India Introduces e-Arrival Card for Foreign Travelers Starting October 1, 2025

India is embracing digital transformation by launching an e-Arrival Card for foreign travelers. Starting October 1, 2025, the traditional paper disembarkation form will be replaced by this convenient online system. This change promises to streamline the arrival process, making it easier for travelers to enter the country.

Here’s everything you need to know about the e-Arrival Card, including its benefits and application process.

Understanding the e-Arrival Card

The Indian Government has announced the end of paper disembarkation forms for foreign travelers. Instead, visitors will complete the e-Arrival Card online before reaching immigration. This digital shift aims to reduce waiting times at airport counters and enhance the overall travel experience.

For years, travelers entering India filled out a disembarkation card with essential details such as passport number, flight information, purpose of visit, and local address. Immigration officers relied on this form to process entries efficiently. The new e-Arrival Card will simplify this process, aligning India with countries like the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Thailand, which have already adopted similar systems.

Where to Access the e-Arrival Card

Travelers can access the e-Arrival Card through a dedicated portal: indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival. A beta version of the form is currently available for testing, although it is not yet mandatory. Once the system is fully operational, travelers must complete the card within five days of their arrival in India.

Eligibility

All foreign nationals entering India, whether on an e-Visa or sticker visa, must complete the e-Arrival Card. This requirement applies to those traveling for business, tourism, study, or work. Notably, Indian citizens and OCI cardholders are exempt from this process.

Requirements

To fill out the e-Arrival Card, travelers need the following:

• A valid passport
• Flight details for entry into India
• A local address in India (hotel or residence)
• An active email address and phone number

Currently, travelers do not need to upload any documents; the form only requires typed information.

How to Apply for the e-Arrival Card

• Visit the Official Site: Access indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival.
• Fill in Details: Enter your personal, travel, and contact information.
• Submit Within the Timeframe: Complete the form up to five days before your arrival.
• Save Confirmation: After submission, a digital arrival confirmation will be generated. Keep a digital copy or print it for immigration purposes.
• Present on Arrival: Upon landing in India, proceed to immigration where officers will access your digital arrival card.

It’s important to note that the portal is currently in testing phases, so some aspects may change before the official launch.

Why This Matters for Travelers

For travelers accustomed to long waits at immigration in cities like Delhi and Mumbai, this digital transition is a welcome change. Moving paperwork online will significantly expedite the process, particularly for frequent flyers and business travelers who require expedited clearance. Moreover, this initiative positions India alongside other Asian nations that have modernized their entry processes.

Final Takeaway

Beginning October 1, 2025, foreign travelers to India will no longer be required to complete paper disembarkation forms. Instead, they will fill out the e-Arrival Card online before their journey. As the system undergoes final testing and integrates with India’s e-Visa platform, travelers can look forward to a smoother arrival experience in this vibrant country.