IRCTC Foreign Quota

India’s railway network is one of the best ways to explore the country, and to make train travel easier for international visitors, Indian Railways offers a dedicated booking facility known as the IRCTC Foreign Quota. This special quota allows foreign tourists and NRIs to book confirmed train tickets online well in advance with added support and flexibility.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything about IRCTC foreign quota, including eligibility, booking steps, charges, cancellation rules, and useful facilities designed especially for overseas travellers.

What is IRCTC Foreign Quota?

IRCTC foreign quota is a special reservation facility created to promote rail tourism in India. Under this quota, Foreign Tourists (FT) and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) holding a valid passport can book train tickets through the official IRCTC website.

This quota provides earmarked berths in select trains and allows booking up to 365 days in advance, making travel planning smooth and reliable for international users.

Who Can Book Tickets Under IRCTC Foreign Quota?

You can use the IRCTC foreign quota if you are:

• A foreign national visiting India
• An NRI holding a valid passport
• Able to make payment using an international debit or credit card

At the time of booking, passport details and country of origin must be provided.

Advance Reservation Period (ARP) Explained

• Foreign tourists can book tickets up to 365 days in advance
• Current ARP for Indian Railways is 60 days
• If booking is done beyond the current ARP:
  • Berths are allotted later when ARP opens
  • Berth confirmation is sent via international SMS and email

Classes & Berths Available Under Foreign Quota

The following accommodation is earmarked per coach under IRCTC foreign quota:

• First AC (1A):
  • 8 berths (2 cabins)
• Composite 1A cum 2A Coach:
  • 4 berths (1 cabin)
• Second AC (2A):
  • 8 berths per coach
• Executive Class (EC):
  • 10 berths per coach

Other available classes (subject to train availability):

• 3A, AC Chair Car (CC), Sleeper (SL), Second Sitting (2S)

Step-by-Step: How to Book IRCTC Foreign Quota Tickets Online

1️⃣ Register or Update Profile

• Visit www.irctc.co.in
• New users must register
• Existing foreign/NRI users must update and verify international mobile number

2️⃣ Mobile & Email Verification

• OTP sent to international mobile number
• OTP also sent to registered email ID
• Verification is mandatory before booking

3️⃣ Start Ticket Booking

• Login → Services → Foreign Tourist Ticket Booking
• Enter journey details
• Provide passport number for each passenger

4️⃣ Payment

• Pay using international debit/credit cards
• Supported gateways:
  • AMEX (American Express)
  • ATOM (all international cards)
  • Others ( Check gateway)

5️⃣ Confirmation

• Booking SMS sent to international mobile number
• Confirmation email sent to registered email ID
• ERS (Electronic Reservation Slip) can be downloaded after berth allotment

Charges Under IRCTC Foreign Quota

• Registration / Profile Update Fee: ₹100 + GST
• Service Charge: ₹200 + GST per ticket
• Rail fare is charged separately based on class and train

Cancellation Rules for Foreign Quota Tickets

• 50% of fare is deducted on cancellation
• Cancellation charges apply additionally
• Cancellation allowed as per Indian Railways time limits
• If berth is not allotted by PRS system:
  • Ticket is auto-cancelled
  • Full refund processed to original card

Refund & Failed Transaction Policy

• Refunds are credited only to the same card/account used for booking
• In failed transactions (amount debited but ticket not issued):
  • Full fare + service charges are refunded
• Refunds are processed as per Indian Railways refund rules
• Timelines may vary due to banking channels and holidays

Assistance for Foreign Tourists

Indian Railways also provides:

• Assistance Cells at major reservation centres
• International Tourist Bureau, New Delhi Railway Station
  • Helps with reservations, itinerary planning & enquiries
  • Staff trained in foreign languages

FAQs on IRCTC Foreign Quota

❓ What is IRCTC foreign quota used for?

It is a special reservation quota for foreign tourists and NRIs to book confirmed train tickets in India with advance planning.

❓ How many days in advance can I book under foreign quota?

You can book tickets up to 365 days in advance through IRCTC.

❓ Is passport mandatory for IRCTC foreign quota booking?

Yes, entering a valid passport number for each passenger is compulsory.

❓ Can I book Tatkal tickets as a foreign tourist?

Yes, foreign users can also book normal ARP and Tatkal tickets, subject to availability.

❓ What happens if berth is not allotted?

The ticket is automatically cancelled and the refund is processed to the same international card.

❓ Is there any extra charge for foreign quota booking?

Yes, IRCTC charges a ₹200 + GST service fee per ticket, apart from rail fare.

Final Words

The IRCTC foreign quota is a well-designed facility that makes train travel in India convenient, secure, and tourist-friendly. With long advance booking windows, reserved berths, international payment options, and dedicated assistance, foreign travellers can confidently explore India by rail.

For more railway guides and IRCTC updates, explore our Indian Railways Travel section on RailAdda. 🚆