Dimapur, February 24, 2026: The Office of the Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, has reiterated that foreign nationals must obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) before visiting Nagaland, warning that violations of the regulation continue despite repeated advisories.
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| Office of the Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Nagaland, which issued the press note reiterating mandatory Protected Area Permit (PAP) rules for foreign nationals. (File Phot) |
In a press note issued on February 24, the police stated that the relaxation granted under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, has been withdrawn for Nagaland by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) vide Circular No. 602 dated December 17, 2024, citing growing security concerns in border areas.
Accordingly, all foreign nationals intending to visit Nagaland are required to mandatorily obtain a Protected Area Permit from the competent authorities. These include the Ministry of Home Affairs, all Indian Missions abroad, Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs), the Home Commissioner of Nagaland, the Resident Commissioner of Nagaland in New Delhi, and the Secretary (Tourism), Government of Nagaland.
The press note further stated that citizens of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan, as well as foreign nationals of origin from these countries, will continue to require prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs before visiting the state. Additionally, prior MHA approval is necessary for granting PAP to citizens of Myanmar.
All foreign visitors must also register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the respective district within 24 hours of arrival in the state.
To facilitate processing and avoid delays, applications for PAP are to be submitted through the e-FRRO portal.
The police have directed the general public, government departments, travel agents, tour operators, hotels, guest houses, home stays, and other entities facilitating foreign visits to strictly ensure compliance with PAP requirements. They must verify that foreign nationals possess valid permits before arranging travel or accommodation within the state.
The Commissioner of Police has sought cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure strict adherence to the Protected Area Permit regime in the interest of security and regulatory compliance.
