In our spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we capture the new guidelines on the entry process and travel experience with using electronic arrival card to replace paper disembarkation card in India.
New Initiation: Commencing on 1 Oct 2025, foreign nationals entering India will have to submit an application for an e-Arrival Card up to 72 hours before arrival through the official Indian Visa Online website or the Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile application. Information and details require like passport information, contact details, purpose of visit and place of accommodation in India. Travelers are advised to print out the digital confirmation and to carry with them after submitting the form.
Transition period: While the physical disembarkation card option will still be available during this transition period (validity last up to six months), travellers are encouraged to use the digital option for a seamless and quicker experience.
Exemptions: Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India card holders are exempted from completing digital card.
Background
This initiation is part of the government’s efforts to lessen airport delays using technology to improve traveller data control and to enhance border management securities. The e‑arrival process is expected to synchronise into India’s Immigration Management Systems, which enabling real‑time tracking of foreign arrivals.
Looking forward
Anticipate more use of biometrics, identity cross‑checks, and linkage across government databases in India for security and risk assessment. It is not announced by the government whether after the transition period is over, those foreigners do not complete the form will be allowed to enter India. We will continue to monitor and report on related developments when more information is released.
For more information or any assistance you require pertaining to the above-mentioned, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].
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