India has made the e-Arrival Card compulsory for international passengers, completing its shift to a fully digital arrival system. From April 1, 2026, April 1, 2026, the paper disembarkation form will no longer be used, and passengers are required to fill out the information online before entry into the country. This is one of several steps being taken to enhance airport efficiency.
What is the e-Arrival Card?
An e-arrival card refers to a virtual declaration form to be filled out by international travellers before reaching India. Although it is not a visa, it plays a significant role as a data gathering instrument, recording necessary information like travel, reason for visit and accommodation.
Who needs to submit it?
This form applies to both foreign citizens and Overseas Citizens of India. Indian citizens are not required to complete the form. To make the process easier, families or small groups of up to five members can submit a single combined form.
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When and how to apply
Travellers must complete the e-Arrival Card within 72 hours before they arrive in India. Officials advise passengers to finish the process before boarding their flight to avoid delays at immigration.
The form is available through multiple platforms, including the Bureau of Immigration website, the Indian visa online portal and the Su-Swagatam mobile app. Once submitted, travellers receive a QR code that must be shown at immigration for verification.
What details are required?
It has been formulated to be straightforward and quick to complete. The travellers must provide some basic information about themselves, including name, citizenship, passport number, contact details, airline details, reason for travel, and place of residence during their stay in India. No document uploads are required.
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What changes for travellers?
Officials say the digital system has already improved passenger movement at airports. During the initial rollout phase, immigration wait times were reduced by up to 40 per cent. The new system is expected to further ease congestion, especially at busy international terminals.
What if you don’t submit it?
Travellers who fail to fill out the e-Arrival Card will not be prevented from entering the country. Nevertheless, they might have to wait longer than usual during their processing and undergo more thorough checks at the immigration counter.
The rollout of the mandatory e-Arrival Card marks a key step in India’s push toward paperless travel and modernised border processes, aligning with global digital travel practices.
