New Delhi:
Central Government employees proceeding on official tour must adhere to the Department of Expenditure (DoE) reimbursement limits for Hotel, Food, and Local Travel. Non-compliance with GST invoice requirements or booking via unauthorized aggregators frequently results in claim rejection.
Updated on: 16 January 2026 | Verified against DoE OM No. 19030/1/2017-E.IV.
Daily Allowance on Tour 2026: Hotel, Food & Travel Rates (Level Wise)
Quick Answer
Reimbursement is linked to your Pay Level in the Pay Matrix. Hotel accommodation requires a mandatory GST Invoice and is reimbursed on an actuals basis up to the ceiling. Food charges are paid as a Lump Sum without bills, subject to the duration of the tour (6/12-hour rule).
Who Is Eligible
- All Central Government employees proceeding on official tour, training, or temporary duty.
- Employees on deputation where Central Govt rules are adopted.
Risk of Rejection: The GST Trap
You will NOT get Hotel reimbursement if:
1. You submit a “Payment Receipt” or “Booking Confirmation” instead of a valid Tax Invoice.
2. The invoice does not contain the Hotel’s GST Registration Number.
3. You book via blacklisted aggregators that do not provide B2B/B2C invoices.
1. Hotel Accommodation Limits
This covers room rent only. GST (Taxes) paid is reimbursed over and above these limits. Reimbursement is strictly on an “Actual” basis, not flat rate.
| Pay Level | Ceiling Limit (Per Day) |
|---|---|
| Level 14 & Above | ₹7,500 |
| Level 12 to 13A | ₹4,500 |
| Level 9 to 11 | ₹2,250 |
| Level 6 to 8 | ₹750 |
| Level 5 & Below | ₹450 |
2. Food Charges (Lump Sum)
This is a fixed allowance. No vouchers are required. The amount depends on the duration of absence from headquarters.
| Pay Level | Lump Sum Amount (Per Day) |
|---|---|
| Level 14 & Above | ₹1,200 |
| Level 12 to 13A | ₹1,000 |
| Level 9 to 11 | ₹900 |
| Level 6 to 8 | ₹800 |
| Level 5 & Below | ₹500 |
The 6/12 Hour Rule (Duration Reduction)
The full food amount is NOT payable for short journeys. The reduction formula is:
• Absence < 6 Hours: 30% of Lump Sum.
• Absence 6 – 12 Hours: 70% of Lump Sum.
• Absence > 12 Hours: 100% of Lump Sum.
3. Local Travel (Within City)
Reimbursement for travel from Hotel to Office/Workshop/Station. Original bills are mandatory except for Level 5 and below.
| Pay Level | Entitlement |
|---|---|
| Level 12 & Above | AC Taxi (Upto 50 km per day) |
| Level 9 to 11 | Non-AC Taxi / Auto (Upto ₹338 per day) |
| Level 6 to 8 | Public Bus / Auto (Upto ₹225 per day) |
| Level 5 & Below | Public Bus / Auto (Upto ₹113 per day) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim food bills if I stay in a Govt Guest House?
Yes. The Food Allowance is a lump sum entitlement for daily sustenance. It is payable regardless of whether you stay in a private hotel, government guest house, or make your own arrangements.
Are personal expenses reimbursed?
No. Expenses such as laundry, tips, room service, or alcohol are not reimbursable. Only the Room Rent and Taxes are covered under the Hotel Limit.
🇮🇳 हिंदी में सारांश (Summary in Hindi)
होटल और खाने का नियम (DA on Tour 2026)
1. होटल: आपके Pay Level के आधार पर एक सीमा तय है (जैसे Level 6-8 के लिए ₹750/दिन)। इसके लिए GST वाला पक्का बिल लगाना अनिवार्य है।
2. खाना: इसके लिए कोई बिल नहीं चाहिए। यह फिक्स रकम है (₹500 से ₹1200 प्रतिदिन)। अगर टूर 6 घंटे से कम है, तो केवल 30% पैसा मिलेगा।
3. सावधानी: ऑनलाइन बुकिंग करते समय ध्यान रखें कि होटल “Tax Invoice” दे रहा है या नहीं। साधारण रसीद पर क्लेम पास नहीं होगा।