In short: a Look Out Circular (LOC) lets immigration stop a person from leaving (or flag their arrival in) India. Most people learn of it at the airport. An LOC must be tied to a real reason, such as a pending criminal case where the person is evading the investigation. It can be challenged by applying to the agency that requested it, to the trial court for permission to travel, or to the High Court to quash it.
Who can ask for an LOC
LOCs are issued by the Bureau of Immigration at the request of an "originating agency" under the Ministry of Home Affairs office memoranda (from 2010, amended since). Requests commonly come from CBI, ED, the police, DRI and customs, the income tax department, SFIO, and in some situations public sector banks over large loan defaults.
When an LOC is not justified
Courts have repeatedly held that travelling abroad is part of the right to personal liberty, and an LOC is a serious restriction. An LOC issued for a purely civil or money dispute, without a criminal case, where the person has been cooperating with the investigation, or without any review for years, is often set aside by High Courts.
How to challenge an LOC
- Find out the details: which agency requested it and in which case. Immigration may only tell you that an LOC exists; ask the likely agency in writing.
- Write to the originating agency asking for withdrawal, showing that you have cooperated and will return.
- Apply to the trial court for permission to travel abroad, offering undertakings and security, where a case is pending.
- File a writ petition in the High Court to quash the LOC where it is arbitrary or disproportionate.
Questions people ask
How do I know if a Look Out Circular has been issued against me?
There is no public online check. People usually find out when immigration stops them. A lawyer can write to the agencies likely involved, or seek disclosure in court.
Can a bank get an LOC issued against me?
Public sector banks have asked for LOCs over large loan defaults, but courts have quashed many such LOCs where there was no criminal case and the person was not trying to evade.
Can I travel abroad if an LOC is issued?
Not until it is withdrawn, suspended or the court permits travel, usually on conditions such as a bond, an itinerary and a return date.
How long is an LOC valid?
Under the current guidelines it stays in force until the originating agency withdraws it, which is why periodic review and a court challenge matter.
Facing a criminal case or arrest?
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Become a ClientCall +91 81001 21141This guide gives general information about the law in India as on 11 November 2026. It is not legal advice for your situation, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Rules and limits change; please take advice on your own facts.