India Launches Digital Arrival Card for Travelers on October 1, 2025
Starting October 1, 2025, foreign travelers arriving in India will have a new digital option for filling out their arrival card. The e-Arrival Card, part of the Digital India program, aims to simplify the entry process and reduce paper use. This follows a successful beta phase hinted at by VisaNews last week.
Currently, travelers can fill out the arrival card physically upon arrival or digitally up to 72 hours before through the official website or the mobile app 'Indian Visa Su-Swagatam'. The e-Arrival Card does not replace the electronic visa (e-Visa), which is a prior and mandatory entry document. The traditional paper card will continue to be available for a transitional period of up to six months or until the digital system is fully stabilized.
The launch of the e-Arrival Card was announced by GMR Aero, the private operator responsible for Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, under the supervision of the Immigration Office. The Indian Government's immigration department or relevant aviation/immigration authorities supported the introduction of the e-Arrival Card system at airports in India.
From October 1, 2025, travelers arriving in India can fill out their online arrival card through a new official platform. The e-Arrival Card, part of the Digital India program, is expected to offer a smooth and modern travel experience while reducing paper waste.
