As of April 1, 2026, every foreign national and OCI cardholder flying into India must submit the digital **e-Arrival Card** before departure. This mandatory online form has completely replaced the old paper disembarkation card, making immigration faster, paperless, and more efficient at all major Indian airports.
Indian citizens holding Indian passports are fully exempt. The form is free and generates a QR code that you must present (digital or printed) at the immigration counter.
New e-Arrival Card: India Immigration Mandatory Digital Form
Table of Contents
What is the India e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is India’s official digital immigration arrival form. It collects essential traveler information to help authorities manage entry efficiently and enhance border security. After successful submission, you receive a confirmation with a QR code that immigration officers will scan upon arrival.
Important Update (April 2026): Physical paper arrival cards have been discontinued. Airlines may refuse boarding if you have not submitted the digital e-Arrival Card.
Who Must Submit the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is mandatory for:
- All foreign passport holders
- Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders
Exempt: Indian citizens with valid Indian passports do not need to fill out the e-Arrival Card.
How to Fill the e-Arrival Card Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to complete the form quickly and correctly:
- Go to the official website indianvisaonline.gov.in or download the “Su-Swagatam” mobile app.
- Select “e-Arrival Card” and enter your passport details. Use the Quick Fill option if you have used the portal before.
- Provide your flight details, date of arrival, and countries visited in the last 6 days.
- Enter your address in India (hotel name and address or host details) and contact information.
- Review all entries for accuracy and submit the form.
- Save or print the confirmation page containing the QR code.
Submission Deadline
Submit the e-Arrival Card anytime within 72 hours before your scheduled arrival time in India. Submitting 24–48 hours in advance is ideal.
Required Details & Documents
| Category | Information Needed |
|---|---|
| Personal Information | Full name, date of birth, gender, nationality |
| Passport Details | Passport number, date of issue, expiry date |
| Travel Details | Flight number, arrival date, port of entry, countries visited in last 6 days |
| Stay Details | Address in India, duration of stay |
| Contact Information | Email ID, phone number |
Tip: All information must exactly match your passport and visa. Any mismatch can lead to delays at immigration.
Tips for Smooth Immigration at Indian Airports
- Complete the e-Arrival Card well before your flight to avoid last-minute stress.
- Keep the QR code easily accessible on your phone or as a printed copy.
- Carry your passport, valid visa or OCI card, and return/onward ticket.
- Use dedicated e-Arrival Card lanes at major airports for faster clearance.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your purpose of visit and accommodation.
- Download the Su-Swagatam app for a smoother mobile experience and future services.
Preparing the e-Arrival Card in advance ensures a hassle-free entry into India. Always verify the latest requirements on the official Indian Visa Online portal before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to fill an arrival form for India?
Yes, all foreign nationals and OCI cardholders must submit the digital e-Arrival Card as of April 1, 2026. Indian citizens are exempt.
How do I get my e-Arrival Card for India?
Submit the form online at the official Indian Visa Online portal or through the Su-Swagatam mobile app up to 72 hours before arrival.
What is the quick fill form on Indian e-Arrival?
The Quick Fill option allows returning users to auto-populate details using their passport number, making the process much faster.
How to fill an e-Arrival Card?
Enter personal and passport details, flight information, address in India, and contact info on the official portal or app, then submit to receive a QR code.
What form do you need to enter India?
Foreigners and OCI holders need the digital e-Arrival Card along with a valid passport and appropriate visa or OCI card. Paper arrival cards are no longer accepted.
What documents do US citizens need to enter India?
US citizens require a valid passport, appropriate visa (tourist/business/e-Visa), and the completed e-Arrival Card with QR code. No additional special documents are needed beyond standard requirements.
Can I fill the e-Arrival Card at the airport?
From April 2026, only pre-submitted digital e-Arrival Cards are accepted. Filling at the airport is not recommended and may cause long delays.
Is the e-Arrival Card mandatory for OCI cardholders?
Yes, OCI cardholders are required to submit the e-Arrival Card, just like other foreign nationals.
Old Immigration Form
1 comment:
Does each family member travelling together have to complete the online earrival form?
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