India e-Arrival Card
The India e-Arrival Card is a digital arrival form that international travellers must submit before entering India. It is not a visa or entry authorisation — it is an immigration form that collects arrival data on behalf of Indian authorities. Most foreign nationals arriving in India are required to complete it, and it must be submitted before you reach the immigration counter.
What Is the India e-Arrival Card?
The India e-Arrival Card is an online form hosted by the Bureau of Immigration, Government of India. It replaced the paper-based disembarkation card previously handed out on flights, collecting personal, travel, and contact information so that Indian immigration authorities can process your arrival efficiently. Submitting the form does not guarantee entry into India — entry is determined by immigration officers at the port of arrival.
The official portal is indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival. This service is free of charge.
Who Needs to Complete It?
Travellers Who Must Submit
All international travellers arriving in India — regardless of nationality, travel purpose, or port of entry — are generally required to complete the form before clearing immigration, including tourists, business travellers, students, medical visitors, and those arriving on official or diplomatic travel.
Exemptions and Special Cases
Indian citizens holding Indian passports are not required to complete the e-Arrival Card. Some diplomatic and official passport holders may also be exempt depending on bilateral arrangements. Verify your specific exemption status with your airline or the Indian embassy before travel.
When to Submit
Complete the form before you land in India. Submitting it in advance — ideally 24 to 72 hours before your flight — reduces the risk of delays at the immigration counter. Do not leave submission until you are in the immigration queue.
What You Need Before You Start
Passport and Personal Details
- Full name as it appears in your passport
- Nationality/region and passport number
- Purpose of visit (tourist, business, medical, conference, research, study, employment, official/diplomatic, or other)
Travel, Transport, and Accommodation Details
- Date of arrival (DD/MM/YYYY format)
- Countries visited in the last six days
- Address in India during your stay, including state and district
- Emergency contact number (optional but recommended)
How to Complete the Form Step by Step
Step 1: Access the Official Service
Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival. You can quick-fill using existing passport data or complete a full manual form.
Step 2: Enter and Review the Information
Fill in your personal details, arrival details, address details, and contact details. Review every field carefully before proceeding — if travelling with family, use the Add Member function to include companions in the same submission.
Step 3: Submit and Save the Confirmation
Complete the CAPTCHA, read the declaration statement, and click Submit. Save or print your confirmation immediately.
What Happens After Submission?
Your data is transmitted to Indian immigration authorities ahead of your arrival. You do not need to carry a physical stamp or sticker — your digital record is linked to your passport number. At the immigration counter, the officer will verify your identity and may ask to see your confirmation.
How to Correct Errors or Retrieve the Confirmation
Return to the official portal and use the quick-fill option with your passport number and nationality to retrieve your record. In cases where a significant error cannot be corrected online, inform the immigration officer on arrival and present your correct travel documents for manual verification.
India e-Arrival Card vs Visa and Other Entry Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| India e-Arrival Card | Collects arrival data for immigration processing |
| Indian Visa / eVisa | Authorises entry into India for a specific purpose and duration |
| Immigration Stamp | Confirms entry granted by an officer at the port of arrival |
You must hold a valid visa or be travelling on a visa-exempt arrangement in addition to completing the e-Arrival Card.
Key Points Before You Travel
- Complete the e-Arrival Card before you arrive — ideally 24 to 72 hours before your flight.
- Use only the official government portal — the service is free.
- The form is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into India.
- Save your confirmation as a screenshot, PDF, or printout.
- If travelling with family, add all members in a single submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs the India e-Arrival Card?
Most international travellers arriving in India, regardless of nationality or purpose of visit.
Is the e-Arrival Card an Indian visa?
No, it is an arrival information form only.
When should I submit it?
Ideally 24 to 72 hours before your scheduled flight departure.
Can I add family members?
Yes, using the Add Member function on the official form.
Is the India e-Arrival Card free?
Yes, completely free through the official government portal.