantine requirement for US now? I would be taking rtpcr and uploading it to air suvidha.
Hi Chandra! As per the revised guidelines applicable from January 11, 2022, all international travelers are subject to home-quarantine for 7 days and COVID-19 testing on day 8 in India. Please go through the guidelines https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/india-revised-guidelines-for-international-arrivals/
Hi, thanks for the very informative post on international travel, which i presume is dated somewhere in last Jun/July 2021. I intend to return to my home in Kochi, Kerala from San Francisco on 20Feb 2022 and was wondering what are the current regulations on the subject. I shall be transiting Via Delhi, from where i will be boarding the next flight to Kochi Airport within 2 hours of landing. At present, i do not have SMS facility in SanFrancisco and I am unable to receive any SMS or OTP. How should i register in theses two portals namely SUVIDHA and JAGRATHA?
Kindly help me with these nagging doubts.
Thanks and best Regards,
Rajiv
Hi Rajiv! The pre-departure guidelines are the same. You are required to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours before traveling from SFO, fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha, and upload the negative RT-PCR test report as well as your vaccination certificate on Air Suvidha. If you are found symptomatic in COVID-19 surveillance at Delhi or Kochi Airport, you will have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test. 7 days in home quarantine and taking a rapid antigen test on day 8 are mandatory for all international arrivals in Kerala. Regarding your inability to receive any SMS or OTP in San Francisco, you can call the helpline of Delhi International Airport and the helpline of Kerala Government (https://covid19jagratha.kerala.nic.in/)