Indian Railways has made major changes in the ticket cancellation and refund rules for its premium services, Vande Bharat Sleeper and Amrit Bharat-II trains. Under the Railway Passengers (Cancellation and Refund) Amendment Rules, 2026, issued by the ministry, passengers will now have to be more careful to get a refund. Carelessness while canceling tickets can prove costly.
New refund rules for Vande Bharat Sleeper Express
The refund system for these trains will now be time-bound.
More than 72 hours in advance: If you cancel your ticket more than 72 hours before the train departure, 25% of the fare will be deducted, and the remaining amount will be refunded.
Between 72 to 8 hours: If you cancel your ticket between 72 to 8 hours before the train departure, 50% of the fare will be deducted.
Less than 8 hours: If you cancel your ticket less than 8 hours before the train departure, no refund will be given.
Amrit Bharat-II and other trains
The same rules that apply to Vande Bharat Sleeper will also apply to reserved tickets on Amrit Bharat-II Express. However, the old rules (Rule 5) for unreserved tickets will continue to apply on Amrit Bharat-II.
TDR and time limit
The time limit for ticket cancellation for Vande Bharat Sleeper and Amrit Bharat-II has been fixed at 72 hours, while for other regular trains this limit is 48 hours. If a passenger neither cancels the ticket nor files the online TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt) 8 hours before the departure of the train, he will not get a refund. Where separate rules are not mentioned for these specific categories, the old rules (Rules 1 to 23) will apply as per the status of the ticket (confirmed or waitlisted). Railways has advised passengers to cancel their tickets in time to avoid losses if there is any change in their travel plans.
