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Important information for British nationals departing India

Further information for British nationals accessing airports in relation to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

FCO main building

On 24 March, Prime Minister Modi announced a three week lockdown across India from midnight on 25 March. Strict restrictions on movement are now in place unless for an essential purpose.

We are working with the Indian authorities and airlines to support British nationals who want to leave India and return to the UK.

Once flights have been confirmed, travellers should leave plenty of time to get to the airport as movement may be more difficult than normal. You should make sure you are able to show authorities:

  • proof of a booked flight (a boarding pass if possible)
  • your passport
  • a (printed, if possible) copy of the British movement letter (PDF, 330 KB, 1 page) issued by the British High Commission confirming that you should be allowed to travel

This English letter has also been translated into the main Indian regional languages:

For Goa, and other states not listed, we recommend using the English letter above.

Published 2 April 2020
Last updated 4 April 2020 + show all updates
  1. Embassy movement letter for UK Nationals has been translated into the main Indian regional languages

  2. First published.