India Mandates Digital E-Arrival Card for Foreign Travelers

Beginning October 1, 2023, the Government of India will require all foreign nationals, including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, to submit a digital e-arrival card prior to entering the country. This new mandate aims to streamline the immigration process and is part of a larger initiative to modernize India’s immigration and border management systems.

The e-arrival card replaces the traditional paper disembarkation forms previously distributed on flights. Passengers can now complete this online form before boarding, significantly reducing the amount of paperwork at airports. The Bureau of Immigration defines an OCI cardholder as an individual “registered by the Government of India under Section 7A of The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2015.”

Objectives of the E-Arrival Initiative

The introduction of the e-arrival card is expected to simplify entry procedures and minimize waiting times, thereby expediting immigration clearance at airports. Described as a “digital-first” move, this system is designed to enhance the travel experience to India by making it smoother, safer, and more transparent.

The e-arrival card will gather essential information from travelers, including passport details, flight number, address in India, purpose of visit, and duration of stay. Travelers are encouraged to fill out the form up to 72 hours before their departure using the following official platforms:

– **Indian Visa Online**: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
– **Bureau of Immigration**: https://boi.gov.in
– **Su-Swagatam mobile app**

The online submission process is free and allows travelers to include information for up to five family members on a single form. Upon successful submission, individuals will receive a digital confirmation that must be presented at immigration counters upon arrival.

Transition Period and Additional Requirements

To facilitate this transition, the Bureau of Immigration has established a six-month period, starting from October 2023, where both paper and digital forms will be accepted. Nevertheless, travelers are encouraged to adopt the online method early for a quicker and more convenient experience.

It is important to note that the e-arrival card does not serve as a visa. Travelers must still secure a valid visa, whether traditional or e-visa, prior to entering India. For example, an American citizen traveling to India on a business e-visa will also need to submit the e-arrival form. This requirement does not extend to Indian citizens or OCI cardholders traveling domestically within India.

To assist travelers in completing the e-arrival card, the Bureau of Immigration provides a straightforward guide. Users should:

1. Visit the official Bureau of Immigration or Indian Visa Online website.
2. Enter personal details including name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth.
3. Add flight number, arrival airport, address in India, and contact number.
4. Select the purpose of visit.
5. Review all information carefully before submitting the form.

This initiative represents a significant step towards a more efficient and user-friendly travel process for those entering India.