
BookMyShow stands as India’s foremost platform for booking movie tickets, concerts, theater shows, sports events, and other live experiences. Millions of users rely on BookMyShow daily to secure their seats at the best venues across the country with just a few taps or clicks.
How to Cancel BookMyShow Ticket
Yet, even with the convenience BookMyShow offers, plans can change unexpectedly. You might face a change in your schedule, accidentally book duplicate tickets, or encounter last-minute conflicts that force you to reconsider your attendance. In such cases, the natural question arises: how to cancel BookMyShow ticket effectively and get your refund (if applicable)?
Navigating the cancellation process on BookMyShow can be tricky because the cancellation policies are not uniform. They differ based on the type of event, the cinema or venue partner, and the specific ticket you purchased. For example, movie tickets generally have stricter cancellation policies compared to event or concert tickets, which may offer some flexibility.
Moreover, BookMyShow offers a valuable “Cancellation Protection” add-on, which many users might overlook during booking. This add-on significantly changes your cancellation rights and refund eligibility. Therefore, understanding what “Cancellation Protection” is and how it works is key to managing your bookings smartly.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to cancel BookMyShow ticket in 2025 — including when cancellation is possible, how to proceed step-by-step, refund timelines, and tips to avoid losing money on your bookings.
II. Can You Cancel BookMyShow Tickets?
Before you proceed to cancel your BookMyShow ticket, it is crucial to understand the platform’s cancellation policies to set the right expectations and avoid unnecessary frustration.
Understanding BookMyShow’s Cancellation Policy
BookMyShow’s cancellation policy is largely dependent on whether your ticket is refundable or non-refundable. This status is influenced by factors such as:
- The nature of the event (movie, concert, play, sports)
- The cinema or event organizer’s policies
- Whether you purchased cancellation protection at the time of booking
Generally:
- Movie tickets: Most movie tickets booked on BookMyShow are non-refundable and cannot be cancelled or refunded once booked.
- Event and concert tickets: These tend to be more flexible and may allow cancellations or rescheduling, depending on the event organizer’s terms.
- Special cases: Tickets for events that get cancelled or postponed by organizers are usually eligible for full refunds or rescheduling.
What Is Cancellation Protection and Why It Matters
“Cancellation Protection” is an optional service that users can purchase while booking their ticket on BookMyShow. It acts like an insurance policy for your ticket, enabling you to cancel and get a refund, usually minus a nominal service fee.
- This add-on costs a small percentage of your ticket price and is clearly displayed during booking.
- If you have Cancellation Protection, you can cancel your BookMyShow ticket anytime before the event starts and expect a refund within a few business days.
- Tickets without Cancellation Protection typically do not qualify for refunds unless the event is cancelled or postponed by the organizer.
Can You Cancel Without Cancellation Protection?
Most BookMyShow tickets purchased without Cancellation Protection are non-refundable, especially for movies. However, there are a few exceptions:
- If the event or show is cancelled or rescheduled, BookMyShow usually offers automatic refunds or rescheduling options.
- Some cinema partners may allow cancellations for specific shows, but this is rare.
- In emergency or special situations, BookMyShow’s customer support may assist you with cancellations or refunds on a case-by-case basis.
When Should You Contact BookMyShow Support?
If your ticket does not show a cancellation option on the app or website and you believe you have a valid reason (such as event cancellation, personal emergencies, or technical errors), contacting BookMyShow’s customer care is your best bet. They can guide you on eligibility and next steps.
III. How to Cancel BookMyShow Ticket – Step-by-Step Guide
Many users ask, how to cancel BookMyShow ticket once their plans change, and it’s crucial to know the exact process depending on whether you purchased Cancellation Protection or not. Let’s explore both scenarios in great detail.
1. If You Purchased Cancellation Protection
Cancellation Protection is like an insurance policy on your ticket. If you have it, canceling and getting a refund is simple and usually guaranteed within the terms.
Step-by-step cancellation process for tickets with Cancellation Protection:
- Step 1: Log into BookMyShow Account
Open the BookMyShow app or website and log in using your registered mobile number, email, or social media account. - Step 2: Access ‘Your Bookings’
Once logged in, go to the ‘Your Bookings’ tab which lists all your current and past ticket bookings, sorted by upcoming and completed events. - Step 3: Select the Ticket
Find the ticket you want to cancel. Tickets with Cancellation Protection will have the option to cancel. - Step 4: Click on ‘Cancel’
Click the ‘Cancel’ button next to the booking. If you don’t see this option, it’s likely your ticket is non-refundable or does not have protection. - Step 5: Provide Cancellation Reason
You may be prompted to select a reason for cancellation from a dropdown list (e.g., schedule conflict, change of plans). - Step 6: Confirm Cancellation
Confirm your cancellation request. You will receive a cancellation confirmation on-screen and via email/SMS. - Step 7: Refund Processing
Refunds for tickets cancelled with Cancellation Protection are generally processed within 5–7 business days. The amount is credited to the original payment method such as credit/debit card, UPI, or net banking. - Important:
Check your email and transaction statements after 5–7 days to verify the refund. Keep the cancellation confirmation for future reference.
2. If You Did NOT Purchase Cancellation Protection
For tickets purchased without Cancellation Protection, the cancellation process is stricter:
- Movie Tickets:
Typically, movie tickets cannot be cancelled or refunded once booked without Cancellation Protection. This is because cinemas and distributors enforce strict no-refund policies. - Event Tickets:
Cancellation policies vary. Some event organizers allow refunds or cancellations, others do not. - What To Do If Cancellation Option Is Not Visible:
- Contact Customer Support: Use BookMyShow’s in-app chat, email helpdesk@bookmyshow.com, or Twitter handle @bookmyshow to explain your situation.
- Exceptional Cases: For emergencies, health issues, or errors, customer care may offer goodwill refunds or rescheduling on a case-by-case basis.
- Event Cancellations: If the event is cancelled by the organizer, refunds are processed automatically irrespective of protection status.
- Contact Customer Support: Use BookMyShow’s in-app chat, email helpdesk@bookmyshow.com, or Twitter handle @bookmyshow to explain your situation.
- Note:
Always read the terms and conditions of your ticket before booking. Many users miss the Cancellation Protection add-on and are surprised by non-refundable tickets later.
IV. How to Cancel BookMyShow Tickets for Events or Concerts
Event tickets such as concerts, plays, or sports games often have more flexible cancellation options compared to movie tickets, but policies vary widely.
Cancellation Policies for Events
- Event Organizer Rules:
Most cancellation and refund policies are governed by the event organizers or venue owners, not BookMyShow directly. - Refundable Tickets:
If your ticket is refundable, BookMyShow will show a cancel option in your booking details. This option is usually available until a certain deadline before the event. - Non-Refundable Tickets:
Some events have strict no-cancellation policies. Make sure to check before purchasing.
Step-by-Step Cancellation Process for Event Tickets
- Step 1: Log into Your BookMyShow Account
Open the app or website and log in. - Step 2: Go to ‘Your Bookings’
Locate the event booking you want to cancel. - Step 3: Look for the ‘Cancel’ Button
If cancellation is allowed, the button will be prominently displayed. - Step 4: Submit Cancellation Request
Click cancel, provide a reason, and confirm. - Step 5: Await Refund
If eligible, you will get a refund processed through your original payment method within 5–7 business days.
What If You Can’t Cancel?
- No Cancel Option Available:
If no cancel button appears, check if the event is postponed or cancelled by the organizer. Refunds are generally automatic for cancelled events. - Contact Support:
Reach out to BookMyShow support for help with special cases or disputes.
Special Situations to Consider
- Event Postponements:
When events are postponed, BookMyShow often allows ticket transfer to new dates or refunds if you choose not to attend. - Group Bookings:
If you booked multiple tickets, some events allow partial cancellations, but check terms carefully.
Tips for Smooth Cancellation of BookMyShow Tickets
- Always check if Cancellation Protection is available and consider buying it if plans are uncertain.
- Review cancellation and refund policies carefully before finalizing your booking.
- Save all confirmation emails and cancellation receipts for record-keeping.
- For events, monitor organizer announcements for cancellations or reschedules that might impact your ticket.
V. How to Contact BookMyShow for Ticket Cancellation
Knowing how to cancel BookMyShow ticket is essential, but sometimes you might hit a roadblock — maybe you can’t find the cancellation option, or your ticket doesn’t show as refundable. In such cases, getting in touch with BookMyShow customer support is critical to resolve your issues quickly.
Multiple Ways to Contact BookMyShow Customer Care
1. In-App Help Section (Fastest and Most Convenient)
- Accessing Help: Open your BookMyShow app and navigate to the ‘Help & Support’ or ‘Contact Us’ tab, usually found in the profile or settings menu.
- Live Chat Support: Most users find the live chat option the fastest. Here, you can directly communicate with a customer care agent in real-time.
- Why Use It: You can ask specific questions like “How to cancel BookMyShow ticket for my event?”, get eligibility confirmation, or ask for refund details.
- Example:
You can type:
“Hi, I want to know how to cancel my BookMyShow ticket for event ID XYZ and if I’m eligible for a refund.”
Agents typically respond within minutes during business hours.
2. Customer Support Email
- If your issue is complex or requires submitting proof, email is a great way.
- Send a detailed mail to helpdesk@bookmyshow.com including:
- Your registered mobile number and email address
- The Booking ID or Ticket Number
- Your full name
- The reason for cancellation (e.g., change in plans, event reschedule)
- Screenshots of your booking confirmation or cancellation attempts
- Your registered mobile number and email address
- Emails may take 24–48 hours for a response but are useful for official documentation.
3. Social Media – Twitter Support
- BookMyShow actively supports users on Twitter at @bookmyshow.
- You can tweet your query or send a direct message politely asking about how to cancel BookMyShow ticket or refund status.
- Public tweets often get quicker attention, and customer service will guide you.
4. Phone Support (Limited Availability)
- BookMyShow does not widely publicize phone support, but sometimes local numbers or support lines may be shared in confirmation emails or event details.
- Calling these can help in urgent cases, though wait times may be longer.
VI. What is BookMyShow’s Refund Policy?
Understanding the refund policy is crucial when you want to know how to cancel BookMyShow ticket and get your money back.
Refund Eligibility and Conditions
1. Tickets with Cancellation Protection
- If you bought Cancellation Protection, you are usually entitled to a refund of the ticket price minus any service fees.
- Refunds are processed within 5 to 7 business days via your original payment mode — credit/debit cards, UPI, net banking, or wallets.
2. Event Cancellation by Organizer
- If the event you booked gets cancelled by the organizer, BookMyShow generally processes full refunds automatically, regardless of Cancellation Protection purchase.
- In such cases, you do not need to request cancellation manually.
3. Tickets Without Cancellation Protection
- Most movie tickets and many event tickets are non-refundable if cancelled by the user.
- Cancellation may not be available at all; if it is, expect that you will not get a refund or only a partial refund.
4. Service and Convenience Fees
- BookMyShow often charges service/convenience fees that are non-refundable even if the ticket price is refunded.
- This fee covers the cost of booking services and is retained by BookMyShow.
Refund Processing Timeline
- Once your cancellation is approved, refunds are initiated within 5 to 7 business days, but the actual credit may take longer depending on your bank or payment gateway.
- It is important to check your transaction statements and email notifications for confirmation.
How to Track Your Refund
- Use your Booking ID and the cancellation confirmation number to check refund status in the ‘Your Bookings’ section of the BookMyShow app or website.
- You can also contact customer care through the methods above for status updates.
Additional Tips About Refunds and Cancellations
- Always purchase Cancellation Protection if you think your plans might change. This makes the how to cancel BookMyShow ticket process smoother and refund guaranteed.
- Review the terms and conditions for each event or movie ticket before booking to understand refund eligibility.
- Keep all confirmation emails and cancellation receipts as proof in case of disputes.
- For group bookings, cancellations might be partially allowed; check with customer support.
- If you don’t receive a refund after 10 business days post-cancellation, escalate the issue via social media or grievance redressal forums.
VII. Alternatives to Cancelling
When you’re facing a situation where cancelling your BookMyShow ticket seems like the only option, pause for a moment. Sometimes cancellation isn’t the best or only solution. BookMyShow and event organizers offer alternatives that can help you avoid losing money or missing out entirely.
1. Transfer Your Ticket to Someone Else
One of the smartest alternatives to cancellation is transferring your ticket to a friend, family member, or colleague. This option is particularly useful for events, concerts, or shows where attendance is tied to specific tickets.
- How It Works:
Depending on the event, BookMyShow may allow you to transfer your ticket by sharing the ticket QR code or booking details through the app or email. The new attendee can use this ticket without issues. - Benefits:
You don’t lose the ticket value, and you can help someone else enjoy the event. - Restrictions:
Some events might restrict transfers or require you to notify the organizer. Always check the event-specific terms. - Steps to Transfer:
- Go to Your Bookings in the BookMyShow app.
- Select the ticket you want to transfer.
- Look for a “Transfer” or “Share” option (if available).
- Enter the recipient’s details or send the ticket link.
- Go to Your Bookings in the BookMyShow app.
If the transfer option is unavailable, contacting BookMyShow customer care is recommended to explore manual solutions.
2. Rescheduling Instead of Cancelling
Certain events, especially multi-day conferences, workshops, or theater productions, may offer flexible dates or multiple showtimes.
- Reschedule to Another Date:
Instead of cancelling, you might be able to reschedule your ticket to a later date or a different showtime that suits your availability better. - Process:
Check the event page or your booking details for rescheduling options. If unclear, reach out to BookMyShow support to inquire. - Advantages:
You maintain your ticket value and avoid losing money, and you still get to attend the event on a more convenient date.
3. Automatic Refunds for Event Postponements or Cancellations
In cases where the event organizer cancels or postpones an event, BookMyShow typically processes refunds automatically:
- What Happens:
You’ll receive an email and app notification about the cancellation/postponement and the refund process. - Refund Timeline:
Refunds are usually credited to your original payment method within 5 to 7 business days. - If You Want to Attend Rescheduled Events:
Sometimes, instead of a refund, BookMyShow offers the option to hold your ticket for the new date.
VIII. Important Tips Before Booking on BookMyShow
To minimize the chances of needing to cancel your BookMyShow ticket later, it’s essential to make informed choices during booking. Here are crucial tips to keep in mind:
1. Always Consider Buying Cancellation Protection
- What is Cancellation Protection?
Cancellation Protection is an optional add-on offered by BookMyShow at checkout, typically costing a small percentage of your ticket price. - Why Buy It?
If there’s even a slight chance your plans might change, this add-on guarantees that you can cancel and get a refund (minus nominal fees). - Cost vs. Benefit:
The extra cost is usually minimal compared to the peace of mind and refund eligibility it grants. - How to Get It:
Look for the Cancellation Protection checkbox or option on the payment page and opt in.
2. Thoroughly Read Cancellation Policies Before Confirming Booking
- Policy Variance:
Cancellation rules vary widely depending on the event, cinema, and ticket type. - What to Look For:
Check if your ticket is refundable, the deadline for cancellations, and any fees applicable. - Common Restrictions:
Movie tickets often have stricter no-cancellation rules, while events may be more flexible.
3. Choose Flexible Venues and Events
- Some cinemas and event organizers are known for more lenient cancellation and rescheduling policies.
- If flexibility is important to you, prefer booking through such venues.
- Customer reviews and forums can be a good source of such information.
4. Keep All Booking and Payment Documentation
- Always save booking confirmation emails, SMS, and payment receipts.
- Screenshots of tickets and cancellation requests can be valuable if you face disputes.
- These documents act as proof during refunds or customer support escalations.
5. Be Aware of Deadlines and Timeframes
- Many events require cancellations or refund requests well before the event start date.
- Late cancellation attempts are often rejected.
- Set calendar reminders for cancellation deadlines if you suspect your plans may change.
This detailed coverage of alternatives to cancelling and tips before booking will empower users to make smarter decisions, minimize losses, and confidently navigate how to cancel BookMyShow ticket if needed.
IX. Final Thoughts
Knowing how to cancel BookMyShow ticket correctly is essential to avoid unnecessary losses and headaches. Whether you have purchased Cancellation Protection or not, understanding the cancellation rules upfront can save you from unexpected frustrations later.
Remember these key takeaways:
- Always check cancellation policies for the event or movie before booking. Policies vary significantly depending on the organizer and ticket type.
- Consider opting for Cancellation Protection if you anticipate any chance of changes in plans. It’s a small price for the peace of mind it offers.
- Use the step-by-step cancellation process outlined here to cancel your ticket via the BookMyShow app or website.
- If you cannot cancel directly, contact BookMyShow customer support through the app’s live chat, email, or Twitter for assistance.
- For events, explore alternatives like transferring your ticket or rescheduling to avoid outright cancellation and loss.
- Keep all your booking and cancellation documentation handy for smooth refunds and dispute resolution.
- Refund timelines typically range from 5 to 7 business days but may vary based on payment methods and bank processing.
Following these guidelines will help you navigate how to cancel BookMyShow ticket seamlessly, ensuring you get your deserved refund without stress.
X. FAQs
1. Can I cancel a BookMyShow movie ticket without cancellation protection?
Most movie tickets without cancellation protection are non-refundable. Cancellation is usually not allowed unless the event or screening is cancelled by the cinema.
2. How much money is refunded on ticket cancellation?
If cancellation protection was purchased, you typically receive a refund of the ticket price minus a nominal fee. Without protection, refunds are rare and often no refund on service fees.
3. How do I know if my event ticket is refundable?
Refundability depends on the event organizer’s policy and whether you bought cancellation protection. Check your booking confirmation and event terms before purchase.
4. What is Cancellation Protection and how much does it cost?
Cancellation Protection is an optional add-on costing a small percentage of your ticket price. It allows you to cancel your booking and get a refund within the specified time.
5. Can I transfer my BookMyShow ticket to someone else?
Some events allow ticket transfers. Check your ticket details or contact BookMyShow support to confirm if transfer is possible.
6. How long does it take to get a refund after cancelling a ticket?
Refunds usually process within 5 to 7 business days via your original payment method but can vary based on banks or wallets.
7. What should I do if I can’t find the cancel option for my ticket?
Contact BookMyShow customer care via live chat, email, or Twitter for assistance. They may provide alternatives or process cancellations manually.