What are Inner Line Permits (Sikkim)?

The entire State of Sikkim is under the restricted/protected area regime under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963 and Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958. Under these two Orders issued under tha Foreigners Act, 1946 no foreigner can enter or stay in the State of Sikkim without obtaining permits from the designated authorities. These permits, officially termed Restricted Area permits/Protected Area Permits, are popularly known as Inner Line Permits.