India has introduced a mandatory digital e Arrival Card system for international passengers arriving by air, making pre travel online submission an important new requirement from April 1, 2026.
The new system replaces the traditional paper disembarkation form that travellers previously completed during flights or after landing at immigration counters.
Under the updated procedure, all foreign nationals and Overseas Citizen of India cardholders must submit the digital form within 72 hours before arrival.
Indian citizens are exempt from the requirement.
Authorities say the move is designed to speed up airport processing, reduce paperwork, and improve efficiency at major international entry points across the country.
After submitting the form, travellers receive a QR code that must be presented to immigration officers on arrival.
Officials strongly advise passengers to complete the process before boarding because airlines may increasingly remind travellers to have digital confirmation ready before departure.
The form requires basic travel information including passport details, flight number, contact information, purpose of visit, and address of stay inside India.
No supporting documents are required during submission, which officials say keeps the process simple and accessible.
Families of up to five members can submit one combined application, making the process easier for group travel.
The digital card can be completed through official government immigration portals and approved digital platforms, including mobile access services designed for international travellers.
Passengers who fail to complete the form before arrival will still be allowed entry but may face additional checks and longer delays at immigration counters.
Officials say the new system is part of a broader effort to modernize aviation infrastructure and fully digitize border processing across Indian airports.
The policy is expected to significantly affect tourists, business visitors, and overseas Indian families who frequently travel to major entry points such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
Airlines and airport authorities are also expected to increase passenger awareness in the coming weeks as the system becomes standard practice.
Travel experts advise passengers to complete the form early and keep a saved digital copy of the QR code to avoid last minute difficulties during boarding or arrival.
The digital transition reflects India’s wider push toward paperless travel systems as passenger traffic continues to grow rapidly.
Courtesy: Fortune India
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