Visiting
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⚠ Permit Applications – Important Update – 31/03/2026 ⚠
In light of ongoing litigation relevant to the circumstances in which the BIOT Administration may issue permits for people to enter BIOT (except for permits to enter Diego Garcia necessary for the operation of the military facility or those on official BIOTA business) we have as of 31 March 2026, paused substantive consideration of new applications for permits to enter the Territory – except in exceptional circumstances – whilst the BIOT Administration considers its position. Please note that, with regards to ‘right of abode’ for Chagossian origin individuals, the order of the BIOT Supreme Court has been stayed, therefore s.9 of the Constitution Order remains in force; and in those circumstances, no application to enter for the purposes of settlement will be entertained pending determination of the appeal. We will update this notice as soon as there are any developments. Last updated: 24/04/2026 13:35 |
The British Indian Ocean Territory is not a tourist destination. Access is restricted and a permit is required in advance of travel. There are no commercial flights and permits for yachts are only issued to allow safe passage through the Indian Ocean (Outer Islands only). Access to Diego Garcia is only permitted to those with connections either to the military facility or to the Territory’s Administration.