New Delhi, March 2026 — Foreign travelers heading to India are advised to take note of a significant change in immigration procedures. Starting April 1, 2026, the traditional paper disembarkation (arrival) card will be discontinued. All foreign nationals, including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, must submit a digital e-Arrival Card online before reaching India.
This move marks the end of a six-month transition period that began in October 2025, when the digital option was first introduced as an alternative. After March 31, 2026, paper forms will no longer be accepted at immigration counters, with strict enforcement beginning at Delhi International Airport and expected to extend to other major entry points like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and beyond.
Why the Change?
The Government of India aims to modernize and digitize border processes through this initiative. By shifting to an online system, authorities expect faster immigration clearance, reduced paperwork, fewer errors from handwritten forms, and improved passenger flow at busy airports. Early pilots suggested potential reductions in processing times of up to 40%.
Who Must Submit the e-Arrival Card?
- All foreign nationals arriving in India for tourism, business, study, medical treatment, or other purposes.
- OCI cardholders (who were initially exempt but are now required to comply).
Indian passport holders are generally exempt, as the e-Arrival Card replaces the old disembarkation requirement specifically for incoming foreigners.
How and When to Complete It
Travelers must fill out the short online form within 72 hours before their scheduled arrival in India — not earlier, to avoid any validity issues.
Required Information Typically Includes:
- Passport details (full name as in passport, nationality, passport number, expiry date)
- Flight information
- Purpose of visit
- Address and contact details in India
Submission Options:
- Official website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/
- Bureau of Immigration portal: https://boi.gov.in
- Su-Swagatam mobile app (official government app, available on major app stores)
The process is free, quick (usually a few minutes), and does not require uploading documents.
What Happens After Submission?
Upon successful completion, you will receive a confirmation with a QR code. Save it on your phone and consider printing a backup copy. Present this at the immigration counter upon arrival. Airlines may check for proof during boarding in some cases.
Important Tips for Travelers
- Complete the form close to your travel date, ideally within the 72-hour window.
- Have your passport, flight details, and Indian accommodation address ready.
- This is separate from your visa or e-visa application. You still need a valid visa (or e-visa) to enter India.
- Check your airline’s notifications, as some carriers (such as Vietnam Airlines) are already alerting passengers.
- Use only official government websites and apps to avoid scams or fake portals.
- For the latest updates, refer directly to indianvisaonline.gov.in or boi.gov.in.
Potential Consequences of Ignoring the Rule
Failing to submit the e-Arrival Card could result in delays at immigration, longer queues, or complications during entry processing. With paper forms no longer an option after March 31, compliance is essential for a smooth arrival.
This digital shift aligns with India’s broader efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure and efficiency ahead of increased international travel in 2026. It mirrors similar paperless systems already in place in countries like Singapore and Australia.
If you’re planning a trip to India after April 1, 2026, set a reminder to complete your e-Arrival Card in advance. Safe travels!
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