In a latest development for international arrivals, major Indian airports which are basically ports of entry for VBM and air bubble flights from abroad have got COVID19 testing facilities. Indians, foreign citizens of Indian origin, and foreign nationals (having a valid visa to India) can now take COVID tests on arrival at entry airports before traveling to the final destination. This is another way for them to get exempted from institutional quarantine at the final destination.
New Delhi International Airport’s COVID-19 testing facility has been operational since September 11, 2020. Located in Terminal 3 of Delhi IGI Airport, the 3500-sq-ft COVID test center can test as many as 2500 individuals a day and deliver test results in 4-6 hours. The COVID testing facility integrates a lounge where inbound travelers can unwind while waiting for the results. It costs an individual Rs. 5000 including Rs 2400 for test and Rs 2600 for the lounge. People arriving at Delhi airport, having a separate ticket for their onward domestic flights and not carrying a negative COVID test report from the port of origin, can get tested at the airport. If the result is negative, they can get away with the 7-day institutional quarantine in Delhi and travel onward.
Inbound travelers opting for onsite COVID tests at Delhi Airport need to book slots on the airport website at least one hour prior to their arrival. They need to provide certain details such as their names, contact details and a valid ID proof while booking slots online. An individual traveling with family or in a group can book a single slot for the testing of all. The pre-booked slot can be modified in view of delay in arrival.
Picture Credit: The Tribune
Many international travelers catch domestic flights to their final destination from the port of entry, like New Delhi and Mumbai. They can get themselves tested for COVID19 before connecting onto domestic flights. Not all of them are able to get a RT-PCR test result within 72 hours of the scheduled VBM and air bubble flights to India, as per the Ministry of Home Affairs’ guidelines for exemption from institutional quarantine. Earlier, it was 96 hours prior to undertaking the journey from abroad. Now it is 72 hours as per the Government of India’ s revised guidelines issued on November 5, 2020.
Some people are facing issues while uploading the test result copy and other documents to the Air Suvidha portal of Delhi Airport. Some of the travelers complained of not receiving response, despite successful uploading of the test result, by the time they boarded the flight to or landed in India. They will surely benefit from onsite COVID19 tests at New Delhi IGI, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai airports.
“However, 6 hours of wait time for COVID test results at entry airports seems a disadvantage for senior citizens and family travelers with kids, especially after a jet lag of flying long-haul routes. The number of international arrivals will shot up if India’s talk with Singapore, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Israel, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand and the Philippines becomes a success,” said the chief travel advisor of Indian Eagle, a leading travel-booking organization.
The idea of taking onsite COVID19 tests on arrival at entry airports in India is feasible for those who are likely to be found symptomatic in thermal screening at their final destination. Many tier II Indian airports have scrapped institutional quarantine only for asymptomatic travelers from abroad.
hello i have flight from IAH to EWR to BOM with same airline on single iternary. , should the 96hrs for covid test begin from the time i board the IAH plane or the EWR plane . i am being told that it has to be from the origin that is iah but need to clarify.
i have a connecting flight to BLR from bom the next day(after 12 hrs) so it will be beyond 96 hrs.. so would that be a problem when i take the domestic flight ? i dont see anyone asking the covid results at the domestic.
pls confirm
much appreciated
Dj
Hello DJ! The test must be taken 96 hours prior to your flight from IAH because IAH is your port of origin. You need to take the test 96 hours prior to your departure from the USA, not arrival in India. So, even if it is more than 96 hours by the time you will reach Bengaluru, no problem.
Is it 96 hours OR 72 hours? Could you please confirm.
Hi Prashant! It is 72 hours prior to boarding the flight to India.
Hello Indian Eagle, thanks for your help with all the questions. I am not able to post a fresh message, so replying to this hoping you can respond. I am trying to register the pre-book COVID test upon arrival in Chennai but the registration does not go through, keep getting an error message that my name has to be the same as the passport, which it is. Can I get a test when I land or is the prebook mandatory? thanks.
Hi Shanti! Pre-booking a test to be taken at Chennai Airport is not mandatory.
Hello
I have a flight from US SFO to BOM via Paris.
I have the negative RT-PCR test results in Hand.
Per https://in.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ website, I have to Submit and pay for a confirmatory molecular COVID test at the Airport.
Can I leave the airport after the swab i taken or have to wait for the results before I step out on road to go home in Bombay
Hi Prakash! You don’t have to wait for the test result at Mumbai Airport if you are asymptomatic.
Hi, if I test negitive for covid on the Delhi airport, do I still have to do 7 days of institutional and 7 days of home quaruntine?
Hi Alice! In case the test result is negative, you will be stamped only for home quarantine. Institutional quarantine does not apply to COVID-19 negative individuals.
Hello,
Thank you for the information in advance.
I am traveling from Chicago-Dubai-Delhi and then taking domestic flight for my home city with Negative PCR report, uploaded to the online portal.
Do I need to take on arrival RT PCR at Delhi and wait for results for my onwards journey[10 hours until next flight]
If yes for taking the test, what is the amount in INR for the test?
Hi YM! Due to the transit in the Middle East, you will have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Delhi Airport. If you’re asymptomatic, you won’t have to wait for the test result. After the swab sample is collected, you can proceed for the connecting flight. A regular RT-PCR test costs approximately Rs. 900 at Delhi airport.
Hello …
Is this True for Mumbai Airport too?
When we arrive from Dubai at Mumbai International Airport.
We will be required to take a RT-PCR test.
Can we leave Mumbai Airport after the sample is collected ? ( similar to Delhi Airport)
Is this true only for connecting flight or Can we leave the airport for Taxi Ride to Surat City ?
Thanks.
Navroz Dabu
Hi Navroz! Currently, travelers from the Middle East have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Mumbai Airport. They can exit the terminal/ take the onward flight after the sample collection. The reports will be sent via email. We request you to contact the MCGM officials on amc.projects@mcgm.gov.in for further clarification.
Hi,
do you know if there is covid testing in Mumbai airport for international arrivals? Also, if I have a pcr negative test result, can I show this when I arrive to the airport or do I have to upload this online on the portal?
thanks!
Hi Yasmin! Yes, Mumbai Airport has got a testing facility to conduct Express RT-PCR tests for international arrivals without a negative COVID test report from the country of origin/departure. If you have a negative RT-PCR test result (which must have been conducted within 96 hours prior to your flight from the port of origin/departure), you will get exempted from institutional quarantine in Mumbai. Yes, you need to upload the test result to Air Suvidha and fill out a declaration form ascertaining the authenticity of the result.
Hi, I will be taking Vancouver-Montreal-Newark-Mumbai flight. I am not taking the RT PCR test in Vancouver. Can I prebook the RT PCR test online to be done at Mumbai airport? I do not find any prebooking option in Mumbai airport website. kindly advise.
Hi Bindu! You need to register on http://www.suburbandiagnostics.com and book slots for a test at Mumbai airport. For more information, you can go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
Hi,
If I have booked a slot for testing at Delhi Airport. Do I also need to fill exemption form online?
Hi Akshat! No need.
HI, I am flying from Brazil and have opted for testing at the Delhi Airport.
Can I upload the appointment confirmation on the exemption application on AirSuvidha website?
Hi Malkeet! You don’t need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha if you choose to get tested at Delhi Airport.
hi I am flying frm UK LHR TO DEL BUT FRM DEL I AM TAKING DOMESTIC FLIGHT TO JAIPUR DO I HAVE TO HAVE ANOTHER RT PCR TEST IN DELHI FOR TAKING DOMESTIC FLIGHT
Hi Farhan! You will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport and wait for the result. You will be allowed to take your connecting flight only if you test negative and this report you get at Delhi Airport might be enough for you to travel to Jaipur.
I have a flight from maldives on 10th feb to mumbai from where i have a connecting flight to kolkata within 4 hours of landing. What should be easiest way to get the test
Hi Kaushal! 4 hours is not sufficient to take a COVID test at Mumbai Airport. Hence, you need to travel with a negative RT-PCR test result from the Maldives.
Planning to travel from UK to Mumbai and then Gujarat by road. Will be living in vadodara for stay.
1. Can we use same PCR which we have taken for fly to fit from UK if within 72 hours.2. Do we need to quarantine at home in Vadodara or no quarantine required.3. we have two vaccines, will it have any impact on quarantine 4. How quick we will be able to get out from airport to go for our final destination.
Hi KV! A RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure will be valid. You might be required to quarantine at home since you are traveling from the UK. You will be allowed to continue your journey only after testing negative in the RT-PCR test taken on arrival at Mumbai Airport. Normal RT-PCR test takes around 8 hours for result while the rapid test takes 1-2 hours. May we please know what do you mean by two vaccines?
Hello,
I will be travelling from chicago to Delhi on 17 th feb,with my 3 yr and 6yr old kids. If I go through RT PCR test on 14 Feb and as per guideline test within 72 hrs prior to departure from chicago. So what to do if I don’t receive report before my departure from chicago?
Also do I need to go through rapid covid test at Delhi airport also?As I will reach Delhi at 07:00pm and my next flight to Bhopal will be after 8 hrs,so what is the probability of receiving report within this time difference?
Also do my kids also have to undergo rapid test as they are 3 and 6 yrs old?
Hi Shubham! All of you can travel to Delhi Airport without any COVID test report. But you (adult travelers) must have a negative COVID test report to make domestic air travel onward from Delhi Airport. You (adult travelers) can take either an RT-PCR test before departure from Chicago or a COVID test upon arrival at Delhi Airport. However, it is recommended you travel with a pre-departure RT-PCR test report. Coming to the kids, you can get them tested at Delhi Airport only if COVID testing is mandatory for their domestic air travel. Please note you need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha for your kids within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from Chicago.
My sister is traveling from Atlanta to Delhi on 15th March. There is no test center available in US allowing test for infants below 2 years. What should we do ?
Hi Aatira! There is no way out. Taking a pre-arrival RT-PCR test is mandatory.
Hello, We are traveling from San Francisco to Delhi with children under ten with no onward domestic air travel. Is it necessary for children under 10 to test for covid? Thank you.
Hi Sarah! The new guidelines that took effect on Feb 23 require all India-bound international travelers including infants on lab to take an RT-PR test before traveling to India. Please go through this before you plan on traveling https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/faqs-india-travel-new-guidelines/
I am traveling from US to Chennai though Mumbai. If I do the rtpcr test here but don’t get the result before I leave US , can I show the online results in the airport ?
If I do test in Mumbai airport how long does it take to get results ?
Hi Deepika! Yes, you can show the soft copy of the result at Mumbai and Chennai airports. It will take you 4-6 hours to get the result of an Express RT-PCR test at Mumbai airport.
my connecting flight to Pune from Delhi is in2.30 hours. IS there possibility that i can get results in 1 hour or before my connecting flight?
Hi Dinesh! It is impossible.
Had one question about the express RT-PCR test. They claim that there is a RT-PCR test that takes 13 mins for a result. I don’t see that on the Mumbai Airport website. Is this available?
Hi Raju! By the end of December 2020, Mumbai Airport introduced Express COVID testing facility which delivers results within minutes. Please log on to http://www.suburbandiagnostics.com and check if Express COVID testing is available for international arrivals or not.
Hi,
I’m traveling from US to Chennai via Mumbai. If I provide a negative before departure, will I be allowed to stay at the airport hotel for 12 hrs till my connection to Chennai? Time for my connection flight is 17hrs from the time of landing in Mumbai and I would rather stay at a hotel than inside the airport if possible.
Kumar
Hi Kumar! If your negative RT-PCR test report is approved on Air Suvidha, you will get exempted from institutional quarantine and airport COVID testing as well. Yes you will be able to check in at the airport hotel during the connection time.
Thank you! For airport hotel check-in while waiting for connection, is there any prior permission I should get from any authorities?
There is no such protocol.
During connecting flights, can we spend 1-2 days in mumbai at friend’s or hotel. Anywhere. Is it mandatory it should be airport hotel?
Hi Kirandeep! If you arrive with a negative RT-PCR certificate, you can.
I plan to travel from US to Bombay (Direct flight from New Jersey) and my final destination is Bombay. I do not have any connecting flights domestically as Bombay is my final destination. Do I still need the RT-PCR test?
From what I understood following this link is:
1) I need to download the Arogya Setu App
2) Submit a self declaration form on Air-Suvidha 72 hrs prior to departure
http://www.airindia.in/International-Passengers-Travelling-into-India.htm
HI Sudhir! Yes, you need a negative RT-PCR test report to get exempted from 7-day institutional quarantine in Mumbai.
Hi,
I am travelling to Delhi from Bahrain with my wife and 2 kids ( Both 2 years of age ) , my final destination is Jodhpur. I am staying in Delhi for 1 day before taking a train to Jodhpur.
Please advise if all 4 of us need to go for PCR test to get an exemption from quarantine ?
Hi Deepak! You are eligible for exemption from institutional quarantine as you are traveling with kids below 10 years of age. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/air-suvidha-inbound-travelers-india/ for more information. However, you may still need RT-PCR tests to be allowed to travel onward from Delhi airport. As far as we know, 2-year-olds are exempted from taking a test.
I will be flying from California to Delhi. What are the protocols for taking a Covid test before the flight? Is it 72 hours prior or 96 hours? Want to avoid getting tested at the airport as I have to go further to a different state. Please advise! Thanks
Hi Roxy! Previously it was 96 hours. Now it is 72 hours as per the government of India’s revised guidelines issued on November 5. You need to get tested within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from California.
Thanks for the 72 hours confirmation. Planning to India next month.
I saw an update , on Updated: December 18, 2020 info on Indian express regarding exempt from quarantine as follows.
”If a person is able to produce a negative Covid19 certificate from a test done within 72 hours prior to the journey, they are exempt from institutional as well as home quarantine. Earlier, a negative RT-PCR test report would only exempt a passenger from seven days of institutional quarantine and they would have to undergo seven days of mandatory home quarantine.”
Can you please clarify what is the negative Covid19 certificate and what is the negative RT-PCR test report?
My understanding is negative Covid19 certificate means is done by Antigen test.( Report available in 5 or 6 hours)
And negative RT-PCR test is done by Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction test. .(Report available in 2 or 3 days).
Is it right?
Hello Murthy! Any COVID test report is a negative COVID certificate in case the result is negative. In this case, a negative RT-PCR test report is a negative COVID-19 certificate with a valid stamp and signature from the testing lab.
Hi, Thanks for the reply. What type of test is required for India?
My Feedback from California is Many are offering 1.0 Rapid CovidTest(Result with in hours) or RT-PCR test (Min(3days). Which type of test is required for India and in your knowledge RT-PCR test (Min(3days) report comes before travel starting? Request to share anybody who travalled recently.
Hi Murthy! It is RT-PCR test. You can go through the travel experience of one of our customers https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/united-airlines-air-bubble-travel-experience/
Hi,
I plan to travel from New York to Hyderabad . I haven’t booked tickets yet but there are 2 options.
Option 1: Air India flight which is from New York to Delhi and then a connecting flight from Delhi to Hyderabad which has a layover of 3 hours. Would I be allowed to board a connecting flight or do I need to take a test or show a negative result from 96 hours prior?
Option 2. Emirates: Which would be from NY to Dubai with a 3-4 hours layover at Dubai and then Dubai to Hyderabad. Do I need a negative test here to get out of Airport?
Also, Is it mandatory yet to show a negative test? I haven’t read anywhere which says its mandatory.
Not that I do not want to do it but would prefer quarantining my way with a test and not waiting for their reply.
Hi Jai! FYI, it is no more 96 hours. If you wish to carry a negative RT-PCR test report from NY, you must get tested within 72 hours of undertaking the journey as per Indian government’s revised guidelines issued on November 5. If you hold a single PNR for the entire itinerary from NY to HYD and travel without a test report, you will be allowed to board the connecting flight at Delhi Airport and you will be quarantined in Hyderabad. You must have a negative COVID-19 test certificate to board Emirates at the port of origin/departure.
Hi, I have similar issue like this but I have a question
Will I be quarantined in Hyderabad or will I be tested in Hyderabad?
I have similar question Amsterdam-London-Delhi-Hyderabad. If I don’t take test in Delhi as I have connecting flight to Hyderabad
Will I be quarantined in Hyderabad or will I be test in Hyderabad.
Thanks.
Hello
My exemption form got rejected for the category of RT-PCR negative test report and i was waiting for report and i uploaded waiting document in the form . Do i have to undergo 7 days institutional quarantine? Or i can show negative test results on the arrival?
Hi Simran! Many travelers experienced the same inconvenience. You can travel with the report and a printout of the self-reporting form as well as the declaration form, and show them on the arrival.
Hi,
So I am traveling from New Jersey to Mumbai and planning to get tested 72 hours before my flight. I am not sure if I will get my results before I land. But if I get it till the time I land, can I fill the exemption form after I land in Mumbai?
Another question is, can I fill the exemption form without getting my results?
Hi Gauri! Based on the receipt of the test taken, you can fill out the exemption form and take a printout of the filled form.
For international travel into Mumbai, do I have to book a covid RT-PCR test in Mumbai airport prior to my travel, or can I take the test on the spot?
Hello! Given the rush of international arrivals, it is advisable to book your slot for a test in advance.
how to book slot at mumbai airport, can you please provide the link..Also,advsied if travler is travelling from GOT to BOM without RTPCR test, will they allow to travel from GOT with KLM?
Hi Davinder! You can log on to http://www.suburbandiagnostics.com and book a slot. In case the test-booking website is not working, please call the helpline of Mumbai International Airport. You need to install Aarogya Setu app on your phone using an Indian phone number. Please note Mumbai Airport is now allowing international arrivals (those without an RT-PCR certificate) to leave the airport and ‘go home’ after collecting their swab, instead of making them wait long hours for the result.
Hello,
How can I do the test 72 hours before boarding and upload the test report on the Air Suvidha also 72 hours before boarding?
This won’t be possible since it will take 24 hours for me to get my test report.
Hi Ronman! You need to get tested and upload the test result within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey to India.
Hello,
My flight is on 20 November at 12:40 pm. My test will be done on 17 November at 2:25 pm.
That means the test will be done 70 hours before the flight. So that is fine right?
Hi Boiman! It looks good and valid.
I am travelling to Mumbai tomorrow from Newark and my final destination is Ahmedabad, I haven’t done covid test as so many of the pharmacy’s and doctors told me that I don’t have the symptoms so i am not eligible for test as there are limited testing kits, air India is giving me mixed answers, I know that I can get tested in Mumbai so my question is will they quarantine me in Mumbai even if I my test result is negative in Mumbai?
Hi Varneeraj! We’re sorry for not being able to address your query on time. Hope you had a smooth flight and arrived safely. In case of negative result of the test done at Mumbai Airport, you will get exempted from institutional quarantine. But home quarantine will apply at your final destination.
Hi
I am willing to fly london to ahmedabad via Delhi I have 6 hour in Delhi
If I book for COVID test at Delhi and just in case results don’t come until my connecting flight
Would I be able to fly or I have to wait for my results then I can leave that lounge ??
Thanks
Hi Rahul! As per the reports available, your passport will be collected when you will undergo a test at the airport and you will get it back along with the test result. You can go through the fourth paragraph from the end of the article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/united-airlines-air-bubble-travel-experience/ for your perusal.
Hi,
I am a student based in Seattle, who would be required to fly back to India by the end of November. The PCR test facility is not feasible for me in Seattle. I need to understand the criteria – am I required to do the test before boarding a flight from SEA? I am reading about another option wherein we get tests done after the arrival – I would like to know the process behind it. Also – what exactly is the Vande Bharat mission – does it offer some kind of solace in terms of financial aspect? Please do let me know.
Hi Ridhima! Vande Bharat Mission is the term for (paid) special/evacuation/repatriation flights that the Government of India launched in May 2020 for Indians/Indian-origin people abroad amidst the suspension of regular international flights and international travel restrictions. Over time, Vande Bharat Mission led to air bubble flights. There is no financial concession for VBM/air bubble flights. You can either take a test within 72 hours of your journey from the USA or a test upon arrival at the port of entry.
I plan to travel from Newark to Patna on the 12th. I booked the flight from Newark to Delhi and then a connecting flight from Delhi to Patna which has a layover of 4.5 hours. I am taking RT-PCR test on 9th evening and hoping to get the result before flying.
I am trying to fill the Air Suvidha Exemption Request Form but it is asking to upload the Uploaded ‘RT-PCR negative report / copy of RT-PCR tests where results are awaited’.
And per form I need to applied the form atleast 72 hours prior to departure and pcr test should be taken within 72 hours of departure. how it is possible?
Will I allow to travel domestically by showing the pcr test report without filling the exemption request form?
Hi Ranjan! A lot of confusion prevails in the current circumstances. We are trying our best to streamline the delivery of the latest information. Some travelers whose exemption requests got rejected traveled with a negative RT-PCR test report and were through to their final destination via Delhi/Mumbai. Nothing can be said certainly.
Hello, I’m in the same predicament and wondering what happened or how to deal with this
Hlw did you have to do any quarantine or they have accepted your pdf report.
I need to fly to India to drop my mother in HYD and return to US. I am an OCI card holder and my mother is Indian citizen.
1) If we both have a negative PCR test 72 hours before we board the plane in US, can we take flights from US to HYD or do we have to fly to Delhi or Mumbai and catch domestic flight to HYD. Most of the flights to HYD will have a brief (2 to 4 hours) stopover in Europe.
2) Can I catch an immediate return flight from India to US or do I need to allow for a minimum of 7 day home quarantine in HYD (assuming I get exemption from institutional quarantine due to negative PCR test).
Hi SM! May we know which airline you and your mother will be traveling on? To the best of our knowledge, OCI card holders and Indian passport holders can’t travel on British Airways and Lufthansa. As per the revised guidelines, you need to take the test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from the USA. There is no direct/nonstop flight between USA and Hyderabad. Travelers with confirmed return tickets within four days of arrival in Hyderabad will not be home-quarantined if they show their Negative RT-PCR test report from the port of origin/departure, according to Telangana’s guidelines. Please be advised to contact our travel advisors at 1-800-615-3969 for the best itineraries available based on your visa and nationality in the current circumstances and hassle-free booking.
You are saying…
“To the best of our knowledge, OCI card holders and Indian passport holders can’t travel on British Airways and Lufthansa.” is this true.
I am a US passport holder with OCI and my wife is an Indian Passport holder and we have booked British airways flight to India. (to Delhi then Domestic flight).
Please confirm / clarify.
Hi Vijay,
Did you managed to travel via BA on Indian passports?
Ref: “To the best of our knowledge, OCI card holders and Indian passport holders can’t travel on British Airways and Lufthansa.”
Hi Ashish! Currently, OCI cardholders can travel on British Airways from USA to India.
Hello, I will be travelling from Chicago to Chennai via London. Can I get tested at the Chennai airport in case my RT PCR test results in the US don’t get through in time. Does Chennai airport have this test facility? Thanks.
Hi Guru! Yes, Chennai Airport has the COVID-19 testing facility for international arrivals. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/tamil-nadu-institutional-quarantine-guidelines/
Hey
My family and I are travelling from Maldives to Mumbai. Can I get the PCR at Mumbai? And is there an extremely long wait time at the airport (I’ve been told it’s almost 9 hours once the test is taken at the airport). If I take the PCR once I arrive in Mumbai, any idea what facilities are available if there is a wait time and can I get the institutional quarantine waived along with the waive time as I’m travelling with my parents who are both 64.
Thank you!
Hi Nezhat! Please go through this article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
Hi, I’m travelling to India(Mumbai) from the US on 14th Nov. I will reach Mumbai on 15th Nov 9:40 PM. Since my flight is on 14th Nov 10:10 AM I need to get tested at least 72 hours before my departure that is 11th Nov (Wednesday). I’m a student and free RT-PCR test is offered by my university but since 11th Nov is Veteran’s day my university will be closed so I’m getting tested on 12th Nov. The issue is I won’t be able to get the printout copy of my report as the results will come when I would have already started my journey. Is a pdf report accepted at Mumbai Airport?
Hi Abhi! We are not sure whether soft copies of the test report are considerable at Mumbai airport. Please be advised to call Mumbai Airport’s helpline number and check with them. Wish you a safe trip!
Hi two questions:
1) What is the website to book/reserve a slot for covid testing at Mumbai Airport for International Arrival passengers?
2) Is the only testing facility on Departure Level 10? Is that accessible for International Arrival passengers?
3) Do passengers who avail of the “testing on arrival” facility have to fill out any exemption paperwork? Is this process something that is done *before* immigration or *after* immigration?
Hi Priyodarshi! Shubho Bijoya! Please be advised to go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/ and read the information under the heading “Express RT-PCR Test at Mumbai CSMI Airport”.
Hey,
My aunt and uncle are Indian nationals flying from DFW-EWR-DEL-TRI via United this Saturday. They have a 10 hour lay over in Delhi before their connecting flight to Trivandrum. In order to not undergo the institutional quarantine, can they just take the COVID test at Delhi airport and then board their connecting flight to TRI because of the long layover? Also, if they were to do this, do they still need to fill out the exemption form?
Hi Jake! The 10-hr layover makes it possible for them to get tested at Delhi Airport. In that case, no need to fill out the exemption form.
Also, if they were to take the test in the US, would they need to take it 72 hours before boarding the DFW flight? Would normal PCR tests qualify? When would the results need to be uploaded on the website by? Sorry for all the questions!! Thank you!
Hi Jake! India-bound travelers need to get tested and upload the test result within 72 hours prior to boarding the flight to India.
Hello, I am planning to travel from Newark to Mumbai to Goa on United Airlines. This itinerary has a single PNR. I am a bit confused on the testing and quarantine rules. The State wise guidelines on Air Suvidha website says that for Goa there are no requirements for domestic passengers, and mandatory antigen testing for all international passengers. Which quarantine / testing rules apply to me? Will I be considered domestic or international passenger for my flight from Mumbai to Goa. Since I have single PNR, do I still need to get a quarantine exemption in Mumbai? Please note that I am a US citizen with OCI card.
Hi Ronald! Mumbai is the port of entry for you, and your final destination is Goa. You will be treated as an international arrival in Goa. Goa’s quarantine and testing rules for international arrivals will apply to you. Given the current circumstances, it is recommended that you travel with a negative RT-PCR test report from the USA.
Hello, I have booked Emirates flight from Zurich to New Delhi via Dubai. My home is Gurgaon (Haryana) in Delhi NCR. I plan to book RT-PCR Test upon landing at Delhi Airport. Will I be allowed to board starting flight @ Zurich and then connecting flight from Dubai to Delhi? Should I submit online form before starting my journey or that can be done after RT-PCR Report?
Hi Lavanya! You need a negative RT-PCR test report to board Emirates flights from any part of the world. We have doubts whether you will be allowed to board Emirates at Zurich without a negative COVID19 test report. Please be advised to check with Emirates. You can also go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/emirates-free-covid19-insurance-cover/
Follow up question regarding the trip from DFW-EWR-DEL-TRI via United this Sunday. They were planning on taking the COVID test Thursday which is 72 hours before but the results usually take 2-3 days. So how would it be possible to still upload the results 72 hours prior? If not, can they just show a copy of the negative test result when they reach Delhi Airport?
Hi, I am travelling with 2 kids, 4yrs and 8 yrs old, from Lagos to Delhi on 14th November. Do I have to carry COVID test result for my kids also to be able to take my connecting flight to Bhubaneswar on 16th? Also, with the change in the testing time before the departure (from 96hrs to 72hrs now), will we be allowed to take the connection flight by just showing the test result on arrival without uploading the result on the portal? It is practically impossible to upload the result before 72hrs of boarding the flight on AirSuvidha portal. Thanks.
Hi Bhavan! You need to upload the test result within 72 hours, not before 72 hours of undertaking the journey to India. FYI, you are eligible for exemption from institutional quarantine for traveling with kids below 10 years of age. To make your travel safe and smooth, you and your spouse can get tested as per the guidelines. Not so necessary for kids.
Hello, I booked an Air India ticket from Canada to Cochin airport Kerala, having 4 hours layover in Delhi. Do I have to take covid test prior to my journey, as I have only one PNR number for the whole journey and as air india flights come under Vande Bharat mission. Thanks.
Hi AJ! You may not be allowed to continue onward domestic travel from Delhi airport, without a RT-PCR test report, as per the revised guidelines. The 4-hr layover is not sufficient for you to take a test at Delhi airport. Hence, it is recommended you get tested within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from Canada and upload the test result for approval.
Hello,
My Parents are travelling from DFW – CHICAGO- DELHI (Layover for 12 hrs) – KOLKATA (Final Destination).
Here are my following questions :
1. Do they have to get their PCR testing done before they board the flight to Delhi from DFW? Or can they test at Delhi airport?
2. If results are not back at Delhi airport Covid test on time before their flight to Kolkata, can they still fly?
3. How are these results are shared with the passengers? (Email or paper form)?
Hi Sona! 12-hr layover is sufficient for them to get tested after arrival at Delhi airport. Test results are delivered in 4-6 hours in both digital format and hard copy. Or else, they can take a test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from DFW.
Hello,
I am traveling in Air India flight from San Francisco -> Delhi -> Mumbai on 26 Nov. My layover at Delhi is just one hour.
Suppose I get tested in US within 72 hours but I do not get reports within that time or If I do not get tested in US, can I take RT-PCR testing in Mumbai by boarding flight DEL -> MUM ? If not, can you suggest on what can I do, I need to go to Mumbai and avoid staying in Delhi.
Thanks for helping us here.
Hi Girish! You get tested either in the USA before traveling or after arrival at the port of entry, Delhi Airport. But, you can’t take a test in one hour of layover at Delhi IGI Airport. You can upload the test result any time before your flight to India from SFO. You can also carry a soft copy of the test result.
I have the same situation for my parents and don’t know if I will get the test results before they board. So do they have to take test in Mumbai is not even clear after calling air india multiple times.
Hi, I am travelling from London to Raipur via Delhi. I have only 6hour layover. can I get the RT-PCR testing done in Delhi with in that time (6hours)? please advise.
Hi Bhupendra! According to many of our customers who have traveled to New Delhi and took a test upon arrival, Delhi airport’s COVID testing facility delivers results in 4-6 hours.
Thank you for quick response. Will I be given priority if I have to check-in for domestic flight in 4-5 hours ? if delayed I really double airline will reschedule in such a short notice. please advise.
Hi Bhupendra! It may help if you book a slot in advance (before arriving in India). If there is no rush, you may get the result in 4 hours.
Hi!
I have a vande bharat flight from New york to Delhi and another vande bharat connecting domestic flight from Delhi to Bangalore. The layover time is 3 hrs and 40 mins.
In this case, would my final quarantine destination be Bangalore, or will I have to undergo the test at Delhi and have to wait for the results there only ?
Thanks
Hi Swathi! If you hold the same PNR for the entire itinerary, you will be quarantined at the final destination. The connection time at Delhi airport is not sufficient for you to take a test and get the result. Please be advised to take a test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from NY and carry the negative RT-PCR test report.
I will be booking a flight of Saturday evening (Newark to Mumbai) and currently it is Thursday afternoon. I am not able to fill the exemption form (<72 hours left) since I have not booked the tickets yet. But I have taken the COVID test and will be able to show the result at Mumbai airpot.
Question 1: If I am -ve, can I be exempted from the institutional quarantine even though I have not filled the exemption form?
Question 2: Will I be exempted from the institutional quarantine if I test -ve at Mumbai airport?
In both the scenarios, I have not filled the exemption form.
Thank you.
Hi SB! Yes, you will be exempted from institutional quarantine. No need to fill the exemption form if you choose to get tested at Mumbai airport.
I am flying British Airways from DC to Chennai via London (US passport/OCI).
1. Do I need to take RT-PCR test 72 hours or 96 hours in advance?
2. Is the hours above from the time of arrival in chennai or departure in DC?
thanks
Hi Ram! For Chennai, you need to take a RT-PCR test in advance. In case of travel to Chennai, you need to get tested within 96 hours of your arrival in Chennai.
Hello,
I am planning to travel from Seattle to Mumbai around end of November. I am planning to travel by United Airlines through EWR. Do we need negative RT-PCR test for boarding United Airlines flight (at point of departure, or transit through EWR) ?
Or do we need it only when we arrive in Mumbai, for exemption from institutional quarantine?
Hi Bhavana! Neither United Airlines nor Newark Liberty Airport requires you to have a negative RT-PCR test for boarding flight to India.
Hello, Thanks for your reply. I will be reaching Delhi Airport at 12.45am on 23rd Nov and my domestic connecting flight to HYD is at 7.30am, which means i have 6hr 30 min aprox. If i book RT-PCR test on Delhi Aiport, will i be able to get Result within in 4-5 hr and what will happen if i don’t get result before my connecting flight.
Hi Mohammed! Usually, it takes 4-5 hours to get test results at Delhi Airport. However, it depends on the rush of international arrivals on a given day. If your domestic flight is not the feeder flight for the international flight operated by the same airline, you will not be allowed to continue onward travel without a negative RT-PCR test report.
I am travelling from Chicago to Kochi via Delhi in AIR INDIA VBM flight during the 1st week of December 2020.The flight from Delhi to Kochi is the feeder flight for flight from Chicago to Delhi and both the tickets are having the same PNR number.Is it mandatory for me to show copy of RT PCR test report at Delhi Airport for boarding my next feeder connection flight to Kochi.OR can I travel to kochi without RT PCR test from Chicago and take my test if required at Kochi, as per the new guidelines.
Hi Mohammed! To the best of our knowledge, you will be through at Delhi airport without a RT-PCR test report from Chicago, the port of departure.
Am travelling from London to Goa can I do my covid 19 after landing in Goa, is this facility available there or I have to land in Mumbai test and take a domestic flight.
There is yet no COVID testing facility at Goa airport. You can take a test at Mumbai airport and board a domestic flight in case the test is negative.
Hello,
I will be flying from Tampa-New York-Delhi-Bangalore.
I will try getting the rtpcr test 72hrs prior to my journey, but if I am unable to do so can I get tested on arrival at Bangalore airport?
Does the Bangalore airport have that facility? Also, could you please furnish me with the link for test slot booking?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Adlin! As far as we know, Bangalore Airport does not have COVID testing facility for international arrivals. If you receive the result in the eleventh hour before your journey, you can carry the hard copy and show it upon arrival at Delhi airport.
Hello, I have flight from SFO to EWR to BOM with united and then connecting flight to Ahmedabad in Air India (Final destination).
Q-1 Should the 72hours for covid test begin from the time I board the SFO plane or the EWR plane?
Thank you
Hi,
I will be flying from Savannah, Georgia to Hyderabad Via Delhi, And RT- PCR test is not feasible here in Savannah,Is it okay if I book Slot for RT-PCR test at Delhi airport ?
Also what is the procedure required for Exemption from Institutional Quarantine!
Hi Syeda! Yes you can book a slot for RT-PCR test at Delhi airport. In case the result is negative, you will be exempted from institutional quarantine.
Hello,
I am are travelling from SFO – Newark- Mumbai (Layover for 9 hrs) – Bangalore (Final Destination).
Here are my following questions:
1. Do the 72hrs calculated from the SFO or from EWR?
2. Can I get tested on Mumbai airport if my report would not come on time?
Hi, I am traveling from SFO to New Delhi and planning to take a train next day from Delhi to MP after staying overnight in Delhi. If my test is negative and exempted, would I be allowed to stay in Delhi overnight and take the train next day? Please guide. Thanks so much!
Hi Shashank! Yes, you will be allowed to continue your journey next day in case you are tested negative.
Hi, I travelling from Newark – Delhi – Chennai with a single itinerary/PNR ( Air India Air bubble flight).
My layover in delhi is 4 hrs.
1. Will i be allowed to board the flight in Newark without RT-PCR test report?
2. Will i be allowed to board my connecting flight in delhi to Chennai without RT-PCR test report?
3. I would like to be tested in Chennai (final destination). Is that possible?
4. How long does it take to get the test results in chennai airport and what is the cost?
Hi Kumar! You will be allowed to board the flight from Newark without a RT-PCR test report. According to the Government of India’s new guidelines issued on November 5, a negative COVID test is mandatory for catching domestic connecting flights. We are not sure whether this applies to the itinerary with a single PNR. Yes, it is possible to take a test at Chennai airport.
Hi, I am travelling from London Heathrow to Chennai via Delhi connecting flights. I have a time of 2.5hrs between connecting flight to Chennai. Could you please guide me should i take test at Delhi airport or Chennai airport? Thanks.
Hi Sethu! 2.5-hr layover is not sufficient to take a RT-PCR test at Delhi Airport. According to the Government of India’s new guidelines issued on November 5, a negative COVID test is mandatory for catching domestic connecting flights. We are not sure whether you will be allowed to continue your journey from Delhi Airport without a negative report.
Hey, I am travelling from Washington to Chennai (via Delhi). I many not be able to take a PCR test 72 hours prior to leaving Washington, so I will have to take the test at Delhi airport. But my next flight to Chennai is in 4 hours, will I get the PCR test results within that time at Delhi, or will I miss my flight to Chennai?
Should I request them to give it to me before 4 hours? Or can I leave Delhi without taking the test, and take it at Chennai airport instead? Please help me,
Thanks a lot in advance, Take care.
Hi Sneha! You may not get the test result before 4 hours. If the rush of international arrivals is low on the day of your arrival, you may get the result before you board the next flight. We are not sure whether you will be allowed to continue your journey from Delhi Airport without a negative report. As per the latest mandate from the Government of India, international flyers need to show a negative RT-PCR report for catching domestic flights upon arrival at the port of entry in India.
Hello,
If my connecting flight from Delhi, is in 4 hours, and I am taking a test at Delhi:
1. Is there a way I can get the results before 4 hours and my next flight?
Hi Balaji! You may not get the test result before 4 hours. If the rush of international arrivals is low on the day of your arrival, you may get the result before you board the next flight.
Hi!!
I am travelling from Saudi Arabia – Sharjah – Chennai on 21st Nov.
Is it mandatory to have negative RTPCR test result before boarding the flight (Air Arabia)?
OR it can be done on Arrival Chennai?
Thank you.
Hi Kiran! The Government of Tamil Nadu requires international arrivals to travel with a negative RT-PCR report. We are not sure whether Air Arabia requires you to have a negative COVID report for boarding the flight. Please check with the airline.
Hi!
I’m travelling from Chicago – Delhi – Bangalore. My layover in Delhi is only for 2 hours.
Since it is Thanksgiving holidays, most centres are expecting delays in lab results.
In case I don’t get my result in time, can I show my rapid test result as backup?
Can I still fly from Delhi to Bangalore in that case?
Would home quarantine be an option if I don’t have my RTPCR test back?
Hi Anannya! You can show a soft copy of the negative RT-PCR test report with a valid stamp and signature from the lab when you land at Delhi airport. Please note you may not be allowed to continue your onward travel from Delhi without a RT-PCR test certificate.
Hi,
I’m travelling on Nov 21st on United Airlines Newark-Mumbai-Chennai. My university is offering free saliva based RT-PCR testing. Is that acceptable ?
Hi Aishwarya! If the test report comes with a valid stamp and signature ascertaining the authenticity of the test result, it will be acceptable.
Hi,
Can somebody confirm saliva based RT-PCR test is OK for travel? A friend just informed me that airlines like Delta are insisting on nasal test. But nowhere I could find this rule. Thanks in advance.
NP
Hi Aishwaya are you able to use RT-qPCR report to enter chennai airport?
Hi
I am travelling from EWR to Delhi on 22nd Nov(Sunday), My flight starts at 9pm EST. I have booked my Covid test appointment on 19th at 12 Noon. Is this time frame ok or do i need take test exactly 72hrs from flight departure time?
Hi RK! It is not exactly 72 hours from the flight departure. You need to get tested within 72 hours of undertaking the journey to India.
I have a similar question. My flight is on Dec 27 at 8:15 PM. Can I take the Test on 24 Dec around 3PM which will a little more than 72 hours or does the test have to be taken after 8:15 PM on Thursday?
Hi KaySee! May we know your final destination or the port of entry in India?
New Delhi
Hi KaySee! A COVID test older than 72 hours prior to your journey from the USA may not be accepted at Delhi Airport.
KaySee, was this accepted? I have the same issue
Hello ,
I am flying from Frankfurt (Germany) to delhi on 21st november and have not done RT-PCR testing in Frankfurt.
Our final destination is Delhi only , do we need to have RT-PCR testing at arrival and do pre booking is required in this case?
Hi Deepa! Without a negative RT-PCR test report, you will have to undergo 7-day institutional quarantine upon arrival in Delhi. You can either travel with a negative test report or get tested at Delhi airport.
Hello Indiananegale ,
Thanks for the reply, i am going for medical emergency (for a surgery) , for this i applied for exemption at Air Suvidha. But they rejected it twice.
Do i need to have negative RT-PCR test report in case of serious illness ?
Hi Deepa! You need to upload valid medical documents on to Air Suvidha in order to ascertain the authenticity of your medical emergency. In case your application is rejected for the third time, you need to have a negative RT-PCR test report.
Hi
My name is bhavana Iam planing to travel on 22 Nov from Chicago to Vijayawada via Delhi with my two kids ages 10 and 8 years old. I applied for exemption and I got approval from Delhi government. Please let me know still I need to show rt pcr negative test reports to travel Delhi to vijayawada
Dear Sir/Madam
My mum is traveling from USA to Ahmedabad via Delhi on 1st december and she is 70 yrears old . if she carry with her Negative RT-PCR test report does she have to go for institutional quarantine or she can self quarantine at home.as indian people says that delhi airport they do to all pessangers institutional quarantine. is that true?
I will relly appraciate if you give me some advise on this matter.
Thank you in advance
Dr vikram Patel
Hello Dr Patel! A negative RT-PCR test report, if approved on Air Suvidha, makes your mother eligible for exemption from institutional quarantine at both, Delhi (the port of entry) and the final destination, Ahmedabad. Please don’t believe in rumors.
We are family of three travelling back to Hyderabad via delhi airport on 20 Dec2020 through airindia vande bharat mission scheme, whether RTPCR tests can be done hyderabad if not done at US, please let me know
Hi AVR! According to the current guidelines, you may not be allowed to continue your travel from the port of entry, Delhi, without a negative RT-PCR test report.
Hello InidanEagle,
I have a flight scheduled from USA to Hyderabad via Delhi thru United Airlines on Dec 11th and i have layover time of 10 hrs in delhi airport to connect hyd flight. is it mandatory to show negative covid report at delhi airport.?
Will they allow me to Hyderabad without negative report and can i request delhi authority to have me quarantine in Hyderabad instead of Delhi.?
Thank you! I really appreciate your response
Hi Mahesh! Yes, it is mandatory to show a negative COVID (RT-PCR) report for taking a domestic connecting flight from Delhi airport. You may not be allowed to take the domestic flight without a negative COVID report. You can utilize the 10-hr layover to take a test at Delhi airport.
If the test in delhi is positive and asumptomatic what happens next? Can we travel to chennai and take quarantine? Or how long will we have to quarantine in delhi?
Hi, I am planning to travel to Kochi (COK) from London Heathrow on a direct Air India flight. Do I need to do a RT PCR test 72 hours prior to travel or can this be done at Kochi on arrival?
Hi Mathew! In case you are not able to take a RT PCR test in London, you can take the test upon arrival at Cochin International Airport. On November 5, Kochi airport opened a COVID testing facility. Please note it may take up to 8 hours for delivery of test results at the airport.
Hello, I’m flying to Mumbai from Newark on November 29. I’ll be carrying an RT-PCR report that has been done within 72 hours of flying out. I’ll be staying with family for 36 hours in Mumbai and then continue my journey from Mumbai to Coimbatore on Dec 2. Two questions:
Is 7 day home quarantine still mandatory in Mumbai with a negative test report?
Will I need to take another test in Mumbai before going to Coimbatore?
Thanks!
Hi Priya! Do make sure to show your confirmed travel ticket for Coimbatore when you arrive at Mumbai Airport. You don’t need another COVID test to travel to Coimbatore. Please note you will have to undergo 14-day home quarantine at your destination in Coimbatore.
Hi Indiaeagle,
I am planning to fly from iAH to MAA via Duabi on Emirates. RT-PCR test should be 96 hours before departure or 96 hours before arrival? Since it takes almost 48 hours to get the results in the US, this eats most of the time before we can actually leave. Do I have to fill out the Arogya Setu app before 72 hours or it can be lesser? What are the other requirements to land in Chennai? Thank you!
Thank you.
Hi Archana! In case of Chennai, you need to take a RT-PCR test within 96 hours of your arrival. You can download the Arogya Setu app anytime before your departure. For other requirements for travel to Chennai, please go through this article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/tamil-nadu-institutional-quarantine-guidelines/
Hello – I want to travel from Singapore to Vijayawada, is RT-PCR testing center available at Vijayawada airport, if not available should we need to be in for 7days institutional quarantine?, as Singapore don’t allow to take RT-PCR tests for travel to Vijayawada.
Hi Rajesh! Vijayawada Airport is a small airport. There is no COVID testing center. If your port of entry is Hyderabad RGI airport, you can choose to get tested there before traveling on the domestic flight to Vijayawada. Please note 5-6 layover is required for testing at Hyderabad International airport.
I’ll be travelling from London to hyderabad on 16th Decemeber. How long before boarding the flight should I take a test? If it is not feasible in London, Can I take a test in Hyderabad and how much time it takes for the result? Do they provide a lounge whilst waiting for test results. If it is negative, is it mandatory to be quarantined at home or can I move around to other places in the state of Telangana?
Hi Sudhakar! In the first place, please check with the airline (you will travel on) whether you will be allowed to board without a negative RT-PCR certificate. Second, if you domestic connection at Delhi/Mumbai, you may not be allowed to board the domestic flight to Hyderabad without a negative certificate. If you are flying directly to Hyderabad and if the airlines allows you to board from London without a negative COVID certificate, you can choose to get tested on arrival at Hyderabad Airport.
hi, i am travekking from lhr-delhi-hyd with 6 hours layover in delhi. can i catc hyd flight without testing in delhi and get tested directly in hyd?
Hi,
I have covid negative report which is approved by airsuvida. However, my friend who is flying with me took the the test at same time and was rejected saying it was not inside 72hrs. Now, will this be a problem for me on reaching though approved.
-Akash
Hi Akash! It happens at times due to glitches. Please be advised to call Delhi Airport’s helpline number.
Hello Sir,
I am travelling on 27th from London to Pune. Can you please share the link to register at the arrival terminal’s helpdesk to enroll for the test.
Thanks in advance!
Hi KG! Are you flying to Pune directly or via Mumbai? If via Mumbai, please go through this article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
I have a flight on 29th to Raipur from Ahmedabad via Mumbai. I will be at Mumbai Airport for 3 hours? Do I need RT PCR covid test report at mumbai airport?
Hi Shivangi! We have little idea about this (domestic sector). Please contact the airline you will travel on.
hi
I am flying newark -mumbai on 4th dec at 8 pm, my rt-pcr test is scheduled 9 am on 1st december becos of thanksgiving overload they cant gurantee the result if i take it later than that, will that be accepted at mumbai airport because technically my test is 82 hrs before , the reports will be available only on 4th morning, pls clarify
Hi Vivek! You need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha and upload the test result/report on Air Suvidha first. If your request for exemption/test report is approved on Air Suvdidha, you are good to travel. NO worries.
Hi,
I have booked air india flights to travel from EWR-DEL-MAA on Dec 14. I will go for a rt-pcr test in US within72 hours. Below are my questions
1. If I don’t have the results before arriving at Delhi, will I be allowed to catch my connecting flight to Chennai?
2. If I opt to take test at Delhi, would I be receiving the results by 4 hours as my connecting flight to Chennai will be in 4 .5 hours
3. If not in Delhi, can I take the test at Chennai after reaching Chennai?
Thanks,
Krishna
Hi Krishna! If you receive the soft copy of the test report by the time you land at Delhi, you can show it to the health officers there. We doubt you may not be allowed to continue domestic travel without a RT-PCR certificate. Usually 4-hr time is not sufficient for you to get the test result at Delhi airport; it depends on the rush of international arrivals on the day of your arrival. Please be advised to check with Air India and Delhi airport’s helpline number.
Hi I am planning to travel from Frankfurt to Delhi on 27th Nov 2020 and would be residing in Delhi only. And booked a slot for RTPCR test @ Delhi Airport. With the appointment confirmation I have applied for an institutional exemption also.
But received a reply from from AIR SUVIDHA that my exemption application got rejected because RTPCR report not uploaded, though I had uploaded that my appointment confirmation mail for the test at Delhi Airport.
Request you to please clarify do I need to apply again as I am not getting my test done here in Germany. Or what to do.
Hi Dharmendra! There is no need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha, if you take a test on arrival at Delhi airport.
Hi,
My parents are flying from Delhi to Toronto. Canada does not require them to take any covid test, just 14 day quarantine on arrival. Is there a mandate at delhi airport to take the test?
Hi Nidhi! There is no such mandate for outbound travelers at Delhi airport.
hi,
i have booked flight airindia from LHR-DELHI-HYD with a layover of 6 hours . Is it mandatory i should take the test in Delhi if couldnt get tested in UK? and if so will this 6 hour layover is sufficient?
Hi,
I am travelling on 2 Dec from RDU-IAW-DEL-PNQ a single PNR ticket. I am taking Test within 72 hours of boarding.
Q. If I don’t get result by the time I land at Delhi, can I enroll on the spot for test at DEL. If yes, is there any additional cost for on the spot? P.S. Layover between DEL-PNQ is 13 hours.
Thank you and kudos for your help
Hi Nishad! Yes, you can enroll for a test on spot after arrival at Delhi Airport. 13 hours of layover is more than sufficient for you to get tested and receive the result. There is no additional cost for booking a test on spot. If you receive the RT-PCR test report in your email by the time you land at Delhi, you can show it to health officials there.
Do you need a PCR test for departures from Bombay international airport ?
Hi Ankita! You don’t need a COVID test to depart from Mumbai Airport unless it is a mandatory requirement to travel to your overseas destination.
Hello Team
I am travelling from London to Bangalore direct flight. Do I need to take the RT-PCR test ,am struggling to get the slots here in UK. Please help me.
Am travelling in Air India. There are no proper information for this.
Hi Yash! If Bangalore is your first port of entry and your final destination is in Karnataka, you (asymptomatic travelers) don’t need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha and a RT-PCR test.
Hi,
I’m scheduled to fly in Dec from Newark to Chennai with Layover in Delhi. Earlier I can go directly to transit area and wait there for my Delhi – Chennai flight and clear immigration in Chennai. With the current situation with Air-Suvidha and RT-PCR testing – it is not clear whether I need to clear immigration in Delhi and re-check in the baggage’s or Clear immigration in Chennai and RT-PCR will need to be shown in Delhi Airport or Chennai Airport.
Any information on this will be helpful
Hi KK! You need to show a negative RT-PCR certificate at both Delhi and Chennai airports. Possibly, you are needed to clear immigration at Delhi Airport.
Hello, I am planning to travel from MAD to MAA via LHR. The RT-PCR testing facility is available at Chennai airport of I need to get it done in Spain itself ?
Hi Manoj! Chennai requires international travelers to arrive with a negative RT-PCR test. In case it is not possible for you, you can take a test on arrival at Chennai airport.
My united airline flight from USA is landing at 12:45 am on 5th Dec at Delhi airport. What slot should I pre book for RT-PCR test? I have booked 12:00 – 1:00 am slot. Will this be o or should I move it to 1:00 – 2:00 am slot? How flexible are they at the airport?
I am going to travel from London to Ahmedabad in December.
At Ahmedabad airport is it mandatory to do RT-PCR test?
If yes, then how much they charge for RT-PCR test?
7 days institutional quarantine is mandatory?
Hi SS! A negative RT-PCR certificate is mandatory for your travel to Ahmadabad. There is no COVID testing facility at Ahmadabad airport.
Hello Indianeagle,
Is this still valid. If I take a negative RT-PCR certificate with me I don’t have to quarantine correct? My flight is from Toronto to Ahmadabad via Abu Dhabi. I did my PCR within 72 hours of my departure from Toronto. Appreciate the info. Thanks
Hi HS! yes, you won’t be subject to institutional quarantine upon presenting pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure. You will be allowed to exit the Ahmedabad Airport or take a connecting flight after you submit your swab sample for a molecular test.
Hi,
Me and my parents are traveling from Washington IAD to Hyderabad, layover at Delhi Airport through air India flight on dec. when asked air India customer service they said that we can do our Rtpcr test at Delhi Airport and it’s included in the ticket price no additional cost is available. Is that true??
And if I take test in Delhi airport and wait for results it will take around 6 hrs for the result, in this case we will miss our connecting flight to Hyderabad so how is this manageable.. pls assist
Hi Venu! As far as we know, the cost of the test to be taken at Delhi airport is not clubbed with the ticket price. The cost of a RT-PCR test per individual is mentioned in the article. You may not get the result within 6 hours at the airport depending on the rush of international arrivals on the day of your arrival.
hi, I am planning to take flight from London to Mumbai on 11th Dec. I will get RT-PCR test in mumbai airport. I want know whether I will be eligible for sefl monitoring or would I have to go for home quarantine if I get test done at the airport itself. I am planning to stay within Maharastra for 3 weeks.
Hello Mr Singh! International travelers flying into India, with a negative RT-PCR certificate or getting negative test results at the port of entry in India are exempted from home quarantine. They are advised self-monitoring of health. But it is subject to the regulations that vary from state to state in India.
We are coming from. Portland USA directlyreeggfg
Hi,
I am scheduled to fly next week to Delhi which is my final destination and don’t have any connecting flight onwards. I have filled the self reporting form and have also scheduled covid-19 RT-PCR testing at Delhi airport.
Few questions, please help by answering same:
1. Do I need to submit the exception form also saying test result awaited ?
2. The test lab & waiting lounge at Delhi airport is before immigration posts ? If not, how the officers would allow us to move out without showing negative report?
Hi Imran! No need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha for taking a test at Delhi airport. We have little knowledge about the exact location of the testing center and the lounge at Delhi airport. Please visit the website of Delhi IGI airport.
Hi,
Is there a COVID testing facility at Ahmedabad?
I’m in Glasgow, UK, and flying via Glasgow on 6th. The latest test slot is Friday (4th). Due to my layover in Dubai, I will reach Ahmedabad on the 8th morning. I’m just nervous about my PCR-test being valid. Here there are no other options as they only test you if you show symptoms. Free testing (I am a student so cannot afford private) cannot happen at weekends. Please advise.
Hi Bethany! There is yet no COVID testing facility at Ahmedabad airport.
Hi,
I am taking a British Airways flight from Edinburgh to Bangalore via London. I will be landing in Bangalore only the next next morning and was wondering if the rt pcr test is to be taken 72 hrs prior to my arrival in Bangalore or my departure in Edinburgh?
Thanks!
Hi I haven’t checked the new 72 hrs hour rule and gave a test today (96hrs) cannot get tested again. Will my test be considered ?
Travel – > SFO -> Delhi -> (7hrs halt) -> Mumbai (final stop)
HI Lavanya! Most probably, it won’t be considered valid. You can choose to get tested after arrival at Delhi airport.
Hi,
I am taking a British Airways flight from Edinburgh to Bangalore via London. I will be landing in Bangalore only the next morning and was wondering if the rt pcr test is to be taken 72 hrs prior to my arrival in Bangalore or my departure in Edinburgh?
Will a test taken on 14th afternoon be valid for my arrival in Bangalore on 18th early morning?
Thanks!
Hi Shreya! You need to take a test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from Edinburgh. For more information, please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/bengaluru-airport-guidelines-international-flyers/
Hi there, I have two stops flight with United Airlines from US to India, which is LAX to Chicago to Delhi to Bangalore.
Do need to get tested within 72hrs of departure from LAX or Chicago?
I appreciate your time and efforts.
Hi Karthik! If you hold a single itinerary with United Airlines from LAX to Bangalore, you need to get tested within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from LAX.
Travelling to Hyderabad via Delhi
Will I get tested at Delhi or Hyderabad? since I believe Hyderabad has testing facilities
Hi Mukesh! Hyderabad Airport has the COVID testing facility for international arrivals. But we doubt you may not be allowed to continue domestic travel from Delhi without a negative RT-PCR certificate.
We are senior citizens traveling from Washington to Delhi. As we understand,we need to get ourselves tested for covid at the airport.We have 2 queries. 1 Being senior citizens do we get some concessions in getting the test done and in getting our reports. 2 Can we leave airport for some local stay during the wait period for reports.
Hello Mam! As far as we know, there is no age-based concession in the testing costs at Delhi Airport. No one can exit the airport premises until the test result is delivered. Your passport will be collected when you undergo the test. The passport will be returned along with the test report.
Hi, I have a flight from London Heathrow to Delhi and then I am travelling to Chandigarh via domestic flight from Delhi. And also I am getting tested at Delhi airport as I have a sufficient time for receiving the result. I just want to know will I be exempted from Institutional quarantine and home quarantine in Punjab if I am getting Negative COVID results from Delhi Airport.
Hi Prince! The test report from Delhi airport will get you exempted from institutional quarantine, but we can’t say certainly whether it will make you eligible for exemption from home quarantine too.
Hi ,
I am travelling on 7th Monday early morning from Poland to Delhi via Germany by Lufthansa and have a connecting domestic flight to Trivandrum. Since Saturday and Sunday is public holiday in Poland, covid tests done on Friday wont be available until Tuesday. So I have done a covid test on Thursday which is with in 96 hours but not 72 hours. When I called covid 19 helpline for delhi airport 2 days back they told test needs to be done within 96 hours only and results with in 72 hours. But after seeing the comments here I am confused on this info. Also the air india website and also civil aviation ministry website also showing 96 hours. Air India website link below.
http://www.airindia.in/International-Passengers-Travelling-into-India.htm#:~:text=RT%2DPCR%20test%20is%20not,to%20seek%20exemption%20frominstitutional%20quarantine.&text=However%2C%20these%20passengers%20will%20have,mandatory%2014%20days%20of%20homequarantine
Could you please let me know if you got any info like this
Hi Pras! It has been revised again very recently, which is not yet updated on our portal.
Hi, I have booked a flight from London Heathrow to Delhi and then I am traveling to Jharkhand on the same day of arrival after 10 hours through Rajdhani train since there are no direct domestic flights for my home town.
Questions:
1. Will it be sufficient time to go for the RTPCR test at the Delhi airport?
2. If my covid test report is negative then will I be exempted from Institutional quarantine and travel through the booked Indian railway Rajdhani train further?
Please answer.
Hi, I have booked a flight from London Heathrow to Delhi and then I have booked an Indian Railway ticket in Rajdhani for domestic travel since there are no connecting flights for my home town. There is around 10 hours gap between arrival time at Delhi airport and scheduled train from the new Delhi railway station.
Questions:
1. Will it be sufficient time to go for the RTPCR test and result at Delhi airport before catching the train?
2. If the COVID test is negative, will I be exempted from Institutional quarantine and will I be able to travel through Indian railways Rajdhani train.
please answer.
much appreciated.
Hi, I am travelling with 5 year old daughter. Received exemption from institutional quarantine. Need to home quarantine for 14 days. I will be doing Covid testing 72 hours before flight. My questions are
1. On the basis of Covid test, Can I apply for second exemption from home quarantine ?
2. Does 5 year old child need covid testing?
Hi Santosh! May we know what your final destination is? Exemption from home quarantine varies from state to state in India.
Hi, I have booked a flight from London Heathrow to Delhi and then I have booked an Indian Railway ticket in Rajdhani for domestic travel since there are no connecting flights for my home town. There is around 10 hours gap between arrival time at Delhi airport and scheduled train from the new Delhi railway station.
Questions:
1. Will it be sufficient time to go for the RTPCR test and result at Delhi airport before catching the train?
2. If the COVID test is negative, will I be exempted from Institutional quarantine and will I be able to travel through Indian railways Rajdhani train.
please answer.
Hi Sudhanshu! 10 hours is sufficient to get tested and receive the result at Delhi airport. If the result is negative, then no problem.
I have taken my COVID PCR test about 80 hrs before the scheduled flight from Dallas to Chennai via London on British Airways. Because of increased testing in US, I was told my results might not come before my scheduled flight. What are my alternatives if I don’t get my results before boarding. Can I get tested in Chennai, can I board the flight without test results.
Hi Vijay! In case you are not able to take a test in the USA, you can choose to get tested after arrival at Chennai airport. Please be sure British Airways allows you to board the flight without a negative RT-PCR certificate.
Thanks for a very prompt response and I truly appreciate the service that you provide. I was told by my Airline that American passport holders can no longer transit through London, can you please let me know if this is true. I got an entry visa from Indian consulate a week back because of the need to visit my father who is not doing well.
Hi Vijay! As far as we know, US passport holders with OCI cards cannot transit through London for India. In case of emergency, you can travel on Air India or United Airlines.
Much appreciated, the information that you provide is so useful.
Hi Vijay! You’re welcome. According to the bulletin we received from British Airways yesterday, US citizens with or without OCI cards and their dependents can transit through London Heathrow.
I am flying from EWR to Mumbai on December 14 then connecting flight to BBI. I am 62 years old. Am I exempt from RT-PCR test at Mumbai airport to catch the connecting flight to BBI? Will appreciate your reply. Thanks
Hello Sir! We doubt you may not be allowed to continue your domestic travel without a negative RT-PCR certificate.
If for some reason my PCR results is not available by the time I arrive in New Delhi, then if I miss my connection while waiting for a covid test, will Air India be amenable to change my ticket to the next available flight to my final destination? Thank you in advance for responding.
Hi Aveek! To the best of our knowledge, Air India is not responsible for the delay in your receiving the RT-PCR test result. Not sure whether Air India will accommodate you on the next available flight if the connecting flight is missed. Please be advised to check with Air India for your satisfaction.
I am planning on going to Delhi, India from San Diego, CA.
Do I get to get myself tested for Covid-19 in US? If so where can I get myself tested in San Diego, CA?
or Do I get tested in Delhi airport?
I would greatly appreciate your helpful comments.
AS
Hi Arvind! We have little knowledge about COVID testing centers in California. Yes, you can choose to get tested after arrival at Delhi airport.
I’m flying form ksa to delhi on 14 dec then I have to take a flight to BBI do I need to do test in Saudi or It can be done at delhi airport and is it necessary to do RT-PCR test as some ticket agents are saying that it’s not necessary I’m confused please help. Thanks
Hi Rajesh! You may not be allowed to continue onward travel from Delhi to BBI without a negative RT-PCR test certificate. If the connection time is as long as 5-8 hrs at Delhi airport, you can choose to get tested on arrival at Delhi airport.
Hello,
I am travelling from Mumbai to Chennai on 13-Dec-2020.
Am I required to provide an RT-PCR COVID-19 negative test report at the Chennai airport? If I do carry one, will it exempt me from testing at the airport (I’d rather not wait 6 hours at the airport)?
Thanks,
Anand
Hi Anand! Yes, you need to provide an RT-PCR certificate at Chennai Airport. If considered valid by the Chennai airport authorities, you will be exempted from testing at the airport itself.
What is the current test price of RT-PCR Test for international arriving passengers at IGI terminal 3, since the Delhi Government has already reduced the price from Rs.2400/- to Rs.800/-. Pls. Reply
Hi, I am flying with my 3 year old from Newark to Delhi and then to Chennai. If my PCR results don’t come by the time I land in Delhi, will the Delhi airport accept a rapid test taken in USA.?
Hi Anitha! Only RT-PCR test results are accepted at Indian airports. If you receive the test result in your email by the time you land at Delhi, you can show it to the health officials there.
Hi, I am flying from London to Mumbai in next week with my wife and one year daughter to Mumbai.
1. Can we get exemption from institutional quarantine without RtPCR Report.
2. Is the results received in email is considered as valid.
3. In case we are choose to test at Mumbai airport, how long is the waiting time for results. Based on RTPCR Report can I get exempted from home quarantine in Maharashtra.
Hi Shiv! You are traveling directly to Mumbai and you are eligible for exemption for traveling with a kid below 10 years; hence, you may not need a RT-PCR test. Yes, the soft copy of the report is considered valid if the report displays a valid stamp and signature from the lab. It may take 5-7 hours to get the test result depending on the rush of international arrivals at Mumbai airport. Not sure whether the RT-PCR negative certificate will get you exempted from home quarantine.
Hi, Thanks for the valuable information.
I am taking United flight from SFO-DEL on Dec 16. I am confused with the 72hrs limit for both COVID test and exemption form. I cannot get the test done within 72 hrs and apply for exemption form at least 72 hrs before. Not sure if I am missing something or reading it wrong? Can you please help?
Hi Arpit! You can take a RT-PCR test within 96 hours of undertaking the journey from SFO, but you have to apply for exemption on and upload the test report to Air Suvidha within 72 hours of undertaking the journey.
Hi, I am traveling from US to Cochin via Delhi. I am coming with COVID negative result taken 72hr prior to my travel. I have a 11hr layover at Delhi. Can I exit the airport and stay in a near by hotel? Will there be an issue to board domestic flight to Cochin due to that? Thanks.
Hi Joseph! In our opinion, there should not be any problem. Please be advised to call Delhi Airport’s helpline number and check with them.
Hi – I am travelling to Chennai from London (British Airways direct flight) with my 4 year old son. I will be getting the negative RT PCR certificate for myself. Does my son need this certificate as well? If he is not able to do the RT PCR test in London, can we get it done in Chennai airport on arrival? I tried contacting British Airways on whether they will let us board the flight without a negative RT PCR certificate for my son, but they are not able to give a definitive answer.
Hi, I am travelling to Goa from London vai Delhi. I have a stop over of 4.5hrs in delhi. Do i need to take a RT-PCR test in delhi as there doesnt seem to be enough time in delhi for it? Will i be allowed to take the test in Goa?
Hello Russel! You may not be allowed to continue the domestic travel to Goa from Delhi without a negative RT-PCR certificate.
Hi. The RT-PCR test is 96 hrs or 72 within the Departure?
Hi Varun! You can take an RT-PCR test within 96 hours of your scheduled departure, but you need to upload the report on Air Suvidha and submit a declaration within 72 hours of the departure.
Hi
I am traveling from New York(EWR) to Patna via Delhi. I have a stoppage of 5.35 hrs. Is enough time to RT-PCR TEST in Delhi Airport?
Thanks
Hi Sundeep! 5.35 hrs may be enough or may not be depending on the rush of international arrivals on that day.
Hi, I am traveling from Toronto to Chennai, do I need a COVID test report to be shown at Chennai airport and if yes, is there a test centre at Chennai if I don’t carry a test report . Please let me know. Thanks
Hi Viji! There is a dedicated COVID testing facility at Chennai Airport. However, it is highly recommended that you travel with a negative RT-PCR test certificate.
Hi, I m planning to travel from London to Chennai via Delhi, through air India.
I am planning to take RT-PCR test in Delhi or Chennai.
Will I be able to board flight without RT-PCR test report from London?
Hi Aish! Air India can better answer this.
I’m flying from Toronto to Delhi. My negative test report says ‘PCR’, is it acceptable at Delhi airport ?or does it have to say ‘RT-PCR’?
Hi VVK! A PCR test is not acceptable from international arrivals. Only RT-PCR tests are valid at Indian airports.
Hi, we (my wife and myself) along with our 1 year old kid are travelling from Toronto to Bengaluru via Delhi on 19th December. Toronto-Delhi and Delhi-Bengaluru are booked with same PNR number(Delhi-Bengaluru is a feeder flight where domestic passengers are not allowed). Since we are travelling with Kid, we will get exemption from quarantine in Delhi. Would we be able to board flight in Delhi to Bengaluru without RT-PCR test and be in home quarantine in Bengaluru for 14 days(as per state rules)? Please let me know. Thanks much.
Hi Praveen! Holding the same PNR for the entire itinerary and having a feeder flight from Delhi, you should be allowed to continue travel to Bengaluru without an RT-PCR test. You are eligible for exemption from quarantine in Delhi for traveling with a kid below 10 years. You need to apply for exemption in this category on Air Suvidha.
Hi,
I’m travelling to Hyderabad from London via Delhi on 20 December 2020. I’ve a 6 year old travelling with me. The flight is booked on a single PNR from London to Hyderabad. I’ve requested for exemption from institutional quarantine based on the fact that I’m travelling with a child under 10 years. Will I need to take a RT-PCR test in Delhi to be able to board my onward flight to Hyderabad? I only have 3 hours of lay-over in Delhi and understand that the covid test results could take up to 6 hours. what are my options?? Please advice.
Hi Raj! As per the government’s mandate, a negative RT-PCR certificate is necessary for continuing domestic travel from Delhi Airport. Please be advised to call the helpline of Delhi Airport.
Hello,
Folks in USA, where did you guys take COVID test? I don’t know any lab who provides signature or stamp.
Appreciate the help. Thanks!
Hi Rohit! You can check the website of VFS Global for RT-PCR tests.
Is RT-PCR testing available at Mumbai Airport?
Hi Shubham! Yes, Mumbai Airport has a dedicated COVID testing facility.
Hi, A person has flight from germany to delhi to chennai as final destination. if the person does not do the PCR test in germany, can he take test in Chennai or need to take in Delhi? If taken in delhi and he is asymptomatic, he will be allowed to travel to chennai and take institutional quarantine or he has to do institutional quarantine in delhi and if in delhi how many days and what happens next and when he can go to chennai? Should he reschedule his flight or will airport authority help in rescheduling?
Hi John! You need to take a test at Delhi airport before continuing the journey to Chennai. If the report is negative, you will be allowed to travel to Chennai and you will also be exempted from institutional quarantine in Delhi as well as Chennai. Make sure the connection time is minimum 7-8 hours at Delhi airport.
I am travelling from Germany to Kochi via Delhi on 16th December 2020.The flight from Germany to Delhi and Delhi to Kochi having the same PNR number. I have layover in Delhi for 7 hours. Is it mandatory for me to show copy of RT PCR test report at Delhi Airport for boarding my next feeder connection flight to Kochi.OR can I travel to kochi without RT PCR test from Germany and take my test if required at Kochi, as per the new guidelines.
Hi Joel! As per the government’s mandate, it is mandatory to show an RT-PCR certificate for continuing journey from Delhi to Kochi. For your satisfaction, you can call the helpline of Delhi Airport.
Is it important to pre-book the RT-PCR test (at the Delhi Airport) prior to reaching there? Or is it a walk-in? Just trying to avoid the situation where there are not testing slots available once we reach at Delhi Airport
Hi Tarak! It is recommended you book a slot in advance if possible.
Hello, I am arriving at Delhi Airport from Canada. Do i have to get tested before boarding? Or i can just get tested when i will arrive at Delhi? And how much time it takes for the whole process? I have to wait at the airport till result or i have to book a instituitional quarantine place?
HI Prabhleen! Whether you need to get tested before boarding, it depends on the airline you will travel on. Yes, you can choose to get tested after arrival at Delhi airport. It may take 4-7 hours. Yes, you will have to wait at the lounge until you get the result.
My flight is at 8:15 PM from Atlanta on Dec 27. Can I take the test at 3 PM On Dec 24 ( which will be 77 hours) before the flight . Is that okay or the should the test be taken EXACTLY within 72 hours
Hi Kman! We cannot say anything certainly. Please call the helpline number of Delhi Airport.
Hi, I am traveling from London to Ahmedabad this month, when we asked our airlines they are saying the testing facility is available at Ahmedabad airport. Is it a different test other than RT PCR?
Hi Saral! We are not sure whether there is a COVID19 testing facility at Ahmedabad Airport.
I have Air India flight from Newark to DElhi to Kolkata on 31 Dec . I have a layover of >9 hrs at Delhi airport.
I am planning to do the Covid testing at Delhi airport.
My question:
If I do not take any test in USA, will I be able to board the flight from Newark. (as I dont have negative RT PCR Report with me but planning to take the test at Delhi airport)
Hi Paul! Yes, you can board the flight from Newark depending on the airline you will travel from USA.
I am traveling to Maldives in the month of feb 2021 and will be returning back in 6 days . While returning can I get a COVID test done at the Mumbai airport ?? and what are the charges for that ..
Any other important information available with you that one has to keep in mind while traveling to and fro from Maldives ??
Hi Solanki! Please go through this article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
Hi, I will be traveling from Toronto to Mumbai via Delhi. I am facing some issues to get a PCR test done 72 hours before departure. Since my layover at Delhi is only for 3 hrs 55 mins only, I am afraid that I might miss my connecting flight if I book COVID testing at Delhi Airport. Thus, my queries are:
1) Will I be allowed to board my connecting flight at Delhi, which is under the same PNR or they will stamp me for institutional quarantine at Delhi?
2) Can I pre-book COVID testing at Mumbai Airport to qualify for quarantine exception?
3) I have further travel scheduled from Mumbai after 2 days. So will I face any issues later if I get a negative result?
Thanks in Advance!
Hi Pooja! First, you need to take an RT-PCR test,not a PCR test. Second, please call the helpline of Delhi Airport and check if you will be allowed to continue your travel to Mumbai without a negative RT-PCR certificate. Third, if you are allowed from Delhi, you can pre-book a test at Mumbai Airport. Fourth, Mumbai Airport lets travelers go home after collecting their swab for testing (latest update). Fifth, you may be allowed to travel further from Mumbai provided you share details of your onward journey.
Hi,
I am traveling Chicago to Delhi via Newark on the 23rd of December. I had few questions in mind which I have an idea about but just needed a confirmation:
1. If I get tested here in the US will I have to get tested within the 72 hours of me boarding the flight from Chicago.
2. If I cannot get tested in the US, I have an idea that I can get tested in Delhi airport but the question that I have regarding that is will I need to pay for that or there are free covid testing available on the airport?
Thank you
Hi Yashleen! The COVID testing services at major Indian airports including Delhi IGI are payable. Yes, you need to take a test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from Chicago.
Hey, I have flight from Toronto- London-Delhi. If I choose to get tested before 72 hours of my flight, then Do I need to get tested again at Delhi airport?. Also, is there any need to fill the exemption form, or I can just show my negative test results after arriving at Delhi airport for the exemption of institutional quarantine? Lastly, what all documents do I need to fill before my flight?
Hi Cheryl! If you get tested before the departure and the report is valid, you don’t need a test again at Delhi Airport. If you take a test before the departure, you need to fill the exemption form and upload the receipt of the test until you get the result. Make sure the test report has a valid stamp and signature from the testing lab in the US. In case the report comes late, you can show its print or hard copy to the health officials at Delhi Airport. You need to fill out a self-reporting form on Air Suvidha and submit a declaration on Air Suvidha or at Delhi airport.
Hi
I’m traveling from Manchester-Kochi-Bangalore on 20th December. I’m unable to get a test from Manchester. The layover in Kochi is more than 12 hours so is it possible to get an RT-PCR test in the Kochi airport before going to Bangalore? Will I be exempt from quarantine in Karnataka?
Hi Jay! FYI, both Kerala and Karnataka don’t require a negative RT-PCR certificate from asymptomatic international arrivals. In case a COVID negative report is mandatory for continuing the journey from Kochi to Bengaluru, you can choose to get tested after arrival at Kochi Airport. There is no institutional quarantine for asymptomatic travelers in Karnataka. A negative RT-PCR certificate will get you exempted from home quarantine in Bangalore.
Hi
I am confused with the RT-PCR test process of 72 hours.can you please tell me if I get tested on 15th dec it will take 3 days to get my results if I got my results on 18th this test results are valid to travel on dec20th from Newark to Hyderabad via Mumbai flight..? Or I need to get my test done on 18th December?
Hi Swetha! If you take a test on December 15, the test will be older than 72 hours, even 96 hours. If the connection time is as long as 7-8 hours at Mumbai airport, you can take a test after arrival at Mumbai airport. For more information, please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
where is the online link to book RTPCR test at Mumbai international airport?
Hi Nitin! You can book a slot for testing on http://www.suburbandiagnostics.com. FYI, Mumbai Airport is now allowing international arrivals (arriving passengers) to exit the airport and go home after collecting their swab for testing, instead of making them wait a few hours for the report.
hii
i am in canada and i have a flight to delhi
is i need covid pcr test before departure or just regular covid test
Hi Billa! You need to take an RT-PCR test as per the guidelines mandated by the Government of India.
TRAVELING FROM CHICAGO ON QATAR VIA DOHA. WE ARE TRAVELING WITH 2 KIDS UNDER 10. I DID FILL OUT SELF REPORTING,AND EXAMPT FOURM FOR KIDS TRAVELING UNER 10. I AM NOT TAKING ANY DOMESTIC FLIGHT.I AM ALSO TAKING COAID TEST IN CHICAGO BUT RESULT WILL COME NEAR DEPARTURE TIME. SHOULD I NEED TO APPLY ONLINE FOR RT- PCR TEST EXAMPT OR I CAN TAKE RESULT AND SHOW IT TO AIRPORT? DOES THIS NAGATIVE RT-PCR TEST STILL NEED TO DO 14 DAYS HOME QUARANTI ?ALSO HOW CAN APPLY EXMAPT ON PCR TEST BEFORE 72 HOURS WHERE RESULT TAKE 48 HOURS AND MORE ?THANKS
Hi Aliya! You can apply for exemption uploading the receipt of the test taken within 72 hours. Yes, you can show the RT-PCR test result in soft or hard copy and submit a declaration at the port of entry.
I am transiting from Delhi to Chennai with layover of 4 hrs in Delhi. Connection flight will be 3 hrs to Chennai. Do you recommend to take RT-PCR in Delhi between 4 hrs transit or shall I take test at Chennai airport? Is Chennai airport taking COVID test? Suggest which is best or I need to take in original destination. Thanks
Hi Gokul! 4 hrs is not sufficient time to take a test and get the result at Delhi Airport. If you are an international arrival, you may need an RT-PCR negative certificate to continue your domestic travel from Delhi to Chennai. Chennai Airport has a COVID testing facility.
do kids under 10 need take pcr test before 72 hours for home quarniti examption ?
Hi Aliya! Basically, all international arrivals including kids are bound to undergo home-quarantine for 7-14 days even though they take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey to India. A pre-departure RT-PCR test (in case the result is negative) gets only Karnataka-bound travelers exempted from home quarantine in Karnataka.
Hi, I am flying next week (SFO-DEL-PUNE) via United with 9h45m layover at Delhi airport. Will 9h45m be sufficient to commute between terminals to test center, get tested, get test results and then catch domestic flight to Pune ?
Hi VK! Yes, the connection time is enough for you to get tested and get the result. Be advised to book a slot for testing in advance.
Hi,
I’m travelling from the USA to India via United Airlines and Vistara.
I’ve booked a connected flight with the following stops –
1. PIT (Pittsburgh, USA) to EWR (Newark, USA)
2. EWR (Newark, USA) to BOM (Bombay, India)
3. BOM (Bombay, India) to BLR (Bangalore, India)
Do I need to get the test 72hrs prior to my flight from PIT (Pittsburgh, USA) or 72 hrs prior to my flight from EWR (Newark, USA) ?
Thank you for your help
Hi Akshay! You need to take the test 72 prior to your flight from Pittsburgh.
hello,
We are flying from London to Mumbai on 21st dec. we have got exemption approved as we are travelling with a kid under 10yrs.
Can you please let me know if i need to book the PCR test to take a flight to nagpur or i can use the approved exemtpion
Hi Madhur! In our opinion, the approved exemption should apply to your itinerary till the final destination because Nagpur is in Maharashtra itself. Please be advised to call the helpline of Mumbai International Airport.
Hi, I am travelling from NY to MUM via EMirates. Is Rapid RT PCR test acceptable at mumbai ? I am travelling with a 3 year old. I will apply for exemption.
1. Can i do the test and is it ok if i receive the results after i board ?
2. Rapi RT PCR is similar to Express RT PCR that is done in Mumbai airports . Pls confirm if that is valid
Hi Ramya! We are not sure whether Rapid RT-PCR and RT-PCR are the same test. You can take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to your departure from New York. You can hand over a hard copy or soft copy of the test report after arrival at Mumbai Airport. Please note Maharashtra Government has revised the guidelines to put travelers from Europe and the Middle East to 14-day institutional quarantine, effective from December 21.
does Rapid RT-PCR test work ? This takes only 30 mins with a out of pocket charge.
Hello,
Going from sfo to Delhi and then blr. If we get exemption under 1 out 5 category. Do we still need to take RT-PCR test in order to board domestic air India flight to blr ?
Hi Santosh! Yes, you need.
Hi,
I m Fly from Riyadh To Delhi Then I have to Attend same Business Meeting In Jodhpur. I have PCR Negative Certificate from Saudi Arabia Riyadh Medical Healthcare. I have Tickets Riyadh To Delhi Then Domestic Flight Delhi To Jodhpur after Meeting Finish I want go to my home Jaipur By Car. My Question Is can Travel free mind no one stop me At Delhi And Jodhpur Airport with Negative PCR Test Hard Copy and Soft Copy Can I go to My Home after Finish In Jodhpur Meeting ???
Thanks A Lot
Hi Mohd! You are likely to get exempted from home quarantine during a short business visit to India. Yes, you can travel to Jaipur from Jodhpur.
Hello,
My flight is on 24 November at 8:40 pm. My test will be done on 21 November at 6:30 pm.
That means the test will be done 74 hours before the flight. So is that fine?
Yes, this is fine.
Thanks for your response…sorry typo its dec instead of nov
Please advise me RT-PCR test is mandatory for going to Toronto from New Delhi
Please advise me RT-PCR test is mandatory for going to Toronto from New Delhi
Hi
I am travelling from Toronto, Canada to New Delhi, India. I want to do the Covid test at Delhi Airport and I will book a slot online. If i am tested negative, do i still need to do institutional quarantine?
Hi Shivani! No institutional quarantine for those who test negative.
I am intending to travel to Mumbai from London on 2 January 2021. I will get my RT-PCR done in London. If the result of the test is negative do I still need to be quarantined in Muumbai hospital or hotel for 14days? Is it possible to quarantine at home?
I believe I still need to take an RT-PCR test in Mumbai on arrival and departure?
Please advice.
Hi Jitendra! Please go through the first two paragraphs of the latest update https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/.
Hi I have a flight from Dubai to Bangalore i have not taken COVID19 TEST as I have no symptoms is it mandatory to take the test in dubai or can I take the RT-PCR test after reaching Bangalore airport? And which website can we book online test in Bangalore airport
Hi Fazlur! You can take a test after reaching Bangalore Airport. You can book a slot for testing here https://testing-lab.com/covid19-testing-center/.
Hi. I’m travelling from Maldives to (Mumbai) India in the next 3-4 days. Do I need to fill the exemption if I want to get myself tested at the Mumbai airport, as I don’t have the test result to be uploaded on the suvidha portal and hence its not accepting my exemption result.
Also just filling the self declaration asks to acknowledge that we’re willing to undergo institutional quarantine. Is it going to be an issue if we tick that as without ticking, it’s not accepting the form.
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Shubham! No need to apply for exemption/fill the exemption form on Air Suvidha, you choose to get tested after arrival at Mumbai Airport.
Hello, I plan to travel from Toronto to New Delhi. New Delhi is my final destination.
I will likely not have a PCR report with me so can I get directly get tested at the Delhi Airport to avoid institutional quarantine? (and just quarantine at home). I will be traveling alone.
Thank you
Hi Abhay! In order to evade institutional quarantine in Delhi, you can take a COVID test after arrival at Delhi IGI Airport.
Hello. I do not have an exemption or self reporting form filled. However I do have negative covid test report. I’ll be landing in Mumbai. Will I still have to do institutional quarantine? Also whats the process for people without these form that arrive at Mumbai airport? How much longer could I take?
Hi Shriya! Every international arrival needs to fill out a self-reporting form and apply for exemption on Air Suvidha. If you are traveling from Europe, South Africa and the Middle East, you are likely to face 7-day institutional quarantine despite a negative RT-PCR test report.
Hi Team,
First of all, Let me thank you on behalf of everyone here for answering each and everyone’s questions here very precisely and thoroughly. GREAT JOB during this pandemic.
It takes lot of attention to read through each single request. Appreciate your efforts here.
Now, My turn to get your expert advice, Although my flight is still far from today i.e 1st Feb 2021 and Hope that By then we have more relaxed rules.
My flight will be from Frankfurt to Delhi and I booked on arrival test and paid for two people. I just want to know if I need to fill/printout any other docs before boarding flight and After receiving the negative report, How to get the exemption as I would not have filled the exemption form online.
Sorry for long reply.
Thank you,
Hi Amit! As per the existing mandate, travelers need to fill out a self-reporting form and apply for exemption on Air Suvidha (if they take a pre-departure RT-PCR test or fall under any of the exemption categories). If they choose to get tested on arrival at the port of entry in India, no need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha.
Hi im flying from Atlanta USA and my connection flight through heathrow airport by Virgin airline and im taking my rtpcr test on january 2nd but my flight on january 4th and also I’m confuse for London flight can you tell there’s any issue with London flight in dehli
Hi Sunny! Is the first leg of your itinerary from Atlanta operated by Virgin Atlantic or some other airline?
Hi,
I am travelling from Toronto to New Delhi. I have applied for exemption from institutional quarantine with negative PCR test report attached. But my application got rejected on the grounds that “No PCR test report was attached”.
I have re-applied for the exemption by uploading the same documents again.
Please advise what will be process if same thing happens again.
Is it possible to get exempted from Institutional quarantine by showing the negative test report at Delhi Airport itself?
Hi i am fliying germeny to kochi via delhi, which airport my covid test
Hi Abilash! Without a negative RT-PCR certificate, you may not be able to continue the journey from Delhi Airport. If your itinerary includes a minimum 8-hr layover at Delhi, you can take a test there. Kochi has 7-14 days of institutional quarantine for symptomatic travelers and 14-day home quarantine for asymptomatic travelers.
Hi, I plan to travel to Delhi with a direct flight from USA. I am planning to get RT-PCR test in USA. I have visa appointment after 2 days on arrival at Delhi. If my report is negative on arrival, would I still be required to do mandatory 7 days home quarantine in Delhi? I see that rules have changed recently and website says that if test is negative, no quarantine is required. Is it true and can I give my interview after arrival? Kindly do let me know. Thanks.
Hi Ankit! In our opinion, all international arrivals are bound to serve 7-day home quarantine in Delhi. Please be advised to call the helpline of Delhi International Airport.
Hi,
My parents are traveling from USA to COK via Delhi. They have taken the RT-PCR test and are awaiting the results. In case if they don’t receive their test results in time do they have a provision to get the COVID test done at Delhi airport and book the next connection flight to COK? and should I book a slot for COVID test before hand in order to avail this service
Hi Thomas! If they receive the RT-PCR result in email, they can show the soft copy on arrival at Delhi Airport. Or else, they can take a COVID test on spot at Delhi Airport.
Hi,
I am supposed to come to Delhi from London in the 1st week of February.
I am assuming flights between UK and India will be resumed after 7th Jan.
Most likely the new guidelines will mandate one week institutional quarantine for passengers coming from UK.
Please can you share that whether passengers will be given an option to chose the quarantine location/hotel.
Is there a link from where we can get to know about the different private quarantine venues and how much they have been charging.
As I will have to work remotely, a fast and stable internet connection will be my main requirement.
Kindly try to provide the required info.
Best regards
Hi Akash! We have the least knowledge about venues for institutional quarantine in Delhi.
Hi, I’m supposed to travel from London to Ahmedabad via Delhi. I will be getting a RT-PCR test before traveling, however, if my test results don’t come before traveling, can I show a soft copy of my results on arrival?
Hi Shriya! You can show the soft copy to the health officials at Delhi Airport.
I am travelling to Bhubaneswar via Delhi through Vande Bharat Flights (VBM) from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. My family includes my wife and two children – 10 years and 5 years old. I have around 12 hours lay-over in Delhi airport for Domestic departure. Already got approval on Institutional Quarantine exemption with category as 10 years below child is travelling with us.
My query
1) In above scenario, Do we still require Covid19 test in Delhi Airport before on-boarding Domestic Flights to Bhubaneswar? Also in this scenario they are following Delhi State Rules and Odisha State Rules?
Note – There is no such requirement of Institutional Quarantine in Odisha State as of now. Everybody needs to follow 14 days home quarantine only.
2) If answer to Q1 is yes, then do we need to do Covid19 test for children’s also?
Please help on the above queries.
Hi Sumit! You have a very simple way out. If you see after arrival at Delhi Airport that a negative COVID test report is mandatory for boarding the domestic flight to Bhubaneswar, you and your spouse (or all of you) can take a test at Delhi Airport as the layover is as long as 12 hours.
Hi,
1) Can we get Rapid RT-PCR test that gives result in 30 mins ? This is offered in many places in New Jersey with a fee.
2) Is the test to be taken within 72 hours/ 96 hours of boarding the flight ?
Thanks
Hi Aditya! Only Rt-PCR test results are accepted from international arrivals in India. You need to take the test not more than 72 before boarding the flight.
In took the test at 11AM Sunday and my flight from Newark to Mumbai is @ 11:45AM on Wed. This is slightly over 72 hours (but considering boarding starts 50 mins before departure then I am just under 72 hours). Hope it works, will update here if I get the exemption.
Hey Aditya,
Did you get this exemption. My test is going to be 75 hours before. Curious as to what happens then.
Hi,
I am due to fly from London to Goa via Delhi on 8th Jan after the travel ban gets lifted by India for UK flights. As per the new regulations (which are confusing at best), it says that “passengers are required to do an RT-PCR test witin 72 hours of boarding a flight from UK as well as doing another test at airport of arrival ” which to me seems excessive and expensive.
The concern I have is that if this is mandatory, the RT-PCR tests taken at Delhi Airport take 4-6 hours to get the results and I have a domestic connection to Goa after a 4 hour layover at Delhi airport so, there is a chance that I could miss my connection if the results do arrive on time. Are UK passengers transiting to other Indian states exempt from doing this test at Delhi airport again, if they carry a negative test certificate with them from UK that was tested within 72 hours of their travel and fill out the exemption form online?
Hi Josh! As per the circular issued by the Government of India on January 2, both pre-departure RT-PCR test and on-arrival COVID test are mandatory for travelers from the UK between January 8 and January 30, 2021.
Hi,
I am due to fly from London to Kochi via Delhi on 25th January with a layover of 9 hours at Delhi.
Is this time good enough to complete the RT PCR test at Delhi and board my connecting flight to Kochi?
Also, will I have to get my luggage at Delhi and check-in again for the connection flight? ( It is a VBM flight and both flights on the same PNR number)
Thanks
Hi Bharat! 9 hours is enough time to get tested at Delhi Airport.
Hi,
Is 9 hours layover at Delhi airport good enough to finish the test and catch my connecting flight, including security checks and check in?
Hi Bharat! Yes, the 9-hr layover is sufficient.
Thank you so much.
I am flying from EWR – Delhi – Ahmedabad. If i take the Rt-PCR test here they do not garuntee the results within 72 hours. Is it okay if i get my results after i board my flight? Will they let me board the flight? Just in case i have also booked a slot for testing at Delhi Airport. I have a 5 h 15 mins layover, will that be enough to get tested and get results so i can board my next flight?
Hi Annie! If you are traveling on Air India or United Airlines, you can board the flight without a negative RT-PCR test report from EWR. Please note you will have to take a test after arrival at Delhi Airport, but the 5-hr layover may not be sufficient.
Hi,
I have flight from SINGAPORE to Jodhpur.
It is connecting flight,
SINGAPORE to BANGLORE to DELHI to JODHPUR.
Do i need to carry RT-PCR test report.?
Hi Arun! Yes, you need a negative RT-PCR report.
HI Team ,
May be this question already being asked several times ,
but to know the latest
my itenary
San Francisco (United Air lines) –> New Delhi –>(Air India) Kolkata (15 Feb 2021)
Kolkata –> new Delhi –> (United Air lines) San francisco ( around April 2021)
Question:-
i am opting to have test at delhi airport after reaching there from San Francisco,
my concern :- will i be allowed to board plane from San francisco to Delhi without Negative RT PCR test ,
note for U.K i know they have to undergo test from U.K as well as in India , not sure if the rule same for USA.
the reason i have a doubt for USA , because
https://www.newdelhiairport.in/blog/delhi-airport-offers-special-packages-for-arrival-departure-passengers-at-india-s-first-airport-covid-lab
here in the link it states that
“As per government mandate, international passengers who are traveling to Delhi can take flight only with RTPCR COVID negative certificate. ”
Please give your useful advice, if i can board the flight without RT-PCR test at all but opting to test at delhi
Hi Imran! You can board United Airlines for Delhi from SFO without a negative RT-PCR certificate. But you would have to take COVID test at Delhi Airport.
We’ve been told we need a PCR test before leaving the UK and on arrival in Chennai airport. Anyone know how long it takes to get a test and result at Chennai airport?
https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/dec/22/chennai-airport-lab-to-test-international-air-passengers-for-covid-19-from-next-week-2239721.html
5 to 6 hours they say.
Are there any institutional quarantine requirements for direct flights from US to Mumbai? or with layover from US-Doha-Mumbai?
Hi Sana! All international arrivals, irrespective of direct or connecting flights, are subject to institutional quarantine on arrival at Mumbai. If they have a negative RT-PCR report issued within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey from the US, or if they take a COVID test upon arrival at Mumbai, they will be exempted from institutional quarantine.
ello,
I need some advice. I’m planning to travel from Washington DC to Mumbai from 12-FEB till 13-March. I’m considering two different flights and trying to figure out the best route based on the current quarantine rules in Mumbai. First flight is through airline United (DCA-EWR-MUM) has a layover in New York, The second flight is through Qatar (IAD-DOH-MUM) has a layover in Doha. The city of origin is Washington DC. Even though I’m coming from US, if the layover is in the middle east, does the 7 day compulsory institutional rule (in Mumbai) apply or not with the latest guidelines for flights from Europe and middle east? Would it be better to have a layover within USA and not in middle east based on the quarantine rules, if it applies? I plan to carry the negative PCR-T test from US.
Secondly, In addition to rules of the country, do airlines have their own requirements in regards to carrying the PCR-T test? I hear Qatar airlines irrespective of the place or origin or destination requires the travelers to carry negative test results.. it that really true?
What would I need on my way back from Mumbai to USA? Does Mumbai airport or certain airlines leaving from Mumbai to USA require a PCR=T test also? I don’t believe international arrivals in USA are required to show PCR-T test if I’m not wrong.
Thank you so much, appreciate your advise.
Hi Jane! Only Qatar Airways needs you to travel with a negative COVID report. As of now, COVID testing is not required for traveling to the USA. FYI, the group of US airlines has requested the Department of Transportation (DoT) to make COVID testing mandatory for international arrivals. Currently, Mumbai imposes 7-day institutional quarantine on travelers from the Middle East, Europe and South Africa; not on the travelers transiting via the Middle East. Please note the rules may become stricter if the situation worsens in February. Hence, it is recommended you travel the DCA-EWR-BOM or DCA-DEL-BOM itinerary.
Does Delhi IGI Airport accept Rapid Diagnostic Test (ID NOW) and/or Rapid Antigen Test (BinaxNOW) covid-19 negative certificates from International travelers?
Hi Reshma! Only negative RT-PCR test reports are accepted from international travelers arriving at Indian airports.
Is there a mandatory 7 days institutional quarantine at Mumbai for UK arrivals? Or is it only applicable for Delhi?
Hi Bharat! Both Mumbai and Delhi have imposed 7-day institutional quarantine for travelers from the UK despite they have a negative RT-PCR certificate.
Thank you
Hi, I have family member travelling to India from USA. We took Pro-AmpRT test instead of RT-PCR test. Is the test report still valid at Delhi airport (port of Entry)? Or do we need to take only RT-PCR test
Hi Lakshmi! Only RT-PCR test results are accepted from international travelers arriving at Indian airports.
As per the circular from the govt of India air suvidha self-declaration form for travellers from the UK should be filled 72hours prior to departure. Is anyone having trouble submitting the form without the RT PCR test report?
Hi ,
I am planning to travel from Toronto to Bengaluru via Delhi in February with single PNR in AI VBM flight. Can I have RT PCR test get done at Delhi Airport. If yes, will AI will allow to onboard a flight at Toronto to Delhi without RT PCR test certificate ?
Hi Senthil! A negative RT-PCR test report is not mandatory for boarding AI flights for Delhi from the US, Canada, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. If the layover/connection time is minimum 7-8 hours at Delhi Airport, you can take a COVID test after arrival at Delhi Airport.
Hello, Can I travel to India from USA without a COVID test? I will be flying on January 15th from JFK in New York to New Delhi and from there to Kolkata. I have a 10 hour waiting at the Delhi airport before my flight to Kolkata
Hi Sandip! Yes, you can travel to Delhi without a negative RT-PCR report, but you will have to take a test Delhi Airport so that you are allowed to continue onward travel to Kolkata.
https://www.bengaluruairport.com/corporate/media/news-press-releases/rt-pcr-test-facility-for-covid-19-launched-at-blr-airport.html
Under the express test method on the globally acclaimed Abbott ID Now™, the RT-PCR test result would be available in less than 15 minutes, while the regular RT-PCR test result would take upto six hours. Until the test results are received, those tested would be required to wait in a specially demarcated area. Reports would be shared directly with those tested through digital platforms. As per Government requirements, the results of all samples will be registered on the ICMR website.
So ID NOW from Walgreens accepted across all the Indian airports
Hello I am flying from toronto to new delhi in march
Do i have to have test within 72 hours or it means test results are good for 72 hours
Hi Jasmine! You need to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before your departure flight from Toronto.
Hi, I am planning to go india from canada on 10 feb. can I do the covid test at delhi airport to exempt from institutional quarantine?
Hi Dilpreet! If the airline you will travel on boards you without a negative RT-PCR report from Canada, you can travel at east and take a COVID test at Delhi Airport.
Hi
My flight is on 21st at 10:45 am. However, my test was done at 10: 44 am on 18th. Is it going to be a problem?
I am 1 minute outside the 72 hours.
Hi Bharath! No problem.
Hi, I have a direct United Airline flight from New Jersey to Mumbai on 24th January. I am planning to get a Covid test done at the Mumbai airport itself. If my test result is negative will I still have to do a mandatory institutional quarantine at Mumbai?
Hi Divya! If the result is negative and if you are asymptomatic, you will be exempted from institutional quarantine.
Hello there!
Is there a Covid testing centre at Ahmedabad International Airport?
Also please advice if I have a connecting flight, would I be able to do test at Delhi and further travel to Ahmedabad connection. With this may I get exemption from Institutional and home quarantine.
Regards, Nidhi
Hi Nidhi! There is no COVID testing facility at Ahmedabad Airport. If the layover/connection time is minimum 8 hours at Delhi airport, you can take a COVID test before traveling to Ahmedabad. If the result is negative, you will definitely be exempted from institutional quarantine. But home quarantine may apply.
Hi,
Thanks for your response. While I called at the Airport (Ahmedabad Airport) today morning, there is a testing facility set-up at the Airport by Neuberg Supratech – actie since last 15 days. Does this mean I can skip the test at Delhi and take it at Ahmedabad Airport (final destination) instead to exempt from Institutional quarantine?
There is galore of confusions. Thank you for your response.
Hi Nidhi! We checked and found that AMD airport has recently got a COVID testing facility. Those flying directly to Ahmedabad will be able to take a COVID test upon arrival at AMD Airport. You may not be allowed to continue your journey from Delhi without a test.
Hello, My flight itinerary is from Chicago to NYC to mumbai. My first flight Chicago to NYC is at 2pm. My flight leaves NYC at 8pm but I got tested 3 days prior at 11:30am.
My exemption form got rejected by MH state government. Can I just carry my negative RT-PCR result or will I have to quarantine?
Hi Vrushank! What response or message have you got on Air Suvidha? Yes, you can carry the negative RT-PCR result and show it upon arrival at Mumbai Airport. Please make sure the result has a valid stamp or signature from the testing lab. In case the result is rejected at the airport, you can opt for a COVID test at Mumbai Airport. If the result is negative, you will be exempted from institutional quarantine.
Vande Bharat mission rejected the exemption report but did not give a reason. My speculation is the time of the test. Its 81 hours instead of 72 hours when the sample was taken based on departure from Newark. I have the negative test report with me an hoping this does not lead to institutional quarantine.
Hi Vrushank! We are afraid that your test result may not be accepted at Mumbai Airport. Not to worry. You can take a COVID test upon arrival at Mumbai Airport.
Just wanted to update in case it helps anyone else, I didn’t have to take another test. They are not as strict as imagined them to be. Thanks for your help.
Hi Vrushank! We must say you were lucky. Yes, not every official is strict at Mumbai Airport. Thank you for sharing your experience here. Hope you had a safe flight.
Hi
I am planning to travel to Cochin from London (direct flight). Do I need to have RT-PCR test result before departure also could you please give me a link for Cochin airport covid test pre-booking link.
Many Thanks
Hi Sujatha! Yes, you need to take an RT-PCR test result before departure. You can read about the COVID testing at Cochin Airport here https://cial.aero/pressroom/newsdetails.aspx?news_id=448
Hi!! I am planning to travel to Mumbai on 8th Feb with a 4year old and 8 year old. If I carry a negative test result will I still need to get tested on arrival in Mumbai?
I am planning on staying in the hotel for 5 days and than travel to Pune…. will this be allowed?
Can I prebook the Covid test at the Mumbai airport?
Do children need to get tested?
What’s the procedure with kids if someone on our flight sitting two rows ahead or behind tests positive at the Mumbai airport?
Hi Gayatri! We will be able to address your queries once we know where you are traveling from. If you are traveling from Europe/South Africa/the Middle East, you will be subject to mandatory COVID testing and institutional quarantine in Mumbai.
Hello, I am flying to Mumbai from EWR on Feb 9th vi a United airlines. I am planning to take the covid test at mumbai airport.
I have seen news articles about 13 min Abbott Labs test ID NOW now available at Mumbai Airport. However Mumbai Airport’s own website has no mention about this. Can you confirm if this test is available at the airport?
If not and I have to take the standard RT-PCR test, will I have to wait for the result at the airport or can I leave as my final destination is Mumbai. I have heard varying reports that I can just give a nasal swab and leave before the result arrives. Can you confirm if that is true?
Thanks
Hi Tejas! If Abbott Labs test ID NOW is an Express COVID test, then it is available at Mumbai Airport. You can log on to http://www.suburbandiagnostics.com and check what tests are available for international arrivals at Mumbai Airport. The reports about the relaxation you mentioned in the third paragraph are true. But we are not sure if the relaxation is available in the current circumstances.
Want to share the experience
Abbott ID NOW offered by Walgreens (result < 24 hrs but normally in few hours) is accepted by Air Suividha. I did take that and did apply for Air Suvidha Exception and same was approved. @ the destination airport the same was accepted.
Also incidentally CVS is faster service (may be it depends on location — mine in NJ) — got the lab result in 36 hrs
Hi Sarangarajan! Thank you for sharing this information! May we know which airport in India you traveled to?
Thank you so much Sarangan. Nice to see someone giving feedback proactively than with questions. I was searching for feedback from CVS or Walgreens (esp. the Aboott ID NOW) and good to know that.
Is CVS one the rapid test or the 2-3 day test that took 36 hrs?
Hi,
I am travelling to Ahmedabad airport on 20th February from the UK London. I will do a PCR test within 72 hours before my flight from UK. I have to stop for a few hours in Delhi before getting on a connecting flight to Ahmedabad do i need to carry out PCR test in delhi (how can i do this if connecting flight to Ahmedabad is only a few hours) or will i be allowed to Ahmedabad? Do i need to do another PCR test even if my UK PCR test is negative? If i do, can i do the test in Ahmedabad instead of Delhi as i wont have enough time between connecting flight?
Thank you for your reply in advance, i am very confused
Hi Asha! We regret the delay in addressing your query. Despite your negative RT-PCR test result from the UK, you will have to take a COVID test at Delhi Airport. If you test negative at Delhi Airport, only then you will be allowed to continue your journey. You need to take a COVID test at Delhi Airport, not Ahmedabad.
Hello, I am flying to Ahmedabad from San francisco on Feb 3rd via Air-India. I am planning to take the covid test at Ahmedabad airport. Would you tell me, Is any Covid-19 RT- PCR test facilities available or not at the Ahmedabad airport?
Would you let me know about my upper question as soon as possible? , So, I can make a Decision for my RT-PCR test. Thank you!
Hi Amit! If you are traveling on a direct flight to Ahmedabad (not via Delhi or Mumbai), then you can take a COVID test upon arrival at AMD Airport. If your itinerary includes transit at Delhi or Mumbai Airport, you may not be allowed to continue travel to Ahmedabad without a negative COVID test result.
Hi
I got PcR test twice in usa and got tested positive twice. I have been in isolation and doctor cleared me to travel and has letter from them. PCR test can last for 3 months for some person. If i tested positive in india again, how long should i quarantine in india?
Hi Subesh! To get exempted from institutional quarantine in India, you need to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before your scheduled departure from the USA or a COVID test upon arrival at the port of entry in India. If you test positive upon arrival in India, you will be subject to payable institutional quarantine for 7-14 days. You will be released from institutional quarantine only after you test negative.
Is rapid test result valid on arrival in India or is it mandatory to get the rtpcr test done. Pls do confirm
Hi Harish! Only negative RT-PCR test result is acceptable from international arrivals at Indian airports.
I will be traveling from DTW-EWR-DEL on 2/24. My second dose of moderna vaccine will be completed on 2/20. I plan to stay in Delhi for a few days and travel to my final destination of Calcutta on 3/1. The ticket will be booked as one journey.
I understand that I will need a RT-PCR test within 72 hours of leaving DTW. Will I need another test before flying DEL-CCU?
Hi Doel! You may not need another COVID test before flying to Kolkata from Delhi, but you may have to undergo 7-day home/self quarantine in Delhi as you will be staying in Delhi right after arrival from the USA.
Hi,
I am travelling from New Delhi to Chicago. As per the CDC guidance passengers have to submit “PASSENGER DISCLOSURE AND ATTESTATION TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”. Is this disclosure passenger have to carry/ bring with them OR airlines will provide such disclosure to passengers to sign it.
Hi Rajiv! The airline will either send you the disclosure form or give it to you at the exit airport in India.
Hi, my parents are traveling from JFK, New York to Delhi and connecting to Jaipur. They plan to take covid test in US 72 hours before boarding. My father’s flight is from JFK to DELHI and we booked a separate flight to Jaipur same day (6 hours gap). My mother’s flight is booked from JFK to JAIPUR under one PNR. while both of them are booked for same domestic flight to Jaipur, my father’s flights are 2 bookings one international and one domestic. My questions are:
1. Just in case their result from covid test in US doesn’t come in time, willDelhi airport test them or Jaipur airport?Also, are they testing asymptomatic people also?
2. Will both of them be allowed to go together for their connecting flight together or through separate security lines as my mother has US to Jaipur flight but my father is taking domestic flight from Delhi to Jaipur
Hi Monica! There is no COVID testing facility at Jaipur Airport. They must have a negative RT-PCR test result to continue their travel from Delhi Airport. If the test result comes by the time they arrive at Delhi Airport, you can send it to your father’s email and he can show it to the officials at the airport. In case the test result is delayed further, they will have to take a COVID test at Delhi Airport, for which 6-hr layover may not be sufficient. Coming to your second question, we don’t think there will be separate lines for them since they have the same destination.
Thanks fir replying. I have 2 scenario based questions:
1. If my father is quarantined by Delhi airport, my Mom will not take her connecting flight to Jaipur, but her luggage will be sent to Jaipur since it will be checked in at JFK for Jaipur. Is there a possibility of it getting lost at Jaipur airport if she arrives after a week with my father?
2. If they quarantine my mother in Delhi, will they give her luggage to her in Delhi?
Hi Monica! We are not much knowledgeable about baggage loss or misplacement. If your mother is quarantine in Delhi, she will be handed over her luggage at Delhi Airport.
Hi,
If we are travelling to Ahmedabad in April from London, and we take a PCR test from London within 72 hours of travel, will we be exempt from any type of quarantine? And also are we supposed to uploaded the negative test certificate online or show it once we arrive there?
Hi Shyam! As per the current norms, international travelers need to upload the negative RT-PCR test results on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to their scheduled departure. In case the test result comes late and you are not able to upload online, you can carry and show the hard copy upon arrival. Please note the scenario may change in April.
Hello, My brother is travelling from London(UK) to Mumbai. Does all UK passengers need 7 day institutional quarantine even if tested negative with RT-PCR test at Mumbai Airport?
Hi Ravi! All travelers from the UK are subject to mandatory institutional quarantine and COVID testing in Mumbai until further notice.
Hi, can i get back at delhi airport from maldives without pre booking pcr test online and after arrival i will book at the counter at delhi airport. If maldives immi. Ask me about pcr test what i have to tell about pcr test?
Hi Gaurav! Please check with the airline whether you will be allowed to board and travel without a negative RT-PCR test result. If yes, you can take a COVID test upon arrival at Delhi Airport.
I am traveling from New York (EWR) to Bhubaneswar via Delhi along with my son who is 4 years old. Do I do home quarantine at Bhubaneswar ? Am i automatically exempted ?
As per the state rules of Karnataka, Kerala, and Odisha, all asymptomatic passengers will undergo home quarantine. All asymptomatic passengers having the first airport of entry located in these states, have to undergo 14 days mandatory home quarantine. Hence, the exemption is not required.
Hi CP! Bhubaneswar is not your first port of entry; hence, you must have a negative COVID result to travel further from Delhi Airport. The 4-year-old may not need any COVID test, if he is asymptomatic, to board flight to Odisha from Delhi.
Do I need negative RT PCR for departing Delhi to USA? Can I get my RT PCR test done before arriving to Delhi airport or it has to be done at airport for flight from Delhi to USA. Thanks
Hi Gurjeet! You must have a negative RT-PCR test result at the time of checking in at Delhi Airport for the US flight.
Hi,
I am travelling from Vancouver to Delhi and then onwards to Pune. I will be taking my COVID test 72hours prior to flying to Delhi. Will I have to take another test at Delhi airport before boarding my flight to Pune or will the test I carry with me from Vancouver be suffient to board my domestic connection?
Hi Rosh! Only travelers from the UK are required to undergo a COVID test upon arrival at Delhi airport. If you are asymptomatic, your pre-departure negative test result will be sufficient to help you continue your travel from Delhi.
I will be traveling from Berlin- Frankfurt – Delhi in last week of February. I plan to take covid 19 test at Delhi airport. I have some question regarding application for quarantine exemption. Which option Is should opt for exemption category, as I plan to take test after arrival at Delhi. I will take domestic connecting flight after receiving rt oce results from delhi airport.
We (two adults, one 6-month old child, one 6-year old child) are traveling from Washington DC to New Delhi. We will exit T3 and have no other connecting flights. Would appreciate any clarity from this forum on:
1. If Covid tests are needed for all of us?
2. If Covid tests are needed only for the adults?
3. Or, if our family can get exempt from providing any Covid test results?
Hi Astha! As per the norms, you are eligible for exemption from COVID testing on grounds of traveling with kids below 10 years. If you don’t have onward domestic air travel plans and take private transport from Delhi Airport, you don’t need an RT-PCR test. In case, COVID testing is mandatory for adult international travelers, you (only the adults) can go for it upon arrival at Delhi Airport. Please note you need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha in order to be exempted from COVID testing.
Hi , I am travelling from London to Patna via Delhi. The layover time in New delhi T3 is 7 Hours. Is it sufficient to get the RT/PCR test result in 7 hours.
Please note I am travelling with RT/PCR test result within 72 hours of travel date.
Thanks.
Hi Nikesh! All travelers from the UK are subject to mandatory COVID testing upon arrival at Delhi Airport, irrespective of their negative RT-PCR test results from the UK. A 7-hr layover may be enough given the rush of international arrivals on a given day. Make sure to book a slot for your COVID test in advance.
Hi,
I have 4 year old twins and we are travelling from Dublin to Delhi via Emirates very soon. Emirates doesnt ask for covid test report for kids less than 10 yrs. Is PCR test mandatory for kids of 4 yrs of age at delhi airport.
Please confirm.
Hi Saurabh! Usually, all travelers flying to Delhi from the UK must have a negative RT-PCR test result. If Emirates onboards your kids without a negative RT-PCR test report, you can travel to Delhi without any hassle. If you find upon arrival at Delhi Airport that COVID testing is mandatory for the kids too, you can get them tested at the airport. Please note you need to apply for exemption on Air Suvidha within 3 days prior to undertaking your journey from Dublin.
Hi,
I am travelling from Dallas to Chicago to New Delhi. Dallas to Chicago flights are on 03/01, while Chicago to Delhi is on 03/02. I am traveling with 2 kids ( 2 Yrs, 8 Yrs). I am planning to have RT PCR test on 02/28,. I may or may not get RT-PCR test result by the time i board flight. All Labs have standard response for test result that is 72 Hrs or more.
Do AirIndia allow passenger to board flight without Covid Test result ?
What happen if i did not get my Covid Test result by the time i land in Delhi ?
Any one in this forum travelled from Dallas can guide where to take RT-PCR test for timely result.
Hi Ashish! You and your kids can board Air India without a negative RT-PCR test result. If you receive the test report in your email inbox by the time you land at Delhi, you can show it to the officials at Delhi Airport. Or else, you have the option to take a COVID test at Delhi Airport. Please note COVID testing is not mandatory for kids under 10 years if there is no further domestic air travel from Delhi. Make sure the RT-PCR test report has a valid stamp/signature from the testing lab in Dallas.
Can you use Delhi airport Covid-19 testing facility before departing to USA from Delhi ?
Hi My Parents have taken two dose of Pfizer vaccine, they will be travelling from JFK to Amritsar (via Delhi). Do they still need to have COVID negative testing even if they have taken the vaccine?
Hi Pankaj! The government of India has not yet issued any relaxation for vaccinated international travelers. Hence, Having a negative RT-PCR test report is the only way to avoid institutional experience.
I am planning to travel to Bangalore from UK(London) in March month. Is it possible to prebook for the on arrival COVID test in the bangalore airport? Also please confirm whether PCR test result is accepted or do I need to take RT-PCR test in specific? I am not sure what’s the difference between them but seeing these references in different places and got confused whether PCR test is allowed.
Hi Karthikeyan! You can pre-book a test to be taken upon arrival. Please find the booking portal’s link in the article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/bengaluru-airport-guidelines-international-flyers/. You need to take an RT-PCR test before departure.
I have done a new booking departing Frankfurt and arriving in Delhi Terminal 3 on Sunday 21st March by LH 760 at 01.50. According to the New SOP issued by Ministry of Health with effect from 22nd Feb 2021, I am supposed to do a self paid COVID 19 test on arrival, even though I may be tested negative on RTPCR within 3 days of departure.
What I am not sure is whether I can board the connecting flight soon (if there is one) or allowed to board only if the test is negative and how much time I have to wait to get the results. In one place it says that it may take up to 8 hours and the transit flight may be booked accordingly. If you can clarify this, it would be very helpful.
HI Mangesh! You will have to wait for the result of the test at Delhi Airport. You will be allowed to take the connecting flight only if the result is negative. Yes, it may take up to 8 hours or more.
Our flights are 11 March Kansas city- Chicago- Delhi- Pune
Kansas city departure is 11 March at 8.09 AM
Chicago Departure is 11 March at 6.25 PM
Questions are
1) As per Indian Govt rules we need to take RT-PCR test 72 hours before departure.
In our case 72 hours – before Kansas city departure or Chicago departure ?
Is it OK if we do the test on 8th March at around 8 AM to 2 PM as per the appointment we get. ?
Or do we need to do on 9th March? In this case not sure if we can get report by 10th March evening.
How to follow procedures if we do not get report by 10th March evening?
2) We arrive at Delhi on 12 March at 8.10 PM
Next connecting flight Delhi to Pune is on 13 March at 6.30 AM
Do we need to do Covid test at Delhi airport for travel to Pune?
or do we need to do test at Pune airport arrival?
Or second test not needed at all?
3) After arriving at Pune airport , are we allowed to go to home directly ?
Hi Prasad! You need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from Kansas City. You can upload the test report onto Air Suvidha just before your departure from Kansas City. You don’t need another COVID test to travel to Pune or upon arrival at Pune Airport. Travelers from the US are not subject to institutional quarantine in Pune.
mine is a similar case, upon arrrival in chennai my rt pcr test valdity of 72 hrs will be already over, do i need to take another pcr test at chennai if i have flight the next day to andaman >?
Hi Vijay! The validity of the RT-PCR test report has nothing to do with your arrival in India. What matters whether you took the RT-PCR test within 72 hours of undertaking the journey from the first port of departure. For instance, you took the test at 4 p.m. on Feb 24 and you are scheduled to take the first flight at 6 p.m. on Feb 27. It means that you took the test outside 72 hours prior to your scheduled departure flight; hence the report will be considered invalid and you will be denied boarding.
With reference to my queries here, I would like to share my experience
My United airlines flights from Kansas to Chicago was on 11th March morning. We did Covid test (only RT-PCR valid ) on 8th Mar morning. Got report on 9th evening. Filled self declaration form (SDF) on Arogya Suvidha and uploaded Covid negative report. Within 10-20 sec received email SDF accepted. At first flight ( Kansas city to Chicago) my negative report was checked and then only all boarding passes issued. While boarding flight to Delhi from Chicago , again Covid report, SDF form and Arogya setup app on phone were checked. After arriving at Delhi on 12 March 8 PM- I was just asked if I have negative report and SDF. No document checked. We took next flight Delhi to Pune on 13 March 6.30 AM. After landing at Pune they asked if I came from Delhi or via Delhi from which country. When told – from US, I was told to exit. Thus your RT-PCR test report is valid for taking any connecting domestic flight in India. No home quarantine was told. No stamp on hand. It was smooth travel experience. All flights 100% full. Had put on KN 95 mask while on board else regular mask during travel Please make sure that your covid report mentions RT-PCR. In my case it was SARS Covid-19 NAA report. In description it said NAA includes RT-PCR.
Hello
Thank you for all of the input and guidance provided to date. Really appreciate it. I fly from Washington DC to Chennai via Doha on 02/24 reaching Chennai on 02/26 morning. If I have taken a RT-PCR test in US and have uploaded the negative result on the needed Air Suvidha portal, will I be asked to take another RT-PCR test in Chennai on arrival? I heard that a new SOP has been implemented as of 02/22 by the Govt of India. Please advise. Thank you
Hi Venki! Since you will be traveling via the Middle East, you may be asked to provide your swab sample upon arrival at Chennai Airport. However, don’t worry. You will be allowed to exit the airport after giving the swab sample.
Hi,
I am unable to find information regarding on arrival tests (in Chennai). Is there a way to book the test online?
Thanks!
Hi Abhi! As of now, there is no online booking facility for COVID testing at Chennai Airport.
Hi,
I need a information. If I take a PCR test with negative result from London and land directly to Mumbai or Chennai or Bangalore, am I required to take another PCR test? If yes, how long it will take to get the result from airport please
Thanks!!
Hi NavNav! All travelers from the UK, Brazil and South Africa are subject to mandatory molecular testing upon arrival, irrespective of the airport – Mumbai, Chennai, or Bengaluru. It may take up to 8 hours. Four your information, Mumbai has compulsory institutional quarantine for travelers from the UK.
Hi I would like to know about directly landing at ahmedabad from London. Do I need to get pcr negative from UK or will they do one on landing? What is the quarantine process? Can I home quarantine for 14 days?
Hi Shruti! Taking an RT-PCR test and uploading the report onto Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey is now mandatory for all international arrivals. Yes, home quarantine will apply to you.
We took 2 COVID tests on Monday (02/22) and still have not got our results back. Our flight is scheduled tonight (02/24 – EWR-DEL). The new rule is completely illogical. No provider in the US are giving back the results within 72 hours. We have been constantly following up and they keep saying the result is pending. How can we ever fly?
HI Kushagra! We wish we could help you with this. Please let us know whether you received the report on time and were able to travel.
hi my cousin is travelling from singapore to Chennai on 27th feb, and validity for his rt pcr test he has taken on 25th at 11am will expire in 72 hours.. will it be valid through to travel to andaman if he has a flight on 28th feb 2pm ? cause another test wont be possible within 24hrs at chennai airport ?
IVE BEEN VACCINATED.. IM TRAVELLING FROM USA TO INDIA… DO I NEED A COVID TEST???
Hi Neil! Yes, you need to take an RT-PCR test because the government of India has not yet come up with relaxation/exemption for vaccinated travelers.
Hi,
I will be traveling to India on 4 March, BTV-EWR-DEL (same airline) and then on a separate ticket continuing on to IXL:
1. BTV- EWR 11am 4 March
2. EWR- DEL 9pm arriving 5 March
3. Continuing on a separate ticket on SpiceJet at 7 am 5 March to IXL
Given the 72 hour rule for RTPCR and the previous comments, it seems like I will need a negative test within 72 hours of departing BTV. Is that correct?
Once I have landed in Delhi, will I need to get tested again to meet the 72 hour state requirement in Ladakh because I have a separate ticket, or will my results from my USA point of origin be accepted?
Thank you.
Hi Ruby! You need to take an RT-PCR test not more than 72 hours before your flight from BTV. If the negative RT-PCR test report is older than 72 hours by the time you will reach Ladakh, you need to get tested to meet Ladakh’s entry requirement.
Thank you. Is this something I could schedule and receive during my layover at the Delhi airport?
Hi Ruby! If you wish to get a fresh negative COVID report before traveling to Ladakh, you can schedule a test for you on the website of Delhi Airport.
Hi,
I will be traveling to India on 9th April. Is it possible I can have my COVID test at delhi airport?Or I won’t be allowed to board without COVID test results?
Last time in November I had my results when I landed in Delhi. Practically at time of boarding I was not having any COVID results.
I am vaccinated now.
Thanks
Neetu
Hi Neetu! According to the new guidelines with effect on Feb 23, all international travelers flying into India have to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey.
I am traveling from Wshington to Delhi with 9 year old kid. CVS does RT-PCR for 12+ only. I can find Walgreens doing RT-PCR for 2+. Is Wagreens RT-PCR acceptable for India travel?
Hi Manoj! Negative RT-PCR reports with a valid signature/stamp from authorized labs, including Walgreens are acceptable in India.
HELLO
I am traveling with 2 kids under 10 years old. my travel from Chicago to Ahmadabad with Ethiad airways. I will have 72 hours per test before travel and upload on arogya app and get exemption . do I have to give sample or take test again at arrival in Gujrat Ahmadabad airport. This flight transit from Abu dhbhai middle east . thanks
Hi Aliya! You need to upload the negative RT-PCR test report of yours and your kids’ onto Air Suvidha (a section of Delhi Airport website), not on Arogya Setu app. Upon arrival at AMD airport, the kids and you will have to give the swab sample for a molecular test. You will able to exit the airport without having to wait for the test result, which will be communicated to you via email or over the phone.
do they take swab sample from kids too? what age get exempt
Hi Aliya! The new guidelines require even kids to give their swab sample upon arrival. There is no age-based exemption.
Hello,
I am traveling from Washington DC to Delhi via Air India flight on March 14th. I am planning to take RT-PCR on 11 March from Walgreens in Greensboro North Carolina. Please confirm if RT-PCR from Walgreens is acceptable, or do we have to take from any specific location. Walgreens have laboratory partners Aegis Sciences and LabCorp’s in partnership with the PWNHealth provider network.
Thanks
Hi Manoj! As far as we know, RT-PCR reports from Walgreens are acceptable. Do make sure that the reports have your full name, DOB, the time of the sample taken, the name of the test and a valid signature/stamp from the lab.
Hi, I am travelling with my two kids(age below 10) from Frankfurt to Trivandrum with transit at Delhi and the flight was booked before new travel rules, due to which transit time is 4 hours only to travel to Trivandrum, do i need to change my flight as transit travellers need to wait for 6-8 hours for the rtpcr test done at Delhi airport?
My parents are flying from Dallas to New Delhi via Qatar airways. We plan to get their RT PCR test done within 72 hours before departure. They are vaccinated as well. Do they need to retake test at Delhi airport? And how about the quarantine?
Hi Ami! They will give their swab sample for a molecular test at Delhi Airport and be allowed to exit the airport. The test result will be communicated to them later on. According to the new rules, they are supposed to be advised self-monitoring of health for 14 days.
My parents are traveling from Houston to Ahmedabad via Qatar airways. Do they need to take another test at Ahmedabad airport?
Hi Milan! They will have to give their swab samples for a molecular test upon arrival at Ahmedabad Airport. But they will be allowed to exit the airport without waiting for the result.
How to pre book the Covid test in Chennai international arrival point
Hi Guru! There is yet no provision to book a COVID test in advance.
Hello Ma’am, Sir,
My mother in law(69 Age) is travelling from Delhi to Chicago airport next month. I want to know anyone(my yonger brother) is allowed to come inside the airport with her and get her tested for CT PCR test? she has mobility issue.
Please assist.
Thanks,
Sandeep
Hi Sandeep! As per the rules, she should take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of her scheduled flight from Delhi Airport. As far as we know, there is no COVID testing facility at Delhi Airport for outbound international travelers.
Hi,
I have family travelling from Johannesburg to Ahmedabad. Do they need to take a PCR test upon arrival in Ahmedabad? If so can this be booked online prior to deparure?
Hi Bhamini! Yes, they need to take a molecular test at Ahmedabad Airport upon arrival. There is yet no provision to book the test online.
Hi,
I am planning to travel from Frankfurt to Darbhanga via New Delhi on 25th March 2021.
I will be having RT-PCR test done within 72 hours from the departure.
My question is– to board my next domestic flight from New Delhi to Darbhanga , do I need to wait for the results ?
The transit time is just 3 hours. So please let me know if I just have to give the sample or also wait for the results?
Hi Faiza! You will be allowed to take the connecting flight without having to wait for the result of molecular test at Delhi Airport.
Thanks for the article. Helped a lot but i still have a few questions.
1. Is there a particular type of RT-PCR test that is specially needed?(saliva based/nasopharyngeal etc)
any info/links you could share about this?
2. Even after a negative RT-PCR test is home quarantine needed right now?
Thanks in advance
Hi Sanchit! May we know where you are traveling to and from, so that we can give a definite answer?
from tokyo to delhi.
thanks for replying.
Hi Sanchit! If you fly into Delhi directly from Tokyo with a negative pre-arrival RT-PCR report, you will be advised only self-monitoring of health for 14 days.
Sorry to trouble you again and again.
I will be transiting via dubai.
Tokyo-dubai-delhi
Is a covid test compulsory at the airport?
Hi there I have a flight from London to Chennai via Mumbai (connection time of 8 hours). I will do a RT-PCR 72 hours before boarding and fill the SDF on Air suvidha portal. Where will I do COVID test when I land in India. Is it at Mumbai airport before taking a flight to Chennai. Do I also have to do a Covid test at Chennai airport?
Also how long does it take to get approval after submitting the SDF on Air suvidha portal.
Could you please clarify.
Many thanks
Hi Paddy! You will have to give your swab sample for a molecular test at Mumbai Airport upon arrival. As per Tamil Nadu’s policy, you may need to give your swab sample upon arrival at Chennai Airport too. It may take up a few hours for SDF to get approval on Air Suvidha.
Hi Indian eagle team,
I am travelling to Chennai by end of March 2021 from USA and I heard Chennai airport has some quarantine requirements recently for travelers from USA as well ? Will they do COVID testing at Chennai airport eventhough we have negative RT-PCR report before travel to Chennai(i.e before 72 hours) ?
Incase they do any COVID testing, will they ask us to wait/quarantine for some number of days until we get the COVID testing results ?
Thanks & Regards,
Kannan
Hi Kannan! You will be required to take a molecular test at Chennai Airport despite your pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report. However, you will be allowed to exit the airport without having to wait for the test result which will be communicated to you via email or over phone.
Hi , I am planning to visit India from HK next month along with my 3 year old.I have recovered from covid and can share documentary proofs as well. Do I still need to do the covid test before departure ?
Hi Shraddha! All international travelers must carry a negative RT-PCR test report not older than 72-hours before departure.
Hello,
I will be travelling from Edinburgh to Bangalore (via London) on British airways(BA).
If I get a saliva based RT-PCR test done 72 hours before my travel, will it be acceptable at bangalore airport/British airways?
Although I am aware of on arrival swab based RT-PCR testing at Bangalore, not sure if my previous saliva based RT-PCR will be accepted. Please help me confirm the same.
Thank you
Hi Sarthak! We’re not sure whether a saliva-based negative RT-PCR report is required. Please be advised to check with the consulate/embassy or the airline.
Thanks for the response. Is there any specific guideline that only swab based PCR test is needed? Or we can get saliva-based PCR too?
Is there any consulate contact information that can be messaged regarding this?
Please let me know if you have any direct contact information.
Thank you
Traveling from sharjah, UAE to Jaipur on 18th March 2021, Do Jaipur airport required test on arrival or we can go out with RT PCR negative results from UAE within 72 hrs. What are latest requirements at Jaipur airport.
Hi Vikram! All travelers from the Middle East, Europe, Brazil and South Africa have to take a molecular test upon arrival at the entry airport in India.
Hi, I will be arriving at Delhi Airport from the UK. I will do a RT-PCR test 72 hours before boarding from the UK. When I arrive at Delhi Airport, I will be required to do another molecular pcr test which takes 6 to 8 hours to give results. I’m currently 5 months pregnant and want to know if there is a facility for resting or a hotel where I can wait until I get the pcr results? I will not be able to sit on a hard chair for 6 to 8 hours due to my condition. So can you please tell me if there are any sleeping lounges or hotels where I can wait until I get the results? Thanks in advance for your help.
Hi Priya! Delhi Airport has a dedicated lounge for inbound travelers waiting for the result of their COVID test. Please note the lounge is payable.
Hi,I am planning to travel from Dubai to Bangalore on 25th march 2021 for one week only. I have completed my Pfizer 2nd dose vaccine 45 days back, Except PCR negative result from DUBAI ,what are the other documents needed?If it is return journey lesser than 7 days,do I need quarantine? Can I take PCR test from Bangalore airport the same day before travel to Dubai?
Hi Suma! You will need to show your confirmed return tickets to the authorities at Bangalore Airport to seek exemption from quarantine. Other than a negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours from departure in Dubai, you also need to fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal. You will require a COVID test report according to Dubai’s entry requirements.
Hi,
My parents are travelling from Toronto To Ahmedabad via Abu-Dhabi in first week of April.
They will be doing their COVID-19 PCR test before 72 hours before flight departure.
Do they have to do COVID-19 PCR test at Ahmedabad and wait for the results?
Thanks
Hi Younus! Your parents will be required to submit their swab samples for a molecular test upon arrival at Ahmedabad Airport. They can exit the airport without having to wait for the results.
Hi , I plan to travel to mumbai from Singapore soon.With the recent announcement on waiver of quarantine for people with two does of vaccine, would RT-PCR test before departure be required?
Hi Sangita! The advisory issued by Municipal Corporation of Mumbai does not throw any light on whether a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report is required for vaccinated travelers.
Hi,
My parents have a flight from Dallas to Delhi (via Dubai) next week. I see on the delhi airport page that passengers travelling / transiting through middle east countries need to have Mandatory covid molecule test (self paid) at delhi airport, along with representing negative PCR test report from origin. My question is –
1. How much it costs?
2. How long it takes to get the result?
3. Is it mandatory for senior citizens/minors?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Ritu! Molecular test on arrival at Delhi Airport costs around Rs. 800-1000 per individual and is mandatory. Your parents can exit the airport after submitting their swab sample for molecular test.
Hello – I am traveling from EU to Bengaluru with a 2 year old. Do I need a PCR test for kid also ?
Hi Sundar! All international arrivals to India are required to carry a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test report irrespective of their age.
I am travelling from USA to Delhi and then domestic connecting flight to Pune. I will do 72 hours COVID test in advance. Do I still need to do on arrival test at Delhi and wait for results before boarding flight to Pune? How many hours should I keep between connecting flight to avoid missing flight because not getting results.
Hi Kapil! If you are arriving on a direct or non-stop flight from the US to Delhi, you won’t have to undergo a molecular test at Delhi Airport upon arrival, given you have a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test report and you are asymptomatic.
Tx for quick reply.
Just to further clarify / verify. After Delhi, I have a connecting flight to Pune. So before boarding to Pune flight, don’t I need test before boarding to Pune flight?
Because when I called Pune airport, they said – Delhi airport will do test at arrival. I tried to call Delhi airport, but I didn’t have luck connecting with them.
I am travelling from USA to Mumba and then drive to Pune. I will have 72 hours COVID test in advance. I will not have domestic flight. In this case also, do I need to do on arrival test at Mumbai and wait for results before leaving the airport?
How many hours it take for test at Mumbai?
Hi Kapil! If you are arriving on a direct or non-stop flight from the US to Mumbai, you won’t have to undergo a molecular test at Mumbai Airport upon arrival, given you have a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test report and you are asymptomatic.
Hi
I am flying from London to Mumbai/New delhi on the 31st of March
Would i need to get the PCR test done on either of the airports if i previously have a negatuve RTPCR test result from a facility in the uk (72 hours prior to flying).
Hi KP! Yes, you will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test at Mumbai/Delhi Airport upon arrival, despite having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report.
Hi!
I will be traveling from LA to Amsterdam (lay over) to Delhi in April.
I realize I will have to submit my negative PCR test before hand and on arrival at Delhi Airport I have to go through confirmatory molecular covid test.
I will be exiting at Delhi Airport.
How long do I need to wait for confirmatory molecular covid test results to come?
How much it cost?
Hi Tarun! The cost of molecular test at Delhi Airport is around INR 800-1000 per person and takes at least 10 hours to get the result.
Do I need to wait at the airport till the test results are received or I can leave?
I will be exiting at Delhi airport and does not have any connecting flights.
Hi Tarun! You will be allowed to leave the Delhi Airport after submitting your swab sample.
Thank you so much!
Hello, when flying from Mumbai to Toronto via Delhi, would having covid test done from Mumbai 48 hours before be accepted at Delhi airport? I recently heard otherwise and want to confirm if thats true
Hello, I will be travelling from Dubai to Delhi and on to Nashik. Do i need to get another test done at the Delhi airport, even if i have a negative PCR test with me. If yes, how much time will it need so I can book my connecting flight accordingly.
Hi Richa! Yes, you will have to undergo a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport despite having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report. The test result takes a minimum of 10 hours to arrive.
Hello,
I am traveling from SFO -DOH-DEL on 4th April and getting to Delhi at 1:30 AM.
Do i need to take the molecular test after I land in Delhi even after uploading my negative test result on Air Suvidha portal?
Also if i need to take the test, do i need to wait for the result or i can leave the airport?
Hi Manny! You will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport despite having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report. You can exit the airport without having to wait for the result.
Hi,
Can you please clarify regarding below article in Indian newspaper
– The Indian government announced on Tuesday that it has extended the suspension of international commercial passenger flights till April 30, 2021.
Then which flights are flying to India now?
Thanks
Younus
Hi Younus! All flights which come under the air bubble agreement and under Vande Bharat Mission are still operating. May we know from which place do you want to come to India?
Thanks for your reply.
My parents flights is from Toronto To Ahmedabad via Abu-Dhabi.
Does it come under the air bubble agreement and under Vande Bharat Mission ?
Thanks
Younus
1. Hi I will be taking a flight from Tokyo to New Delhi via Dubai on an Emirates flight.
Is it necessary for me to have Covid test at New Delhi airport even if I carry a negative certificate before boarding the flight.
2.Also in case I travel directly from Tokyo to Delhi on Air India flight will the Covid test still be necessary at the Delhi airport despite having Covid negative certificate.
3.I have heard rumours that some connecting flights such as those from Dubai might not be allowed due to the rising number of cases in India have you heard any such information regarding the same.
Sorry to trouble you so much but thanks in advance.
Hi,
I am travelling to Chennai from USA via Doha. I have a connecting flight in Doha. I already uploaded negative pcr result to air suvidha. Do I still need to get PCR test done upon arrival at Chennai airport?
Thanks
Anand
Hi Anand! On arrival at Chennai Airport, you just need to give your swab sample for a test and exit the airport.
How do i pay for the covid19 test in chennai airport?
Is there any option for online payment?
Hello,
I am travelling from UK to Mumbai/mumbai on 9th april. Do we need to fill air suvidha SDF form and upload negative pcr test at the same time or I can update the SDF form and request exemption before 72 hours and then upload test results later but before boarding the flight. Also I will be travelling with pregnant wife and a 4 yr kid .Will we get priority in delhi/mumbai airport for vividh testing if we have a transit flight to nagpur after 7.30 hrs.
Also my final destination is nagpur in MH, so considering existing rules and travelling with pregnant wife and 4 year kid, which airport is more suitable to land Delhi or Mumbai
Hi Adben! Traveling via Delhi and traveling via Mumbai are more or less the same for you. On arrival at either airport, you and your family will have to take a molecular test and wait for the result at the airport. Only after confirmation of the negative result of all of you, you will be able to travel to the final destination, Nagpur. As per the rules that took effect on February 23, you need to upload the negative RT-PCR test report after submission of a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to traveling from the UK.
Hello,
Delhi airport website not allowing to book rt pcr for my 4 year old daughter.Its showing that testing is only done for 5+ years. The guidelines says covid test mandatory for all, but not able to book it for my daughter. Also do we require to fill any exemption form as I am travelling with kids less than 10 years or exemption is only required if arriving without negative pcr due to demise of family member
Hi Adben! You don’t need to book a test for your kid. Also, exemption is only in case of death in the family.
Hi I found a link to pre-book the RT-PCR test in Mumbai Airport , you can book test using this link and select Mumbai Airport for centre selection
https://covid19.suburbandiagnostics.com/signin
Hi I have a flight from Goa to Ahmedabad airport on 6th April. Do Goa airport will ask me RT PCR report before Departure or else i need to show at Ahmedabad airport ??
Hello, I am travelling from US to Delhi via Amsterdam, I am planning to get my RT PCR test done and upload it to government portal. I have connecting flight to Ahmedabad from Delhi in few hours, would covid test be conducted again on arrival? Do i need to wait for results from airport testing before i am allowed to board flight to Ahmedabad? Thanks in Advance.
Hi Samuel! Yes, you will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport. You can take your connecting flight to Ahmedabad without having to wait for the result.
Hi,
Will they take RT-PCR test for infants as well in destination airports in India those who coming from abroad(UK) ?
Hi Ramkumar! Yes, a molecular test on arrival is mandatory for all travelers coming to India from UK, irrespective of age.
Hi,
I’m traveling from USA to Bengaluru Air India direct flight on Tuesday Apr 13th Departure time – 9:30 PM. The only available COVID-19 RT PCR testing is available on Saturday Apr 10 – 4:15 PM. Will this be considered as violating the 72 hour limit and hence an invalid test?
Hi Madhuri! If your negative RT-PCR report is older than 72 hours before departure, it will violate the guidelines laid down by the Indian government. Please be advised to check with the airline.
Do they allow to board the United flight without RT PCR test and can I just show booking for RT PCR which is to be done at mumbai airport ? ( I am traveling from Detroit-Newark-Mumbai)
I am a mumbai resident if I do 600 Rs test will I be allowed to go home early or do I have to express test Rs 4500 ?
Hi Sumit! As per the current guidelines, it is mandatory for all international travelers arriving in India to carry a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure.
Hello! I’m planning to go to Mumbai. As I’ve understood I need to fill in the SDF and submit it “at least 72 hours” before the departure. How can I submit it if it the RT-PCR test I’m going to do later, as I have connecting flight.
Minsk-Dubai-Mumbai.
Aslo one question, do I need to do RT-PCR test in Dubai again if the test from Belarus is still valid for boarding for the next flight to Mumbai?
Hi Hanna! You are required to fill out the self-declaration form and upload the negative report together. You need not take another test in Dubai.
Hello;
We plan to travel from US to Delhi via LHR. We are just transiting in London. We also have to fly to CCU form DEL on a separate ticket taking a flight that leaves in 4 hours after arival to DEL. Would we be considered the same as form flying form UK. Do we have to be tested in DEL before continuing to CCU. We are vaccinated already and plan to take the RT PCR test the day before we leave the US. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Hi Tushar! The government of Delhi has not yet issued any relaxation for vaccinated international arrivals. You will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport and wait for the result, despite having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure. Only if you test negative, you will be allowed to take your connecting flight to CCU.
Need guidance and suggestions, me and my wife are planning to travel in first week of June from
San Francisco to Doha to Mumbai.
As per current guidelines we need negative RT-PCR report 72 hours before boarding, fill self declaration form,
fill exemption.
now question is as we are just transiting through Doha (Middle East) is it mandatory to get a molecular test at Mumbai Airport.?
if yes then how much time does it take to get results.? as we then have to book flight forward from Mumbai to another state.
Direct flights are costing arm & leg, thus thinking for Qatar airways.
Please provide guidance.
Hi Shell! If you are traveling to Mumbai via Doha and your final destination is outside of Maharashtra, you will be allowed to take your connecting flight after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test on arrival at Mumbai Airport. You need not wait for the result.
I have been vaccinated in the US. Do I still need to post a negative test result before flying from Newark to Mumbai direct flight.
Hi Aplusm! Yes, you do need.
Hi,
I’ll be travelling on May 18th from Los Angeles to New Delhi to Lucknow and returning on June 10th. My questions are:
1. I am still confused what will be the best airline/region to travel to minimize any issue while reaching and departing from India to the US. I was thinking of Emirates but due to Middle East constraints, not sure yet.
2. I’ll be vaccinated by that time, but I understand that I’ll still need a negative RT-PCR test. I’ll be travelling to Lucknow from Delhi after 18 hours, same day. What will be the restrictions in my case? On Reaching Delhi, as well in departing to Lucknow. I read about the molecular test, how much time it takes for the result
Thanks,
VS
Hi Vishwa! There is no restriction on traveling via the Middle East. Many of our customers, who we booked US-India flights for, have traveled via Dubai and Doha. Please be advised to call our travel advisors at 1-800-615-3969 for the best itinerary (and the best fare) for your hassle-free travel. Thank you!
Thanks for replying. I’ll definitely call the advisors on setting the best itinerary.
My other concern was the molecular test at Delhi airport – What’s the process and how much time it takes for the test, can we leave the airport right away? As I have to catch a domestic flight, later on the same day.
Thanks
Hi Vishwa! If you are transiting through the Middle East, or Europe (excluding UK), you will have to submit your swab sample for a molecular test on arrival at Delhi Airport and exit or take your connecting flight without having to wait for the result.
Hi. I am travelling from New York to Ahmedabad via Abu Dhabi (Etihad) on May 20. I am planning to get a RT-PCR 72 hours prior to departure. My final destination is Jaipur. Do I need to undergo institutional quarantine in Ahmedabad?
Hi Sachin! No, you need not undergo institutional quarantine in Ahmedabad. You will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Ahmedabad Airport before exiting or taking an onward domestic flight.
Hi,
I am traveling from SFO to HYD via Delhi on April 26th. As I am traveling on Monday evening at 9:30 PM from SFO, I can only take covid test after Friday night 9:30 PM, which means I should take it on Saturday morning. I am not hopeful that I will get my result before Monday evening. Can I still board the flight here in SFO if I sign up for testing in Delhi on arrival ?
How long does it take for the RT-PCR test in Delhi airport and is it 24*7.. As my arrival is around 2 AM in the night and my connecting flight is 8 AM, will I able to take the test in the night and get result within time of my connecting flight ?
Hi Sasank! As per the guidelines, a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure is mandatory for all international arrivals into India. Please be advised to check with the airline.
I’m travelling from Toronto to Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh) via Delhi (22nd Apr). My layover in Delhi is 23 hrs and my covid test report will expire before taking connecting flight to Jabalpur. Do I need to do a covid test again in Delhi or in Jabalpur (MP)??
Hi Nain! No, you won’t require another test in Delhi or MP.
im flying to Port Blair via Chennai from Dubai. I will be carrying a RT-PCR report from Dubai. My transfer time at Chennai airport is 3 hours. Do i need to take another PCR test from Chennai airport for my flight to Port Blair or the report from Dubai will be accepted on arrival in Port Blair. the sample collection will be at 1130 IST on the 6th may and i will get my report on the 7th May and my flight to chennai is on the 7th May arriving chennai at 0240 IST on the 8th May. Domestic flight to Port Blair is at 0455 on the 8th May IST and arrival at port blair is 0730 IST on the 8th so this is still 48 hours from sample collection in Dubai. Will i have an issue or should i take another PCR test in Chennai Airport. I will not exit Chennai Airport at all besides the transfer from Intl to Domestic
Hi Pradeep! If your RT-PCR report issued in Dubai is valid by the time you will arrive in Port Blair, you need not take a another test for your travel to Port Blair from Chennai. FYI, you will have to give your swab sample for a molecular test on arrival at Chennai Airport before proceeding for the connecting flight, as per the guideline for those from the Middle East.
Hello ,
i am flying for London to Kolkata via Delhi. How much time gap is sufficient for RT PCR test in Delhi.
Hi Saurabh! You need atleast 6-8 hours generally to get the result of the molecular test taken on arrival at Delhi Airport. Only if you test negative in the molecular test, you will be allowed to board your connecting flight to Kolkata.
Hello,
Do RT-PCR test reports at Delhi Airport for International Departures have QR Code as required by UAE Airlines?
Hi Lalit! We have no idea about this. Please be advised to call the helpline of Delhi Airport.
Need to fly from Canada to DEL urgently. Do not have time for a negative PCR test, can I take the test in Delhi?
Hi Sanjay! As per the guidelines, a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report is mandatory for international arrivals. One can seek exemption from pre-arrival COVID report on Air Suvidha portal but it is only in the case of death in the family. Please be advised to check with the airline.
Hello – I am flying from Kolkata to Doha to Dallas. Does Kolkata airport have an authorized COVID testing lab that can provide PCR test results in 4-6 hours ? URGENT
Hi Anup! Please be advised to call the Kolkata International Airport.
Hello there, i am flying from dammam, saudi arabia to delhi. after 4 hour i have a connecting flight delhi to surat. there is 4 hour gap. suppose if i am carrying rt pcr negative report before 72 hours, is there any issue to catch delhi to surat flight ?
Hi Pratik! No, there won’t be any issue mostly. You will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport despite having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report. You will be allowed to take your connecting flight without having to wait for the result.
Hi All, i am flying from london UK to Bangalore. After 5 hours i have a connecting flight bangalore to Madurai. there is only 5 hour gap. Do we have a Rapid RT-PCR test option available in Bangalore airport for UK passengers which will take just 15 minutes to get the results?
Hi Hari! No, rapid RT-PCR testing at Bangalore Airport is not available for passengers arriving from UK. Source: https://aurigaresearch.com/covid-19-testing/
Hi, I am traveling from Newyork (EWR) to Aurangabad (IXU) via Delhi ( Layover of 7 hr.s ) on 20th May Air India.
I have a Vaccination card with me ( 2 doses completed ).
On 17th May, I am going to take a saliva-based RT PCR test from my university which conducted weekly by “Bergen New Bridge Medical Center” within 72 hr.s before the flight.
The results I have to download from the official website which is available the next day.
The test result does not contain any stamp/sign/bar code on it.
1. So is this saliva-based RT PCR test from the official website will be considered valid on arrival to Delhi.
2. As I am going to travel to Maharashtra from Delhi and according to state rule I have to produce the RT PCR test conducted within the last 48 hr.s. So, I am going to take another saliva-based RT PCR test on 19th May from my University so that I will have its result with me on mobile till I reach Delhi. Will that work or I have to take another RT PCR at Delhi airport?
Your help will be appreciated.
Thank you
Hi Yogesh! A sign or stamp from the lab is required on the RT-PCR test to travel to India. If you have a negative RT-PCR report from an ICMR approved lab not older 48 hours from the time of swab sample collection, then you can travel from Delhi to Aurangabad with that report.
Hi, From the Air India official website it seems they want a negative RT PCR test and there is no mention of a specific type (Saliva Vs nasal swab). Also, I talked to the Air India customer service multiple times, and every time they mentioned RT PCR should be mentioned on the report but they were not aware of able to tell about which type should be taken since on their DB the type was not mentioned. So I assume so far if my report contains my name, DOB, RT PCR mentioned on it and negative as result I should not have any issue. (In the USA I did not found any lab giving stamp, sign since it is digital and available as a health record on the official website on my account which tells its authenticity).
Travelling on 28th May from London Heathrow to Aurangabad via Mumbai layover is 8 hours I am taking RT Pcr Fit to Fly certificate from Uk. Do i still need to take a test at Mumbai. and do i get home quarantine at Aurangabad.
Hi Rubin! Travelers coming from the UK to Mumbai with their final destination within the state of Maharashtra are subject to 7-day institutional quarantine if they are not fully vaccinated with both doses of COVID-19 vaccine or if they do not come under any of the other exempted category. Please be advised to go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
Hello – I will be traveling from US to Delhi and will only stay at Delhi airport for about 24-25 hours before boarding a flight back to US. I am coming just to bring my old parents to US. Can I use the same RT-PCR test I would do while in US before boarding the flight to India for the flight back if it is within 72 hours? Or, would the airline require me to have an India based test?
Hi Ashish! As per the website of US CDC, If a trip is shorter than 3 days, a viral test taken in the United States can be used to fulfill the requirements of the Order as long as the specimen was taken no more than three days before the return flight to the US departs. So yes, you can use the same RT-PCR report taken in US if it fits within the 72 hour time frame. Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html
Hi, I will be travelling from US to Delhi via Doha. Then have to board a flight to Coimbatore. I will be carrying RT-PCR test result taken 72hrs before. Will I have to take molecular test upon arrival in Delhi? If so how long will I have to wait for the result?
Hi Sangeetha! Yes, you have to undergo a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport despite having a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report. You will be allowed to take your connecting flight to Coimbatore without having to wait for the result.
Hi, Incase I want to travel from Delhi to Bangalore, do I need to produce Covid negative test result in Delhi airport?
Hi Shankar! As far as we know, negative RT-PCR report is not required to enter Bangalore from Delhi.
I am travelling to India from the US (just me with no kids)
Flight route is Los Angeles – Amsterdam – New Delhi – Lucknow
Should I get the RT PCR tests done in LA or book an appointment for Delhi?
Thanks
Reshmi
Hi Reshmi! As per the rules, a negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure is required to board your plane in LA.
Hi IndianEagle Team,
Good job for your hardwork. Your blog are very helpful for every1. I have few clarifications below.
I’m travelling to India on next month (July mid) from Netherlands (Route: Amsterdam –> Frankfurt –> Mumbai –> Chennai) with my wife and my kids one is 5.5 & other one is 11.5. Based on above all forum, I have understood that RT-PCR test is mandatory for all and submission of a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to travelling.
1) Me & my wife will be vaccinated soon. Ofcourse it will be done before our travel. Is Vaccination Report/Proof enough instead of RT-PCR Test Report if i get any vaccination report before i travel? ( For kids, ofcourse i will take PCR test).
2) I understood that from above if we come with kids <10 yrs old and get an exemption on institutional/home quarantines. Can i get exemption from institutional/home quarantines for all if i come with 5.5 yrs old in Chennai Airport?
3) Is Antigen Report required for all if we come from Netherlands? if not when is it required?
Hi Mahe! As per the current guidelines, negative RT-PCR report is mandatory for all international arrivals irrespective of their vaccination status. You won’t be subject to any institutional quarantine on arrival at Chennai Airport. You will mostly be allowed to exit the airport after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test.
Hello,
my dad is leaving from Los Angeles to Mumbai this morning the 22nd, for an unfortunate family death.
He is a US citizen with OCI. I am filling out the self-declaration forms on Air Suvidha plus the exemption form for the 72 hours prior to the arrival COVID negative test. I undestand he can take the covid test when he arrives in Mumbai. I found the link for booking the appointment as well.
Is there any other process/forms I should be aware of to prep and provide him?
Thank you for your assistance.
Hi Arpeeta! No, the self-declaration form and the exemption from pre-arrival RT-PCR report would be fine for his travel to India.
Hi,
I am planning travel along with my 2 kids aged 2 and 3 yrs from london to nagpur via mumbai/delhi with a stopover of 2:55 hrs.
I will carry rt pcr reports for all of us before boarding.
Can you please advise:
1. Do I need to undergo rt pcr testing for all of us upon arrival before taking connecting flight to nagpur?
2. Despite taking rapid test, layover of 2:55 mins is enough?
3. Is there any way I can get exemption on testing upon arrival for either all of us or kids?
Thanks
Hi Indian eagle team,
I have a Indigo ticket Mum to Dubai on 1st July 2021. Meeting all the requirements of Dubai guidelines for dubai residents.
Only item pending will be Rapid PCR from Mum airport 4 hrs prior to departure.
Find all other airlines except Indigo has suspended their flught
UAE Civil aviation authority has halted flights upto end july.
Mixed signals are confusing.
Request to advise if my plan of 1st July flight is feasible
Regards
Hi Dipayan! We cannot give you an assurance. Only the airline must know correctly.
Hi,
I will be travelling from Denmark via Doha to Delhi. I will be flying to Kolkata on the same day, albeit on a ticket I will purchase from Delhi airport. My question is do I have to wait for the results of the PCR test done at Delhi, before I can proceed to the domestic airport.
Regards, Rominder
Hi Rominder! No, you will be allowed to take your connecting domestic flight after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Delhi Airport without having to wait for the result.
1) As per the creator of the PCR test, he stated that it is not meant for COVID testing, with the cycle threshold rate set too high in the 40-45 range. This picks up all proteins that are normally found in the body and amplifies their detection, and FALSELY marks the person as COVID positive. You will have a huge number of false positives (90%+) with the PCR tests being used today. What cycle threshold rates are the PCR test machines set to at the Indian airports? It should be 20 based on the creator of the test. Anything above 20 and you are falsely marking people as COVID positive. The whole global lockdown is falsely being justified by use of a faulty PCR test that is creating ‘cases’ through the faulty setting and people should be informed of this. Correct the setting and all the cases will disappear today, i.e. no need for testing due to no pandemic.
2) If masks are being enforced, ‘the professionals’ are saying the virus can be in the mouth and nose, then why not take a simple swab from the mouth to test? Why is a LONG stick being shoved up peoples’ noses all the way to the blood-brain barrier causing damage to that sensitive membrane? This is being done to kids and babies also! Can you explain the logic of that? Do ‘the professionals’ have any clue what damage that PCR test does to children and adults, aside from the fact that it is a wrong test for COVID ?
Dear Team,
A friend of mine is travelling with 2 kids (under 9 years of age) from London Heathrow to Mumbai. I have following questions:
1. Do the kids need to carry RT-PCR test from the UK?
2. Do we need to get the RT-PCR test done again at Mumbai?
3. Is there a premium test service available for faster results?
Appreciate your assistance.
Hi Ajit! Yes, both the kids need to have a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report from the UK. Yes, you will be required to submit your swab sample for a molecular test upon arrival at Mumbai Airport and wait for the result. As per the website of the Mumbai Airport “Rapid RT-PCR test is available at a charge of Rs. 4500 per test and the results are provided in 1-2 hours”. Source: https://csmia.aero/covid-faqs.aspx
Hi
Me and kids are travelling from Doha to Chennai on 24 th July . We are vaccinated .
I would like to know what is the cost for the molecular test in chennai and should we have to wait for the results in the airport? Is there long waiting hours for the swab in the chennai airport?
Appreciate your assistance
Thanks
Meena
Hi Meena! The cost of RT-PCR test at Chennai Airport is INR 900. You won’t be required to wait for the results and will be allowed to exit the airport after submitting your swab samples for a molecular test. Please note you need to register on Tamil Nadu state government website and obtain TN e-pass.
Hi
I am travelling from Los Angeles to Mumbai via Dubai by Emirates with my 1-year old. I am fully vaccinated while she is not. If I take the normal PCR test at Mumbai (not rapid one), do I have to wait at Mumbai airport until the test results are out?
Also, I just read on Emirates website, since my daughter is not vaccinated, we will have to do institutional quarantine in Mumbai for 7 days. Is this the case even if we test negative in the PCR test in Mumbai?
Hi Deepika! No, you won’t be subject to institutional quarantine as you are fully-vaccinated as well as because parents accompanying kids below the age of 5 are exempted. You need not wait at Mumbai Airport since you will be allowed to exit the airport or take a connecting flight after submitting your swab sample for a molecular test. The result will later be conveyed through e-mail or over phone.
Hi Indianeagle,
I too am travelling to Mumbai in a few days. Do I have to book this “swab sample for molecular test?” or is there a standard operating procedure at Mumbai airport where ALL passengers just line up for taking this test? Also, how long does this procedure take? Thanks
Mike
Hi,
I am travelling from UK to Coimbatore via Mumbai, I will be travelling with a negative RT PCR test report, transit time in Mumbai is 7hr and 45 min, do I need to take another RT PCR test in Mumbai before taking connecting flight to Coimbatore? if yes how much time will it take to get the results. Also do I need to take another test after landing in Coimbatore?
Note : from the time I have taken my RT PCR test in UK, 72 hrs would have already passed before I take the connecting flight to coimbatore
Hi Biju! Yes, you will have to undergo a molecular test upon arrival at Mumbai Airport and will be allowed to travel further if you test negative. The normal RT-PCR gives result in 8-10 results, while the rapid RT-PCR test gives result in 1-2 hours. You might be required to submit your swab sample for another molecular test upon arrival Coimbatore Airport and then exit the airport. Please note you will have to register on Tamil Nadu State government website and obtain TN e-pass.
Hi, Thank you so much for your reply, I forgot to add one point I have got both the doses of vaccine from UK, hope still I need to get RT PCR test at both Mumbai and Coimbatore?
I do not have a India mobile number to register for epass, is there any different option for getting epass for this case?
Hello,
I would be travelling to Ahmedabad from Montreal, end of Aug. I have taken both my vaccine shots and would be uploading the proof of vaccination on the Air Suvidha website. Please advise,
(1) would I be needed to self quarantine at home on reaching my destination, Ahmedabad
(2) how do I register for the rapid RT-PCR test to be held at the Ahmedabad airport? What is the cost?
(3) do I need to have the RT-PCR test done 72 hrs or 96 hrs prior to my flight from origin (Montreal)
Thank you.
Hi Arzaan! Mostly you will be advised to self-monitor your health for 14 days. You will be required to upload your negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours prior to your departure from Montreal along with submitting self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal. The rapid RT-PCR test costs around INR 4000. Please be advised to contact the helpline of Ahmedabad International Airport regarding pre-booking of test.
My wife and 4 year old are traveling from ATL to AMS to Mumbai (final destination) in a couple of days. My wife is fully vaccinated (Pfizer) but my kid is not. She will have proof of vaccination and both will have proof of -ve RT-PCR test results taking within 72 hours of travel. Do they need to take a molecular test on arrival and wait in the airport for the results? I heard there is a rapid molecular test with provides results in minutes. Is there a way to schedule that in advance?
Hi Raj! Yes, they will be required to undergo a molecular test on arrival at Mumbai Airport. But they need not wait for the result and can exit the airport after submitting their swab sample for a molecular test.
Hello Team,
I am traveling from London to Nagpur via Delhi on 2-Aug. We are 3 passengers (2 adults are fully vaccinated, 9 years 1 child).
Do we need RT-PCR before boarding a domestic flight from Delhi to Nagpur?
How much time is needed to get the RT-PCR results at Delhi airport?
Thanks
Hi Avinash! Fully-vaccinated passengers whose second dose was administered at least 15 days prior to arrival need not present negative RT-PCR report on arrival at Nagpur Airport. However, you will be tested upon arrival at Delhi Airport because your journey originates from UK. You will be allowed to board your flight to Nagpur only if you test negative. The result may take 8-10 hours but it depends on the rush at the airport on a given day.
Hi There,
I am travelling from Toronto via Dubai arriving in Delhi on Aug 13. I have to take a flight to Lucknow then. I will be travelling with a RT PCR report and am fully vaccinated. Do I need to give a RT PCR test at Delhi airport and wait for the results?
Thanks,
Hi Rishi! You will be able to proceed for the domestic flight after giving your swab sample for a molecular test at Delhi Airport.
Hello,
I’ll travel from UK to Bangalore in 3rd week of this month and then catch a flight to Coimbatore to arrive actual destination. Do I need pre-book any covid tests? in Bangalore or Coimbatore? And TN e-Registration, as I travel from UK to Bangalore and then a separate flight(not connecting flight) to Coimbatore, do I need register in TN e-Registration? If so, What I have to fill for ‘Destination Airport’ in TN e-Registration form? Where and how can i get Quarantine Exemption Certificate(looks like its mandatory)?
Hi Nav! You need to fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha portal and upload your pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report not older than 72 hours before departure onto the same portal. You will have to undergo RT-PCR test upon arrival at Bangalore Airport and only be allowed to take a connecting flight to Coimbatore after testing negative. You can pre-book the test here http://aurigaresearch.in/. Yes, you need to obtain TN e-pass and your destination airport will be Coimbatore.
Hello,
I will be travelling from Houston to Mumbai (final destination) via United on Aug 25. I am fully vaccinated since April. In light of the recent announcement by Maharashtra Government on July 15 of RT-PCR exemption for fully vaccinated passengers (including international), do I still need to take the RT-PCR test 72 hrs before departure if my final destination is Mumbai?
Thanks.
Hi Amit! If you fly directly to Mumbai from Houston (not via a third country or any other airport in India), you are exempted from taking a pre-arrival RT-PCR test for being fully vaccinated. Hope it addresses your query.
I am flying with my family next week from London, UK to Mumbai CSTIA. 2 adults fully vaccinated in UK well over 14 days ago. Do i need to have a pre departure RT PCR test?
Hi Rashid! Pre-departure RT-PCR test is not required.
Thanks IE. There are two ways fit to fly certs are issued here in the UK. At home test sample which are sent to the lab and other is in lab. Both are from government approved providers. As it is for my two and six year old children, i was hoping to use the at home sample option and send it off to the lab. Do you know if these are accepted by the airline and authorities at Mumbai airport?
Thanks
Hi Rashid. No matter a test is taken at home or outside. Make sure that the test certificate has a valid signature and a stamp from an authorized lab.
Hello,
I am flying from London to Mumbai, landing on 20th Aug. I will take a RT-PCR test 72 hours before my flight and would have been fully vaccinated (Pfizer) 14 days before the day I land.
Please could you help with 3 questions?
1) If my RT-PCR test is negative, will I need to take a molecular test at Mumbai Airport?
2) If my RT-PCR test is negative, will I need to institutional quarantine?
3) I will complete my self declaration form and carry my RT-PCR test results and proof of vaccination. Is there any other document I need to complete?
Thank you in advance, really appreciate the support you are providing 🙂
Hi Rish! Being fully vaccinated, you are exempted from institutional quarantine in Mumbai. There’s no other document to carry. On arrival at Mumbai Airport, you may be asked to fill out a health declaration form. That’s it. You may be needed to take a test at Mumbai Airport because of your travel origin being the UK.
Thank you for your kind response.
However, I would have been vaccinated 14 days before arrival. Isn’t the requirement to be vaccinated 15 days before arrival for exemption from the pre-departure RT-PCR test and quarantine?
I will definitely carry a negative RT-PCR report anyways so can they still ask me to take a test at Mumbai Airport? If yes, then will I have to wait for my result or can I go home and wait for their email?
Thank you in advance
Hi Rish! It must be, at least, 15 days between your scheduled departure from London and the final dose of a vaccine for exemption from taking a pre-departure RT-PCR test. As far as we known, UK travelers are required to wait for the test result at Mumbai Airport. Please share your experience if you find this regulation relaxed for UK travelers.
Thanks, I will let you know of my experience.
Are you saying we have to wait for 8 hours at the airport for the test result even if I have a negative RT-PCR report? I will definitely have the negative report and I will have been fully vaccinated 14 days before I land in Mumbai. Will I still have to wait for 8 hours?!! That would be truly painful!!
Hi Rish! Undeniably it is painful. But there is no way out. Travelers from the UK need to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival despite being fully vaccinated and having a pre-departure negative RT-PCR report.
I also want to clarify that I am not taking a connecting flight to any state outside Maharashtra.
Mumbai is my final destination.
See the following FAQs. Question 3 says only those taking connecting flights outside of Maharashtra have to do the test at Mumbai Airport.
Question 5 says that passengers who want to stay in Maharasthra have to do a 7 day institutional quarantine but those with both vaccine doses are exempt. It does NOT say that the vaccine needs to be received 15 days before.
Could you tell me what is your source for the 15 day vaccination requirement? Also, are you saying that covid test is required only for those with connecting flights or for everyone?
https://csmia.adaniairports.com/faqs.aspx
Hi Rajram! Mumbai/Maharashtra being your final destination, you are subject to 7-day institutional quarantine. If you are fully vaccinated, you are eligible for exemption from institutional quarantine. If your vaccination was completed at least 15 days before you undertake the travel to India, you are exempted from taking a pre-departure RT-PCR test (which is otherwise mandatory for every international arrival).
Hi there – Thanks for all the tips and advice. Is it possible to prebook my PCR test at the Chennai Airport? I am arriving in Chennai from London (via Doha on Qatar)
Hi Tony! There is no option to pre-book a test at Chennai Airport. You will be scheduled to undergo a test on arrival.
Your original article and subsequent discussions/responses have been quite helpful. Especially with very little information available for international arrivals who have to take various domestic connections.
I have some queries for a travel I am planning.
I am a fully vaccinated traveler (more than 30 days after 2nd dose) from Belgium who will be flying into Mumbai from Brussels (Brussels – Amsterdam – Mumbai). I will have the necessary RT-PCR test results prior to departure. From Mumbai I have to take onward domestic connection to Kerala (separate tickets). I have the following queries:
1) Should the RT-PCR test taken prior to departure be <72h before arrival in Mumbai or <72h before start of journey?
2) Could you please share information/link to the directive where international fully vaccinated travelers are exempt from institutional quarantine when they arrive in Mumbai?
3) Is there a facility within Mumbai airport to get additional RT-PCR upon arrival (if mandatory)? Is it possible to pre-book testing slots for such a facility?
4) As a vaccinated traveler arriving into Mumbai, should I wait for the test results (from the test on arrival at Mumbai airport) before I take my onward domestic flight? Or can I proceed already with only sample collection? This effectively determines when I can take a domestic connection 🙂
Will highly appreciate your feedback based on the most recent updates in directives 🙂
Kind Regards,
Avinash
Hi Avinash! You should take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of boarding the flight in Brussels. If you are fully vaccinated and have an original vaccination certificate, you are exempted from institutional quarantine in Mumbai (Our article provides correct and authentic information). No need to take an additional RT-PCR test on arrival at Mumbai Airport. You will be asked to give your swab sample for a molecular test. Most probably, you will be allowed to proceed for the domestic flight without having to wait for the test result.
Thanks a lot.
Are you saying we have to wait for 8 hours at the airport for the test result even if I have a negative RT-PCR report?
I will definitely have the negative report and I will have been fully vaccinated 14 days before I land in Mumbai. Will I still have to wait for 8 hours?!! That would be truly painful!!
Hi,
I am travelling from the UK and will arrive in Mumbai, then connecting flight to Delhi and then flight to Prayagraj hopefully the same day.
I am fully vaccinated more than 15 days back. I also have got a pre-departure RT-PCR test. Please let me know:
1. If pre-departure RT-PCR was still required if travelling from the UK even if fully vaccinated?
2. Do I need to get RT-PCR in Mumbai?
3. Where can I get the RT-PCR link for Mumbai as I get Delhi one only?
4. Do I need to wait for PCR result in Mumbai/ Delhi?
Thanks!
Hi Ahmad! If you are traveling directly from the UK to Mumbai, you don’t need to take a pre-departure RT-PCR test as you are fully vaccinated. On arrival, you will undergo a molecular test and wait for the test result. Please visit the website of Mumbai Airport where you will find the link to the COVID-19 test booking portal.
Hi,
I’m travelling from Mumbai airport to San Francisco via Dubai on Emirates airlines. I’m required to take an Covid RT PCR test 72 hours before boarding the flight for the United States.
Is there an EXPRESS Covid RT PCR testing available in Mumbai Terminal BEFORE immigration, i.e. in the common area where the passengers are checked-in so that I can go an take the test, get the resul and use it to board my flight. If the testing in ONLY PAST immigration, then I can’t take this test and the airline or immigration won’t allow me to board. Thank you.
Mike
Hi Mike! First, be sure that an Express COVID RT-PCR test report is accepted for travel to the US. Be advised to visit the website of Mumbai Airport and check the exact location of a COVID testing center at the airport.
Hi I am flying from Newark to Bangalore via Delhi or Mumbai. I have not gotten my ticket yet. There is an 9-12 hour layover in Delhi/Mumbai. I was planning to stay at a hotel over night before taking the domestic leg.
I am fully vaccinated. Do I need to take a test to leave Delhi/Mumbai Airport and re-enter?
Is the 9-12 hour layover sufficient to stay at a hotel and come back (including testing time, if I need to). I plan to stay very close to the terminal.
-Rahul
Hi Rahul! If you travel with a negative RT-PCR report on a nonstop flight from Newark to Delhi or Mumbai, you don’t need to take a test on arrival at Delhi or Mumbai. You can exit and re-enter Mumbai or Delhi Airport.
A follow up question: what if I am still flying out of USA and transit though Doha or Abu Dhabi on the way to Bangalore (direct to Bangalore though this time). Do I need to take a test and wait for a positive result, just because I transiting through Doha/Abu Dhabi?
There would be no air bubble in this case.
Hi Rahul! On arrival at BLR Airport, you will give your swab sample for a test. Most probably, you won’t have to wait for the result at the airport.
Hi, I’m planning to travel from the UK to Delhi and then taking a domestic flight to Lucknow. I’m fully vaccinated over 15 days.
Do I need a PCR test report to get on British Airways?
Do I still need to take the molecular test at Delhi and wait for the result before taking my flight to Lucknow?
Can I take Rapid test instead of PCR test at Delhi airport to make it quick?
Do I need to quarantine in Lucknow?
Can you also recommend PCR testing place in Lucknow which is accepted internationally (mainly by the UK) for my departure from Lucknow to return back to the UK please.
Thanks in advance for your response.
Hi Garima! Despite your vaccination status, you need to take an RT-PCR test in the UK and a self-paid PCR test on arrival at Delhi Airport. Travelers from the UK are not allowed to take a Rapid test. Based on the result of the test you will take at Delhi Airport, you will be advised 7-day home quarantine in Lucknow, your final destination.
I will be travelling from Dubai to Delhi. I am not vaccinated. Will I be required to undergo any institutional quarantine?
Hi Sanjay! Based on the negative result of the test you will take before travel and the negative result of the test you will take on arrival at Delhi Airport, you will be given exemption from institutional quarantine.
Thanks. Do we need to wait at the airport to await the result? Or we can just give the sample and leave?
Hi Indianeagle,
I’m travelling to Mumbai from San Franciso via Dubai. I’ll be taking the RT PCR test in SF (within 72 hours) AND I’m fully vaccinated with the 2nd Pfizer mRNA shot take in Feb 2021.
After getting out of the airport, I’m travelling by car to Gujarat, are there any procedures that I need to go through to travel by car to Gujarat from Mumbai airport OR am I treated just like I’m entering Mumbai. Thanks.
Mike
Hi Mike! Make sure to produce a proof of your domestic travel (by car) from Mumbai Airport to your final destination, Gujarat so that you get exempted from institutional quarantine on arrival in Mumbai.
Thank you Indianeagle,
Bu, am I not exempted from institutional quarantine anyways becasue I’m fully vaccinated with the 2nd shot more that 15 days earlier than the travel day? Thanks.
Mike
Hello Im travelling from UK to Goa via Mumbai. I’m double vaccinated. If I’m understanding correctly I need a negative PCR Test 72 hours before flying and will still have to undergo a molecular test and wait for the result before travelling on to Goa. How long should I allow for this please? Also is it possible to stay at the Niranta Hotel whilst waiting for the result or is there a specific place you have to stay?
Hi Jane! You may have to wait 6-8 hours for the test result at Mumbai Airport. You will not be allowed to exit the terminal until the test result is confirmed negative.
Thank you. Maybe as the niranta has an airside wing for transit passengers I can stay there whilst waiting. Fingers crossed.
Hi,
How does one book the covid test at Kolkata airport on arrival (I will be arriving at CCU airport).
Thanks
Hi,
I am traveling from LHR to BOM in next week. and I have taken only one vaccine dose. I will be carrying my RTPCR report with me. So as per current guidelines (Mumbai Airport), will I have to go for mandatory Institutional Quarantine? If yes, How can I get exempted from Hotel quarantine. How can I opt for Home quarantine/no quarantine at all?
I was also thinking if I go to Delhi instead of BOM and then take domestic flight to BOM, Will I have to do RTPCR again at Delhi airport? Can this way save me from being hotel quarantined? Can I travel via domestic flight from Delhi to Mumbai after coming through international.
I am so confused.
Hi Priyanka! If you choose to arrive at Delhi first, you will have take to a self-paid RT-PCR test and wait for the test result. On testing negative, you will able to proceed for the connecting domestic flight.
If I take RTPCR at Delhi airport and catch my domestic flight for Mumbai ,will I be hotel quarantined in Mumbai? (As I am an International Traveler). And what if I directly come to Mumbai from LHR? My main question is all about Hotel Quarantine. How can I skip hotel quarantine in Delhi or in Mumbai?
Hi Priyanka! If you test negative at Delhi Airport, you will be allowed to board your connecting flight to Mumbai and then proceed towards home quarantine. But if you fly to Mumbai directly, you will be subject to institutional quarantine since you are not fully vaccinated.
Hi,
I am flying from Chennai to Calgary through London via British Airways. can I take a RT-PCR test in Chennai airport before immigration, and will those results hold good for my travel to Canada?
Hi Veena! You can take an RT-PCR test at Chennai Airport but it will take hours to get the result.
Hi I am travelling from Germany to Mumbai via Bangalore in two weeks. I am fully vaccinated and more than 30 days have passed since the date of second vaccine. Do I still need to take an RT-PCR test 72 hours before my flight from Germany to Bangalore? Is there a secondary test requirement at Bangalore airport? My connecting flight to Mumbai is 11 hours later, so will I be able to exit the terminal and check in to a hotel in this time?
Hi KG! As per India’s entry guidelines, it is mandatory to take an RT-PCR test before boarding your flight from Germany. You will provide your swab sample on arrival at BLR Airport and can exit the airport or proceed for the connecting flight without waiting for the test result.
Hi Indiaeagle,
Thanks for your helpful comments above, really appreciate it.
I’m also fully vaccinated, more than 15 days before travelling & departing from UK direct to Delhi with an RTPCR test done within the 72hour window. I’m exiting Delhi by car.
1. For this leg, you mentioned to someone above that a proof is needed for domestic travel by car? Would the Reg no. of the car do, or something else is needed?
2. As Ive flown non stop, will I still have to wait at airport for my result, or can I exit the airport after the test & get the result sent to me?
For my return, Im getting a flight back from Chandigarh to Mumbai, then on to UK with a 4-5 hour stopover at Mumbai. I’d really like to know if:
3. I need an RTPCR Test again in the 72 hr window of my return or will another test like an antigen/ molecular be fine?
4. Will I have to undergo another test at Mumbai airport for my flight back to the UK? My stop there is only under 5 hours.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Misha! On arrival at Delhi Airport, you may asked about your domestic travel plans. No particular proof of domestic travel by car is required. The UK being your travel origin, you may be allowed to exit the airport after giving your swab sample. While traveling back, you need to take an RT-PCR test. No other test at Mumbai Airport.
I have one flight from Dhaka to Kolkata on 10 September 2021. And I have the next flight from Kolkata to Bengaluru after 3 hours of arrival. Now my question is will I be able to join my next flight if I do the RT-PCR test at Kolkata airport and usually how much time it takes to get the result after giving the sample
Hi Swarup! As per India’s entry guidelines, you need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling from Dhaka. As per Karnataka’s guidelines for travelers from Bangladesh, you will give your swab sample for a PCR test at BLR Airport.
Hi,
I am travelling with my family from UK to Pune who all are fully vaccinated except my 16 year old son who has had one dose of vaccine. We will be in India for 2 to 3 weeks only. Will appreciate information on following:
What are the latest rules now for travelling into Mumbai airport as most Government websites still states 7 days institutional quarantine followed by home quarantine.?
After taking RT_PCR test at Mumbai airport on arrival do we have to wait for test results before we can exit, if so, how long is the wait?
If we fly into Delhi and then take a connecting flight to Pune, how long should we consider safe transit time while waiting for test results?
Is it better to fly into Bangalore then to Pune?
Thank you for your support.
Hi Nitin! As per Maharashtra’s new guidelines that took effect today, September 3, there is no institutional quarantine for all international arrivals. All of you, including the 16-year-old, have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Mumbai Airport. As far as we know, if you don’t have a connecting flight from Mumbai Airport, you can exit the airport after giving your swab sample for a mandatory RT-PCR test. If you have a connecting flight to catch at Mumbai Airport, you will have to wait for the test result. You will be able to continue the journey on confirmation of a negative test report. Up to 8 hours is the wait time for the result of a regular RT-PCR test, which costs Rs 600 per person. 1-2 hours is the wait time of the result of a rapid RT-PCR test which costs Rs 4500 per person. You can go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/mumbai-quarantine-rule-international-flyers/
Hello, I believe you have posted incorrect information regarding domestic connecting flights for passengers arriving from UK/EU. It is not necessary for passengers to wait for negative test results in order to board the domestic connecting flight. The passengers can simply board the connecting flight after they have given the swab sample for the mandatory RT-PCR test.
Source: https://www.klm.com/travel/in_en/campaigns/travelrestrictions.htm
Cheers, Abdul
I am traveling from San Francisco to LHR to Delhi to Vadodara.
I am vaccinated with both doses for well over 14 days.
Do I have to have a negative RT-PCR test 72 hours prior to boarding from San Francisco ?
Do i have to have undergo the molecular/express test at Delhi airport ?
Will i be tested again in Vadodara ?
If my flight connection to Vadodara is in 3 hours can i make it ? OR what is the minimum time i need to get through arrival process.
Hi Bobby! You need to take a mandatory RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to boarding at SFO and upload the report on Air Suvidha. Due to the transit in the UK, you will undergo a molecular test at Delhi Airport. If you are found negative, you will be allowed to proceed for the connecting flight. Hence, 3-hour layover may not be sufficient. You won’t be tested again in Vadodara.
I am in similar situation. I heard that they do provide rapid RT-PCR test upon arrival for an additional fee. Is that true?
Hi Swathi! Delhi Airport’s COVID-19 test center also conducts rapid RT-PCR tests, which cost 5-6 times more than a regular RT-PCR test. However, The result of a rapid RT-PCR test comes in 1-2 hours.
I am Travelling from UK to New Delhi and I have a connecting flight from new Delhi to Patna.
I have a gap of 8 hours in between the arrival at delhi airport and my next flight.
I will be taking an RT-PCR from UK and will upload the same in Air subidha website.
While I am trying to book the RT-PCR slot at delhi airport after arrival, it gives me 3 options, (Normal RT-PCR(Rs1700), Rapid RT-PCR(Rs6200) and another type(Rs6700)). Which type of test do I need to book?
I am travelling from Patna to Guwahati via air after 3 days of arrival to Patna, will there be any issue with this trip?
Hi Deepsikha! A regular RT-PCR test takes up to 8 hours to give results while a rapid RT-PCR test gives result in 1-2 hours. As per the guidelines, travelers from UK will be subjected to 7-day home quarantine in the final destination. You can share your domestic travel plan with the deployed officers at Delhi Airport and seek exemption from it.
Hello:
I am flying from Austin (USA) to Delhi on Qatar Airways with a change of planes in Doha. My final destination is Delhi. I will have a RT-PCR test done in the US within 72 hours prior to departure from here. My questions are:
(i) will I need to get a PCR test done at Delhi airport upon arrival?
(ii) Will I need to wait at the airport until I receive the test results?
(iii) How long is the wait likely to be?
Thank you.
Hi Kapil! Yes, you will have to take a RT-PCR test on arrival at Delhi Airport. However, you will be allowed to exit the airport after submitting your swab sample without having to wait for the result.
Hi there! Next week I will be flying from San Francisco to Delhi (direct) and I will have a RT-PCR test done in San Francisco within 72 hours of my departure. From Delhi I will take a connecting flight to Patna. Will I need any to take additional test at Delhi airport before boarding the Patna flight and if so, how long should I allow for the process?
Thanks!
Hi Hena! Since you will travel on a direct flight (without transit in a third country), you may not need to take an RT-PCR test on arrival at Delhi Airport.
Thank you very much for offering this invaluable service to the Indian community! You rock!
Hi Hena! You’re welcome! Wish you a happy and safe trip!
Hi,
I am flying from London to Delhi. I am fully vaccinated and will get my RT-PCR test done within 72 hours prior to departure from here. However, I need to travel to a few places in India in different states and my questions are:
1) I have a flight from Delhi to Bhopal the next day I arrive in Delhi. Will I be able to leave at Delhi airport on the day of arrival after giving the RT-PCR test sample? Or will I need to wait at the Delhi airport for 6-7 hours to get a negative test report?
2) From what I have read, there needs to be home quarantine of 7 days at the final destination. But I will be staying in Delhi for a day before leaving for Bhopal the next day. Is this possible?
3) Is there any exemption possible for home quarantine and what is the process for that as I need to travel within Madhya Pradesh on the 4th day after reaching Bhopal for a wedding.
4) Where can I find the rules for domestic travel from Delhi to Madhya Pradesh and then later on I need to travel from Madhya Pradesh to West Bengal. Will I need to do RT-PCR testing for domestic travel as well?
5) Lastly, for my return flight from Delhi to London, I will be arriving in Delhi a day before from Kolkata. I am guessing I can get my RT-PCR test done in Kolkata 72 hours before or will I need to take the test again in Delhi?
Thanks a lot for your help.
Hi Swapnil! On arrival, you can share your domestic travel plans with the officers deployed at Delhi International Airport so that the 7-day home quarantine policy can be relaxed for you. If you take a rapid RT-PCR test, which costs more than Rs 5000 per person, at Delhi Airport, you will get the result in 1-2 hours. A regular RT-PCR test costs approximately Rs 1000 but gives results in 6-8 hours. Fully-vaccinated travelers don’t need to take an RT-PCR test for travel to Kolkata. You need to take an RT-PCR within 72 hours before boarding your international flight from Delhi.
Thanks for your reply. Given I have around 24 hours in Delhi, if I go for regular RT-PCR test, will they allow me to go out in Delhi airport after the test without waiting for the result? The result can come in 6-8 hours which will be ok for my flight to Bhopal the next day?
And do you know of cases where the officers deployed at Delhi airport are flexible if I show them the travel plans, they are going to relax the 7 day home quarantine rule?
Would you know if they consider full vaccination from UK for domestic travel to Kolkata?
Any domestic travel requirements from Delhi to Bhopal?
Thanks again for your help
Hi,
I am travelling on a direct flight from Newark to Mumbai on United Airlines, and then to Bhopal and will have an RT PCR before I board at Newark, my connecting flt from Mumbai to Bhopal is after 12 hrs, Can i go out at the Mumbai airport and catch my connecting flight to Bhopal without another RT PCR at Mumbai? My RT PCR from the US would be within the 72 hrs when I board the flt to Bhopal.
Hi Shweta! As far as we know, you will be allowed to exit and re-enter the airport.
Flying Washington Dulles (IAD) – London Heathrow – Chennai (MAA) in second week of October 2021. I’m vaccinated and will have a RT-PCR test 72 hours per current guidelines. Questions:
1. Do I need to upload report to Air Suvidha portal and also complete self declaration form?
2. Do I need to get RT-PCR a test after I land in Chennai?
3. Do I need to wait at the airport for a result?
4. Do I need to home quarantine?
5. Where can I get a TN e-pass number?
I’m returning Chennai – Frankfurt — Washington Dulles (IAD) in early November 2021.
1. What are the requirements for transiting through Frankfurt
2. For return to USA do I need RT-PCR 72 hours or 96 hours prior to departure?
Thank you.
Hi Rajaram! You need to upload a negative RT-PCR report and fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha. On arrival at Chennai, you will have to give your swab sample for a PCR test. Most probably, you will have to wait for the test result. You will be subject to 7-day home quarantine. You can register for TN e-pass on https://tnepass.tnega.org/.
Hi,
I had a flight from London via frankfurt to Mumbai and you needed either Schengen, Japan, Canadian or a US visa to be able to transit. If you don’t have either then you need to apply for a Transit Schengen Visa. But if you have a US visa you’ll be fine. https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/transit-schengen-visa/
Hi, I am travelling from the UK to Ahmedabad via Delhi. I am fully vaccinated before 30 days. I will be uploading RT-PCR test results before boarding the flight to the UK
1. Do I need to book an RT-PCR test at Delhi Airport to catch a flight to Ahmedabad? If yes, What time slot one should book as slots are available in one hour slot booking an hour after arrival time should be fine?
Delhi Airport is not having Facility to test under 5 are under 5 children are exempt from RT-PCR for further travel?
Thank you!
Hi KV! Yes, you will be required to undergo a RT-PCR test upon arrival at Delhi Airport and wait for the result. You will be allowed to take your connecting flight to Ahmedabad only after testing negative. No, there is no such exemption for kids under 5 years of age from getting tested on arrival.
Hi,
I am travelling from EWR (Newark) to CCU (Kolkata) via Emirates flight that leaves next Friday 2355 (5 minutes before midnight).
For the RT-PCR test, does the 72 hour “prior” duration start from the flight departure time? Or is the flight departure date not included for the 72 hour “prior” duration? So, for my flight on Friday, is the earliest that I can go for RT-PCR test a Tuesday (if flight departure date is not included) or Wednesday (if flight departure time is included)? Kindly clarify this for me.
Also, will I have to take a molecular test at Kolkata even with a negative RT-PCR test?
Thanks.
Hi Jayesh! As per India’s entry guidelines you need to take an RT-PC test within 72 hours prior to the scheduled departure from the US. Due to the transit in the Middle East, you may have to give your swab sample for a molecular test on arrival at Kolkata Airport.
I am traveling from US to Banglore via Qatar. I have a connecting flight to Manglore the same day after I land in Banglore.
I am fully vaccinated and will also upload my RT_PCR report before traveling. I understand I have to undergo testing at Banglore airport but do I have to wait for my test results before taking my connecting flight to Manglore? I want to understand how much time should I keep between my landing in Banglore and my connecting flight to Manglore.
Hi Ajay! As per the guidelines, you don’t need to wait for the test result at BLR Airport.
I am traveling to Banglore from US via Qatar. My final destination is Manglore, Karnataka.
I understand I need to get a RT-PCR test done at Banglore airport on landing but do I need to wait for my test results or can I take my connecting flights without getting the test results.
How much time should I have between landing from my international flight and domestic connecting flight to be on the safe side?
Also, I need to return back to US within 7-8 days; Can I do that or do I need to go through mandatory 7-14 days quarantine?
Hi Ajay! If the result of the test that you will take on arrival at BLR Airport is negative, you will be advised self-monitoring of health for 7-14 days. Hence, you will be able to travel back in a week of arrival.
I will be reaching Delhi from SFO around Sep 30th midnight and I have a flight to Dehradun on Oct 1st 9.50pm. Will I have enough time to take a RT-PCR test in New Delhi airport as Dehradun City requires negative covid test and the one I would have taken for my international trip would be beyond 72 hours by then?
Hi Somu! You will be allowed to take your connecting flight from Delhi to Dehradun upon having pre-arrival negative RT-PCR report from US and remaining asymptomatic. You won’t be required to undergo another test at Delhi Airport on arrival.
I will be travelling from From Frankfurt to Kolkata via Mumbai. I would like to know some of the following-
1) Is there a facility to book the RTPCR test in advance? If so, may I get the link? is it a government test facility or a private diagnostics?
2) Do I have to wait for the RTPCR result before I board the connecting flight?
3) How long does it take to get the RTPCR result after sample submission?
Hi Souvik! Yes, you can pre-book RT-PCR test at Mumbai Airport through this link: https://covid19.suburbandiagnostics.com/signin. You will be required to wait for the result and will be allowed to take your connecting flight only if the result is negative. A normal RT-PCR test takes up to 8 hours while a rapid RT-PCR test which costs 4 to 5 times more gives result in 1-2 hours.
Hi, my inlaws are planning to travel to canada from Visakhapatnam —> Delhi —> Toronto.
Can they get tested at visakhapatnam 72 hours prior to boarding the flight or Do they need to get RT- PCR test at delhi only. How long will the results take as they have international flight in 5 hours after landing in delhi?
Hi Sesha! They should take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to boarding the flight at Visakhapatnam.
I am travelling to Mumbai from JFK airport. Is it 3 days or 72 hours for the RT PCR test? Will they honor if the RT PCR test samples were taken on the 76th hour before departure? For example, my departure is on Wednesday, Oct 13th, 9 PM from JFK. Can I take a test on Sunday, Oct 9th at 5 PM or I should go for the test on Monday, Oct 10th morning. The test results takes anywhere from 2 to 3 days. I want to make sure I have the RT PCT results before flying. Please advise. Thanks!
Hi Sunil! You need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to boarding at JFK Airport. Chances are high that you will be denied boarding because of the sample given more than 72 hours before the scheduled departure.
Hello
I am traveling to Mumbai via Doha. My destination of origin in Croatia. I will be travelling with a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours. Would i still have to do a PCR test on arrival? If yes, how much does it cost and how long will I have to wait for the test result?
Thanking you in advance
Hi Diksha! Maharashtra’s guidelines require you to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Mumbai Airport. You may not have to wait for the test result. A regular RT-PCR test costs Rs 600 per person, while a rapid RT-PCR test costs Rs 4800 per person.
Hi,
I have a flight from London to Vizag via Delhi. The stopover time at delhi is 4hrs 20mins. Is it sufficient to get a rapid RT PCR test if i book in advance?
Thanks in advance
Hi Sandeep! The layover time is sufficient if you opt for a rapid RT-PCR test, the result of which will be available in 1 hour.
Hi Indianeagle,
Thanks for your response. I spoke to the Delhi Airport authorities and they told me that I would have to take the normal RT PCR test. Can you please advice if you know of any transit passengers who were allowed to take the Rapid RT PCR test.
Also, my wife is pregnant and we have 3 yr old travelling with us, so would we get any priority in getting the normal RT PCR tests early?
Hi Sandeep! You got the correct information from the airport authorities. Since you will travel from London, you will have to take a regular RT-PCR test. You can pre-book a slot for COVID testing prior to your arrival at Delhi Airport. You will find the test booking option on the website of Delhi Airport.
Hi,
I am travelling from London Heathrow to Delhi and have a connecting flight to Jammu after 5 hours. Is there an option at Delhi airport to get the RT PCR test done quicker by paying more? I heard that they have rapid RT PCR test if you pay Rs.3900 which I am willing to pay so that I can catch my Jammu flight within 5 hours of landing at Delhi airport.
Please advise.
Hi Samit! You can pre-book a rapid RT-PCR test before your scheduled arrival at Delhi Airport. You will get the result in one hour. Please visit the website of New Delhi Airport, where you will find the provision for COVID test booking.
Hi Indianeagle,
I called the Delhi airport and they are telling me that there is so such Rapid PCR test for incoming passengers to Delhi. It seems that all the incoming passengers are alllowed to take the normal Rs. 500 RT PCR test and wait for the results before they can travel further.
They told me that the rapid PCR test is only for people flying out of india to countries like Canada and UAE. Can you please help clarify the exct info pls?
I am happy to pay Rs.3900 per person for the rapid test so that i can get the results in an hour and travel further to Jammu accordingly.
Hi,
When I try to pre-book the test, I do see the option for the rapid PCR test (at a higher cost) when the transit passenger info is entered. This would mean rapid PCR tests are available for arriving transit passengers at Delhi. Is this not right?
Thanks.
Hi..
If i am booking RT PCR test on arrival at delhi IGI airport, do i still need get RT PCR test done within 96 hours before departure?
How much time results will take at Delhi IGI AIRPORT?
Hi Nandini! It is mandatory to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours (not 96 hours) prior to undertaking travel to India. If you opt for a regular RT-PCR test, you will get the result within 5-7 hours. If you opt for a rapid RT-PCR test, you will get the result in one hour. May we know where you will travel from?
Hi!
Im arriving in Delhi from Vienna (Austria), via Frankfurt (Germany) on 6th October 0:55am . My connecting flight to Ranchi (Jharkhand) is on 6th October 16:40pm. During this time I stay in the airport hotel, domestic wing. I am travelling with a negative PCR- Test result.
My questions
1) Is it correct that the PCR Test can be undertaken 72 hours before boarding the aircraft in Vienna? Or is it 72 hours before boarding the aircraft to Ranchi?
2) Do I need to get a PCR Test/antigen rapid test again in Delhi?
3) Do I need to download the Aarogya Setu App?
4) Is there any quarantine needed (when tested negative)?
5) Are there any exeptions/other rules for those who are vacinated?
Hi Hannah! You need to take an RT-PCR within 72 hours prior to boarding the flight in Vienna. You will undergo a regular RT-PCR test at Delhi Airport. You need to download Aarogya Setu app. There is no exception for the vaccinated people from abroad.
Hello Hannah,
I live in Germany and intend to travel to India. I was wondering if you were able to download the Aarogya Sethu App on your mobile phone? Thank you.
Hello!
I’ve a question regarding the testing at IGI. I arrive from Frankfurt in the night, stay in the Airport Hotel for 12 hours and have a connecting flight to Ranchi in the afternoon.
As far as I understood I have to travel with a negative PCR test and in addition also do another one at IGI. Do I have to wait for the result in the waiting lounge or is it possible to check into the hotel and wait for the test result over there?
Is there any quarantine applicable in my case (PCR negative, coming form Germany, vaccinated)?
Thanks so much!
Hi Hannah! Since you are not from the UK, you won’t have to wait for the test result in the terminal. Most probably, you can check in at a hotel in the transit area. No quarantine, if you are asymptomatic.
Hi .. I am traveling with my family from ABU DHABI to NEW DELHI in first week of October 2021.My queries are —
1. Is it necessary to wait for the RT PCR test result before exiting the T3 terminal ?
2. If it is necessary, how much time to wait at the airport ?
3. My son is a little over 5 years, will he be tested too on arrival at T3 NEW DELHI airport ?
4. If I prebook RT PCR testing time slot on arrival , will it be done or will it be delayed ?
Looking forward to your reply .
Thank you .
Hi Sofia! You will not have to wait for the test result at Delhi Airport. Most probably, your son will be tested too.
So there is no need to wait for the RT PCR result on arrival to exit the airport ( since I have an onward train to my hometown ) ? I will be allowed to exit just after doing my test ?
Thank you so much for your help !
Hi Sofia! If you’re asymptomatic, you will be allowed to exit the airport once your swab sample is collected.
Hi…
I will be travelling on 18th of November from Canada to delhi with the covid test via Abu Dhabi. I will be reaching on 20th of november at 2:50 am at Delhi airport. So it’s mandatory to go through with the covid test again?? Because it says that test is valid for 72 hours. Please help me out with this. If so, so how can I book the appointment for RT-PCR test.
Thank you
Hi Samanpreet! Because of your transit in the Middle East, you will have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Delhi Airport. You can pre-book a slot through the website of Delhi IGI Airport.
Hi,
I am traveling to India from NY. My PCR negative before I live NY. When I arrive in Delhi, it will be more than 72 hours. Do I have to have another PCR test in Delhi? Thank you
Hi Jeff! You need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling from New York. It has nothing to do when you arrive in Delhi. If you travel via the Middle East or Europe, you will have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Delhi Airport.
What if I have Covid but am out of quarantine. I am an Indian national and need to come home but the test might still come up positive up to 3 months after Covid. Can I get a doctor from the US to clear me before travel (where I am)? What is the protocol for this? Thanks!
Hi Anita! All international passengers who got fully-vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling to India.
Hi I am travelling from US to Bengaluru transiting through Heathrow Airport at London on October 6
I am citizen of India and Green card holder in US.
Will I still need to take the RT PCR test at Bengaluru and wait for the results?
Will I need home quarantine? I am fully vaccinated.
Also What about my return journey to US ? Does US allow people from India transiting through UK?
Hi Ragini! Whoever travels from or through the UK/Europe needs to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at BLR Airport. You won’t have to wait for the test result. If the result is negative, you will be advised self-monitoring of health. Green card holders can transit in the UK while traveling to the US, but British Airways may not onboard you. You can travel on KLM or Delta via London Heathrow.
Hello ! I am traveling with my family from Abu Dhabi to Delhi. I want to know if the RTPCR test result is mandatory before exiting the airport or we can exit to the airport just after doing the RTPCR.
if the result is mandatory before exiting how many hours do they make us wait at the airport??
also children above five years of age required to take the RTPCR at Delhi T3 airport at arrival?
Hi Sofia! You can exit the airport without the test result. Most probably children won’t be exempted.
Hi,
I am travelling from London, UK on 30th Oct 2021 & will arrive at Mumbai Airport.
1. Do I need to take RT-PCR test at Mumbai airport before getting out of the airport as my destination is in Mumbai itself?
2. Is there a testing facility for Rapid RT-PCR at Mumnbai Airport because I could not find a link to pre-book Rapid RT-PCR test at Mumbai. Can you please share the link, if available?
3. How soon the test result for Rapid RT-PCR test is declared & I can go out of the Airport?
Hi Jayesh! Travelers from the UK, Europe and Middle East have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at their entry airports in India. Travelers from the UK cannot take a rapid RT-PCR test. They can only take a regular RT-PCR test which costs Rs 600 per person and delivers the result in 6 hours.
Hello,
I have made a EWR-DEL-CCU reservation via United/Vistara for a trip later this month. The entire itinerary is on one PNR.
I will take a 72 hour RT-PCR test before boarding in EWR and I am also fully vaccinated with JnJ vaccine.
Since the Vistara flight from DEL to CCU is on the same PNR, can I board the CCU flight based on the RT-PCR test taken before starting the trip?
Or am I required to take another RT-PCR test at Delhi before boarding the CCU flight? Please clarify this for me.
Also, is JnJ vaccine recognized by the West Bengal govt in lieu of a RT-PCR test?
Hi Naresh! You will be able to board the flight to Kolkata with the same RT-PCR report issued in the USA. Due to your nonstop travel on United flight from EWR to DEL, you don’t need to take a COVID test on arrival at Delhi Airport.
Hi,
I am flying from BOS to DEL via Doha on Qatar Airways. I have a domestic transfer from DEL 5 hrs later to my hometown. Do we have to take a RT-PCR test on arrival at DEL? Do we have to wait for the results before catching the domestic flight?
Hi MK! Due to your transit in the Middle East, you have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Delhi IGI Airport. If you’re asymptomatic, you don’t have to wait for the test result.
Hi I’m flying from Uk on Virgin and transiting via Delhi. If I understand correctly I have to do a pcr test on arrival and there’s no facility for a rapid test but I’m unsure what time to boom the test for. Do you get your luggage, clear immigration etc before going for the test? Any advice appreciated thank you
I am travelling from Canada to Ahmedabad, India via Abu Dhabi. I have 14th month old daughter with us. Does she has to go for RT-PCR test?
Hi Tushar! As per India’s entry guidelines, all international travelers, including an infant on lap, have to take an RT-PCR test and upload the report on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey to India.
Hi,
I will be travelling from Columbus, Ohio to Delhi. I will do a RTPCR test 72 hrs prior to my departure from USA. However, I have a connecting flight from Delhi to Kolkata. Do I have to go through another test despite having one report of RTPCR ?
I will also have some domestic (USA) travel history just prior to my international departure. Will it cause another RTPCR test at Delhi or Kolkata?
Hi Shantanu! You are required to take an RT-PCR test at Delhi airport if you transit through the Middle East, Europe, Brazil, China, and South Africa. If you arrive in Delhi on a nonstop/direct flight in the international leg of your itinerary, no need to take a COVID test on arrival.
Hi – I am travelling from Madrid-Doha-Delhi tomorrow. I have taken a RTPCR test in Madrid with negative result. Do I still need to do a PCR test on arrival? If so, I am not finding the rapid test option (only the standard). Does this mean I have to wait 6 hours at the airport before getting the result?
Hi Amrit! Due to your travel origin in Europe and transit in the Middle East, you will have to take an RT-PCR test on arrival in India. You need to take a regular COVID PCR test only and don’t have to wait for the test result.
I am flying from Berlin to Frankfurt to Pune via Delhi. I have a negative RT-PCR test done in Berlin which is 72 hours. Will I need to take an RT-PCR test at Delhi airport? And will I have to wait for the test results from I am allowed to board the flight to Pune as my stopover in Delhi is about 4 hours. Will I have to download the Aaroga sethu app on my phone? My internet connection will not allow me to download apps from other countries. I am an OCI holder.
Hi Mini! Travelers from Europe have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at the entry airport. However, you won’t have to wait for the test result if you are asymptomatic. If your airline onboards you without the app installed on your phone, you can download it after arrival.
I am flying from Berlin to Frankfurt to Pune via Delhi. I have a negative RT-PCR test done in Berlin which is 72 hours. Will I need to take an RT-PCR test at Delhi airport? And will I have to wait for the test results from I am allowed to board the flight to Pune as my stopover in Delhi is about 4 hours. Will I have to download the Aaroga sethu app on my phone? My internet connection will not allow me to download apps from other countries. I am an OCI holder. Will I need to quarantine at home? What is meant by home quarantine? Can I be secluded at home itself? Would that be considered as home quarantine?
Hi, I am travelling to Pune from Berlin via Frankfurt and Delhi. I understand I will need to take a PCR test 72 hours prior to boarding. My questions are:
1. can I take the test in Berlin as that is my first port of departure?
2. I also understand that I will have to take a self paid test at Delhi International Airport. Will I have to wait till I get the test results or could I take my connecting flight to Pune before I get the results?
3. Is there an option that I could take the PCR test in Pune instead of in Delhi as I am uncertain if I would be able to get my connecting flight to Pune due to delays in Delhi?
4. I am doubly vaccinated with Pfizer- BioNtech vaccine. Assuming the PCR tests are negative, will I need to quarantine?
5. What is the purpose of downloading the Aarogya Setu App on an international phone? I am not sure if the app will function in India as I don’t have roaming facilities on my phone.
Thank you for taking the time to reply.
Hi Martin! You should take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling from Berlin. If you are asymptomatic, you won’t have to wait for the test result at Delhi Airport. As per the rules, you are needed take an RT-PCR test at the entry airport.
Hallo I have a transit flight from Delhi to Visakhapatnam. I am flying from Germany. Do I have to take get tested when I land in Delhi inspite of the PCR Test which I get from Germany? In which case how much transit time is advisable? I have now actually 3 hours transit, would that be enough?
Hi Anil! Despite your RT-PCR report from Germany, you will have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test at Delhi Airport. But you will be able to proceed for the connecting flight without waiting for the test result. Hence, 3 hours of transit should be enough.
Hi, I am travelling from Minneapolis to Bangalore with a stopover (change planes) at Paris. I am fully vaccinated and have a US born kid. I am travelling alone in the month of November. I have a valid H1 visa. Will my H1 visa, vaccination card, copy of my kid’s birth certificate and passport suffice for US re-entry? Do I still need a NIE letter? Any feedback will be much appreciated. Thanks!
Hi Chaitra! You don’t NIE approval at all.
Hi, I am travelling to Bengaluru from UK via Mumbai in November.I will go for the RT-PCR test 72 hours prior to boarding in UK.I understand i will have to go for another RT-PCR test in Mumbai on arrival. Please could you advise if i could go for the express RT-PCR test(Result ready in 2 hours or so) or the normal one(6-8 hours wait). Or is it possible to catch next best connection after sample is collected. ie. proceed for the connecting flight without waiting for the test result. I am just trying to work out the domestic connecting flight. Do i have to take any other RT-PCR test in Bengaluru. Thanks in advance.
Hi Samy! Express/Rapid RT-PCR tests are not available for travelers from the UK. You will have to take a regular RT-PCR test. You will be able to take the connecting flight after your swab sample is collected. No more test at BLR Airport.
Hello,
I am flying from San Francisco to Mumbai with a stopover at Istanbul. I will have a RT-PCR done at SFO before I board the flight. I have to take another domestic flight from Mumbai to Madurai.
1. After I take the RT-PCR test at Mumbai airport, do I need to wait for the results before i board my flight to Madurai?
2. If I need to wait for the results, can the RT-PCR be a rapid test at Mumbai?
3. How do I book the test online?
Thanks.
Hi Sriram! You don’t to wait for the test result at Mumbai Airport. You can log on http://www.suburbandiagnostics.com and pre-book an RT-PCR test to be taken at Mumbai Airport.
Hi, I’m travelling from UK to Kolkata via Delhi in December. My connection time is 4 hours. I understand that I have to take an RT-PCR test at Delhi airport on arrival. From your comments above it seems like I don’t need to wait for the result of the test ie. I can proceed for the connection once the swab has been taken. Has the rule changed? Because until last week it seems like all transit passengers via Delhi had to wait for the RT-PCR result before onboarding the connecting flight. In any case is 4 hours connection time at the Delhi airport sufficient?
Hi Disha! In our knowledge, travelers from the UK have to wait for the test result at Delhi Airport. Please be advised to call the helpline number of Delhi IGI Airport.
Thanks! Is 4 hours connection time enough?
Hi,
We are travelling from EWR to BOM (final destination). United Airlines. Fully vaccinated and using OCI. Confused about molecular swab etc at Mumbai airport. Please tell us Exactly what are we supposed to do ? Do we need RT-PCR test 72 hrs prior to beginning journey and upload to Setu website ? Do we need another RT-PCR at Mumbai airport? Is swab for molecular test required ?? Many thanks for your help.. thank you..
Hi Parag! If you are asymptomatic and traveling without transit in a third country, you don’t need to take a test at Mumbai Airport. But it is mandatory to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling from the US and upload the report on Air Suvidha.
Hi , I am travelling from Toronto to New Delhi and transiting through Frankfurt. I am fully vaccinated and will have a RT-PCR done at Toronto within 72 hours before departure. My first port of entry is Bangalore and I have a connecting flight to New Delhi with a lay over of 5 hours in Bangalore.
Do I need to do the self paid RT-PCR test in Bangalore?
If I need to do the RT-PCR, can I book it online at Bangalore airport?
Does the Bangalore airport testing facility operate 24/7?
From prior comments, I note that I don’t need to wait for the results before taking my connecting flight to Delhi- correct?
Appreciate your response.
Hi Rajan! It is mandatory to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at BLR Airport. If you are asymptomatic, you wont have to wait for the test result at BLR Airport. You can log on to https://aurigaresearch.com/covid19-testing-center/ and pre-book an RT-PCR test.
Hello, I will be travelling from chicago to delhi via abudhabi and then local flight to ahmedabad 3 hours later.
I will do the pcr testing within 72 hours pror to boarding in chicago. However do i need to retest at the delhi airport? if so do i have to wait for result before i board the local flight?? If testing is needed, do i need the rapid or i can get the regular testing. appreciate your response.
Hi Muk! Yes, you need to take a self-paid RT-PCR test at Delhi Airport. If you’re asymptomatic, you don’t have to wait for the test result. Most probably, you will be advised to take a regular RT-PCR test.
I am travelling from canada to ahmedabad via Delhi. I will do my RT-PCR 72 hrs before my boarding at TORONTO. My connecting flight to Ahmedabad after 4 hrs. Where I have to do my covid test at DELHI or Ahmedabad? If at DELHI than i have to wait for my result or can i board my connecting flight? How can i get my result?
Hi Sai! If transit in a third country while traveling to Delhi from Canada, only then you will have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test at Delhi Airport. Without the test result, you will be able to proceed for the connecting flight.
Traveling from US-DXB-Mumbai (final destination)
Understanding RT-PCR is manadated for all international arrivals from middle East. Do I need to wait for results prior to existing the airport?
Hi SP! Once your swab sample is collected, you will be able to exist the airport.
Hello,
Thank you for your earlier reply to my email. I have one more question regarding the PCR test in Delhi- how soon should I book a slot? My departure from Berlin to Delhi via Frankfurt is on December 4th.
As things stand right now, if I understand correctly- after having taken the test at the airport, I can proceed directly to my connecting flight to Pune without having to wait for the results- would that be correct?
Thank you.
Hi Mini! After giving your swab sample, you can proceed to catch the connecting flight.
Hi, I am flying Toronto- Doha- Mumbai. I know i need to a do a PCR test 72 hrs before i take the flight from Toronto. Do i need to take one again when i land in Mumbai? Also do i have to upload the certificate on the Airsuvidha portal?
Hi Sachin! Due to your transit in the Middle East, you have to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Mumbai Airport. You need to upload on Air Suvidha the negative report of the RT-PCR that you will take in Toronto. Please note if Mumbai or any other place in Maharashtra is your final destination, you will have to undergo 14-day home quarantine.
Thank you for your reply. Could you tell me how soon should I book a slot for the PCR test at Delhi airport? My date of arrival in Delhi is 5th December.
Hi Mini! In our knowledge, you can book a slot any time before one hour prior to your scheduled arrival at Delhi Airport.
Hi, I am travelling to from Toronto to Delhi with 2 hours transit in France (change planes). I am Canadian passport holder, fully vaccinated but travelling with Canadian kid (not eligible for vaccination) and my mom who has Indian passport with Canadian PR.
I will carrying negative covid report (done with in 72 hrs). Do I need to get molecular test done in India due to transit via Paris?
Hi Inder! It is mandatory to take a self-paid RT-PCR test on arrival at Delhi Airport. If you are traveling to Delhi on or after October 25, the post-arrival COVID testing may be eliminated. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/india-revised-guidelines-for-international-arrivals/ for India’s revised guidelines that will take effect on OCT 25.
Hello,
I’m travelling from London to Ahmedabad very soon by an Air India direct flight. I am not vaccinated. Assuming my RT-PCR comes out negative, I will submit the self-declaration form online within 72hrs before departure.
Since Ahmedabad airport website has no information whatsoever, and phone calls aren’t being answered, here are my questions:
1) Is there a COVID testing facility at Ahmedabad airport?
2) Ifyes, is there a way to pre-book an RT-PCR test?
3) Is there an option to get the result within a short time? I’ve seen 30mins in some media reports but that may be for outbound passengers only?
4) If test result will take 6-8 hrs, is there an option to stay in a ‘safe’ place at the airport until the result arrives? I would prefer not expose my elderly (fully vaccinated) family members until I see a negative result on arrival.
5) If there is no place at the airport, is there a nearby ‘safe’ facility (institutional or private) where I could sleep for the night until the result arrives?
Thank you for any help / advice.
Hi Kewl! There is a COVID-testing facility at AMD Airport. You can pre-book the test here https://bit.ly/3xxwQfJ. There are lounges and hotels at AMD Airport.
Hello, I am traveling from UK to Indore via Delhi. I have already done my PCR test. Do I still need to do another test to catch my flight to Indore. I have 5 hours to catch flight for Indore once I land. is that enough time?
Hi Darpan! Travelers from the UK are subject to a self-paid RT-PCR test at Delhi Airport. In our knowledge, travelers from the UK need to wait for the test result. The result of a regular RT-PCR test is delivered in 5-6 hours.
Thanks for the info. Can I still go to airport lounge and other facilities while waiting for results or I have to wait next to testing center?
Hi Darpan! There is a dedicated lounge at Delhi Airport for those who are required to wait for the test result.
Hi, I’m travelling from Uk to Cochin direct flight.
1. Is it mandatory to book a post arrival test in Cochin? If yes, can you share the link please?
2. What are the other formalities before boarding?
Thanks in advance
Hi Anu! The pre-boarding or pre-arrival guidelines 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. Are you fully vaccinated? If yes, you won’t have to take any test on arrival in India as per India’s revised guidelines that will take effect on October 25.
Hi, I am flying from the UK to Delhi in December and have then separately booked a domestic flight from Delhi to Chennai after 5 hours. As this is not a connecting flight (ie. different PNR, airline), do I still need to wait at the Delhi international airport for my RT-PCR test result in order to board the Chennai flight or can I leave the airport after the swab and then proceed to the domestic terminal nearer the boarding time. Please can you advise?
Hi Manisha! Are you fully vaccinated? If yes, you won’t have to take any test on arrival at Delhi Airport as per India’s revised guidelines that will take effect on October 25.
Hi Indian eagle,
My travel arrangements are similar, flying from UK to Delhi in December and have separately booked a domestic flight (different PNR) from Delhi to Vadodara after 3 hours. I am fully vaccinated.
I tried searching for these revised guidelines that will take effect from October 25 but couldn’t find it anywhere. Can you please provide a link so I can review?
Please advise.
Hi Shah! You can go through the revised guidelines here https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/india-revised-guidelines-for-international-arrivals/. Make sure to upload your vaccine certificate and a negative RT-PCR report on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to your scheduled travel from the UK. You won’t have to take a COVID-19 test on arrival at Delhi Airport.
Hi , I am travelling from Finland to Delhi and transiting through Frankfurt. I am fully vaccinated and will have a RT-PCR done at Helsinki within 72 hours before departure. My final destination is Goa, do I have to wait test results or can I go straight to the connecting flight?
Hi Ari! If you’re asymptomatic, you will not have to wait for the test result at Delhi Airport.
Hi
Thanks for the reply , but I have to do this rt-pcr test tought?
Hi,
My question is very different from all others. I am in New Delhi right now and will be flying to US via Dubai (Emirates flight) on Nov 13,2021. I am trying to find the information on departure protocol from India. Can I get my COVID test done outside (from the authorized lab) or I have to get it done at Terminal 3 of the IGI airport? How many hours earlier I should arrive for my flight and other important info. Can you please help me in finding the info?
Thanks,
Jas
Hi Jas! The COVID-PCR test must be taken at an ICMR-authorized lab in India. Make sure to carry your original vaccination certificate. Please check with Emirates when you should check-in at the airport.
Hi,
I am traveling with Emirates from USA to Delhi with a 2 hour stopover in Dubai. I am fully vaccinated, will I still have to get the molecular tests done at Delhi airport? If yes, how long does the test takes and would I have to wait at airport for the results?
Hi Amar! As per the revised guidelines – https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/india-revised-guidelines-for-international-arrivals/, you won’t have to take a test on arrival at Delhi Airport. Please make sure that you are asymptomatic during arrival.
Hi, I hold a Canadian passport and travelling Toronto – Delhi in mid November. In both directions I will be transiting through London Heathrow (4-6 hours stopover each way).
I understand that a molecular test is required before boarding the flight in Toronto as well as in Delhi but my question is about taking the test at the Heathrow. Do I need to do it while going to Delhi? Do they have a rapid testing facility at the airport? Can you please provide some guidance? Many thanks.
Hi BG! No test to be taken during transit at London Heathrow.
Hi: I am traveling from Washington DC on Nov 5 non stop to New Delhi by Air India. It arrives at 10.30 am and connecting to a domestic flight at 5.45 pm to my final destination. I have taken an RT PCR test within 72 hours of boarding and am fully vaccinated
Questions:
1. Do I need to take a COVID RT PCR test at New Delhi airport?
2. If I need to take it, will i get the results before by connecting flight departure?
Thanks
Hi Murali! Asymptomatic travelers from the US are exempted from taking an RT-PCR flight on arrival in India.
AHi am travelling from South Africa to india and my destination is Lucknow . Flight is via Dubai and would in Mumbai . My next flight is after 2.5 hrs from Mumbai to Lucknow . As per the new regulations it is suggested that high risk countries have to take post arrival test at Mumbai airport . I would like to know how much time does the test takes and also would I need negative test certificate to exit airport and go to domestic terminal to catch my next flight ? Am fully vaccinated
Hi Ash! The time for the test to be taken at Mumbai Airport depends on the rush of international arrivals on a given day. However, you will be able to exit the airport and proceed for the domestic terminal after your swab sample is collected.
Is 3.5hrs between connection flights from international to domestic good enough in BLR airport to complete immigration, get RT-PCR test and then take the domestic flight. I am flying from SFO to BLR.
Hi Mini! Asymptomatic travelers from the USA don’t need to take a COVID-19 test at BLR Airport. Hence, the 3.5-hr connection time is sufficient.
I am flying from Delhi to Usa by United Airlines on Nov 26, Can I get COVID 19 Tested at any Lab or a Specific Lab.
Hi Sandhu! You must take a COVID-19 viral test at an ICMR-approved lab in India.
Hi indianeagle,
Thank you so much for helping so many us in this matter. I will be travelling from Chicago (ORD) to DELHI by Air India,direct flight. I have a stop over for 5 and half hours in DELHI to go to KOLKATA. I am a US citizen with OCI.
I am, fully vaccinated with booster shot. I read that West Bengal does not need RT PCR test (The Statesman) if you are fully vaccinated.
My question is Do I need a RT PCR test before 72 hours and load it in Air Subidha Web site, before Air India allows me to board in Chicago?
Date of travel is Nov 29, 2021.
Again, thank you so much for your help.
Hi Rupak! What I read is for domestic travelers entering West Bengal from any other Indian state. India’s entry guidelines for incoming international travelers require you to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to your scheduled departure from Chicago and upload the report on Air Suvidha. It is mandatory.
Hello, I am traveling from USA – Abu Dhabi – New Delhi. I will have a negative PCR test from USA. I have another domestic flight from Delhi to CCU after 6 hours. Do I need to get tested in Delhi and wait for my results before catching my next flight? I am fully vaccinated and assume I will be asymptomatic.
Hi Sucheta! As per the revised guidelines that took effect on OCT 25, 2021, asymptomatic travelers arriving from the US and through the Middle East are not subject to any additional COVID test on arrival in India.
Hello! I am planning to travel from UK to Delhi on 24 November and will need a domestic transit flight after arriving in Delhi. I believe UK arrivals still need to have a PCR test on arrival and wait for the result, even though quarantine is no longer required. Is this correct? The website used to indicate a 7 hour wait, but now it says 8-10 hours. If this is only for the test and result, should I actually allow about 14 hours before the transit flight, so that I can collect my baggage and check-in properly?
Hi Joanna! If you are fully vaccinated, then upload your vaccination certificate along with a negative RT-PCR report on Air Suvidha. Fully-vaccinated travelers from the UK are not subject to additional testing and quarantine in India.
Thanks for your reply! Can you please show me the notification which exempts the UK from testing? I have found the quarantine exemption but not the testing exemption. In these FAQs the testing for UK passengers is still mentioned: https://www.newdelhiairport.in/covid19-test-appointment-booking Thanks in advance.
Hello, I was wondering where could I the updated list of countries, citizens of who can travel to India in the coming months. I was unable to find this when I looked at official websites.
Thank you.
Hi Mini! May we know which country you are traveling from to India?
Hello,
Would it be possible for you to inform me as to where I could find the most recent updated list of countries India has identified as risk countries. I am unable to find any new updates and was wondering if Germany’s status has been changed given the rise in infection numbers. Thank you.
Mini! FYI, Germany is on both the lists – the list of countries at risk and the list of Category A countries which have signed a reciprocal agreement with India for mutual acceptance of WHO-approved vaccine certificate. If you are fully-vaccinated, make sure to upload your vaccination proof along with a negative RT-PCR test report on Air Suvidha. It will get you exempted from additional testing and quarantine in INdia. If you are not vaccinated, you will be subject to a COVID-19 test and home-quarantine on arrival in India.
Hi, I am travelling to Bengaluru from UK via Mumbai on November 18th.I am doing RT-PCR test 72 hours prior to boarding in UK. Please could you advise the rules for unvaccinated on arriving in Mumbai? Will i able to give the sample and catch the next available flight to Bengaluru? Thank you.
Hello! I am planning to travel from US to Hyderabad via London and Delhi in the first week of January. I will need a domestic transit flight after arriving in Delhi to Hyderabad. I believe the UK transit passengers still need to have a RT-PCR test on arrival and wait for the result. I am fully vaccinated (will have a booster shot too a few weeks before the travel) and will carry a negative PCR test with me. Do I still need to get a RT-PCR test done on arrival at the Delhi airport and wait for the results before boarding the domestic flight to Hyderabad? If so, can I opt for a Rapid RT-PCR test for speedy results? My wait time at Delhi is around 5 hrs. Please let me know. TIA.
Hi Jyo! As per the revised guidelines that took effect on OCT 25, fully-vaccinated travelers from the UK are exempted from additional testing on arrival. Hence, no worries. However, if the health officers find you symptomatic for COVID-19 during thermal screening at Delhi airport, you will have to take an RT-PCR test.
Hi, my flight from US to Delhi is delayed by a day. I took my RT PCR on Monday 10:30 AM and my flight departs on Thu 5:30 PM. Will this create a problem? Do I have to go for RT-PCR on arrival?
Hi Amrit! Though you are not responsible for the delay, it may create a problem. Please be advised to check the same with the airline that you will travel on. If you are fully-vaccinated and upload your vaccination certificate on Air Suvidha, you don’t need to take any test on arrival.
Hello, I am traveling from SFO to Delhi via Air India. Connecting flight is in 2 hours to Bangalore once I land. I will take the PCR Covid test 72 hours before I board in SFO. Do I need to take a Covid test again in Delhi if I am not asymptomatic? I won’t have time to take the test since I have only 2 hours between the 2 flights and still need to go through customs and immigration. Thank you for all your replies, this is very informative!
Hi Lahary! If you are fully-vaccinated, you are exempted from additional testing on arrival. If the health officers find you symptomatic for COVID-19 during thermal screening at Delhi Airport, you will have to take a test before you proceed for the connecting flight.
Hello,
I have a flight from Italy to Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi to Delhi and the connecting flight to Guwahati. Do I need a PCR Test both before boarding flight in Italy and then re-test at Delhi to take Guwahati Flight? I land in Delhi at 2:50AM and my Guwahati flight is at 7:10AM. In case re-test is mandatory, should i opt for PCR RT test or Rapid PCR test? Please advise. Thank you!
Hi Razin! Fully-vaccinated travelers from abroad are exempted from additional testing on arrival in India. Taking an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to your scheduled departure from Italy and uploading the negative report is mandatory.
Hello,
I am fully vaccinated and will be traveling SFO-Montreal-New Delhi -Bangalore. I have a 3 hour layover in Montreal before I get on my flight to Delhi. When does the count for the 72 hour before flight start? Is it 72 hours before my flight from SFO to Montreal, or is it 72 hours from the Montreal segment to new Delhi?
Thank you so much for the help here, looking forward to the reply!
Hi Sharan! As per the rules, you should take an RT-PCR test, upload the negative report and fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to traveling from SFO.
Will be traveling on Emirates from LAX-Dubai-Delhi. Thereafter will take domestic flight to my final destination Kolkata. Fully vaccinated including booster, will have the 72 hour RT PCR result too. Plz remind me of the Covid protocol at the Delhi airport. Arrival time in Delhi is 2.40am. Is it enough time to take the Air India 6.50am flight to Kolkata? The next flight will be 12.10pm.
Thank you in advance.
Hi Ranita! The layover is sufficient at Delhi Airport for you to proceed for the connecting domestic flight. Perhaps you know that fully-vaccinated asymptomatic travelers from abroad are exempted from additional testing on arrival in India. So the post-arrival procedure is currently very much relaxed at any international airport in India. You will undergo thermal screening other than a formal check of your negative RT-PCR report (from the US), Air Suvidha form, visa, passport, etc.
Hello,
These tests are a bit confusing.
I am traveling from the US to Bangalore (transit 4 hours in London). I am fully vaccinated, including the Booster vaccine.
Do I need an RT-PCR or will a regular PCR test work? Most people I speak to tell me that it is the same test.
Thank you
Hi Penny! Don’t worry! An RT-PCR test and a regular PCR are the same. Please note the negative report must mention RT-PCR.
Hi,
I will be traveling from ATL to Mumbai via transit at Doha on Monday evening. I am fully vaccinated. Is it ok to take the RTPCR test 80 hours prior to travel as most of the clinics are closed in the united states during the weekend?
Hi Vinita! If you take an RT-PCR test more than 72 hours before your scheduled departure from Atlanta, you will be denied boarding by the airline.
Hi again, This question is not directly related to the need for testing or such- it is do with downloading and registering with the Aarogya setu app- as I have don’t have an Indian number, I am unable to register with the app. Is there some help or support that could be provided please- any ideas at all? How relevant is the app for me to be able to travel to India? Thanks so much.
Hello, I am traveling from US to Mumbai on Dec 6, Emirates airline in business class, with a 2 hr connection in Dubai. I land in Mumbai at 2:15 AM and then have an Air India domestic flight from the domestic terminal at 5:45 AM. I will have a printed negative PCR test result + will have the self declaration form from Air Suvidha. I will also carry proof of full vaccination + proof of covid booster shot with me. I’d be grateful if you can clarify a few things for me:
1) Since I have a 2 hr connection at Dubai, do I need to take the PCR test on arrival at Mumbai (even if I have negative results + vaccination proof)?
2) If yes, to the above, then do I need to wait for the test results before leaving the international airport to check in for my domestic flight?
3) If yes to the above, then – if I pay for the express RAPID PCR test at the Mumbai airport, how fast can I get the results so I can make my 5:45 AM flight?
Hi Parul! If you are found asymptomatic for COVID-19 during thermal screening at Mumbai Airport, you won’t have to take any test. Please note starting on December 1, 5% of travelers arriving on every international flight will be randomly tested even tough they are fully-vaccinated. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/india-revised-guidelines-for-international-arrivals/ for more details.
Hello, I am travelling from Hungary to Delhi on the 17th of December 2021. I have a 7 hour transit in Dubai and will ariive in Delhi at 19:00 on the 18th of December 2021. I have a few questions:
– Do you have the list of EU countries which are “at-risk”? All news reports I read only mentions EU countries, but not which ones.
– My final destination in Nagpur. If I am tested negative in Delhi, can I undergo home quarantine in Nagpur?
– I still have to book my domestic flight from Delhi to Nagpur. Considering I arrive in Delhi at 19:00, by when do you think I will have my result so that I can take my flight to Nagpur?
– Once I arrive in Nagpur, will the international arrival rules of Maharashtra apply to me or only the domestic ones? As my port of arrival in India was Delhi and will travel domestically from Delhi to Nagpur.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Rohit! You can check the list of countries at risk here. You can pre-book a rapid RT-PCR test which costs approximately Rs. 5000 and delivers the result in 1-2 hours. A regular RT-PCR test costs much lesser than that but delivers results within 6-8 hours. On being tested negative, you will undergo home-quarantine for 14 days as per Maharashtra’s quarantine policy.
Hello, I am traveling from US to Amritsar on Dec 29, British airline with a 3 hr connection in London and then 4 hour connection at Delhi. I will carry proof of full vaccination + proof of covid booster shot with me. I’d be grateful if you can clarify a few things for me:
1) Since I have a 3 hr connection at London, do I need to take the PCR test on arrival at Delhi (even if I have negative results + vaccination proof)?
2) If yes, to the above, then do I need to wait for the test results before leaving the international airport to check in for my domestic flight?
3) If yes to the above, then – if I pay for the express RAPID PCR test at the Delhi airport, will my 4 hours layover be sufficient to get results and onboard my flight to Amritsar?
Hello I am traveling from Mumbai to US in few weeks. Now there is a new rule from US of Covid test within 24 hours of departure. Do you know of any RT-PCR testing facilities in Mumbai that can give me results in 10-12 hours? Thank you in advance.
Hi Neha! The exact revised testing timeline for US-bound international travelers is one calendar day before your scheduled departure from Mumbai. You need to take a COVID-19 viral test no more than 1 calendar day before your departure from Mumbai.
Hello, My departure flight is at 1:55 AM on 19th and I am trying to book a covid-19 slot, can I book it 18th morning around 10am and just swing by airport for the test and go back home or it have to be around the time I have my flight scheduled.
Hi Nishi! If you are traveling to the US, you can take a viral COVID-19 test any time on December 18, the calendar day prior to your scheduled international departure.
I am flying USA to Delhi ( ATL – CDG – DEL ) based on Delhiairport faq I don’t need post arrival test in Delhi since I am from non at risk country and my trnasit ( 2 hrs ) in airport immigration ( airside ) in CDG .
But in many forum people are reporting that when flight from Europe is arriving in Delhi , they are sending all passengers ( even if from non at risk country like me ) to RT-PCR testing area , no exception .
So really confusing ..
Does any one definitely know the rule ? Based on this I have to cancel my domestic flight and take one after 8 hrs seems.
Hi Partha! What you read in forums is not correct. If you don’t leave the immigration/transit area of Paris Airport during connection and if you arrive asymptomatic at Delhi Airport, post-arrival testing is not mandatory for you. But only 2% of the total passengers of every flight arriving from a country not at risk will be randomly tested at Delhi Airport. If you are identified for random testing, you will have to give your swab sample before leaving the airport or taking a connecting domestic flight.
AS per Indian Govt guidelines document dated 20 Jan 2022 – it says ( page 2)
v. Passengers originating or transiting from at-risk countries shall be informed by the airlines
that they will undergo post arrival testing, quarantine if tested negative, stringent isolation
protocols if tested positive etc. as mentioned in para (xviii)
Thus transisting passengers via risk countries -are also included for on arrival Covid testing? Please guide.
Hi Prasad! Passengers transiting in risk countries are subject to post-arrival testing in India.
Hi i am schedule to LEAVE Coimbatore (to New Delhi) and then on to US (Newark). Will i have to so a Covid test in Coimbatore Airport – or a negative test 2 days prior to boarding done outside is enough. Thanks and appreciate all the responses. 🙂
Hi Subra! As per the current guidelines that took effect on December 6, you are required to take a COVID-19 viral test no more than one calendar day before your scheduled international departure from India. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/usa-tightens-inbound-travel-rules/
Hi Indianeagle,
I am flying from Rochester to EWR to DELHI to Indore by United/Vistara airline. I did have a negative report of my covid test and have uploaded the same on the air suvidha website. Do i have to take a covid test again upon my arrival at Delhi for my connecting flight to Indore, MP? I am fully vaccinated and took a booster shot too. please advise, thank you in advance!!
Hi Shrey! You don’t need to take a test on arrival if you are found asymptomatic in thermal screening.
Hi, I am flying with Air India from London Heathrow to Chennai via Delhi on 07-Jan-22. I have exactly 3 hours and 10 minutes to board my connecting flight to Chennai. Do I need to pre-book a COVID test in Delhi or in Chennai? If in Delhi am I allowed to book the RAPID Antigen Test which will give a result within 15 minutes? Or does it have to be the RAPID PCR Test which gives results in 90 minutes? I am concerned about my connection flight if I have to wait for that long for the results. Or alternatively, am I allowed to book the RAPID PCR Test in Chennai. Please help by clarifying. Thanks.
Hi Sony! You are required to take a post-arrival test at Delhi Airport, not Chennai Airport. There are only two tests – regular RT-PCR and rapid RT-PCR – for passengers arriving at airports in India. It is mandatory to pre-book a post-arrival test. Given the entire procedure from landing to checking in for the domestic flight, it may take a little more than 3 hours 10 minutes.
Hi, I and my husband are travelling back to Delhi from Chicago, USA. Both of us have a negative report of the RT-PCR test taken within 72 hours. Do we need to book the same test at Delhi airport on arrival? I have filled in a self decration form too. The test booking is not coming through claiming that the reference number does not exist.
Hi Sushma! If you are fully vaccinated and traveling on a nonstop flight to Delhi from Chicago, you don’t need to book a post-arrival test.
Hello
I am travelling to Chennai from USA via Doha. Leaving on 25 Jan and arriving on 27th Jan into Chennai. I read about the 7 day home quarrantine. I am fully vaccinated including the booster shot and should have a RT PCR test results in my possession prior to leaving USA. Does the home quarrantine mean that you are not allowed to travel within Chennai for those 7 days? I am in India for business reasons and will need to move around Chennai. I fly back on Feb 5th Feb back to USA
Please advise
Hi Venkat! Home-quarantine means staying indoors. During home-quarantine, you are not allowed to go out.
Hello there,
I am gonna fly from Melbourne to Ahmedabad by end of this month, I will be getting myself RTPCR 72hrs before leaving Melbourne. Still do I need to book any rt-pcr test at Ahmedabad airport on my arrival. If yes they from where I can book it and if it is easily available at airport arrival please let me know, one more thing please suggest me all the documents that I should carry while travelling.
Thank you
Hi Pavan! You are not subject to post-arrival testing at an entry airport in India if
You are fully-vaccinated, COVID negative and asymptomatic
You have not been to a country at risk in the past 15 days
You don’t transit via a country at risk while traveling to India
You are not identified among 2% of the total passengers for random testing on arrival.
You are required to carry your vaccine proof/certificate (original), negative RT-PCR report (must be uploaded on Air Suvidha too), and a few color printouts of the filled self-declaration form on Air Suvidha.
Greetings
Last year in March 2021 when I travelled from the US to India the guidance I received on this forum was very helpful.
I came to the US in July 2021 and had my return flight on 16th Jan 2022 morning. I booked for PCR test at two locations – one with CVS Pharmacy on 13th Jan morning and another at Questdiagnostics on 14th Jan morning.
When we went to Questdagnostics we were told that they are running out of stock for the swabs and can not do the test. For CVS pharmacy report we waited till 15th Jan late night and as reports were not received we had to cancel our trip to India. We received report ( negative ) on 17th Jan
Now we plan to reschedule the trip in Feb or March.
My questions are
1) We understood on payment basis ( test cost $ 120-200 ) we can get reports in 1-2 hours
What is the difference between regular RT-PCR and Rapid RT-PCR , Which test is accepted at airport in India?
2) Do you know now next time where we should go for the test ( may be paid too and not through insurance) so that we are sure to get reports in 1-2 days in time before our departure time.
There is heavy load for Covid tests in the US.
I explanined my problem in detail so that others too get informed
regards
Prasad
Hello
I read an article that home quarantine rule in India of 7 days for foreigners from at risk or low risk countries has been lifted provided the visitor tests negative for the RT-PCRT test. This rule has gone into effect Jan 22. Is this accurate information? I plan to travel to Chennai soon.
Please advise
Venkat
Hi Venkat! The guidelines are more or less the same. All international arrivals, though they are COVID negative and asymptomatic, are subject to home-quarantine for 7 days.
Can you please confirm that as per new OM issued by Govt of India for international arrivals passgengers now negative RT PCR is not must but can upload fully vaccinatated certificate? OM is dated 10 Feb 2022
Hi Prasad! The new guidelines issued today, Feb 10, are applicable from FEB 14. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/india-revised-guidelines-for-international-arrivals/
Hi there, thank you in advance for looking at my query. I am flying from London to Chennai arriving at 5am and then out on another international flight to Colombo. II understand I do not need a visa as II will not be leaving the airport but do Ii need a negative per test? Many thanks in advance Angela
Hi Angela! Entry to India requires either full-vaccination or a negative RT-PCR test report. But we have little idea about Colombo’s entry requirements.