With time passing on, India’s regulations for international arrivals were expected to loosen. But more contagious strains of the virus from the UK, Brazil and South Africa causing an upsurge to the pandemic have made the rules for international travel to India more stringent than before. Consequently, the new guidelines for air travel to India, with effect on February 23, make pre-arrival RT-PCR testing mandatory for all incoming travelers including newborns and invalidate most of the exemptions/relaxations available until February 22, 2021.
Travel Beats, a subsidiary of Indian Eagle – a leading travel-booking partner of Indians in USA, addressed below some of the most common queries related to travel to India in view of the newly issued guidelines. Hope our attempt towards making your travel convenient and hassle-free helps. If your query is not listed below, feel free to write it in the comment section.
Picture Credit: Yournews.in
I will travel with two kids to India this month end. One is 10 months old and the other is 3 years old. Is an RT-PCR test mandatory for them?
The new guidelines that took effect on February 23 requires all international travelers flying into India to take a pre-arrival RT-PCR test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey, irrespective of their age. Even a newborn is not exempted. Not only taking a pre-arrival RT-PCR test, but also giving a swab sample upon arrival is mandatory for the kids and you, if you transit in the Middle East or Europe. Basically, the latest guidelines for international arrivals in India do not provide exemption for travelers accompanying kids.
Can I apply on Air Suvidha for exemption from taking a pre-arrival RT-PCR test?
Until February 22, 2021, India-bound travelers were able to seek exemption in four categories – traveling with kids below 10 years, pregnancy, medical emergency, and death in immediate family. The latest revision of the guidelines scrapped all the categories except exemption in the exigency of death in family. You can apply for exemption on Air Suvidha given there is a death in family and you take a direct/nonstop flight to India from the US. Please note the request for exemption is subject to approval. However, you will have to give your swab sample for a molecular test before exiting the arrival airport or taking a domestic flight in India.
Can I choose to get myself tested upon arrival at New Delhi Airport, instead of taking an RT-PCR test before undertaking the journey from the US?
Until February 22, 2021, international travelers not having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test report were allowed to take a test at arrival airports in India. The new guidelines for international travel to India make it mandatory to take an RT-PCR test and upload the negative report onto Air Suvidha, irrespective of the entry airport you arrive at. If you transit en route to India from the US, you will have to take a molecular test upon arrival despite your pre-arrival RT-PCR test report.
I have been inoculated with two doses of a COVID vaccine in the US. Am I exempted from taking an RT-PCR test for my upcoming travel to India?
The Government of India has not yet issued relaxation/exemption for vaccinated travelers from abroad. You need to follow the new guidelines for your travel to India unless GOI scraps mandatory pre-arrival RT-PCR test for vaccinated travelers from the US and other countries. As soon as there is an update on this, we will share it on our Facebook page and in our dedicated Travel News section.
The lab in my neighborhood provides RT-PCR test results in 48-72 hours. Hence, I need to take a test at least 75 hours before my scheduled departure from the US. Will the report be valid for exemption from institutional quarantine in India?
Some airlines, including Air India, United Airlines, and Qatar Airways, are very particular about the guidelines that require you to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before you board the flight in USA. Some of the travelers reported denial of boarding at the origin airport for having taken the test more than 72 hours before their scheduled flight from the US.
I am an Indian-origin US citizen with a multiple-entry tourist visa to India. Can I travel on air bubble flights to India?
The tourist visa to India has remained suspended since the government banned normal/regular international passenger flights in March 2020. You need to apply for a regular entry visa or an emergency entry visa if a medical or death-like emergency is the purpose of your travel to India.
I am traveling to Chennai from the US. I will take an RT-PCR test and carry the negative report as per the guidelines. Will I have to self-monitor my health or home-quarantine myself in Chennai?
If your itinerary requires you to transit in the UK/Brazil/South Africa, you are to undergo 7-day home quarantine in Chennai or any other destination in Tamil Nadu. You shall be tested after 7 days of home quarantine and can monitor your health for another 7 days if the result is negative. You will be advised to self-monitor health for 14 days if you transit in the Middle East or Europe (other than the UK) given the negative result of the molecular test for which you will have to give your swab sample upon arrival at Chennai MAA Airport.
What are quarantine guidelines for those traveling to Mumbai from USA?
If Maharashtra is your destination and your USA to Mumbai travel is via the Middle East/Europe, you are subject to 7-day institutional quarantine upon arrival at Mumbai International Airport, despite you being asymptomatic and having a negative RT-PCR report. However, you can seek exemption by providing a copy of your vaccination certificate to the officer in-charge at Mumbai Airport if you are vaccinated with two doses by the time you will travel to Mumbai. If your destination is outside of Maharashtra, you will be allowed to take connecting flights without having to wait for the result of the test of your swab given you are asymptomatic and have a negative RT-PCR report approved on Air Suvidha.
Is there no exemption from institutional quarantine for Mumbai-bound travelers coming from or transiting in the Middle East/Europe?
Usually, institutional quarantine is compulsory for travelers arriving from or transiting in Europe/the Middle East, as per the policy for international arrivals in Maharashtra. The new SOP with regards to institutional quarantine in Mumbai allows exemption in certain cases, such as vaccinated travelers, pregnant woman, senior citizens above 65 years needing assistance/support, parents accompanying children below 5 years of age, passengers having serious medical conditions (physical disability, cancer, mental illness, etc.), and extreme family distress (death-like emergency or any of immediate family members in critical condition). Exemption is subject to approval on condition of providing valid documents to the satisfaction of the In-charge officer at Mumbai International Airport. Please note you will have to take a pre-arrival RT-PCR test, upload the negative report onto Air Suvidha, and give your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival.
I will arrive on a direct/nonstop flight from USA to India. Am I required to take a molecular test at the arrival airport before taking a connecting flight for onward domestic travel?
The revised guidelines do not need you to take a molecular test upon arrival unless you seek exemption from taking a pre-arrival RT-PCR test in the exigency of death in family. Having taken an RT-PCR test and uploaded the negative result onto Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to your travel from the first port of departure in the US, you need not take any COVID test before exiting the arrival airport or taking a connecting domestic flight.
I am traveling on Qatar Airways to India. After four days of my arrival in Kochi, I will travel to Mumbai. Do I need to take an RT-PCR test for my inter-state travel?
A negative RT-PCR report is mandatory for traveling to Maharashtra from Kerala, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat and Rajasthan these days. If you take a domestic flight or a road trip to Mumbai right after arrival at Kochi Airport, you don’t need another negative RT-PCR report for inter-state travel. If you travel to Mumbai after a few days of stay in Kerala, you must take an RT-PCR test prior to traveling to Mumbai by air or road. The test report must be issued within 72 hours prior to taking a flight to Mumbai and within 96 hours prior to catching a train.
Thank you for the information regarding travel to India. It is mentioned that The tourist visa to India has remained suspended since the government banned normal/regular international passenger flights in March 2020.
I have an Air India flight from the US to Kolkata on 7 April 2021. I have a ten year multiple entry visa to India and will have the carona test within 72 hours of departure.
Are tourist visas continuing to be suspended? If so, when will we be able to travel to India with our valid tourist visa?
Hi Bhagavan! If you have a valid entry (not tourist) visa to India, you can travel to India without any visa-related restriction.
Hello,
we are flying with old parents from toronto to chennai in january 2022 through London airport. Please clarify following:
Pease give me step by step what documents/tests are needed for us to enter chennai.
To depart from chennai back to toronto through london in april 2022.
Thank you so much for this help
Hi Shanti! In order to exit Chennai Airport, you need a TN e-pass which you can apply for online. As of now, you must take an RT-PCR test, upload the negative report and fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha (extension of Delhi Airport website) within 72 hours prior to your scheduled departure from Toronto. If you are fully or partially vaccinated, make sure to upload the vaccination proof on Air Suvidha as well. Please note these guidelines may be revised or removed by the time you will travel. So, please follow the updates.
You are the most useful site for India travel info! I am traveling to Delhi on United non-stop from Newark on March 7th, and taking the early morning flight to Bangalore. Do I need to quarantine in Bangalore or take covid test in Delhi? Thanks!
Hi
I am a greencard holder and will be flying to Bengaluru from USA on May 8, 2021 (DEN-SEA-DUB-BLR). Will I have to quarantine upon arrival? What other procedures do I have to undergo as I will be coming via the Middle East?
I have been fully vaccinated (two shots of Pfizer). Thanks for your help.
Hi Sam! No, you won’t be subject to quarantine on arrival. You will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test on arrival at Bengaluru Airport and exit the airport or take a connecting flight without having to wait for the result. Result will be conveyed to you via e-mail or over phone and if negative, you will be advised to self-monitor your health for 14 days.
i wish to travel from dubai to mumbai on a short business trip of less than seven days duration.
Please let me know the covid travel regulations and the need for quarantine
Thanks
Hi Ashwini! There is no exemption for travelers from the Middle East even on a short trip.
If I have a entry visa (emergency)
Will I be permitted to transit thru Doha?
Hi Marlon! You will be.
My elder brother and his wife flight ticket booked for 26th March 21 through Delta airlines. The route will be BOM to LHR to SEA with Virgin Atlantic Airlines. They have B1/B2 tourist visa. Their son is in US on HIB visa. Can they travel with RT PCR?
Hi Shashikant! In our opinion, they can.
Sir
I am traveling to MUMBAI on a short visit from Abudhabi for 6 days and moreover Iam vaccine both dose with and PCR Negative test ,do I have any exception for institutional quarantine pleas
Hi Chandramohan! You might have gone through the FAQs where it is made clear that there is no relaxation/exemption for vaccinated international travelers in India.
Hi,
I will be travelling from Frankfurt to Cochin via Delhi with 2 hours transit time and will carry a PCR test report.
My questions are:
1. Will we have to do a PCR test (or any other rapid tests) again in Delhi ?
2. Is the 2 hours transit time sufficient / will I be able to catch the transit flight ?
Thank you in advance for the information.
Hi NASA! According to the new guidelines, you will have to give your swab sample for a paid molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport. However, you will be able to proceed for the transit flight without having to wait for the test result. Make sure to carry a negative RT-PCR report from Frankfurt.
I am (Indian citizen working in US) planning to travel to Chennai from Chicago on March 20th , through Etihad.
Can I travel back to US in same Etihad airways?
What are the quarantine rules for travelers from Germany to Mumbai for short visit of 10 days only?
Please advise. Thanks
Hi Sunaina! If your destination is within Maharashtra, you are likely to undergo 7-day institutional quarantine upon arrival at Mumbai Airport.
Hi,
I am traveling to Mumbai from the US on a direct flight from New York. I will take an RT-PCR test and carry the negative report as per the guidelines. Will I have to self-monitor my health or home-quarantine myself?
And for how many days? I’m on a short stay of 14 days with a confirmed return ticket.
HI Shweta! You will be advised self-monitoring of health for 14 days. Self-monitoring of health means not staying isolated and indoors. You are required to keep a watch on your health for COVID-related symptoms.
hello we just bought our tickets , and are travellling from usa to india in may , we have 10 year multiple entry tourist visa , what should we do , or should we wait or do you know when they will resume visas again
Hi Jagpal! The government of India may lift the ban on tourist visa to India in April or May this year. Please be advised to wait until the first week of April.
Hello, I would like to fly from JFK to Delhi by Qatar Airlines. Is that ok? I am an US citizen/OCI card-holder. Thank you.
Hi Raja! Yes, you can.
can Indian Citizens transit (connecting) through Abu Dhabi or Dubai to USA ?
Hi Aruba! Yes, they can.
Hello,
I will be travelling from Chicago to Chennai in the end of March. I have a visa appointment at Chennai the next day and I will be flying to Pune after that. If I carry a RT PCR covid test report with me, am I supposed to undergo an additional test on arrival at MAA? Do I need to home quarantine on arrival at MAA? I hope I am allowed to exit the airport, stay in Chennai for a day and take a flight to Pune the next day.
Please let me know.
Thank you.
I am Indian citizen can I travel JFK New York to Chennai through by Etihad on 23rd March? Can Indian citizens can travel to home country transiting from Abi Dhabi and return ?
Hi Malathi! Yes, you can.
Hi Archana! On arrival at Chennai Airport, you will have to give your swab sample for a molecular test. Without waiting for the test result, you can exit the airport. In our knowledge, you will be advised self-monitoring of health for 14 days – which allows one to stay outdoors and take interstate travel.
I am Indian citizen can I travel JFK to Chennai through by Etihad on 23rd ? Can Indian citizens can travel to home country transiting from Abi Dhabi and return ?
Hi Malathi! Yes, you can.
Hello Malathi, Can you share if you were able to travel to India or not.
Hi, I need to travel from Austin to cochin in coming week or so with kids. Looking for a travel companion so that I can plan my travel accordingly.
Hi Divya! Please join this Facebook group of ours and submit your post there.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/430800904162336
Hi.. If travelling from the middle east and Mumbai is the final destination, are you exempt from institutional quarentine if you have been vaccinated?
Hi Anston! The Government of India has not yet issued relaxation/exemption for vaccinated travelers from abroad. You will be subject to 7-day institutional quarantine upon arrival in Mumbai.
Hello,
I have a non stop flight from Newark to New Delhi on March 18th 2021.I will be uploading negative RT-PCR test .Am I still subjected to self quarantine upon landing in Delhi.
Thanks
Hi Rohan! Probably you will be advised self-monitoring of your health for 14 days.
I had done two does of Covishield AstraZeneca vaccine within duration of 30 days means second dose taken after 30 days from vaccinated first dose .
And i am carrying my Negative RT PCR test from Mali West Africa and the same RT PCR i will upload on Air Suvidha .
So i can move to my place from Mumbai to Nagpur in my connecting flights
Hi Nagesh! Yes, you will be allowed to take your connecting flight from Mumbai to Nagpur.
I am an Indian citizen traveling from IAD (Dulles) USA to HYDERABAD INDIA.
Will I be allowed to enter India with a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours? Is there a travel ban restricting indian citizens from entering?
I am taking Qatar airways
Hi Astha! Yes, you can enter India with a negative RT-PCR report. You will be required to give your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Hyderabad.
HI,
My mother aged 72 years is travelling with my 8 year old daughter from Dubai to Mumbai. Will they both get an exemption?
Hi Radhika! If the final destination is within Maharashtra, your mother may seek exemption from institutional quarantine upon arrival in Mumbai, stating her age as the reason and by providing valid age proof and other documents to the officer in-charge at Mumbai Airport. Please note, approval is based on the satisfaction of the in-charge officer depending on the documents provided.
hello i m traving to india on march 24 by united airline and retrun back to usa on april 12 its short trip to see family back home also i have my covid test report with we while i m traveling i m indian citzen in usa on green card is any issue for short trip please advice
Hi Brij! There are no rules restricting short trips to India. You must carry a negative RT-PCR report and be asymptomatic.
Hi Thank you for all your inputs.
I am an Indian citizen with H1B visa planning to Travel from USA to Chennai and return.
Can i book in Air France.
Thanks.
Hi Annavi! No, you cannot travel to India by Air France.
Thanks.
can i book through delta airlines which transit in france.
https://www.airfrance.in/IN/en/local/resainfovol/meilleuresoffres/travelrestrictions.htm
Hi Annavi! Yes, you can travel on Delta Airlines’ codeshare flights on Air France and transit through France.
Thank You very much
Hello! I am planning to travel in April 1st week. Our family of four are US citizens, both the parents have the OCI and the two kids don’t have an OCI but they have a multiple entry visa on the passport. My question is, is it okay for the kids to travel with visa to India ?
Hi Meher! If your kids have “T” multiple entry visas, then they are not permitted. They need to have “X” entry visa.
Hi, I am planning to travel from SEA to HYD in April for a short term visit. I am an Indian citizen with a work visa in US.
Can I fly on Qatar airlines from US to India given that I take a RT-PCR test 72 hrs prior to departure ?
Can I also travel return leg from HYD to SEA in Qatar Airlines ?
Hi Revanth! Yes, you can travel to India and travel back from India by Qatar Airways.
Hi, I am planning to travel from Houston(USA) to HYD in May for a short term visit. I am an Indian citizen with a work visa in US.
Can I fly on Lufthansa from USA to India ( via: Frankfurt)
Hi Harik! We doubt whether you can travel on Lufthansa from USA to India. Indian nationals and foreign nationals from any country in EU/Schengen area, South America, or Africa can take Lufthansa flights to India.
I am a US citizen with OCI – what are my airline options for travel to Delhi around end May 2021? Can I take a one way ticket since I am not sure of my return date?
Hi Rakesh! May we know where you will travel from? You can travel on Air India, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, British Airways, Qatar Airways and Emirates. Yes, you can book one-way travel. You can check the best itinerary and the best deal on our portal IndianEagle.com.
Hello,
Ministry of Civil Aviation air bubble page states that only passengers originating from South America, Africa and Middle East can travel to India from Qatar. You are stating that passengers from USA can travel to India on Qatar Airlines. Can you please confirm? Has the rules the changed? Thank you
Hi Raja! Most of our customers, for whom we booked a flight on Qatar Airways between the US and India, traveled successfully irrespective of their visa and passport.
Hello,
Thank you for providing valuable information. I see that you are advising US citizens with OCI that travel on Qatar Airlines from USA to India is permitted. However, on the Ministry of Civil Aviation air transport bubble page (https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles), I found the following statement:
“Only passengers originating from Qatar or any country in South America or Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from Qatar to India”.
Has this restriction been lifted? Thanks for clarification.
Hi Deb! Most of our customers, for whom we booked flights on Qatar Airways between the US and India, traveled successfully irrespective of their visa and passport.
Hi
Are Foreign nationals with valid visa allowed to travel to India from USA using the air bubble direct fights operated by UA and Air India?
Hi Utpal! Foreign nationals with a regular (X) entry visa or an emergency visa are allowed to travel to India. Currently, travelers with a valid tourist visa are not allowed.
I will be travelling to Mumbai on 15th april 2021 from Dallas via Newark by United Airllines. Both, from Dallas to Newark and Newark to Mumbai are United Airlines flights with 3hours stopover at newark. There is achange of flight at Newark. Do I have to collect my checked in baggages at Newark and recheck for Mumbai flight OR it is done automatically by the airline ?
Hello Indianeagle, I’m planning to travel to India for my H1B Dropbox stamping from this April 1st to May 1st, 2021.
So, I need advisable suggestions on the airways to travel.
Thanks
Hi Venkat! May we know where you will be flying from and to, so we can give a more definite answer? Please be advised to call our travel advisors at 1-800-615-3969 for assistance on booking the best itinerary for your safe travel.
i am travelling to india/hyd on british airways. is there an Instituational quarantine in hyderabad inspite of a PCR test 72 hours before travel? i am travelling for a family emergency
Hi Sudharshan! No, you won’t be subject to institutional quarantine. But you will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Hyderabad Airport, despite having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report. You can exit the airport or take a connecting flight only if the result of molecular test is negative. You will then be advised to home quarantine yourself for 7 days.
Hi, I am planning to go to India next month for 15 days and I have an Indian passport (currently on F-1 visa in US). While I know, I will be home quarantined for 14 days; but it is fine as the main reason to visit India is that I want to see my family. My itinerary is from Savannah, GA, US – New York – Doha, Qatar – Ahmedabad, India through QATAR airways. I wanted to know if I am allowed to take this flight and come back to US in the same order AMD-DOH-New York-SAV. If I am allowed to travel per the above mentioned itinerary, will I have to undergo mandatory institutional quarantine even though I have a negative COVID-19 test report and I am asymptomatic when I arrive in India (Ahmedabad)? If yes, then I would probably change my itinerary, as the current one will reduce 7 days from travel.
I have read on https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles that flights to Qatar should only carry people who has their final destination as Qatar, South America or Africa and flights from Qatar should only allow individuals who are travelling from Qatar, South America or Africa only. (I am planning my journey from US, North America) I am not sure if this is the most recent/current guidelines. Please advice.
I appreciate all your help and time helping us during such situation! Thank You.
Hi Zeel! Yes, you can fly on Qatar Airways to and from India. Most of our customers, for whom we booked a flight on Qatar Airways between the US and India, traveled successfully irrespective of their visa and passport. There is no institutional quarantine upon arrival at Ahmedabad and you will be asked to self-monitor your health or home-quarantine yourself.
Hi, I am planning to go to India next month for 15 days and I have an Indian passport (currently on f-1 visa in US). While I know, I will be home quarantined for 14 days; the main reason to visit India is that I want to see my family. My itinerary is from Savannah, GA, US (SAV) – New York (JFK) – Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Ahmedabad, India (AMD) through Etihad airways. I wanted to know if I am allowed to take Etihad flight to India and come back to US in the same order AMD-UAH-ORD-SAV. If I am allowed to travel per the above mentioned itinerary with Etihad, will I have to undergo mandatory institutional quarantine even though I have a negative COVID-19 test report and I am asymptomatic when I arrive in India (Ahmedabad)? If yes, then I would probably change my itinerary, as the current one will reduce 7 days from travel.
*I asked the same question for Qatar, but when I saw IndianEagle website again, they stopped booking for April, so I had to change airlines.*
I have read on https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles that flights to UAE should only allow people who has their final destination as UAE, South America or Africa and flights from UAE should only allow individuals who are travelling from UAE, South America or Africa only. (I am planning my journey from US, North America) I am not sure if this is the most recent/current guidelines. Please advice if I can come to India via Etihad Airways.
I appreciate all your help and time helping us during such situation! Thank you again.
Hi Zeel! We are not sure about Etihad. But you can fly between USA and India on Qatar Airways and Emirates.
Hi, I am a US citizen and carrying OCI card. I need to travel next month from New Jersey to Delhi. It’s a very short trip (5 days). I have been vaccinated. Do I still need to do RT-PCR test 72 hrs prior to departure ?
Do I need to self isolation for 7 days in Delhi ? Since it’s a short trip, I don’t have that much time with me.
Do I need to do any official formalities (any paper work) for India ?
Your earliest response is appreciated.
Hi Dheeraj! You must fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal and upload a negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before your departure on the same portal. Also, carry the physical copy of negative test report. You can seek exemption from quarantine by presenting confirmed return tickets to Delhi Airport authorities and the state/district health authorities at the airport. Please note exemption is subject to approval on condition of providing valid documents to the satisfaction of the In-charge officer at Delhi Airport. Also, you have to remain asymptomatic.
I am travelling to Bengaluru via London .
My flight is from Phoenix to Philadelphia to London to Bengaluru.
If Im travelling on 7 the april, my rtpcr test should be within 72 hours of boarding my first flight in Phoenix right?
Hi Sangs! If you hold a single PNR for the entire itinerary starting from Phoenix, you need to take the test not more than 72 hours before traveling from Phoenix. If you have a separate booking for Phoenix to Philadelphia travel, you need to take the test not more than 72 hours before traveling from Philadelphia.
Your site is very, very helpful – thank you.
I have a 5-day planned business trip to Cochi next week. I had originally planned taking a Qatar flight from New York with a transfer of planes in Dubai. I will have the required test results, proof of 2 US vaccinations, but i am concerned that i will be required to quarantine for 7-days upon arrival because i travel through Dubai. Is that true or am i considered a short-stay and exempt from such quarantine?
Hi Dave! Travelers coming to India on short stay (less than 14 days) can seek exemption from institutional/ home quarantine by providing necessary travel documents including confirmed return tickets to the satisfaction of the airport authority. Also, the state/district health authorities at the airport must be notified of your travel plans for a smooth exit from the country.
I am travelling to Bengaluru via France .
My flight is from Atlanta to France to Bengaluru.
If Im traveling on 28thapril, my rtpcr test should be within 72 hours of boarding my first flight in Atlanta right?
Also Is connection via France to india allowed ?
Hi EK! May we know which visa do you hold and which flight will you be traveling on?
if I land in Mumbai from USA via transit from Doha and my next flight to New Delhi is on next day. Can I still get out of Mumbai airport?
Hi Yogesh! Yes, you will be able to exit the Mumbai Airport.
Hello,
As an Indian passport holder and US B2 visitor visa, can I transit via Amsterdam while traveling from Atlanta to New Delhi on Delta airlines and its code share KLM (Atlanta – Amsterdam (delta air) and Amsterdam – New Delhi (KLM))? Thank you
Hi Vivek! There shouldn’t be a problem with your itinerary. But please be advised to check with the airline.
Hello IndiaEagle Team,
I’m an H1B visa holder and traveling from DFW to HYD via London on British Airways on May 16th. Are there any travel restrictions in effect for an H1b visa holder in London or in India?
Hi Pradeep, Yes, you should be able to travel. Please be advised to check with the airline.
Are you sure? Because I was on a call with one of your agents and he said that traveling through London is not good since my H1 visa is not yet stamped. But I have a valid H1 approval copy(I-797).
Will that be enough to travel through London?
Can you also suggest me few resources where I can get information on the travel restrictions in London or a helpline number. Thank you so much.
I am a US Citizen flying on April 9, 2021 from Newark to Mumbai – direct flight and will be uploading RT PCR taken within 72 hrs of travel to Mumbai, India. My return journey is less than a week later from Mumbai to Newark on April 16 , 2021. Will I have issues on my return journey since this is a less than 14 day stay / short stay as long as I have a negative covid result taken within 72 hrs of boarding my return flight to USA ? I have also completed vaccination ( 2 doses)
Hi PK! You can return back to USA after a short trip in Mumbai by intimating the district/state health authorities at the Mumbai Airport about your travel and by showing the confirmed return tickets to the in-charge officer at the airport. Please note approval is based on the satisfaction of the in-charge officer in relation to the documents provided.
Hello – I’m travelling from Chicago to Goa via Frankfurt and Mumbai using Lufthansa. I’m fully vaccinated and will take the PCR test prior to my departure from Chicago. Do I need another PCR test from Frankfurt? And another one from Mumbai prior to boarding my flight to Goa? Any idea of the cost of these tests in Mumbai and turn around time of results? Thanks in advance for your time and patience.
Hi Binu! You will be allowed to take your connecting flight to Goa after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Mumbai Airport. You need not wait for the result. Regular RT-PCR test costs around Rs. 600 at Mumbai Airport. You will have to carry a negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure from Chicago and there is no need to take another test at Frankfurt.
Hello – We are hoping to travel from the USA to the Maldives through Mumbai, India in July 2021. We will take a non-stop flight on United airlines from Newark (EWR) to Mumbai (BOM) landing at 8:30pm Mumbai time and then take a flight on another airline (not United) the next day at 10:35am Mumbai time. We do not plan to leave the airport during this time (unless we are allowed?). We are both vaccinated with the two-dose Pfizer vaccine.
In short – EWR to BOM – 14 hour layover (stay in airport) – BOM to MLE.
Is this transit through BOM allowed or do we need special exemption or should we cancel our flight? The return flight is the same but in reverse.
Thank you!
Hi Stefan! Yes, you can travel as per your planned itinerary without any problem. You might even be allowed to exit the Mumbai Airport as you won’t be subject to institutional or home quarantine.
Hello!
I’m a US Citizen currently in Istanbul, Turkey on a tourist visa. I will be flying to New Delhi on a business visa soon and was wondering what is allowed in regards to the air bubbles.
Do I have to fly back to the USA first and then head to Delhi? Or can I go spend a few days in Dubai and fly to Delhi directly from there? I’m worried that having a tourist visa in the UAE will not allow me to utilize their travel bubble.
Hello! My post didn’t seem to go through so I’ll try again. I’m a US citizen currently in Turkey on a tourist visa. I am planning on going to India next on a business visa and I’m confused about the air bubble rules.
Can I fly to Dubai and spend a few days there before heading to India by utilizing the UAE-India travel bubble? The government website says UAE citizens only but don’t many people transit through the Dubai to get to India?
Or do I have to fly back to America and book a direct flight from there?
Thank you!
Hi Novis! Many travelers from the USA are flying to India via the Middle East. You can take a Dubai-India flight instead of going back to the US and taking a nonstop flight to India from there. Please note you need to take an RT-PCR test no more than 72 hours before your departure from Dubai for India and upload the test result on Air Suvidha.
Perfect. Thank you!
Usa permanent resident student wants to travel to India during summer break and return in August.
Any risks related to travel rules or flight cancellations for this travel plan?
Hi Priti! Yes, they can travel to and from India as US citizens and legal permanent residents of US are exempted from the travel restrictions.
i am traveling on 28th may by Airindia from UK to Aurangabad via Mumbai. do i have to take RTCPR test at mumbai and what are the quarantine rules.
Hi John! Travelers from UK flying to Mumbai, whose final destination is within the state of Maharashtra will be subject to 7-day institutional quarantine if they are not vaccinated with both doses of COVID-19 vaccine or if they don’t belong under any of the other exempted category. Please be advised to go through this https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
My flight is on 28th may on a single ticket same airlines airindia , london to aurangabad . RTPCR negative . Airindia call centre in london says you cannot go out of mumbai airport .you have to home quarantine in aurangabad for 14 days. kindly update. john verghese
Hi, I am a US citizen with OCI card and currently in India. Can I fly back to the US on Qatar Airways, LH or BA with short transit OR do I only have to fly direct from India to USA on UA or AI? Thanks
Hi Shekar! US citizens and lawful permanent residents from India can travel on Air India, United Airlines, Qatar Airways, Delta-Air France, and Lufthansa-United flights to the United States.
Great. Can you please confirm this applies to OCI card holders (US citizens) as well? Thanks
Hi Shekar! US citizens with OCI card can travel back to the US on Air India, United Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Delta Airlines and Lufthansa-United codeshare flights. Please be advised to call our travel advisors at 1-800-615-6939 for the best itineraries and best fares as per your travel eligibility. Thanks!
I am flying from San Francisco to Mumbai via Qatar, with negative PCR and both shots of vaccine. My stay is 7 days – is the exemption request through Air Suvidha as well?
I assume I’ll be allowed to leave the airport under new guidance.
Hi Bhavit! There is no need to fill any exemption form on Air Suvidha portal. Being fully-vaccinated, you will be exempted from institutional quarantine in Mumbai. You must carry your original vaccine certificate.
Hi Indian Eagle,
You guys rock! Two questions:
1. If coming from the US, the old procedure of filling the self-declaration form AND exemption with negative RT-PCR test has been streamlined into filling JUST the self-declaration form with negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours of departure? So no exemption request required except for death in family circumstances?
2. Family of 4 traveling together on same flights, but with two separate PNRs (simply for airline booking reasons). Would you recommend submitting a single self-declaration with all 4 passengers on one (all are “co-passengers”), or doing 2 separate ones due to 2 different PNRs?
Thank you!
Hi Ashok! Yes, the process has been streamlined. Please be advised to check with the airline regarding Air Suvidha and PNR.
Thanks! If same arriving flight and itinerary, it appears one can input different PNRs as one adds co-passengers. Has anyone had any issues with this? Seems like it should be ok?
Hello Indian Eagle!
I am so thankful that you are providing useful answers to travelers to and from India!
We are two adults, both US permanent residents and both vaccinated, traveling from San Francisco to Mumbai with a 6 hour stopover in DELHI. In addition to the negative RT-PCR test 72 hours prior to boarding the SFO-DEL flight, will we need to take another test in DEL airport prior to boarding the connecting flight? Thank you 🙂
Mehul
Hi Mehul! You need not undergo another test at Delhi Airport. You will be allowed to take your connecting flight to Mumbai upon showing your pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report and remaining asymptomatic.
Hi, I am staying in Dubai, I had taken both doses of Vaccine. I had booked Emirates flight from Dubai to Mumbai for me and my daughter who is 11yrs old. Unfortunately the vaccine is only for above 12yrs in UAE. As such according to the Exemption clause of International passengers arriving at Mumbai airport. I will be exempted as I had taken both the doses of vaccine. How can I avail exemption for my daughter who is 11 yrs old. Note that only we both are travelling and PCR test from Dubai will be done 72 hrs before departure. We will have all the necessary documents . Please let us know will the Mumbai airport put us in Hotel Quarantine as my daughter is not vaccinated because Vaccine is not given below 12 yrs. Please answer as this is very much a serious question among parents in UAE staying here as vacation starts from July and no point in staying in Hotel while we are coming to spend vacation in Mumbai. as our kids are not above 12yrs.
Hi Ranjitha! We are not sure about this. Please be advised to call the helpline number of Mumbai International Airport.
Ranjitha,
Did you travel and what were the quarantine rules? I will be transiting through Dubai and travelling to Mumbai, Hence any info will be useful.
Thanks
Hi!
I am planning to travel from Stockholm to DElhi via transit through Frankfurt. I will get a RT-PCR report within 72 hours of departure, but it will get expire by the time I will reach Delhi. I have to take another flight to Jammu on the same day after transiting at Delhi. Do I have to take RT PCR test at Delhi airport before boarding a flight to Jammu ?
Hi Arshiya! Yes, you might be required to undergo a test at Delhi Airport since RT-PCR test is mandatory for all passengers traveling to Jammu.
Hi,
I am planning to travel from Denver to Kolkata via Chicago and Delhi. Is 72 hours RT-PCR report requirement within departure from Denver or Chicago? I have a 10 hours layover at Delhi airport? Do I have to take the RT PCR test at Delhi airport again before boarding a flight to Kolkata? I will be travelling with a 2 year old, does RT PCR test a requirement of her also?
Hi Jay! If your entire journey is on the same PNR, then the RT-PCR report timeline counts from Denver. If the flights are booked separately, then the RT-PCR report requirement before departure is from the international flight to India. West Bengal requires negative RT-PCR report conducted within 72 hours before flight departure for unvaccinated travelers. So if your RT-PCR report from US meets this deadline, you need not get another test at Delhi Airport. Yes, even your daughter needs to have pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report.
Thanks for the reply. The flight is booked by United and they give me two PNRs one for united and another for Vistara. Under both PNRs it can be seen flight has started from Denver and finishing on Kolkata. So, I guess me and daughter will need pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report only, right? No need to go another covid test in Delhi.
Hi Jay! Kolkata requires negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure. If your RT-PCR report from US meets this deadline before you board your flight in Kolkata, then you may not require to undergo another test in Delhi.
Hi, we want to travel to Mumbai on 14th August from UK. We are a family of three – 2 adults and a 15 year old. Both of us as adults have been fully vaccinated but there is no vaccination for 15 year old in UK at present. What are the travel quarantine rules in Mumbai as at present please.
Hi Nikhil! Both the adults will be exempted from institutional quarantine upon arrival but not the 15-year-old. Please make sure that the 15-year-old takes an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before departing for India. You can also call the helpline number of Mumbai International Airport.
Hello, my mother is traveling from US to India(delhi) on Air india. Does she need a negative RT PCR report with QR code? She has a RT PCR report but without QR code. So please can you tell me if QR code is required for travel to India. Thank you
HI Pradeep! QR code is not mandatory on the RT-PCR report for travel to India.
Hi, My wife is travelling from Toronto to chennai Via Dubai ( Emirates flight) regarding On‑arrival molecular test : Could you please provide the below details.
3.1 Is molecular test on-arrival is required for all passengers including kids and infant ?
3.2 Is there any separate Queue available for passengers with Kids / Infants ?
3.3 If there is portal to pre-book on-arrival molecular test, please provide the link for the portal. ( will pre-book the slots before )
Hi Muthu! Kids and infants will be given exemption from molecular tests at Chennai Airport, as some of our customers traveled to Chennai and shared their experience with us. We have little idea about your second query. There is no option to pre-book on-arrival molecular tests at Chennai Airport. Your wife will be able to exit the airport or proceed for a connecting flight after giving her swab sample for a molecular test.
Hello! I am a US citizen OCI arrving in Chennai on the 29th aug via Dubai (Emirates). I have to take a connectiing flight from Chennai to Coimbatore . After giving samples on arrival at Chennai International, will I be able to take the connecting domestic flight to Coimbatore? Will they ask any more documents/or any RT_PCR at the domestic terminal?
I will have 72 hr prior RTPCR -ve(taken before boarding from US) /Air Suvidha/TN epass. Please advice. Appreciate it ver much!
Hi Jaya! After giving your swab sample, you will be able to proceed for the connecting domestic flight. The documents you listed are enough for hassle-free arrival at Chennai Airport.
thanks for your quick response. Just confirming the domestic airlines (Indigo) are asking for RTPCR again to board. (Mine would have expired the 72 hrs)Will that create a problem for me? Have u heard from travellers? Sorry to bother. Thanks!
Hi Indian Eagle Team,
I am a US citizen holding an OCI card, traveling directly to Delhi via Chicago O’hare with United Airlines, my question is
* Will there still be a mandatory 7-day institutional quarantine at Delhi airport, or I will be permitted to leave if I am asymptomatic after I upload a negative RT-PCR report before 72 hrs of travel and fill a self-declaration form? Delhi is my final destination and my visit is for less than 2 week
Hi Animesh! In Delhi, there is no institutional quarantine for asymptomatic travelers taking a pre-arrival RT-PCR test and uploading the negative result on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to leaving for India.
Hello, thank you for your help, it’s greatly appreciated! I am a (Indian origin )US citizen and will be traveling to Chennai at the end of August 2021, via British Airways from USA to London, continuing on a BA connecting flight from London to Chennai.
1) Will a rapid rt-pcr test result ( saliva) from USA be accepted at Chennai? This will be done within 72 hours of departure.
2) I understand that since I am transiting through London, I will still have to have a rt pcr test upon arrival in Chennai, correct?
3) Will I be allowed to exit the airport after the Chennai test and quarantine at home? Is the quarantine for 7 days?
4) If the test result is negative, should it be repeated after 7 days? If so, can I use a home test kit that I will bring from USA or do I have to go somewhere for a repeat test? Or dothey come home to do the repeat test?
5) if the test result is positive, what happens?
Thank you for your time.
Hi Bhuvana! You need to take an RT-PCR test prior to undertaking the journey from the US. You are required to take a self-paid COVID test on arrival at Chennai Airport. You will undergo 7-day home quarantine in Chennai, and then, self-monitoring of health for 7 days.
Thank you for your prompt reply! I forgot to add that I am fully vaccinated against Covid-19 ( two Moderna shots); will that, plus my pre-board negative rt-pcr test along with the air suvidha form, exempt me from taking the self paid test at Chennai International?
Kudos to you for this very helpful service to travelers!
Hi Bhuvana! No, you will be required to undergo the self-paid test upon arrival at Chennai Airport despite being fully-vaccinated.
👍👍👍
Can I travel to India from US by Britih Airways 2 hr transit in London.
I am a US citizen and OCI.
Is it only non stop flights?
Hi Srinivas! You can take one or two-stop flights on British Airways, Emirates, Qatar, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, and American Airlines. You can log on to IndianEagle.com or call our travel advisors at 01-800-615-3969 for exclusive flight deals.
I am traveling from SFO to Delhi via Doha in Qatar Airways. I will be transiting in Delhi for Kolkata via domestic flight. Do I have to wait for the test result after completing the RT-PCR test in Delhi airport? My flight to Kolkata is after 4 hours of landing in Delhi. Is this time sufficient for immigration and testing? Also, is the RT-PCR test done before the immigration?
Hi Rinku! You will be able to continue for the connecting domestic flight without having to wait for the test result.
I am on H1B visa, my wife is on H4 and my daughter is a US citizen who is minor. We all came to India in the end of August. My daughter and wife might stay in India for little longer. Can I travel back to US now carrying my daughter’s birth certificate copy and Passport copy or do I must have to travel with her.
Hi Shravankumar! If you travel alone leaving the US-born daughter in India, you may face interrogation about the daughter’s whereabouts during immigration clearance at the entry airport in the US.
Will we need to quarantine or get covid testing if we fly to Chenai? On November 26th we will be flying from the United States to Delhi transiting for a few hours at Heathrow in the UK.. We are fully vaccinated US citizens and will have Covid testing 72 hours prior to departure. We will spend 36 hours in Delhi prior to flying to Chenai.
HI Mary! Currently, travelers arriving through the UK have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival in India. There is no quarantine in Delhi or Chennai. Please note the government of India has revised the post-arrival guidelines for international travelers flying into India. It will take effect on October 25. https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/india-revised-guidelines-for-international-arrivals/
I am Indian national and my daughter 6yrs old is on OCI and we are travelling to India on Nov 20th, I am fully vaccinated and my daughter is not. My daughter recently had Covid in September and she is recovered from it but she is still in within the 90day period and if she is PT-PCR tested she would be positive of Covid (within 90 day). In this case can we show positive test result letter and doctor letter stating she recovered and is good to travel. Would this be accepted when we land in India port of entry (Bangalore)?
Hi Sri! Yes, you can show both. Do make sure to upload her RT-PCR test report, alongside yours, on Air Suvidha while filling out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
Hi I am travelling from Houston – Dubai – Mumbai and I am an Indian Citizen. On Air Suvidha for Flight number do i put the originating flight number from Houston to Dubai or the second leg which is Dubai to Mumbai? It gives you only space for 1 flight number.
Hi Sameer! You can enter the flight number of the first leg of the itinerary.
I am travelling Lufthansa from the USA to Bangalore via Frankfurt. I am a US citizen with a valid OCI Card and U Visa. Will I be able to travel? Will Luftansa allow me to board the flight ? Do i need a e-Visa?
I am schedule return early Jan.. will Lufthansa flight still be flying after December 31?