India Makes Digital e-Arrival Card Mandatory for Foreign Travellers from April 1

India has fully transitioned to a mandatory digital e-Arrival Card system for foreign travellers, replacing paper forms to streamline immigration and enhance efficiency at airports nationwide.

New Delhi | 29 March, 2026: In a major step toward digitising immigration processes, the Government of India has made the electronic e-Arrival Card mandatory for all foreign travellers entering the country from April 1, 2026. The move marks the complete phase-out of traditional paper-based disembarkation forms, which were earlier filled out upon arrival.

The new system, introduced by the Bureau of Immigration, requires all foreign nationals, including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, to submit their arrival details online before reaching India. The digital form must be filled within 72 hours prior to arrival and is now a compulsory requirement for immigration clearance.

The e-Arrival Card replaces the long-standing paper process, enabling passengers to complete formalities in advance. Travellers are required to provide key information such as passport details, flight information, purpose of visit, and address of stay in India. The system generates a QR code or confirmation, which must be presented at immigration upon arrival.

Officials say the initiative is aimed at reducing waiting times and improving passenger experience at airports. Early trials have shown that the digital process can significantly speed up immigration clearance and minimise manual data entry errors. The transition also aligns India with global trends toward paperless travel systems.

Importantly, authorities have clarified that the e-Arrival Card is not a substitute for a visa. Travellers must still carry a valid visa or relevant travel authorization in addition to completing the digital form.

The system had been rolled out in October 2025 with a transition period allowing both paper and digital submissions. However, with the deadline ending March 31, 2026, the electronic form has now become the sole accepted method at all international entry points.

Airlines and immigration authorities have also begun enforcing compliance more strictly. Passengers who fail to complete the form before departure may face delays or even denial of boarding, as the submission is now part of pre-travel documentation checks.

The digital initiative is part of India’s broader effort to modernise border control systems and improve ease of travel. By integrating the e-Arrival Card with immigration databases, authorities aim to enhance security while ensuring smoother passenger movement.

Travel experts have advised international visitors to complete the form well in advance and carry a digital or printed copy of the confirmation to avoid inconvenience. As India continues to upgrade its travel infrastructure, the e-Arrival Card is expected to play a crucial role in shaping a faster, more efficient arrival experience.

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