India launches e-Arrival Card for foreigners, making immigration faster and easier – All you need to know

India goes digital: e-Arrival Card now live for international visitors, making immigration faster and hassle-free. (File Image)

India has officially launched its e-Arrival Card system for international visitors, effective October 1, 2025. The new digital system replaces traditional paper disembarkation forms, making entry into the country quicker, safer, and more convenient for tourists, business travelers, and students.

The e-Arrival Card is mandatory for all non-Indian nationals, including visitors from the UAE, while Indian citizens and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders are exempt. Travelers must complete the e-Arrival Card online via the India Bureau of Immigration website, the Su-Swagatam app, or the Indian Visa Online portal, between 72 hours and 24 hours before their flight. No additional fee is required, and applying in advance ensures a smooth immigration process on arrival.

Key Details Required for the e-Arrival Card

Travelers need to provide:

• Passport information
• Flight number
• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, or study)
• Residential address in India
• Contact details

How the e-Arrival Card Enhances Travel

The new system streamlines India’s immigration process, allowing foreign visitors to move through customs more efficiently. Tourists gain more time to explore India’s iconic landmarks, from the Taj Mahal to Jaipur’s palaces, while business travelers benefit from faster entry for meetings, conferences, and corporate events. Students traveling for education enjoy a simpler and less stressful arrival.

It is important to note that the e-Arrival Card does not replace a visa; travelers still need a valid visa for tourism, business, or study. The e-Arrival Card acts as an additional pre-arrival requirement, giving Indian authorities the necessary information to process arrivals faster and more securely.

Boosting Tourism and Business Travel

The implementation of the e-Arrival Card is a significant step toward digitizing India’s travel infrastructure, improving efficiency, visitor satisfaction, and overall tourism experience. By reducing time spent at immigration, India positions itself as a tourist-friendly and business-ready destination, attracting more international visitors and repeat travelers.

With the e-Arrival Card now live, travelers heading to India can enjoy a frictionless entry experience, allowing them to focus on exploring the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling cities.