The global Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is constantly evolving. We will continue to update our website with information as quickly as possible. Useful links for the latest information and advice is below:  

• For the Australians in India who have not yet registered with the Australian High Commission, please do so at: https://covid19.dfat.gov.au  
• The Australian Government will provide additional support to the most vulnerable Australian citizens whose return to Australia has been impacted by the restrictions arising from COVID-19. Full details about the financial assistance, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, are available at: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/COVID-19/covid-19-overseas-financial-assistance.  

• The Indian Government has announced a gradual reduction of COVID-19 restrictions. Some domestic flights resumed on 25 May 2020. Regularly scheduled international flights remain suspended.  Restrictions may change or be extended at short notice.  

• We know this will have implications for many Australians in India. We have prepared responses to frequently asked questions, including covering existing flight bookings, charter options, visa extensions and tips for the lockdown in India:  https://india.highcommission.gov.au/ndli/1404COVIDFAQs.html.

• The Australian Government acknowledges it will be difficult for you to leave India as a result of the current flight bans and other restrictions.  The Australian High Commission will update its website https://india.highcommission.gov.au/ and send updates on flight options to Australians who have registered when there is any change in this advice or if new airline information becomes available.  

• For any Australians encountering issues with booking hotels in India due to lockdown, please call the Indian Government tourist hotline on 1800 11 1363 available 24/7 in 12 languages, run by the Indian Ministry of Tourism.
• If your Indian visa has expired after 1 February 2020, the Indian Government will extend your visa without a fine for a period of up to 30 days after the travel ban is lifted. To extend your visa apply online through FRRO/FRO.  

• Please follow advice from the Indian Government and relevant State and Union Territory Governments. India’s central helpline no. for COVID-19 is +91-11-23978046. Here is a list of helpline numbers for various states and UTs: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/coronvavirushelplinenumber.pdf 

• While you are in India, follow the advice of local authorities, minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19 and stay in touch with family and friends so they know you are safe and well.

• The Australian Government advises all Australians: Do not travel overseas at this time. This is the highest advice level. Smartraveller website for more information on COVID-19 for Australian travellers: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/news-and-updates/coronavirus-covid-19
• On 24 March 2020, Prime Minister Morrison announced a ban on Australians travelling overseas under the Biosecurity Act 2015. This is on top of the Australian Government’s standing advice to Australians not to travel overseas. It is effective from midday 25 March 2020.
• The Australian Government has announced that from 21:00hrs on 20 March 2020 only Australian citizens, residents and immediate family members can travel to Australia. Please visit the Visas and Citizenship section for more information.

• Useful resources:
  • Indian Government Ministry of Health and Family Welfare: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/   
  • Information on social distancing: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/index.html, https://www.health.gov.au
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19) What you need to Know Factsheet  

Consular services (24 hour helpline): +61 2 6261 3305