New Covid travel guidelines are in place for international travelers to India. The new rules are in effect on February 14, 2022. The updates include a further relaxation of travel restrictions. The changes are being made in response to a growing economic crisis. The Indian government will continue to enforce regional travel guidelines using a risk-based approach.

The following elements are updated:

  • If travelers are vaccinated, the requirement to submit a test within 72-hours is eliminated. Travelers must upload their proof of vaccine from countries on a reciprocal basis
  • No need to upload a COVID test on Air Suvidha after the 8th day of arrival.
  • Elimination of the 7-day home quarantine period. Travelers must self-monitor for 14 days after arrival.
  • Random post-arrival tests of 2% of passengers on the flight will be completed. Individuals selected may leave the airport after completing the test.
  • Children under five are exempt from pre-arrival and post-arrival testing.
  • Pet coverage is included.
  • Additional countries have been removed from the ‘at-risk’ category.

The ministry provided a list of 82 such countries. These include the United States, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Switzerland, Australia, Mexico, and the Netherlands.

If traveling to India, be sure to complete the self-declaration form on the Air Suvidha online portal prior to travel. Be prepared to include travel details for the previous 14-day period. In addition, each traveler must upload their Covid vaccine documentation or proof of negative test taken within 72 hours prior to travel.

Upon arrival in India, be prepared to provide a copy of the self-declaration from the Air Suvidha website. Random testing will be completed, as noted above, for 2% of passengers on each flight. Health officials at the airport will complete a temperature check through thermal screening. If an individual is found positive to Covid through random testing, isolation is required. That individual’s contacts will be notified, and further appropriate actions are taken.  Contacts include others on the same flight, particularly in the same row, three rows in front and behind the infected individual, and the cabin crew.

Similar protocols are in place for travelers arriving in India via land and seaports, with the exclusion of online registration through Air Suvidha.

If you have questions about traveling internationally, to India, or elsewhere, contact us at ILBSG. We continue to monitor policies affecting travel and immigration and put our insight to work for you.

COVID travel