BIOT Prior Approval and Entry Permit

The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) is not a tourist destination. You may apply for a permit to moor in the Outer Islands of BIOT only where it is essential for your safe passage across the Indian Ocean, which we must be convinced of before granting you a permit.

The permit system is only in place to allow vessels to rest at specific anchorages in order to provide safe passage through the Indian Ocean.

There are no visa requirements for BIOT. Those visiting the Territory must have prior approval. Visiting yachts to the Outer Islands require a permit before arrival.

except for permits to enter Diego Garcia necessary for the operation of the military facility or those on official BIOTA business

paused substantive consideration of new applications for permits to enter the Territory - except in exceptional circumstances

You may apply for a permit to moor in the Outer Islands of BIOT only where it is essential for your safe passage across the Indian Ocean

Applications will not be considered from charter vessels, cruise ships, or vessels with fee-paying crews.

Access to Diego Garcia is only allowed for those on pre-authorised official duty.

Those visiting the Territory must have prior approval.

only where it is essential for your safe passage across the Indian Ocean, which we must be convinced of before granting you a permit.

except for permits to enter Diego Garcia necessary for the operation of the military facility or those on official BIOTA business

paused substantive consideration of new applications for permits to enter the Territory - except in exceptional circumstances

Once you have read the guidance please complete the BIOT Outer Islands Permit Request form.

A copy of your insurance documents covering medical evacuation (minimum US$100,000 per person) and wreck recovery, clean up and removal in BIOT. These documents must be in English and it is your responsibility to request translations from your insurance company in advance of your application if needed.

Copies of the passports for all persons aboard the vessel, which must be valid for at least six months from the planned date of entry to BIOT.

Please apply for a permit at least six weeks prior to your intended arrival date.

If your application is approved, you will then be sent payment instructions (bank transfer only). Please make the payment and send the receipt to the BIOT Administration. Only when payment is received will your application be processed and a permit issued.

The permit system is only in place to allow vessels to rest at specific anchorages in order to provide safe passage through the Indian Ocean.

Mooring permits will have a maximum validity of 28 days and are valid for the Outer Islands only. You can apply for one, two, three or four weeks.

Permits cannot be extended once your initial application has been approved (neither before your arrival nor in the Territory).

It is forbidden for any person to approach within 3 nautical miles, land on or anchor at the Strict Nature Reserves.

A copy of your insurance documents covering medical evacuation (minimum US$100,000 per person) and wreck recovery, clean up and removal in BIOT.

Copies of the passports for all persons aboard the vessel

If you encounter exceptional circumstances and cannot enter BIOT during the period outlined in your permit please contact the BIOT Administration as soon as possible. Any changes to the terms of your permit are solely at the discretion of the Administration.