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 Good136 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.46km from city center
Traveling solo, the hotel offered breakfast to go and DIY dinner. The room was a bit dated, and the mattress was too soft. The front desk staff wasn't focused, jumping from one task to another, which led to a very long check-in process. They also asked for a lot of personal information during that time.From$73
Great108 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$95
Great57 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|14.42km from city center
Very nice hotel with close to the airport. Room is big but abit old. Breakfast and dinner was good with lots of selection. Will stay again.From$77
Very Good113 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.84km from city center
Roseate House, Aerocity offers a wonderful stay experience. The property is beautifully designed, well-maintained, and gives a premium feel. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully arranged. The ambiance is calm and luxurious, and the overall atmosphere makes the stay very pleasant. The location is excellent, especially for airport convenience. A great place to stay for comfort and relaxation.From$117
Very Good118 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.7km from city center
Great hotel to stay at, but pricier for what it is, location is not optimal as it’s near a more run down area, but a calm walk away Connaught place and stuff, service is really responsive. Great food and room service pleasant stay, only thing is that if your plans change reception is really unhelpful in regards to changing booking and refunds etc… but over all a nice hotel, overpriced a little but good for a pleasant stay. Food is good too at the first floor restaurant.From$93
Business travel
61 Reviews
Karol Bagh New Delhi|4.9km from city center
This is not the first time I have stayed, it is relatively close to the customer. If I visit this customer, I will stay in this hotel. It is a better hotel around. Well, the catering and sanitary environment are very good. Well, the service of the hotel is very good, and I will continue to stay next time.From$74
Very Good122 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.77km from city center
Had a fabulous one night stay at the Ambassador. British character and Indian hospitality at its best. Great location. Large rooms. Great breakfast. Handy to shopping area. Would stay again.From$79
Very Good224 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.52km from city center
I stayed here for two nights - one at the beginning of a two week India adventure and one at the end.
Absolutely lovely room on both occasions, spotlessly clean and with a great selection of complimentary tea, coffee, water. Choice of snacks in a minibar which were really cheap too. Huge bed, very comfortable, great air on.
The staff and the service they provided were excellent - I’m pretty sure they don’t earn a great deal and they work so hard - so it’s nice to be able to tip generously!
Restaurant is lovely with an amazing breakfast buffet - or they’ll pack you up a breakfast to go bag if you ask at reception. The hotel will also provide a driver and car for airport runs (a bargain at 1100 rupees - so leave a generous tip!). Great little coffee shop/cake section too which was great to sit and people watch on an evening - again, soooo cheap but lovely.
Thank you Pride Plaza!!!From$72
47 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.72km from city center
1. The amount paid for the room is not appropriate for the price paid.
2. The cleanliness of the room is not as clean as it should be. The chair covers are very old and torn.
3. The refrigerator is not cold and is very old.
4. The safe cannot be locked because the battery in the safe does not have a battery.
5. When delivering the room to the customer, the staff should check the cleanliness, completeness of the appliances such as the refrigerator, safe, and bedroom to see if they are ready for use. The room is quite old and not worth the price paid at 3,600 baht per night.From$50
Great61 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.78km from city center
I used to stay there whenever I went to Delhi. I liked the idea of the hotel hiring physically handicapped person (mute).From$71
Family friendly
Very Good47 Reviews
New Delhi|8.3km from city center
Stayed at Hyatt Regency Delhi recently. The hotel has a classic luxury feel with spacious, well-maintained rooms and comfortable beds. Breakfast buffet was excellent with a wide variety of options. Service was professional and attentive. The location is convenient for both business and sightseeing, though traffic in Delhi can be challenging. Overall, a reliable and comfortable choice for a stay in the city.From$90
Very Good192 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.75km from city center
It has been a very pleasant stay.
Room is very clean and quiet; bed very comfortable with different types of pillows: softer ones, harder ones - a very good combination.
Bath room is clean; and shower is very powerful.
Very good breakfast buffet!
Team was very friendly and helpful from the security guard at the front, to front desk team and the restaurant team. All very warm, friendly and helpful!
Prince at the front desk, and Biru at the breakfast buffet have been very welcoming, and helpful! Much appreciated.
Overall it is the friendliness and warm welcome that has left with me a very memorable impression. Will visit again. Thanks very much!From$71
Very Good122 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.57km from city center
The bed is really comfortable, the breakfast is delicious, there is no smell, the area is close to embassies so it is safe, and above all, there is no need to bring a shower filter (I brought one but it did not leak and the filter was not dirty at all). The downside is that there is no mall or supermarket nearby.From$127
Very Good43 Reviews
New Delhi|9.32km from city center
Though this is histroric hotel of 42 years, it is tastfully revamped and great feels. Deserving a 5 stars status.
Nice breakfast setting and food provided.
Check in and out pricess was effective and tome saving.
Great location to travel between Noida and Gurugram.
Vibrants l8fe with eateries just outside the hotel..to catch aby bites or drinks.From$66
Amazing137 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.91km from city center
The room is nice, service good, staff friendly. But the food is no way up to tue quality expected for this establishment. The buffet is positively booting. At £50 per person per dinner I was quite disappointed, as was my family. Breakfast is ok, but nothing to wrote home about. I was expecting more for this cost.From$72
Hot spring
Very Good48 Reviews
New Delhi|12.7km from city center
The hotel is in a good location and equally accessible from NOIDA and Delhi. It's in an industrial area. The hotels AC was not heating up the room although the setting was on HEAT mode. It was winters in Delhi and it could get really cold there. So after a while hotel staff provided a standalone heater, but that did not do the job that well to manage the room temperature as an AC. From$67
Very Good60 Reviews
Dwarka New Delhi|18.91km from city center
The place is nice and big. It’s definitely getting old. Older carpets, rugs and furnishings now. The hotel looks busy and a bit commercialized with mall oriented stores on the bottom floor which takes away from the quiet and relaxing feel. I would still choose to stay here if the price was right.From$71
Good109 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.77km from city center
Location is perfect , every service is very nice, room very clean and full of amenities staff very helpful and I love the doorman outfitFrom$88
Very Good298 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.62km from city center
Had a wonderful short stay at the ibis Delhi. A huge shoutout to the housekeeping team for keeping the room spotless. I had dinner and breakfast at Spice It; the buffet spread was extensive with plenty of local and international options. Efficient design and the friendly service made it feel very comfortable. Will definitely be back.”From$51
85 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.12km from city center
The only reason the stay was good because the room was very clean and housekeeping was done everyday. Otherwise, the toilet flush had problem, the safe box didn't work and the promise to get it replaced never came. Sometimes the lifts have some issues closing which leave the guests leaving the lift and waiting for another. It would have been good to have more breakfast variety being a 5 star hotel. The service recovery duration is pretty slow and need to call them a few times to chase. Above all, it would be great if the staffs at the reception area are more welcoming and have a smile on their face. Each time I approach them they hardly have a smile on their face and they give a very monotonous reply. I had high expectations on this hotel being a 5 star rating but it was quite disappointing.From$62
Gym
Great91 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.5km from city center
Room in Aloft hotel is comfortable and spacious, compared with other 4/5 stars hotels in Aerocity. I stayed 4 of them.
Breakfast is with various options for vegetarian and non-vegetarian guests. The dining hall is beautiful too. I would like to try their sushi restaurant next time.
One problem was the noises at night. Maybe there is some night club nearby. I am relatively sensitive to the noises so that made the sleep difficult and shallow. But except for this, the rest are all good.From$82
Very Good119 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$110
Amazing118 Reviews
New Delhi|7.07km from city center
Staying at this hotel was an exceptional experience from start to finish! The staff members were incredibly welcoming and attentive, ensuring that every aspect of my stay was comfortable and enjoyable. The rooms were beautifully furnished and maintained, providing a relaxing atmosphere to unwind after a long day. The amenities and facilities offered were top-notch, with a fantastic gym, spa, and pool area that added an extra touch of luxury to my stay. Moreover, the hotel's central location made it convenient to explore the city's attractions and enjoy the vibrant surroundings. I highly recommend this hotel for anyone seeking a truly memorable and delightful accommodation experience!From$243
Very Good40 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.62km from city center
Just an amazing experience. Especially the staff, who took great care of my family, just showcasing exceptional hospitality. They had a warm welcoming environment and I enjoyed my stay with all its amenities specially the view from the room and the Pool. They performed way beyond my expectations.From$143
Great84 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.54km from city center
I had the pleasure of staying at Andaz Delhi during my trip for HYROX Delhi, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. From the moment I arrived, the service was exceptional — warm, attentive, and incredibly helpful, especially as I was preparing for a big race.
The room was modern, spacious, and spotlessly clean, with thoughtful touches that made it feel like home. The bed was extremely comfortable — perfect for much-needed rest and recovery. I especially appreciated the in-room amenities and the peaceful vibe after a long day of training and racing.
What really stood out was the location and convenience. Being near the airport and well-connected to key areas made commuting a breeze, and the hotel’s calm, luxurious atmosphere was a great contrast to the high-energy race weekend.
The breakfast spread was fantastic — fresh, diverse, and full of healthy options that suited my race prep diet. The staff even went the extra mile to accommodate special requests, which I truly appreciated.
Big thank you to the Andaz Delhi team for making my HYROX trip so smooth and enjoyable. Highly recommend this place to any athlete or traveler looking for comfort, class, and great hospitality in Delhi!From$110
Swimming pool
Very Good122 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.94km from city center
Even though it was located away from the busy city center, i preferred that as that meant it was quieter.
I loved that we were situated near to some beautiful monuments so the view out of the windows were great.
Service was alright but I enjoyed the comfortable rooms and the design of the lobby and the interior of the rooms were great!From$114
Amazing117 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.32km from city center
Everything is perfect. I have stayed in almost all the good hotels in India. This hotel is really stylish and has a very high cost performance. The restaurant inside is also very good. The staff are very service-minded.From$299
Amazing120 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.39km from city center
More than likely the best luxury hotel in New Delhi, the food is as good advertised, the staff are doing all they coukd within the small room Taj hierarchy allows them. As I finally got the minibar deposit back, I have to give it the deserved 5/5 algorithmic vote for the 2nd night.
The overpriced Minibar Scam
I don't drink Sugar which is even more irritating. That said I know the price of an unhealthy soda can...which is literally sold for 10% the rpice 50 meters away with the same barcode. The overpriced common soda aka Minibar scam, is no longer acceptable. Hotels that insist on insulting their guests with over priced Soda Cans will no longer be Luxury hotels...make a note of this, all new Luxury Resorts offer free minibar and depositless instant checkin...self checkout...because they want guests to remember the stay...systematic harassment at checkout is not Luxury at all, hotels that can't change outdated and malignant policies will be left behind, the minibar overpiced sodacan makes guests assume the restaurant and rooms are also 10 times overpriced...the overpriced Soda Can is the diagnostic marker that any guest can easily identify with confidence. If a Hotel can't afford a Free Minibar it is not a Luxury Hotel.
All High-End Luxury hotels offer Free Minibar as it costs little to nothing; it projects opulence and true Luxury. Guests don't question the price of their restaurants or accommodation as they no longer have an overpriced Soda Can to serve as their reference point of Value.
Once Taj confirms they made it a brand policy to get rid of the Minibar scam, they will benefit greatly from fast checkin and prompt checkout & unnecessary deposits...there will be less adversial intepersonal energy with the guests, nobody wants to feel taken advantage of...getting rid of the outdated pre-internet Minibar scam is how the best Luxury Distinguish themselves from the lower class scam establishmentsFrom$150
Good65 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.25km from city center
The hotel locate in the good place and not too far from metro station. Receptions are nice and helpful. There are currency exchange and airport taxi available at the hotel. I arrive at the hotel in the evening and dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, they open all day and close at 10 pm. Available for breakfast lunch and dinner.From$15
Very Good88 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|12.81km from city center
The hotel staff's response is too poor
This is a hotel reservation for customers on a business trip to our company, but if they don't answer the phone, they hang up in the middle.
It's not a 5-star hotel service. I'm very disappointedFrom$92
Breakfast
Very Good87 Reviews
South Delhi New Delhi|12.08km from city center
The hotel is small in scale, but the overall environment is good. It is less than 100 meters away from the nearest entrance of the shopping center. The bed set and bathroom products are very clean for India. The room facilities are also in normal condition. The front desk staff is average, and the room service staff are friendly. The restaurant is above average level, and there is another Chinese restaurant (you can satisfy your cravings, but you can’t compare it with formal Chinese cuisine). It is 45-60 minutes away from the airport without traffic jams, and the consumption is higher than that of surrounding restaurants.From$114
Good43 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|17.25km from city center
The hotel was gorgeous. Room was spacious,and shower was great. Their body soap smelled so good.
Didn't have chance to use much but pool and gym looked very well taken care of, and restaurant was delicious and considering the atmosphere , it wasn't too expensive either. Breakfast had wide range of food,chai was great. Only thing was gym and pool would be inaccessible late night, I wish they would have told me that, and check in and out took longer compared to other hotels. Access wise it's close from airport but,there weren't any shops or restaurants in walkable area so really need to prepare to commit to the hotel.From$54
Good12 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.29km from city center
Near New Delhi Station, it’s better than a normal hotel.From$51
12 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.11km from city center
Good location and clean roomFrom$35
Good57 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.33km from city center
The location is outstanding at the entrance of the main bazaar in front of New Delhi station.
The nearby tourist spots are also close.
It's not a resort only for those who want to taste the main bazaar, the old town.
Cost performance such as indoor, breakfast is good.
The staff was also pleasant, especially the front door guard man was a kind person.
One thing is that the exchange rate at the front desk is good and exchange.
The next day, the nearby exchange was much better. It was a pity.From$24
FAQs About India Arrival Card
Do I need an Arrival Card to enter India?
Yes—mandatory e‑Arrival Card (digital only) from April 1, 2026; paper cards are no longer accepted.How do I fill out an e‑Arrival Card for India?
Submit via official portals (indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival, boi.gov.in, or Su‑Swagatam app) 24–72h before arrival with passport, flight, accommodation, and contact details.What is an Indian Arrival Card?
It’s India’s digital pre‑arrival entry form (e‑Arrival Card) replacing paper disembarkation cards. Required for immigration clearance for all foreign visitors and OCI holders.What happens if I don’t submit the India Arrival Card?
Airlines may deny boarding; you could face delays, entry refusal, fines, or deportation.What is the difference between India e-Visa and e-Arrival Card?
e-Visa grants entry permission (mandatory for most foreigners), while e-Arrival Card is a free pre-arrival info form (mandatory for all non-Indians). Both are required for entry.