What Is the Inner Line Permit (ILP)?

The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is now officially enforced in Dimapur district, Nagaland, starting May 27. This permit system, based on the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873, limits entry of outsiders to protect the rights of indigenous communities.

People who are not native to Nagaland, including Indians from other states and foreign nationals, must get this permit before entering the region.

Why Dimapur Was Previously Exempt

While ILP was active in other parts of Nagaland, Dimapur remained outside its scope until 2019. Dimapur shares a border with Assam and has a mixed population, making it a busy transit and trade area. Authorities faced challenges in applying the ILP due to interstate travel routes.

ILP Fee Structure and Validity

According to the latest update from the Dimapur Deputy Commissioner, the new ILP fee structure is as follows:

• Indian tourists: ₹200 for 30 days
• Foreign tourists: ₹300 for 30 days
• Traders, students, laborers, teachers, priests, and business partners: ₹300–₹3,000 based on category and permit duration

ILP applications can be submitted online, making the process easier for travelers.

Documents Required for ILP Application

To apply, you must upload:

• Aadhaar card
• Education or employment certificates
• Business registration proof (if applicable)
• Local guarantor details (not needed for students and foreign tourists)

Special Rules for Assam Border Residents

Applicants from Assam’s border districts—Karimganj, Hailakandi, Dima Hasao, and Karbi Anglong—must also submit their NRC (National Register of Citizens) documents while applying.

Exemptions for Long-Term Residents

If you settled in Dimapur before December 1, 1963, or before November 21, 1979, you don’t need an ILP. Instead, you can apply for a Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) and domicile certificate. You’ll need proof such as:

• Name in the voter list
• Land or property documents

Why ILP Was Needed in Dimapur

Local civil society groups and student bodies have pushed for ILP in Dimapur for many years. Their concern has been the growing presence of illegal migrants, which they believe threatens local culture, land rights, and job opportunities.

In 2018, a government panel studied this issue. Based on the findings, the state extended ILP to Dimapur in December 2019.

Administrative Changes and Delays

Dimapur district was divided into Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland in December 2021. In June 2023, ILP was temporarily suspended for further study. During this time, public pressure to reinstate the permit continued.

Protected Area Permit (PAP) Also Reintroduced

In December 2024, the central government reinstated the Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreign nationals entering Nagaland.

The Police Commissioner of Dimapur, who also serves as the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO), announced that all foreign visitors must now get a PAP before arriving in the state.

Special Advisory for Certain Countries

Citizens from Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan must get prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) before visiting Nagaland.

For help, travelers can email fro-nadpr@nic.in or call 7085065056.