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 Good142 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.46km from city center
*Poor hospitality - hotel staff lying to guests & downgrading guest’s room type during their stay*
This is my second time staying at this hotel, as I find the location and facilities suitable. However, I am extremely disappointed this time due to the poor level of hospitality.
I booked my stay from February 11 to 14 initially, and then added one more night on February 10. We arrived at the hotel at 23:45 on February 10.
When we checked in, we informed the staff that we had two bookings. At first, the staff asked us to check out and check in again on February 11. This was very strange and inconvenient for us. After some discussion, the staff said we did not need to check out and check in again on February 11. The room type was also upgraded to a suite, and the staff assured us that this upgrade would be valid for the entire stay until February 14.
On February 11, around 16:00, we received a call from the hotel informing us of issues on the entire 11th floor and requesting us to move to another room. This was very disturbing, as we had just checked in late the previous evening. Unpacking and repacking our bags exhausted us.
The staff assured us that the new room would be of the same type as our current one. However, when we moved and reached the new room, it was a standard room. We are disappointed that the staff has been dishonest. How can a hotel downgrade a guest’s room during their stay? This is absolutely unacceptable.
When we called the staff, they claimed that we had to leave the suite because it was full. The reason given earlier (issues on the 11th floor) was a lie. Moreover, we did not receive a room of the same type as our original one. This has been a completely horrible experience for us.
When we returned at night, we saw that some guests were going to the 11th floor, which indicates there are no issues there. This clearly shows that the staff's explanation was false.
I hope there will be an explanation. Is this discrimination because I am not a local Indian? I also believe that better training for your staff is needed. This kind of hospitality only damages the hotel’s reputation.
I am also providing the upgraded and downgraded room type as a proof of this comment.From£72
Amazing132 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.73km from city center
Im visit here with my family everyone happy all staff is friendly good service and food is really yummy but only small issues pool is closed because have even but they provide pool from another hotel with transportFrom£88
Very Good78 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|14.42km from city center
Made reeervatikn via third party (trip) spoke to two seperate people on front desk who were both unhelpful and said I have to book again as they don’t have visibility of my reservation despite me showing various forms of payments and confirmations , generally unhelpful and not interested in trying to assist , not a good impression before I had even checked in , first time staying at Radisson and travel alot of business so will likely use other hotels for ongoing trips as didn’t like the first impressionFrom£47
Great133 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.84km from city center
Excellent value for money. The hotel is about a 10-minute taxi ride from the airport, located in the Aerocity area, which is bustling with hotels, restaurants, and shops. The area is clearly expanding. The rooms are spacious and well-designed, and also very well soundproofed. Breakfast is good, fresh, and plentiful. The staff are friendly.From£69
Very Good125 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.7km from city center
This hotel was great, Overpriced for what it is, and service is responsive and great. facilities and such are hard to understand how they work, but people are usually very helpful, food was good, breakfast was good, however when trying to modify bookings, one day later, or checking out earlier, they will NOT budge at all even if told in advance and reject any online booking request to modify it. That's my only gripe, however its good, location is good but not the best. Great stay overall, little things were off about it.From£59
Business travel
64 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£40
Very Good127 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£53
Very Good241 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.52km from city center
The hotel was really nice - staff was very professional and welcoming. The facilities were excellent - my kids really enjoyed swimming in the pool. My family and I were a bit surprised by the extensive security to get into the hotel (i.e. full on metal detectors), better safe than not I suppose (lol). I'd rate the food about 8/10 - so not too bad. We were there for a short layover and it was easy to arrange a ride to the airport for 1100INR. I would recommend staying there again.From£51
55 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£35
Very Good59 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£68
Family friendly
Great218 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.75km from city center
Convenient hotel for a stopover between flights, close to the airport. You can get there by metro (one stop, about 20 rupees) or by Uber for around $3. A taxi can also be arranged and paid for at the hotel desk, though it will be more expensive.
The staff are friendly and helped resolve an issue with extending the stay.
The room has everything necessary: a bed, air conditioning, and amenities. If you have some time, you can visit the outdoor pool.
If you don’t want to gamble with the nearby scam hotels, this is a very good option, although the price is not low.From£50
Very Good123 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£78
Very Good54 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£53
Amazing50 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.91km from city center
About 25 mins drive from the airport in good traffic.
The hotel is huge, grand and luxurious. There are 2 flights of stairs to navigate from the entrance to the lobby level. Something to note for those with physical disabilities.
The room is a little small for 2 pax, though the bathroom and shower area is a good size with all amenities provided. Water pressure in the shower is good. Bed and pillows are way too soft for my liking, never a fan of beds that sink in.
Breakfast at the Capital Kitchen is a standard spread. A small selection of cold cuts, typical buffet line of American breakfast staples of sausages, baked beans and potatoes. Live station for eggs and Indian staples.
Service was excellent and friendly. Overall a comfortable stay but I do think they can go easy with the scent / perfuming, it was so strong (and pungent for me) that it gave me a bad headache.Great100 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£57
Hot spring
Very Good63 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£48
Very Good74 Reviews
Dwarka New Delhi|18.91km from city center
I resided with my family, consisting of two daughters, in a centrally located hotel near a large shopping complex known as Vegas Mall. Visitors have the option to rent an electric scooter for Rs.50 and travel to the mall.From£33
Good110 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£58
Very Good350 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.62km from city center
I had a very pleasant stay at Ibis New Delhi Aerocity. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and very well organized.
The location is excellent, especially for travelers who need to stay close to the airport. The room was comfortable, quiet, and well maintained, which made my stay very relaxing.
The staff were professional and helpful, and the overall service was smooth and efficient. Everything felt modern and well managed.
I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting New Delhi, especially if you are looking for a reliable and comfortable stay near the airport.From£32
90 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£50
Gym
Very Good121 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£83
Amazing126 Reviews
New Delhi|7.07km from city center
Heard so much about the Leela Palace hospitality & wanted to experience it myself. It was indeed a lovely experience starting from the warm welcome we received upon arrival.
Food wise they had a good selection for dinner & breakfast including both continental & Indian dishes.
The hotel needs an upgrade to the facade & rooms as it’s beginning to show signs of age.
On the whole an enjoyable experience.😊👍🏼From£113
Great43 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.63km from city center
The hotel is conveniently located near the airport, which is great for layovers. The room was clean enough and had all the essentials. Check-in took an exceptionally long time, possibly due to an early check-in. We spent about an hour at the front desk. We used room service, and the food was delicious with a nice presentation. They also helped us with an airport transfer. You can walk around the neighborhood; there are many shops and stalls.From£110
Amazing121 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.49km from city center
This hotel is very popular because of its great location in the Aerocity which is convenient for Delhi airport
It’s very clean and staff are very niceFrom£77
Very Good127 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£82
Swimming pool
Amazing126 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.32km from city center
Second time staying in this hotel. Service is as good as you can get anywhere, top notch. Facilities are great, with gym and spa. Staff are well trained, polite and often remember my name, make a huge difference. Did a spa this time which is slightly pricy but experience is decent.From£129
Amazing128 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.39km from city center
The Taj Mahal Delhi is a beautiful hotel with splendid decor and an old school ambience. However, some of the underlying cost cutting is noticeable.
The breakfast buffet for example is anything but - with a handful of items such as bread and rudimentary cereal laid out but anything substantial needs to be ordered and it arrives in due time in small portions. It's awkward to know how many times can one order in the circumstances.
Another example occured when I changed some currency at the hotel. I expected the rate to be bad and it was, but this was not an issue. I am happy to pay for luxury and convenience. However, what irked me slightly was when the staff explained that there was no change so she couldn't give me 60 INR. It's a very small amount but I felt it was a liberty - imagine offering currency exchange at an exorbitant rate but you don't have currency.
Other than that we had a good stay. The pool was stunning as was my beautiful club suite. It was a very generous size and beautifully designed with views over the pool and Delhi beyond - a real oasis in noisy and bustling Delhi.
The club lounge is ok but not really worth paying for - the timings for high tea etc are so inconvenient that you won't be able to use them.
Overall, this was still a good stay and probably the best hotel for the price in this part of town.Good40 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.25km from city center
I stayed in Room 121 (2nd floor), which has a window facing the main street. The window is sealed and cannot be opened, so the noise level wasn't as high as I'd feared. It was fascinating to be able to watch the chaotic hustle and bustle of the city. Renovations are ongoing inside the hotel from morning until late at night, and construction tools are scattered throughout the hallway.
A small cockroach appeared in the room on my first day. I caught it and put it out in the hallway. I haven't seen it since.
The shower has a ceiling-mounted rain shower and a bottom-mounted faucet. The water flow is good. However, the shower is only available from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 8:00 PM to midnight, which can be inconvenient and requires caution. The water temperature barely rises after 10:00 PM. It feels like it's just water. Maybe it ran out of hot water? There was plenty of hot water in the morning.
There's a TV and refrigerator. There's a powerful air conditioner and ceiling fan.
I was also given extra bottled water.
Amenities are minimal.
There's a power outlet near the bed.
Breakfast is served late, from 7:30 AM, and there are days when there is no buffet and you have to order. The custom-made holy basil poori was delicious.
Shigeta Travel is located in the lobby area. They speak Japanese and have a good exchange rate. Tour arrangements are also reasonably priced. A fare to the airport is 600 rp.
Laundry is available and will be done on the same day.
The staff are all very friendly.From£12
Very Good95 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£66
Great96 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£191
Breakfast
Very Good93 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£78
11 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.29km from city center
Near New Delhi Station, it’s better than a normal hotel.From£38
17 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.11km from city center
Good location and clean roomFrom£13
Very Good49 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£19
Good112 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£28
FAQs About India Arrival Card
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Do I need an Arrival Card to enter India?
-
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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