RESERVE BANK OF INDIA
EXCHANGE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
CENTRAL OFFICE
MUMBAI-400 001

November 23, 2001

A.P.(DIR Series) Circular No.12
A.P.(F.L. Series) Circular No.2

To

All Authorised Persons in Foreign Exchange

Dear Sirs/Madam,

Release of Foreign Exchange for private
visit abroad - Endorsement on Passport

In terms A.P.(DIR Series) Circular No.20/A.P.(F.L. Series) Circular No.2 dated November 16, 2000, authorised persons are required to invariably endorse on the traveller's passport, the amount of foreign exchange sold for tourism and private purposes, under their stamp, date and signature.

2. With a view to further simplifying the procedures, it has now been decided that henceforth ADs and FFMCs need not make any endorsement on the passports of the travellers availing of foreign exchange for tourism and private purposes. Accordingly, on the basis of a declaration given by the traveller regarding the amount of foreign exchange availed of during a calendar year, ADs/FFMCs may release exchange for travel for tourism and private purposes. Travellers can, however, seek endorsement on their passports, of foreign exchange released, at their option, if they consider it necessary for their record.

3. Authorised persons may bring the contents of this circular to the notice of their constituents concerned.

4. The directions contained in this circular have been issued under Section 10(4) and Section 11(1) of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (42 of 1999).

Yours faithfully,

Grace Koshie

Chief General Manager