EU Lifts Travel Advisory for Assam: Boosting Tourism and Investment!
EU Lifts Travel Advisory for Assam: Boosting Tourism and Investment!
Big news for Assam! The European Union has removed its restrictive travel advisory, paving the way for increased tourism and investment. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hails this as a 'strong vote of confidence' for
The European Union (EU) has officially lifted its long-standing restrictive travel advisory for citizens of its 27 member countries wishing to visit Assam. This significant announcement was made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday, June 20, 2026, marking a pivotal moment for the Northeastern Indian state.
The advisory, which had been in place since 1979, was originally issued when the violent six-year Assam Agitation began, leading to extremism by groups like the United Liberation Front of Asom. Its removal is seen as a strong endorsement of the improved peace and stability in the region, bringing an end to decades of caution from European nations.
Chief Minister Sarma revealed that the EU's Ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin, conveyed the decision to Chief Secretary Ravi Kota on Friday, June 19, 2026. This move follows similar revisions by other major global players, with Australia and Japan having already lifted their restrictions after Assam hosted the 'Advantage Assam 2.0' event in February 2025, aimed at attracting foreign investment.
“After Australia and Japan, EU member-states have revised their travel advisories and removed restrictive guidance for their citizens visiting the State,” CM Sarma stated on social media. He further emphasized that this development comes after a recent visit by EU diplomats to Assam, which he described as a “strong vote of confidence for Assam and bodes well for deeper EU-Assam engagement.”
The Chief Minister highlighted the economic benefits, noting that a restrictive advisory historically deters both tourists and investors, causing financial strain. He expressed confidence that the lifting of this advisory would significantly boost tourist inflow and improve business and people-to-people ties. However, it's important to note that three districts still under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) remain excluded from this positive revision.
Looking ahead, CM Sarma also indicated that discussions are underway with the United States and Canada to encourage similar revisions to their travel guidance for Assam. He encouraged the people of Assam to capitalize on this opportunity by developing the hospitality sector, suggesting the construction of homestays and huts to accommodate the anticipated increase in foreign visitors. This comprehensive approach aims to fully harness the newfound international interest and secure a prosperous future for the state.
