India Replaces Paper Forms with Online Arrival Card for International Travellers

Finally, India has simplified entry procedures for international travellers with the launch of the Electronic Arrival Card (e-Arrival Card). It is an online entry form to replace the hassle of paper forms required to be filled out by the passengers while going through immigration.

The move is part of India’s ongoing plan to make entry procedures faster, more modern, and more convenient for international visitors.

For the next six months, both the digital and paper forms will be accepted. Travellers can fill out the online form before their trip so they can go through immigration more quickly and avoid long lines at the airport.

 

What the e-Arrival Card Does

The e-Arrival Card is an online form that collects basic travel information in advance. It asks for:

• Passport number and flight details
• Address in India during the stay
• Details of any recent trips within the last 30 days

The form can be submitted online up to 72 hours before arrival through official Indian government websites or immigration portals. After submitting it, travellers receive a confirmation that they can show when entering the country.

 

Why India is Moving toward Digital Entry

This change is part of India's broader effort to modernise its travel systems and reduce paperwork. Many countries are moving toward digital travel records, and India is taking similar steps to make border checks faster and more accurate.

By collecting information before travellers land, the new process aims to speed up screening at airports, reduce contact during processing, and improve the accuracy of data for immigration authorities. Overall, it’s designed to make entry smoother for both passengers and officials.

 

What Businesses and Travel Managers Should Know

For organisations that regularly send employees to India, the new e-Arrival Card means a few adjustments:

• Update travel procedures: Make sure employees know they can now fill out the e-Arrival Card online before their flight.
• Encourage early use: Frequent travellers should start using the new system early to avoid confusion and delays.
• Monitor updates: Since this is a transition period, companies should stay informed about the rollout timeline and any future policy changes as India moves fully to digital processing.

The six months are meant to help travellers and airlines get used to the new process before the paper card is completely phased out.

 

Important Details for Travellers

Even with the e-Arrival Card, travellers must still follow India’s existing entry requirements. This new form does not replace the need for a valid visa or any other necessary travel authorisation. It simply replaces the paper card that used to be filled out upon arrival.

The online card helps travellers spend less time in lines and gives authorities better access to accurate, pre-submitted information. However, travellers should ensure they complete all other entry steps, including visa applications, well in advance.

 

Looking Ahead

India’s shift to a digital arrival process is another sign of the country’s growing focus on technology-driven solutions in travel and immigration. Once the e-Arrival Card becomes fully mandatory, it’s expected to make the entry process more efficient and environmentally friendly by eliminating paper forms.

Government agencies will continue improving the system to ensure it works smoothly for all travellers. In the meantime, visitors and companies are advised to begin using the electronic version to familiarise themselves with the process before the transition period ends.

As the rollout continues, organisations that manage international travel will need to keep an eye on official announcements to stay compliant and avoid last-minute issues.

 

The Bottom Line

India’s new e-Arrival Card is a digital alternative to the old paper disembarkation form, designed to simplify entry for foreign visitors. Both versions will be accepted during a six-month transition phase, but travellers who complete the form online before flying can enjoy faster processing at the airport.

The new system doesn’t replace the visa process—it simply makes immigration more efficient. Over time, the e-Arrival Card is expected to improve data accuracy, reduce wait times, and create a smoother experience for travellers entering India.

Businesses and frequent travellers should update their travel routines accordingly and begin using the online form early. India’s step toward digital arrival procedures reflects a global shift toward smarter, paper-free travel systems that benefit both passengers and immigration authorities.