India e-Arrival Card

The India e-Arrival Card is an electronic form that needs to be filled in up to 72 hours prior to the trip to India.

It was introduced on May 1, 2025, as a measure to enhance safety and to streamline the immigration procedures.

The new digital arrival system was introduced by the government for foreign nationals crossing the Indian border, and it replaces the paper forms.

Now, the process for a card may be done online, which is convenient and quick compared to the traditional method.

In order to complete the disembarkation form, it is necessary to provide personal, travel, passport, and contact information.

NOTE: The India e-Arrival Card is not a visa. If travelers come from a non-visa-free country, they must additionally have a proper permit.

List of Eligible Countries

All foreign nationals traveling to India must have an e-Arrival Card. The only exemption is Indian citizens, who don’t need to complete it.

The electronic form must be submitted online within 72 hours prior to arrival for smooth processing at immigration.

India e-Arrival Card Application

The process for an e-Arrival Card to India requires an electronic device with internet access.

The steps for completing the Indian disembarkation form are as follows:

1. Click on the ‘Apply Online’ button: To start the procedure, go to the application form.
2. Provide all the necessary details: Fill in all the required information, such as passport number, nationality, name, purpose of the trip, arrival date, address in India, etc.
3. Finalize the payment: After entering all the details, you need to cover the fee.
4. Wait for the approval: Receive the confirmation after the procedure, and wait for the email with an India e-Arrival Card.

Remember to apply earlier for the disembarkation card to India to get all the documents on time. If a visa is needed, also obtain it beforehand.

Transit Information

Travelers transiting through India, but not leaving the transit area, usually don’t need an Indian e-Arrival Card.

However, in the case of exiting the airport or going through immigration, foreign nationals must complete the e-Arrival Card to India.

It is advisable to verify the specific transit procedures with the authorities to determine whether you need to have the form.

Requirements on Arrival

Visitors who want to enter India need to provide all the necessary documentation at the border control.

Generally, the documents required upon arrival in India are:

• A passport: It must be valid for at least 6 months and have 2 blank pages.
• A visa: If a traveler comes from a non-visa-exempt country.
• An e-Arrival Card: A necessary form containing the basic personal and trip information.

Note that you may be asked for more files, depending on the circumstances. For example, you may need to provide proof of accommodation or return tickets.

The permission to enter India is up to the immigration authorities and is not guaranteed.

Required Documents

The necessary documentation for an India e-Arrival Card is basically a passport with a validity of at least 6 months with 2 blank pages.

Furthermore, you should share a date of arrival, accommodation, and contact details, as well as select countries visited in the last 6 days, if any.

Make sure to fill in the form accurately and have all the documents up-to-date to avoid problems, such as delays.

An expired passport may result in rejection, which can complicate your travel plans.

Important Information

• The India e-Arrival Card must be completed online up to 72 hours before arrival in the country.
• The card is an electronic disembarkation form that replaces the traditional paper version for all foreign nationals.
• Travelers must provide personal, passport, travel, and contact information when filling out the form.
• The e-Arrival Card does not replace a visa, and visitors from non-exempt countries must obtain an entry permit beforehand.
• Transit passengers who remain in the international transit area usually do not need the e-Arrival Card, but it is required if passing through immigration.
• Entry into India is subject to immigration approval, and travelers must carry all relevant documents, including a valid passport.

FAQ

What is the India e-Arrival Card?

The e-Arrival Card to India is an electronic document that must be completed in order to cross the Indian border. It contains basic personal and travel details.

Do I need to complete the India e-Arrival Card?

All foreign nationals entering India must fill in the e-Arrival Card before their trip.

When should I submit the e-Arrival form to India?

Travelers need to submit the Indian disembarkation form up to 72 hours before the planned entry to the country.

Does the India e-Arrival Card replace a visa?

No, an e-Arrival Card is not a visa to India. If your country is not on a visa-exempted list, you still need a proper permit besides the card.

Are Indian citizens required to fill out the e-Arrival Card?

Indian citizens don’t need to fill in the e-Arrival Card. However, foreign nationals must complete it to enter India

What personal details are required to complete the India e-Arrival Card?

Mainly, travelers need to provide a full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and passport details.

Can visitors to India complete the e-Arrival Card offline or on paper?

The India e-Arrival Card is submitted online; the paper form is now gradually replaced

Do transit passengers need to fill out the e-Arrival Card if they stay in the international transit area?

It is generally not required to complete the card if travelers do not go through immigration. Contact the authorities to know more in this respect.

Are vaccination certificates required for entry into India?

Travelers coming from yellow fever risk regions must have vaccination proof. Other health conditions may apply, depending on the individual's circumstances.

What steps should be taken to avoid delays or rejection at Indian immigration?

Make sure all documents are valid and up-to-date, fill the e-Arrival Card accurately, and carry a visa if necessary.