Location: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala
Event: On May 8, 2021, the Government of Tamil Nadu announced a full lockdown from 4:00 a.m. on May 10, 2021, to 4:00 a.m. on May 24, 2021. Shops and establishments are allowed to stay open Saturday, May 8, and Sunday, May 9, from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Previously announced lockdowns in Karnataka and Kerala remain in effect.
During the Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Keral lockdowns, certain online delivery services and basic food and provision shops may operate with limited hours. In all three states, existing international flights previously approved to operate will continue
The U.S. Consulate General Chennai will remain open.
U.S. Citizen Services: U.S. citizens with previously scheduled emergency appointments may come to the Consulate for those services. Please email ChennaiCS@state.gov if you need to cancel or reschedule. U.S. citizens in need of additional emergency services should email ChennaiCS@state.gov before coming to the Consulate.
Visa Services: Visa applicants with existing emergency appointments may come to the Consulate for those services.
On April 19, 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice and on April 21, 2021, the Department of State issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory advising against all travel to India. Level 4 is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
New cases and deaths from COVID-19 have risen sharply throughout India to record levels. COVID-19 testing infrastructure is reportedly constrained in many locations. Hospitals are reporting shortages of supplies, oxygen, and beds for both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 related patients. U.S. citizens report being denied admission to hospitals in some cities due to a lack of space. Some states have enacted curfews and other restrictions that limit movement and the operation of non-essential businesses.
Actions to Take:
Monitor local media for developments.
Check Government of India sources for lockdown specifics and announced changes.
U.S. citizens who wish to depart India should take advantage of commercial transportation options.
Please review recent Health Alerts from the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi for additional context about the COVID-19 situation in India.
Please visit the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website for the latest information on travel restrictions.
Please visit the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India COVID-19 Information webpage for additional information.
Enroll in STEP at step.state.gov in order to receive critical information from the Embassy related to health and safety in India.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy New Delhi
Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri 110021
+91 11 2419 8000
U.S. Consulate General Chennai (Madras)
220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle 600006
+91 44 2857 4000
U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad
Paigah Palace, 1-8-323 Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet Secunderabad 500003
+91 40 4033 8300
U.S. Consulate General Kolkata (Calcutta)
5 /1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani 700071
+91 33 3984 2400
U.S. Consulate General Mumbai (Bombay)
C 49 G Block Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai 400051
+91 22 2672 4000
