India Introduces Mandatory e-Arrival Card for All Travelers, Including OCI Holders

India has announced an important update for travelers. Starting October 7, 2025, all foreign visitors, including OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cardholders, must complete an e-Arrival Card before entering the country. This digital card replaces the traditional paper Disembarkation Card and streamlines the immigration process.

What’s Changing

Previously, OCI cardholders were not required to fill out the e-Arrival Card. However, this exemption is no longer in place. Now, every foreign national must complete the digital arrival process before arriving in India. This change aims to enhance the efficiency of immigration procedures.

How to Submit the e-Arrival Card

Submitting the e-Arrival Card is easy and can be done online through several official platforms:

• Bureau of Immigration website: Bureau of Immigration
• Indian Visa Online website: Indian Visa Online
• Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile app: Available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Step-by-Step Process to Submit the e-Arrival Card

• Visit the official platform: Access one of the approved websites or use the Indian Visa Su-Swagatam app.
• Fill in your details: Enter your personal, passport, travel, and contact information. Ensure all details are accurate before submitting.
• Submit before arrival: Complete the form up to five days before your trip. Early submission helps avoid last-minute issues.
• Save your confirmation: After submission, you’ll receive a digital confirmation. Keep a copy on your phone or print it out for immigration checks.
• Present on arrival: At immigration in India, officials will verify your digital e-Arrival Card directly. There’s no need for the old paper disembarkation form.

The e-Arrival Card can be submitted up to 72 hours before you arrive in India.

Physical Disembarkation Card Still Accepted

For the next six months, travelers can still use the paper Disembarkation Card. However, Indian authorities highly recommend switching to the digital e-Arrival Card. This change is intended to create a smoother and faster immigration experience.

Why the Change Matters

The Indian government is committed to digitizing entry formalities. Although the Disembarkation Card will still be accepted for now, using the online option will result in quicker immigration processing. This initiative aims to reduce congestion at arrival counters and enhance overall efficiency.

Who’s Exempted

Only Indian passport holders are exempt from the e-Arrival Card requirement. Everyone else, including OCI cardholders, foreign nationals, and visitors with e-Visas or regular visas, must complete the process before leaving for India.

Final Thoughts

If you plan to travel to India after October 7, 2025, please complete your e-Arrival Card online in advance. This preparation will save you time and prevent unnecessary delays at immigration, ensuring a smoother start to your journey.