Military action is underway in Ukraine. If you’re in Ukraine, shelter in place until it’s safe to depart.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. The security situation continues to be volatile and is deteriorating rapidly. Heavy fighting, including bombardments, explosions and missile launches, is ongoing throughout Ukraine, including in major cities. Infrastructure and military facilities have been struck by rocket attacks. There have been many civilian casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted, including in areas not directly affected by fighting. Do not travel to Ukraine, there is a real risk to life. If you’re in Ukraine, shelter in place until you judge it’s safe to depart. Continue to monitor advice on Smartraveller and reputable local and international media. Where it is safe to do so, you should leave Ukraine.
Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Expect some congestion on routes, at checkpoints and lengthy queues. Roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or have damage, including to bridges and facilities. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel.
The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine.
Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Information may change and will be updated as details become available. You should also read the travel advice of the destination you’re travelling to - entry requirements may differ when entering by road, rail or air. Before leaving Ukraine, verify if the local authorities of your destination have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation.
Expect some congestion on routes, at checkpoints and lengthy queues. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or have damage, including to bridges and facilities.
In most cases, Australians departing Ukraine must present a valid Australian passport.
Read our advice about Ukraine border regions.
Call 112.
Call 101.
Call 102.
Call 100.
Exercise a high degree of caution in India overall due to the high threat of terrorist activity, civil unrest and crime.
Exercise a high degree of caution in India overall due to the high threat of terrorist activity, civil unrest and crime (see Safety)
Do not travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir; and the India-Pakistan border.
Do not travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir; and the India-Pakistan border due to the danger of armed clashes, terrorist activities and violent demonstrations.
See Safety.
Reconsider your need to travel to north-eastern states of Assam (except Guwahati), Nagaland and Manipur; and Chhattisgarh and the border areas of neighbouring states.
Reconsider your need to travel to:
due to the high risk of violence.
See Safety.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Terrorist attacks are possible in India anywhere and at any time.
The Australian Government continues to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks in India.
The Indian Government regularly issues public alert warnings about possible terrorist attacks.
Terrorist attacks could target foreigners. Violence directed at others may affect you.
Terrorists have targeted popular tourist areas, including:
Targets could also include major tourist attractions and shopping centres.
Attacks could happen during significant times such as:
Many terrorist attacks in India have involved multiple explosions, one after the other. These attacks have caused a high number of deaths.
Militants have crossed the border into India to conduct attacks in the past. It's likely this will continue.
Attacks on military and police in Jammu and Kashmir often lead to violent clashes.
Outside of major cities, security on public transport is limited, including on buses and railways.
Security at airports has improved due to the threat of terrorist attacks against Indian aviation interests.
To protect yourself from terrorist attacks:
If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.
On 5 August 2019, the Government of India announced constitutional changes that affect the internal political status of Jammu and Kashmir.
A heightened Indian security presence is now in place, with additional restrictive measures applying to public gatherings and internet and telecommunications services. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir there is a high risk of:
There is a higher risk in rural areas and areas close to the border with Pakistan.
Terrorists have kidnapped foreigners in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorists have also targeted tourist buses.
People have been killed and seriously injured in widespread violent protests. More police have been sent to the region.
Maoist insurgents, known as Naxalites, have attacked rural and forested areas of the state of Chhattisgarh.
There is a risk of Naxalite violence in border regions of:
Parts of the India-Pakistan border have a high risk of:
Always be alert to possible threats near the Atari-Wagah border crossing.
The north-eastern states of Nagaland, Manipur and Assam, except Guwahati city, have a high risk of:
This includes rural areas.
Insurgent groups in these states have:
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.
Violent protests and demonstrations occur from time to time. They can happen with little or no warning.
Many people have died as a result of civil unrest and communal violence in India.
Triggers for demonstrations include:
Demonstrations may affect public transport.
Large crowds at religious ceremonies and gatherings can be dangerous. They have led to life-threatening situations such as stampedes.
Indian authorities may:
To protect yourself from civil unrest and violence:
Be prepared to change your travel plans if there's an incident.
If you're affected by transport disruptions, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.
More information:
Women in India may experience:
It is rare for people who commit these crimes to be successfully prosecuted by the law.
There are consistent, ongoing allegations and reports of sexual misconduct. These reports have involved religious groups and their leaders. If you're visiting India for religious reasons, find out about your hosts before travelling.
Avoid travelling alone if you're female, even in major cities and tourist sites.
More information:
Drink and food spiking
Many travellers have been robbed and assaulted after consuming spiked drinks or food.
Home-made or unlabelled alcohol can be poisonous.
Drink spiking incidents have occurred:
Drink and food spiking is rare at:
The risk of drink and food spiking is higher in smaller establishments.
To protect yourself from food and drink spiking:
Petty theft is common in crowded areas such as:
Thieves on motorcycles snatch bags and jewellery.
To protect yourself from petty crime:
If you're walking, stay on footpaths, if possible, and:
Avoid travelling alone, especially at night:
Avoid less populous and unlit areas. This includes city streets, village lanes and beaches.
Scams in India can involve:
Tour guides attempt to sell fraudulent tour packages. Some guides may try to 'prove' that your existing tour package is invalid so they can sell you their own package.
Strangers posing as 'guides' may attempt to take travellers to tourist areas. The fake guide transports the victim to an isolated area, where they then attempt to rob and assault them.
Check that any person holding a placard with your name knows where you are going.
Card skimming devices copy details from the magnetic strip on your ATM and credit cards. These details are transferred onto a blank card for the criminal to use. There is a high risk of card skimming at ATMs.
To avoid credit and debit card scams:
Touts or agents near government offices tell foreigners they can provide faster services for a fee. They may be present around places such as the Foreigner Regional Registration Office.
If you're the victim of a scam report it immediately to the nearest police station. You may not be able to get your money or goods back. However, police can give you an official report so you can make a claim with your insurer. See Local contacts
Touts may use aggressive tactics to persuade you to buy tickets for tours. You'll often see them at:
They may not have any connection to tour services. You may be overcharged.
Businesses don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes:
If you plan to do an adventure activity:
If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.
Tigers attack and kill people in India.
Monkeys may attempt to steal items from people at temples and busy tourist attractions.
If you plan to observe or photograph wildlife:
India experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:
If there's a natural disaster:
The climate in India is varied.
Heatwaves can cause droughts and water shortages in summer.
Monsoon rains occur from June to October.
Monsoon rains can cause extensive flooding and landslides.
High risk areas include:
Floods have affected millions of people and caused many deaths.
If you're travelling during monsoon season, ask your tour operator if services have been affected.
Cyclones are common in Indian waters from April to December. They are particularly common around the Bay of Bengal in eastern India.
Coastal and some inland areas are vulnerable to storm surges, particularly:
Cyclones and storms can disrupt key services, including:
If there's a cyclone or storm:
If you're arriving during the wet season, contact your tour operator to check if services are affected.
Dust storms occur during summer and have caused deaths.
Earth tremors are common in India, particularly in the north-eastern states.
Earth tremors can cause landslides in hilly and mountainous areas.
If there is an earthquake, expect severe disruptions to services.
To stay safe during an earthquake:
All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis. However, the Indian and Pacific Oceans experience large, destructive tsunamis more often. Be alert to warnings. A tsunami could quickly follow a tremor or earthquake.
Move to high ground straight away if:
Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media and weather services.
More information:
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you travel.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.
More information:
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in India. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
If needed, get medical documents authenticated by DFAT.
More information:
COVID−19 infection continues to be reported in India.
Avoid crowded public spaces (including malls and markets) and mass gatherings. Wear a face mask and maintain 1.5 metres distance from others while in all public spaces. See Travel for more details.
For information on India's COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
Swine flu (H1N1)
Cases of swine flu or influenza A (H1N1) are widespread in winter.
Talk to your GP or travel doctor about vaccinations before you leave Australia.
Malaria is a risk in most parts of India, including major cities.
Dengue is widespread after monsoon season.
Other insect-borne diseases are common, including:
Zika virus outbreaks can occur in India. There's no vaccination available for Zika virus.
If you're pregnant:
To protect yourself from disease:
More information:
HIV/AIDS is widespread in India. Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to risk of infection.
Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are very common, including:
Tap water is not safe to drink.
To protect yourself from illness:
If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical help straight away.
Get medical attention if you suspect food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.
More information:
Air pollution levels in parts of India can spike to hazardous levels during the winter months, October to February.
Severe pollution can cause:
It can also increase the risk of breathing problems.
People who have pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and lung conditions, may be especially affected.
If you're concerned about the levels of air pollution:
Medical facilities in major cities have adequate treatment standards, though the availability of medical treatment may quickly become strained in the event of a spike in COVID-19 cases.
Facilities in remote and rural areas can be very limited or unavailable.
If you're seriously ill or injured, you may be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive with long lead times.
Medical tourism has become more common in India, including for:
Standards at discount and uncertified medical establishments can be poor.
Serious and possibly life-threatening complications can and do occur.
If you plan to visit India for medical tourism:
More information:
Decompression chambers are available at:
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
If you're arrested for a major offence, you could go to prison for several years before you receive a verdict.
If you're imprisoned, there could be delays in getting help from the Australian Government. This is due to India's consular access approval requirements.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include mandatory sentences and the death penalty.
The minimum legal drinking age ranges from 18 to 25 years, depending on the state.
The legal drinking age can vary for different types of alcohol.
Some states permit alcohol use for medicinal purposes only. Others require you to hold a permit to buy, transport or drink alcohol.
Some states prohibit alcohol from being brought in from outside the state, and police may check vehicles to enforce this law.
Check the alcohol laws of each place you plan to visit.
Commercial surrogacy is illegal in India.
More information:
It's illegal to give or receive a dowry.
Courts can issue arrest alert notices for claims for dowry at the request of a wronged party.
If you've been involved in giving or receiving a dowry, or if a case has been filed against you for dowry and harassment, you could be arrested on arrival.
It's illegal to fly unmanned aircraft systems, such as drones, without official permission, particularly:
Contact local police for advice and to get permission.
Possessing or exporting antiquities without official permission is illegal. For information contact the Indian Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs or an embassy or consulate of India.
It's illegal to photograph or trespass on:
It's also illegal to take pictures or videos of some places of worship. Always check with the building's administrative office before taking photos or video.
In India, it's illegal to:
In some states, it's illegal to attempt to convert a person to another religion by force or other enticement.
It's also illegal to deliberately maim or kill a cow. The penalty is up to 5 years imprisonment in some states.
Some crimes may result in the death penalty, including:
More information:
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Codes of dress and behaviour are strict in India. These are particularly important at religious sites.
Physical contact between men and women in public might be considered inappropriate. Take care not to offend.
If in doubt, seek local advice.
In India, the Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.
During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.
Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.
The Indian constitution doesn't recognise dual nationality.
Indian law allows people of Indian origin in some countries to apply for Overseas Citizenship of India. This includes people in Australia.
Check the Overseas Citizenship of India section of the Indian Government's Ministry of Home Affairs website for details.
More information:
For the latest information about Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the FRRO/FRO website and Bureau of Immigration website. Make sure you regularise your visa with the FRRO/FRO before you seek to travel. Indian immigration authorities may prevent you from leaving on an expired visa. If you have had a baby in India, make sure you register the baby with the FRRO and secure an exit permit before you travel.
Check with your airline or tour operator, and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for the latest update.
The following information may change at short notice in response to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
You may be eligible for an Electronic Visa (e-Visa). It gives you up to 60 days of travel for:
Get your e-Visa at least 4 days before you arrive.
Check that you're eligible before you apply. Visit the Government of India's e-Visa website for details.
Beware of fake websites offering e-Visa services.
Carry a printed copy of your e-Visa, known as an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).
You'll get a formal visa in your passport when you arrive in India.
Long queues are common at immigration counters in India, regardless of visa type.
If you present an e-Visa at an entry point where the e-Visa is not recognised, you:
If you have an e-Visa, you can leave India from any authorised immigration checkpoint.
Not all international airports in India allow passengers to enter with an e-Visa. If you enter through another location, you need a visa. Arrange your visa through an Indian consulate, embassy or agent before you arrive.
All other visa applicants need to make an appointment online before submitting their visa application.
If you don't have a valid passport or visa, you could be deported by Indian authorities.
The Australian High Commission and consulates in India can't help you to stay if you don't have the right documents.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the Indian High Commission in Canberra for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.
More information:
If you're considering volunteer work, talk to the nearest embassy or consulate about visa requirements before travelling. This includes students visiting India under the New Colombo Plan.
Volunteer responsibly.
Make sure you are contributing in an ethical and meaningful way.
You could incur heavy penalties for overstaying your visa, including being jailed.
Check your visa conditions and make sure you comply.
Leave India before your visa expires.
If your passport is lost or stolen while you're in India, contact the nearest Australian mission to get a replacement travel document. You'll then need to get an exit visa from the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs before you leave.
If your passport is lost or stolen:
All travellers to India must complete the 'Air Suvidha self declaration form' before departure.
Travellers from specified countries, including Australia, may upload their vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 (RT-PCR) test report to support their Air Suvidha declaration. For information on allowable certificates, see the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website.
COVID-19 restrictions, including lockdowns and curfews, may be imposed at short notice. Criminal penalties may be applied for breaching restrictions.
Domestic flights, rail and bus services are operating subject to local COVID-19 protocols. Contact your airline or travel provider for the latest information. State governments may put in place measures that impact your ability to travel.
More information:
Laws controlling the import and export of Indian rupees, foreign currency and other goods can change with little notice.
Contact your nearest Indian embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.
You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter India if you travel from an area where yellow fever occurs.
See the Indian Government's Bureau of Immigration for advice.
More information:
If you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days, register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in major cities.
In other areas, you can register with the Superintendent of Police.
All visitors on long-term visas must register. This includes the following visas:
You must register even if you're a foreigner of Indian origin.
If you don't register, you could face fines or imprisonment.
You may not be able to leave India until the Bureau of Immigration grants permission.
Some countries require you to have at least 6 months of validity remaining on your passport after the date you plan to leave. This can apply even if you're transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
ATMs that accept international debit and credit cards are widely available in larger cities and towns. However, they're harder to find in rural areas.
Cash shortages at ATMs can be a problem in rural areas.
Traveller's cheques are not widely accepted.
Counterfeit currency is in circulation. Take care when dealing with cash.
More information:
Travel delays are common.
Expect delays around days of national significance, including:
Fog often affects northern India, particularly during December and January. Fog may cause:
You may need permission from Indian authorities to visit designated tribal areas, particularly in the north-east.
Some state and union territory governments restrict foreigners from travelling around these areas.
There are heavy penalties for entering a protected or restricted area without permission.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has temporarily excluded the following areas from the Protected Area regime:
If you plan to visit a protected or restricted area:
You can drive without an Indian driver's licence for 3 months if you have both:
Your licence must be valid for the type of vehicle you are driving.
You need an Indian driver's licence if you will be driving in India for more than 3 months.
You insurance may be void if you have an accident without the correct licence. You could be liable for the accident as an unlicensed driver.
Travelling by road in India can be dangerous. Accidents are common.
Hazards include:
Travelling by road at night is particularly dangerous due to:
If you hit a pedestrian or cow, you're at risk of being attacked or becoming a victim of extortion, even if you weren't driving the vehicle.
If it's unsafe to remain at the scene of an accident, go to the nearest police station.
To stay safe when driving:
More information:
If you plan on riding a motorbike:
Always wear a helmet.
Use a pre-paid taxi service when you arrive at the airport.
It's difficult to verify if street taxis are legitimate.
Use taxi services booked from hotels or taxi stands. Don't hail taxis on the street.
Don't use private unmarked cars as taxis.
Rideshare apps are widely used in major cities. You can use these apps with a local SIM card.
Bus and train services can be dangerous due to:
If you travel by train, find out where the emergency exits are located.
More information:
There may not be safety equipment, such as life jackets, on:
Before you book, check the operators' credentials and safety equipment.
More information:
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check India's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
COVID-19 testing may be a requirement of the airline or of the state you are travelling to. These requirements can be imposed at short notice. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 112.
Call 101.
Call 102.
Call 100.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Call 1800 11 1363 for 24/7 tourist helpline in 12 languages, run by the Ministry of Tourism.
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
More information:
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular assistance, contact:
No. 1/50 G Shantipath (Gate 1)
Chanakyapuri
New Delhi 110 021
Phone: (+91 11) 4139 9900
Fax: (+91 11) 2687 2228
Website: india.highcommission.gov.au
Email: ahc.newdelhi@dfat.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in India
Twitter: @AusHCIndia
Instagram: AusHCIndia
Level 10, A Wing
Crescenzo Building
Opp MCA Cricket Club
G Block, Plot C 38-39
Bandra Kurla Complex
Mumbai 400 051
Phone: (+91 22) 6757 4900
Fax: (+91 22) 6757 4955
Website: mumbai.consulate.gov.au
Email: cg.mumbai@dfat.gov.au
9th Floor, Express Chambers
Express Avenue Estate
Whites Road
Royapettah
Chennai 600 014
Tamil Nadu
Phone: (+91 44) 4592 1300
Fax: (+91 44) 4592 1320
Website: chennai.consulate.gov.au
Email: chennaiaustralianconsulate@dfat.gov.au
Australian Consulate-General, Kolkata
1A, Ho Chi Minh Sarani
Kankaria Estates
Park Street Area
Kolkata 700 071
Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.