Starting from April 2026, the e-Arrival Card will be compulsory for entry at Delhi Airport. Below are details on how to apply, necessary documents, and the implications of the updated digital entry system.
India is gradually transforming the entry process for visitors. From October 1, 2025, incoming travellers will be able to fill out a digital arrival form prior to their arrival, replacing the traditional paper card distributed on flights.
This digital system, referred to as the e-Arrival Card, is designed to streamline airport operations and expedite entry procedures. Instead of completing forms upon arrival, travellers will now have the opportunity to finalize their details online beforehand.
An important deadline is on the horizon.
Delhi Airport has announced that paper arrival cards will be accepted only until March 31, 2026. Starting April 1, 2026, the digital format will be the sole method for international arrivals in the city.
Other airports across India are anticipated to adopt similar measures.
What is India’s e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is an online document that travellers are required to fill out before entering India. It gathers essential travel and identity information typically requested on paper forms by immigration officials.
The aim of this digital system is to:
- Minimize wait times at immigration checkpoints
- Decrease paper use at airports
- Enhance passenger movement during peak travel times
- Contribute to India’s broader initiative towards digital travel solutions
The form can be accessed online via the official government website or through the Indian Visa Su-Swagatam app, available on both Android and iOS platforms.
It’s essential to understand that the e-Arrival Card does not substitute a visa or e-Visa, as travellers must comply with standard entry criteria.
When Must You Submit the Form?
Travellers can fill out the form up to four days prior to their arrival in India. Timing is critical:
- Forms submitted over 72 hours before arrival do not require a QR code at immigration.
- Forms submitted within 72 hours of arrival require travellers to present the QR code generated post-submission.
Utilizing the system is free of charge.
Delhi Airport Establishes Deadline for Paper Arrival Cards
Delhi International Airport announced on March 21 that paper arrival cards will be available only until March 31, 2026.
Beginning April 1, 2026, travellers arriving in Delhi will need to utilize the digital form.
Following the e-Arrival Card’s launch in October 2025, authorities permitted a transition period for airlines and passengers to adapt. This transition phase is now concluding.
Although Delhi is the first to confirm this transition, similar changes are forecasted at various other Indian airports shortly.
Those planning to visit India later in 2026 should prepare for a completely digital arrival experience.
How to Apply for India’s e-Arrival Card
The application process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few moments.
Step-by-step process
- Go to the official site indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival or download the Indian Visa Su-Swagatam application
- Input passport information
- Enter flight and travel specifics
- Submit the form within 4 days before your arrival
- Keep the confirmation or QR code if it is provided
It is recommended for travellers to retain a digital copy on their mobile device.
Documents Needed
- Valid passport
- Flight details
- Travel plans
- Contact information
- Visa or e-Visa information, if relevant
No further documentation is needed.
Fees
The e-Arrival Card is entirely free. Travellers should ensure they are using the official government website or application to avoid any third-party fees.
What This Means for Travellers
The shift towards digital arrival forms in India signals a broader global change. Numerous countries are eliminating paper formats to streamline border checks and enhance data accuracy.
For travellers, this implies one less document to fill in during flights and likely shorter lines upon arrival.
If you’re planning a journey to India in 2026, completing the e-Arrival Card before your trip will soon become as routine as checking in online.
The main point is clear: traditional paper arrival cards are being phased out, starting with Delhi. Filling out the digital form in advance will facilitate a more seamless and stress-free arrival experience.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
