India e-Arrival Card 2026: How to Fill & Requirements for Entry
India no longer uses paper arrival / disembarkation cards. All foreign nationals (including OCI holders) must complete a free online e‑Arrival Card via the official Indian government portal before arriving in India. This digital form is mandatory for immigration clearance, must be filled within 72 hours prior to arrival, and is required alongside a valid visa, e-Visa, or OCI card. No on-arrival paper forms are available or accepted.
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What is the Indian Arrival Card?
Source: India Visa Online
The Indian Arrival Card is the official entry declaration form used by India’s immigration to verify traveler identity, travel details, and purpose of visit. Traditionally a paper card distributed on flights or at ports of entry, it has been fully digitized and replaced by the e‑Arrival Card system. This digital document is linked to your passport and must be submitted in advance; it is not a visa, but a compulsory pre-arrival requirement for all non‑Indian citizens entering India.
Do I need an Arrival Card to enter India?
Yes, for all foreign nationals and OCI holders. Only Indian citizens holding a valid Indian passport are exempt.
Transit passengers who remain in the international transit area and do not pass through immigration are also exempt. Anyone clearing immigration (including short layovers over 24 hours) must submit the e‑Arrival Card.
Who must complete the India e‑Arrival Card?
- All international tourists, business visitors, students, medical travelers, and family visitors
- OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cardholders
- Foreign passport holders entering by air, sea, or land port
- Transit passengers undergoing immigration clearance
Exempt: Indian citizens, passengers remaining in the transit zone without entering India
How to fill out the e‑Arrival Card for India
The e‑Arrival Card is completed exclusively through official government websites — no third‑party agents are required, and no fee is charged.
Step 1: Access the official portal
Use the official Bureau of Immigration or Indian Visa Online portal:
- Indian Visa Online: indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival
- Bureau of Immigration: boi.gov.in
Step 2: Prepare your information
Have your passport info (number, issue/expiry), flight number, arrival date/airport, travel purpose, Indian accommodation address, email, phone, and emergency contact ready.
Step 3: Complete and submit
Fill the form accurately (match passport/visa exactly), review and submit, then save the QR code confirmation (digital or print backup).
Step 4: At immigration
Show the QR code at check‑in and immigration; no paper forms needed, as immigration verifies your digital record electronically.
When should I fill out India e‑Arrival Card?
You may submit the e‑Arrival Card between 72 hours and 24 hours before your scheduled arrival in India.
Submission too early (more than 72 hours before) or too late (less than 24 hours before) may result in system rejection or verification delays. Airlines may check completion during check‑in.
India e-Visa vs. e-Arrival Card: Key Differences
Source: backpackers - Franky_Hung
Aspect | India e-Visa | India e-Arrival Card |
|---|---|---|
Core Purpose | Grants legal entry permission (travel authorization) | Collects pre-arrival info for immigration screening |
Mandatory Status | Mandatory for most foreign nationals (unless OCI/Indian citizen) | Mandatory for all foreign nationals/OCI holders (April 1, 2026+) |
Application Process | Full online application with fee, review, and approval | Free online form; no approval needed (just submission) |
Validity | Fixed period (e.g., 30/60/90 days) with entry limits | Valid for single arrival only |
Entry Port Restrictions | Limited to designated airports/seaports | Accepted at all international entry points |
Relationship | Required for entry; e-Arrival Card does not replace it | Required alongside valid visa/e-Visa/OCI |
2026 India Entry Requirements
Traveler Type | Required Documents | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
Foreign nationals | Valid visa + e‑Arrival Card | Mandatory from April 1, 2026 |
OCI cardholders | OCI card + e‑Arrival Card | No visa needed, but e‑Card is required |
Indian citizens | Valid passport | No e‑Card required |
Transit (no immigration) | Valid passport | e‑Card not needed if staying <24h in transit zone |
Additional requirements:
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
- Confirmed return or onward travel ticket (may be requested)
- Declaration of restricted or dutiable goods as per Indian customs rules
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Common mistakes about India Arrival Card
- Providing incorrect passport, visa, or flight details → immigration delay or denial of entry
- Failing to submit the e‑Arrival Card before arrival → airline may refuse boarding
- Using unofficial websites → risk of data theft or invalid submission
- Not saving the confirmation QR code → delays at immigration
- Providing false information → possible fines, detention, or deportation
[10% Off] What are Best Hotels for India
We recommend the following India accommodations with 10% Off:
India Hotels
5 star
Very Good148 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.46km from city center
This is a great hotel. every thing about this hotel is excellent , the Room service is excellent specially Dinesh who made my room is an excellent person. He made sure that we are always comfortable. The Ambience , the vibe in this Hotel is great. I will recommend this Hotel to all.From£60
Amazing132 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.73km from city center
The room was quite small. I've always stayed at the Imperial Hotel before, and this place clearly falls a notch below in terms of facilities and service. Plus, there's always a scammer by the entrance, pretending to read a newspaper. Every time we step out to catch a taxi, he tries to pull various tricks on us, even driving away our cab and insisting we go to a specific shopping spot. If you're just on a layover, you'd be better off staying at a hotel near the airport.From£117
Great89 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|14.42km from city center
The room layout was well-designed, cozy, and comfortable. The service was prompt and responsive to our needs. Breakfast was plentiful, and the staff were all very polite. We had a very satisfying stay and found it convenient being close to the airport.From£56
Great149 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.84km from city center
The breakfast selection was extensive, and the staff's service was on point, which made for a good experience. The only minor drawback was that the room facilities were a bit dated. The hotel is conveniently located right above a commercial area with plenty of restaurant options. Overall, it was a good experience.From£81
Very Good131 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.7km from city center
The hotel was clean, and the rooms were large and comfortable. Everything we needed was in the room, including a kettle, and water was refilled regularly and in ample supply. The bathroom had all the essentials: dental kits, shower gel, soap, shampoo, and body lotion. We used the laundry service, which was fast and good quality. The hotel restaurant was a bit disappointing; it was expensive, and one of us was served spoiled ramen. They did apologize profusely and didn't charge us for it, though. I wasn't keen on the coffee at breakfast – it was instant, not from a coffee machine. For our early check-out, they packed us very tasty and generous lunch boxes. The pool area isn't huge, but it's quite nice. Overall, the hotel is decent and pleasant, and the staff are very professional.From£59
Business travel
67 Reviews
Karol Bagh New Delhi|4.9km from city center
The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! ,From£49
Very Good132 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.77km from city center
My stay at the Ambassador Hotel in New Delhi was a very special and welcoming experience.
The location of the hotel is right next to the “Khan Market” metro station, in a central area but yet quiet and peaceful. The room and facilities are of a high standard, and the breakfast offers a wide variety, including Indian specialties as well as Western options.
As it is my first time visiting India, I had many inquiries, the front office team (Wasi, Tashi, Nipaisn, Kishan, Vansh, and the Front Office Manager Lakshay Nirvla) were very patient and helped me navigate in Delhi. Furthermore, after checking out, I had difficulty booking trains for my next destination, but they all helped. Thanks to them, I had all my journey arranged, including taxi drivers and train tickets.
I usually don’t write reviews of my hotel stays, but this wonderful experience and the warm-hearted people I met here truly made the difference. I warmly recommend this hotel for its location, facilities, food, and, most of all, its amazing team.From£66
Very Good258 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.52km from city center
Excellent stay overall. The hotel offers a beautiful environment, attentive service, and a very welcoming atmosphere. The staff were consistently friendly and professional, making the experience comfortable and relaxing. A wonderful example of warm Indian hospitality. Highly recommended. 😊From£81
65 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.72km from city center
The hotel is a decent property located at a prime location in New Delhi. The rooms are a tad bit small and look a little dated. The house keeping team does a fantastic job of cleaning up each day and it feels good to be back to a well made bed and clean room after a long work day. The key cards seem to be a recurring issue with them needing repeated activation. Breakfast spread is decent and not much to brag about. In room dining is pretty expensive and is quite a deterrent. But the location helps to overlook a lot of the minor inconveniences.From£51
Great88 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.78km from city center
We had an amazing time at this Lemon Tree Premier Hotel. It's located a 12min drive from the airport which made it very convenient, and is directly next to the Worldmark food&shopping center. Our room was clean and beautiful and spacious. The team was incredibly friendly and the food at the hotel restaurant ”Republic of Noodles” was absolutely delicious. Would definitely recommend it to any other traveller coming to Delhi!From£50
Family friendly
Very Good63 Reviews
New Delhi|8.3km from city center
For a five-star hotel, the rooms are really small. The staff is overly meticulous, constantly bombarding you with questions like if everything is okay or if you're satisfied. When you just want to enjoy dinner at the restaurant, these endless questions about whether everything is good become quite annoying. And if they mess something up, consider your dinner ruined! They'll approach you every 2-3 minutes, trying to fix their mistake.From£86
Great235 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.75km from city center
Hey guys I recently visited Holiday Inn in New Delhi and stayed there for two days. It was a wonderful experience. The hotel is very well maintained, clean, and comfortable. The atmosphere was pleasant, and I really enjoyed my stay. The weather and overall ambiance made the experience even better. I would definitely prefer to stay at this hotel again whenever I visit Delhi in the future.From£57
Great128 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.57km from city center
- Slow service at front desk staff, the lady at front desk took more than 20mins for a check out guest 1 queue before me. She even didnot care or look at me keeping petiance while waiting too long just to ask for deposit back. And when it comes to my queue, slowly took mor than 10 mins to return cash deposit. DISAPPOINTED!!
- Breakfast, almost good, but staff is not well manner, keep focus on introduction to the breakfast instruction without realize that the guest is engaging on the phone. Still keep distract with bad manner!! DISAPPOINTED!!From£108
Very Good61 Reviews
New Delhi|9.32km from city center
The service is top-notch, breakfasts are good, and housekeeping is excellent. The hotel is old, and the furniture in the rooms is dated, but it's kept very clean. The service definitely earns 5 stars, even if the room itself doesn't quite live up to that. However, compared to other hotels in India, this one is quite good. Of course, for this price in another country, you'd get a completely different room, but here, you're probably paying a premium for safety, a clean lobby, safe food, and clean water. A drawback is the restaurant prices; the food is unreasonably expensive. Since it's not safe to go outside the hotel, you're forced to eat there, which I assume the hotel counts on. I also dislike the pushy assistants who are always expecting tips.From£48
Amazing65 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.91km from city center
I have always been a big admirer of the Taj hospitality experience, though on this visit it felt like some of its former charm was missing. I encountered several issues at the restaurant that unfortunately remained unresolved during my stay. That said, the hotel itself is very well maintained, and the overall standard of service from the staff remains warm and attentive.From£96
Hot spring
Very Good65 Reviews
New Delhi|12.7km from city center
Great value for money, and my main clients are nearby. I'll definitely book this hotel again. The breakfast spread was excellent too, a really good choice overall. The staff were polite and enthusiastically explained how to rent a car for our travels.From£38
Very Good120 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.77km from city center
Very friendly staff. Specially the security guards including Mr Daulat who helped a lot with address and luggage issues. The managers and the employees were very kind and polite as well. Overall wonderful stay ! Will come back againFrom£69
Very Good393 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.62km from city center
The hotel is close to Delhi airport. It suits the need as a commuter hotel very well. The hotel will arrange hotel transfers to/from the airport for 900rs each way. The hotel has a decent gym and pool area. The room was comfortable (once the ac was repaired by maintainence )which happened promptly upon complaining)).From£40
89 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.12km from city center
This hotel location is 100% ideal but more than that is the service & hospitality. Sauraub front desk manager is incredibly accommodating & always ready to find prompt solution to any issues. As I was not happy with the room that was given even though I booked & paid for a nicer one, he immediately understood my valid concern & found a solution on the spot.
Restaurant staff & food (many choices in buffet) are outstanding & my compliments to the chefs & management of the restaurant. Always a smile & always ready to assist. Great training & congratulations for a job well done!From£47
Great103 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.5km from city center
Room
Very clean! Bed and pillows are comfortable. I chose one that’s far away from the lift, and on high floor with a city view. It was very quiet, and nice natural light!
Shower and toilet were very clean. Strong powerful shower with very hot water available.
Amenities
Impressive that there’s a cafe that’s opened 24/7 downstairs that serves coffee, pastries and cakes. Gave a very good option in the middle of the night, and early morning should you need to grab something fast for an early morning flight. The coffee was good.
Lovely swimming pool, meant to try it out.
Location
Excellent location only about 7 mins walk from the main shopping complex and restaurants. Very decent restaurants available there and the food court provides wide variety. I tried out a restaurant this time and it was lovely.
Service
House keeping - was very good. Early evening the team knocked on my door, very pleasant, and asked if I had any needs. Very thoughtful, and they tried best to make me comfortable.
I had an enquiry about the smart tv functions. The gentleman came promptly, and was very helpful.
Airport pick up
Raju was very prompt, polite and friendly. Thank you! Especially appreciated that the pick up arrangement just had a sign of the hotel, vs having your name displayed on a big sign, which isn’t the case with many other hotels. Very thoughtful.
(Others: Don’t really need two tables in the room. If it can be replaced with a couch/ sofa would even be better.)
Overall: very comfortable stay, friendly staff, and will come again. Thank you!From£69
Gym
Great121 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.94km from city center
Ruined my trip to India! It was the first hotel we stayed at for the whole trip and this set the bar SO HIGH for all other hotels. It was an AMAZING experience, the hotel looks better in person than in the pictures. Cannot recommend it enough. If you get the chance, definetly go for it!From£96
Amazing128 Reviews
New Delhi|7.07km from city center
A truly beautiful hotel, part of an excellent hotel chain in India. The soundproofing is fantastic; I celebrated New Year's Eve there, and by 00:30 I was comfortably back in my room sleeping, with almost no street noise audible. The breakfast was delicious, and the massage was great. Everything was superb!
P.S. You don't even need to leave the hotel – it's like an apocalypse outside!From£158
Great47 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.63km from city center
◼︎ **Access**
About a 15-minute Uber ride from the airport. I stayed two nights here – one on my arrival day late at night, and another for an early morning flight on my departure day. It's truly close to the airport, which was great for taking a shower and resting before a long flight.
◼︎ **Room Cleanliness**
I'm a bit of a germaphobe, but there wasn't a single thing that bothered me. (Literally, not a speck of dust!) The entire room was clean, and I had a very comfortable stay.
◼︎ **Concierge Hospitality**
This was the most satisfying aspect of my stay. Just before my trip, the national rail train tickets I booked through an agency were suddenly canceled, leaving me in a bind. The concierge immediately arranged replacement tickets for me. I expected to pay a hefty service fee, but they actually secured tickets that were cheaper than what I had originally booked myself. They also provided detailed information on how to access Delhi's tourist attractions, which really helped me enjoy my sightseeing. I'd like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the concierge.
◼︎ **Hotel Surroundings**
There's a 24-hour restaurant within the hotel, and the Aerocity shopping mall (or something similar) is right next door, so finding food is never an issue. Also, perhaps due to recent terror concerns, there are security gates with luggage checks for all vehicles and guests entering the hotel, which made me feel very safe during my stay. The surrounding area also felt reasonably safe, even late at night.
◼︎ **Overall Impression**
If I ever come to Delhi again, I will definitely book this hotel.From£123
Amazing130 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.49km from city center
Stayed at Andaz Hyatt Delhi and had a very pleasant experience overall. The hotel has a resort-style atmosphere that feels relaxing despite being in the city near to airport, and the service throughout the stay was consistently good. Security was also reassuring, making the environment feel safe and well-managed.
The room was spacious, comfortable, and well-designed, the sliding full size mirror between bathroom and bed is a plus point. The room is equipped with day and night curtain.
However, there are a couple of areas for improvement — the bathroom floor can be quite slippery and would benefit from better anti-slip measures, and the breakfast area tends to get very busy, resulting in queues for tables during peak hours. Overall, still a very enjoyable stay with strong service and comfort. 🙂From£88
Very Good131 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.94km from city center
Great stay at Le Meridien New Delhi! Rooms are comfortable, service is attentive, and the location is perfect for exploring the city. Would definitely come back. 🌟From£89
Swimming pool
Outstanding127 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.32km from city center
I visit India once a year for both business and leisure, and I usually stay at various super luxury hotels. However, this time, my usual hotel was fully booked, so I ended up at The Imperial. It was the best decision ever! I will never return to my previous hotels. The service, rooms, food, and internet here are all exceptional. The staff is remarkably efficient.
I highly recommend this place!
P.S. The hotel lounge serves better French onion soup than you can find in France!😆From£138
Amazing134 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.39km from city center
This is the best hotel in New Delhi, a 5-star property with excellent location, cleanliness, and room conditions. The deposit is 10,000 rupees, so make sure to bring your card.From£131
Very Good44 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.25km from city center
This hotel is located in an alleyway near Novotel Place. The alleyway is a bustling market during the day and a night market at night, very lively but also noisy. The advantage is that it's great for shopping, but the disadvantage is that parking is difficult!
The hotel sign is quite large and eye-catching. There are staff directing traffic and assisting with luggage at the entrance, which is very helpful. Upon entering the lobby, you'll find it spacious. There are currency exchange counters and travel information/sales on the right-hand side. The staff at the counters are very friendly and helpful, providing detailed explanations!
The hotel has an elevator. I stayed on the 3rd floor, in a room at the back. Upon entering the room, there was a strong smell of smoke. The room size was just right for one person. Besides the bed, there was a small chair and table, which was convenient. However, the bathroom mat and water ladle were extremely dirty, and even the toilet paper roll was stuck together – it was really awful! The whole room didn't feel very clean!
Breakfast was served in the restaurant on the first floor at 7:30 AM, but it was delayed by 5 minutes. The breakfast was extremely basic, with only five items; there was no milk, juice, or toast. Coffee and tea were served in small cups and had to be ordered from the staff. The coffee machine on the bar was unusable. Adding breakfast to the accommodation fee was very unreasonable; the breakfast was terrible!
The accommodation fee, including breakfast, was NT$1210 per person. It wasn't cheap, nor was it expensive. I didn't expect luxurious or overpriced services, but basic cleanliness was essential! I left a review on Google, but the response I received didn't make me feel that the hotel valued its guests. Instead, they assured me they would take it seriously and that such things wouldn't happen, which was quite disappointing!From£12
Very Good107 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|12.81km from city center
We stayed here for 2 nights for a weekend getaway. The location is ideal—just a 5-minute walk from Central Station and right next to great local restaurants. The room was spotless, and the bed was incredibly comfortable.From£74
Great95 Reviews
New Delhi|5km from city center
The original Anzhen Delhi, after changing the self-operated brand, the price is close to the people. Kerry Hill's classic work, the light and shadow effect of the corridor is very good, you can see the design inspiration of Tokyo Anzhen here. Fully equipped, very close to Humayun’s Tomb. For breakfast, let people forget to be in India.From£185
Breakfast
Very Good95 Reviews
South Delhi New Delhi|12.08km from city center
Fast check in by the receptionist, the hotel is nice and beside a shopping mall. Wifi is quite strong and all the necessary amenities are provided in the room.From£69
11 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.29km from city center
Near New Delhi Station, it’s better than a normal hotel.From£35
21 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.11km from city center
Good location and clean roomFrom£18
Very Good49 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.33km from city center
โรงแรมอยู่ในโซนใจกลางเมือง ห่างจากสถานีรถไฟและสถานี MRT ไม่มาก ตัวโรงแรมตั้งอยู่ในซอยแยกจากถนนใหญ่ไปนิดเดียว ทำให้ไม่จอแจ และเป็นส่วนตัวมากขึ้น มีร้านค้าอยู่ใกล้เคียงหลายร้าน บริการในโรงแรมดี มีครบทุกอย่าง ทั้ง แอร์คอนดิชั่น ไดร์เป่าผม ตู้เย็น กาน้ำร้อน มี room service ที่ราคาไม่แพง และมีเมนูหลากหลาย รสชาดใช้ได้ มีอาหารเช้าให้บริหารทั้งอาหารอินเดียและอาหารเช้าแบบฝรั่ง ภายในโรงแรมเหมือนเพิ่งปรับปรุงทาสีใหม่ แต่เครื่องใช้จำพวก เครื่องนอน ผ้าเช็ดตัว ออกจะเก่าอยู่ซักหน่อย ความสะอาดภายในห้องพัก กลางๆ พื้นห้องเป็นไม้ ให้ความรู่สึกเหมือนมีฝุ่นที่พื้นอยู่บ้าง ห้องน้ำสะอาดพอใช้ได้ ภายนอกห้องพัก ก็สะอาดใช้ได้ แสงสว่างดีค่ะ คุ้มค่ากับราคาสำหรับพักค้างคืน ก่อนเดินทางต่อFrom£21
Good103 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.31km from city center
Easy checkin process... 24 hours kitchen services... I stayed in room number 105..spacious room with an outside view... we order three times food during our stay.... frankly speaking I didn’t find any complaints about the taste... From£23
FAQs About India Arrival Card
-
Do I need an Arrival Card to enter India?
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How do I fill out an e‑Arrival Card for India?
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What is an Indian Arrival Card?
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What happens if I don’t submit the India Arrival Card?
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What is the difference between India e-Visa and e-Arrival Card?
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