Permits made simple
Four states need an Inner Line Permit; some need a Protected Area Permit for foreigners. Answer two questions and see exactly what applies to you.
Guidance current as of September 2026. Rules change — always reconfirm on the official portal before you travel.
Inner Line Permit — Indian citizens
The ILP is a simple online formality for four states. Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Sikkim need none.
| State | Fee | Validity | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arunachal Pradesh | ₹300 | 15 days, whole state | Online at eilp.arunachal.gov.in (Aadhaar required) |
| Nagaland | ₹200 | 30 days | Online at ilp.nagaland.gov.in |
| Manipur | ₹100 | 30 days | Online, or kiosks at Imphal airport / Mao / Jiribam gates |
| Mizoram | ≈₹350 | 7 days | Online at ilp.mizoram.gov.in, or on arrival at Lengpui |
Foreign nationals — Protected & Restricted Area Permits
Since a December 2024 order, foreigners again need a PAP for Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland, as well as Arunachal.
PAP states
Arunachal, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram. Arranged through a registered tour operator; groups of two or more are the norm, and clearance can take four to six weeks. Arunachal's royalty is about USD 30–50. Enter and exit through the gate named on your permit.
Sikkim
Foreigners need a Restricted Area Permit, obtained in advance online via e-FRRO since January 2026 — no more on-the-spot permits at Rangpo, Melli or Bagdogra. Nathu La, Gurudongmar and the Old Silk Route are closed to foreigners.
International borders
Dawki ↔ Bangladesh
The Dawki–Tamabil post is open; most visitors simply photograph the Friendship Gate. Crossing needs a Bangladesh visa endorsed by road.
Bhutan from Assam
Indians enter via Samdrup Jongkhar or Gelephu on a passport or Voter ID; a daily fee applies, waived for 24-hour border-town visits.
Moreh ↔ Myanmar
Effectively closed to tourists. Moreh is a border-town visit only.