Breaking: India Introduces Mandatory e-Arrival Card for All Foreign Travelers – What You Must Know (October 2025)

The Big Update Every Traveler Must Know

If you’re planning a trip to India, here’s some crucial news that could affect your arrival. Starting October 1, 2025, the Indian government has officially digitized the Disembarkation (Arrival) Card, replacing the old paper forms with a mandatory e-Arrival Card for all foreign nationals.

This initiative is designed to make your immigration process faster, smoother, and more convenient.

e-Arrival Card: Say Goodbye to Paper Forms

When to Apply: Up to 72 hours before your scheduled arrival.

• Where to Apply:

• Indian Visa Online

• Bureau of Immigration Portal

• Indian Visa Su-Swagatam Mobile App

• What You Need: Passport details, nationality, flight info, purpose of visit, and local address in India.

• ⚠️ Transitional Period: Paper cards will still be accepted for six months, but digital submission is strongly recommended.

Who Needs to Complete the e-Arrival Card?

OCI Cardholders: ✅ Exempt. No e-Arrival card required. Continue enjoying visa-free entry.

• Travelers of Indian Origin (No OCI): ❌ Visa required. ✅ e-Arrival Card mandatory.

• All Other Foreign Nationals: ❌ Visa required. ✅ e-Arrival Card mandatory.

• Visa Reminders for Smooth Entry

Passport validity must be at least six months beyond your arrival date.

• Keep two blank pages for immigration stamping.

• Apply for the correct visa type well in advance (tourist, business, family visit, etc.).

• Over 160 countries are eligible for India’s convenient e-Visa program.

• Why This Matters

This update is part of India’s move towards smart travel systems—reducing paperwork, saving time, and ensuring better security. For travelers, it means less hassle at the airport and more time to enjoy your journey.

🤔 Still Confused? You're Not Alone

These changes have created confusion for thousands of travelers. The difference between understanding these requirements correctly and making a mistake could mean:

- Denied boarding at your departure airport

- Hours of delays at India immigration

- Potential deportation (in worst cases)

- Ruined travel plans and wasted money

The good news?  You don't have to figure this out alone.

🎯 Let Us Handle the Complex Stuff

Our immigration experts have already helped hundreds of clients navigate these new digital requirements smoothly. We provide:

✅ Free consultation  to assess your specific situation

✅ Step-by-step guidance through visa applications

✅ e-Arrival Card support and verification

✅ OCI card application assistance (if eligible)

✅ Answers to all your questions —before, during, and after travel

Don't leave your India travel to chance.

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Final Thoughts

Travel should be about excitement, not stress. With the new digital e-Arrival Card and a little preparation, your trip to India will begin seamlessly.
Stay informed, plan ahead, and enjoy a hassle-free welcome to India.

Frequently asked questions :

Q: Do I need the e-Arrival Card if I have an e-Visa? 

A: Yes—they are separate requirements. e-Visa = permission to travel; e-Arrival = pre-immigration clearance.

Q: Can I fill the e-Arrival Card after landing?

A: No —it must be submitted before your flight departs. Airlines verify via API.

Q: Is the e-Arrival Card free?  

A: Yes —no fee. Beware of scam sites charging for “assistance.”

Q: What if my flight is delayed past 72 hours? 

A: You can re-submit  the form with updated flight details.

Q: Do children need separate e-Arrival Cards?

A: Yes —each traveler, including infants, requires their own submission.